Grab the kids and get ready for fun in the sun on Delray Beach, Florida. This lively Florida beach town has outdoor fun for the whole family. It’s prime location between Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale make it the perfect home base to branch out and explore all of South Florida.
Things to do in Delray Beach with Kids
Yet, once you get to Delray Beach, you may not want to go anywhere else, because everything you need is right there. There’s so much to do for families! Here’s our list of the top things to do in Delray Beach for families.
This article contains affiliate links. We earn from qualifying purchases.
Visit the Beach at Delray Beach
You’re in South Florida and that means it’s beach time! Lucky for you Delray Beach is awesome. Delray has a great beach and there’s lots of space to spread out. Compared to nearby Deerfield Beach, Delray definitely caters to the younger crowd and you’ll see lots of families soaking up the sun here.
Delray Beach has convenient street parking along A1A that’s metered and beachside parking in various lots. I really like that directly across the beach & A1A are quite a few places to grab a burger and a drink. And, there’s a public bathroom right across the street on A1A behind the shops. I don’t know about you, but public bathrooms by the beach are a MUST in my book!
Explore Atlantic Avenue
Atlantic Avenue is the hotspot for shopping and dining in Delray Beach. You’ll find everything from t-shirt shops to upscale art galleries to candy stores, along with many restaurants and bars.
We loved the plethora of ice cream shops! Kilwins and Ben & Jerry’s are outstanding and definitely worth a visit. That’s just the tip of the iceberg. There’s so much to discover around Atlantic Ave. Make sure you venture off Atlantic to the adjoining streets for more shopping and dining fun.
Sandoway House Nature Centre
Sandoway House Nature Centre is a cool little nature center where you can explore plants, and animals that are all native to the South Florida area. Located in a historic 1936 beachfront home, the house is actually located on the National Register of Historic Places. The Center offers lots of exhibits that highlight the South Florida marine environment including the coral reefs and marine life. You can get up close and personal with their world class shell collection.
Wakodahatchee Wetlands
Wakodahatchee is a wildlife refuge located in Delray Beach, Florida. It was once the site of a Seminole village, and it records show that early settlers spotted panthers and deer living there in the 1800s. The refuge includes a three-quarter mile boardwalk that extends over the water and allows for some prime bird watching.
Today, visitors can spot numerous types of wildlife, including alligators and manatees. The staff at the refuge encourages visitors to help them learn more about the area’s population. There are several activities available for children and adults alike that teach all kinds of facts about the wetlands and its residents. It is common to see people using binoculars and telescopes on their visit to see the wildlife better.
Get Your Game On!
Silverball Museum. This cool arcade in downtown Delray has a totally retro vibe that you’ll feel as soon as you walk in. The number of pinball machines in this place is crazy! You’ll also love all the old-school 80’s arcade games like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, Frogger, Centipede and Asteroids. Plus they have everyone’s favorite, skeeball! If your family likes to play games, this is the place. Silverball has different pricing options too. If you want to pay by the hour, it’s $12 per hour; or if you want to play all day, it’s only $15! Obviously, the all day option would be the best deal if you think your crew will want to stay over an hour.
Silverball also offers food and drink in case all the gaming makes your family hungry. The menu is actually surprisingly large and includes pizza, salad, all types of appetizers as well as sandwiches and chicken fingers. They even offer two desserts: a big bowl of ice cream and root beer float. What a fun way to spend an afternoon!
Surfing Anyone?
Hit the waves with Surf District Surf Shop! This surf shop in downtown Delray offers everything the experienced or beginner surfer needs. And, they offer surf lessons in the afternoons. So, if you’ve always wanted to try surfing, this would be a good place to start. The timing for lessons didn’t work for us when we were there, but we will definitely try next time because we could tell they really know their surfing stuff here.
They also offer paddleboard rentals, if that’s more to your liking. Even if you’re not a surfer, they have a neat selection of surf related items including lots custom surfboards, cool hats & t-shirts.
Sandoway Discovery Center
Sandoway Discovery Center is a cool little nature centeer where you can explore plants, and animals that are all native to the South Florida area. Located in a historic 1936 beachfront home, the house is actually located on the National Register of Historic Places. The Center offers lots of exhibits that highlight the South Florida marine environment including the coral reefs and marine life. You can get up close and personal with their world class shell collection. Our kids loved this! There is also an outdoor butterfly garden that you shouldn’t miss. Admission is $6 per-person, ages 3 and up.
Where To Eat In Delray Beach
Boston’s On The Beach
Check out Boston’s On the Beach for a fun outdoor dining experience. The menu is on the smaller side but the food is fresh and the location can’t be beat. If you like seafood, try the Bahamian Conch Bites appetizer and the Maine Lobster Roll sandwich!
Sloan’s
We strolled into the bright pink space of Sloan’s ice cream parlor and were instantly taken back to childhood! This place is decorated so fabulously that I’d go just to see the decor. That includes the kitschy bathroom. Just double check the door is locked and you’ll be fine!!
Actually the fun decor is just a bonus because the treats Sloan’s offers are absolutely delicious! We had scoops of Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup and Carol’s Spectacular Spanish Peanut and were blown away. And, being the chocolate junkie that I am I also tried a Decadent Chocolate Fudge Brownie. It did not disappoint! We can’t wait to try more of their scrumptious specialties. The Flower Child has my name on it!
Where to Stay In Delray Beach, Florida
Here is a list of the five places to stay in Delray Beach Florida, they have their own unique style and amenities just waiting for you to experience them first hand.
Colony Hotel and Cabana Club
Stay at the Colony Hotel if you are looking for an authentic southern experience! The hotel is located right in the middle of downtown Delray Beach. It’s within walking distance to world famous Atlantic Avenue and the gorgeous beaches. The hotel also offers an outdoor saltwater pool, whirlpool, and fitness center with daily yoga.
Atlantic Hideaway
The Atlantic Hideaway is a great place to stay in Delray Beach. This family-owned hotel located just a few minutes walk from Atlantic Avenue and offers rooms that are clean and comfortable. It’s conveniently located near all of the action! The Atlantic Hideaway is located just a short walk from the beach and many different restaurants.
Looking for more Florida vacation destinations? Find out more about:
Did this information help you to plan your next family vacation? Share pictures of your adventure on Instagram and tag us at @lilfamadventure.
Leave a Reply