Discover Delray Beach: 5 Things to Know About USA’s “Most Fun Small Town”

Delray Beach has been described as “Mayberry by day, Manhattan by night,” but that doesn’t tell the whole story. About 50 miles north of Miami and 20 miles south of West Palm Beach, Delray Beach is quickly becoming one of the hottest sites for those in search of adventure, amenities, and luxury homes. Real estate seekers can enjoy a life replete with Florida’s legendary energy and a touch of at-home charm. Let’s explore all the events and activities that Delray Beach has to offer.

When it comes to Florida beaches, the competition is fierce, yet Delray Beach certainly ranks among the top. Don’t miss Atlantic Dunes Park along Ocean Boulevard if you’re up for a sunny-day adventure on the beach. Stroll along the boardwalk, explore the wooded nature trails, and relax in the salty breeze. The Delray Public Beach is another go-to spot to witness a glorious sunrise, enjoy a picnic, or take a swim in the waves.

Whether you’re looking to kayak, windsurf, sail, or indulge in thrilling water sports, the beaches here are unmatched. Be sure to pack a day’s worth of provisions because you’ll be spending many hours in the sand, water, and sun. 

After you’ve explored Delray Beach, you may find yourself wanting to learn how to surf or snorkel! The Waves Surf Academy on Ocean Boulevard offers all-inclusive training courses to discover more about surfing, paddle boarding, and swimming. The adventure is yours!

All along Delray’s downtown area, the excitement and energy never cease. Don’t miss live music at the Tin Roof on East Atlantic Avenue. From DJ sessions to indie rock concerts, this popular eatery and bar is full of great tunes, delightful food, and fun times.

If it’s inspiration you’re after, Delray Beach has no shortage of galleries to explore. Since 1979, the Sundook Fine Art Galleries has showcased unique works of art, from fine art prints and sculptures to watercolor and multi-media works. The Blue Gallery is another popular place to check out some outstanding works of creativity, featuring laser-cut sculptures, canvas art pieces, and so much more. Other top-notch galleries in the area include the DeBilzan Gallery, Sunrise Fine Art, and the Avalon Gallery. And, if you’re feeling camera-ready, head to The Studio, an Instagram-worthy space with artistic walls and backdrops perfect for photographing your favorite memories with your friends.

Explore the unique artifacts, works of art, and photographs detailing Delray Beach’s history at the Cornell Art Museum on Swinton Avenue. Hosted in the original Delray Elementary School built in the early 1900s, this fantastic museum features free admission and phenomenal exhibits of old-school surfboards, art pieces, and photography from days gone by. The museum also hosts fun-filled events like an Earth Day film, First Friday Art Walk, and musical performances.

Catch a show at Music at St. Paul’s, where chamber music and concerto performances take center stage. The laughter never ends at the Doghouse Theater, hosting improv and stand-up comedy sketches. You can even take lessons if you want to be on the other side of the curtains! Finally, head to the Arts Garage for upcoming events like comedy shows, jazz renditions, tribute bands, open mic night, poetry readings, and more.

The Sandoway Discovery Center on South Ocean Boulevard offers children (and children at heart) a riveting mix of nature preserves and zoos showcasing incredible marine life. With shark feedings, animal encounter programs, field trips, fossil digs, and more, there is so much to learn and see.

For a fun-filled afternoon, head to Putt’n Around Delray. With its two 18-hole mini-golf courses surrounded by towering waterfalls, mermaids, beachy sand traps, and blossoming flowers, get ready for the time of your life. From the Ocean to the Everglades course, the challenges will surprise you at every turn. Putt’n Around is the perfect place for birthday parties or a delightful day out.

The Silverball Retro Arcade on Northeast 3rd Avenue brings a blast from the past with classic arcade games, pinball machines, skee ball, and more. Plus, don’t miss Sunday fun days, two-for-$25 Tuesdays, or DJ performances on the weekends.

The Delray Beach Tennis Center is a go-to spot for fun with the racket, with numerous clay courts, hard courts, and pickleball courts. The club also hosts junior tennis camps, a women’s league, workout programs like cardio tennis, and special events like the Summer Smash Sectional Championships, the Chris Evert Raymond James Pro-Celebrity Classic, and the Delray Beach Open.

If the sunny skies are calling your name, head to Veterans Park Recreation Center for lawn bowling, shuffleboard, or tackling the monkey bars with your kids. With several lighted bowling courts, a playground, 16 shuffleboard courts, and a gazebo, this is the go-to spot for family fun or a picnic.

Adventure enthusiasts will feel right at home at the Wakodahatchee Wetlands, where you can enjoy a boating excursion into South Florida’s rare and native natural preserves. You might even catch a glimpse of turtles, alligators, and foxes. 

Right off Atlantic Avenue, you’ll find an exciting and inspiring scene at the Pineapple Grove Arts District, where creative murals and sculptures cover the streets. Whether you’re in the mood for retail therapy, a spa session, or a fantastic meal, you’ve come to the right place.

With exceptional flavors and a charming, beach-themed atmosphere, the Rosewater Rooftop at the Ray Hotel sets the stage for a delectable dining experience. Offering picture-perfect vistas of the coastline and downtown, this scenic eatery features an innovative menu of grilled mahi tacos, mini lobster rolls, octopus with salsa verde, chilled lentil salad, and creative cocktails. 

The hip and upbeat 3rd & 3rd is a bustling spot full of fantastic foods and live music. Menu standouts include shrimp and linguine with breadcrumbs, mushroom basil fried rice, and Korean-braised short ribs. Enjoy your meal to the tunes of reggae, rock and jam, ska, bluegrass, and more.

If you’re on a shopping mission, you’re in luck! The Pineapple Grove Arts District boasts an array of unique retail spots like Blings & Things, Furst Handbags, The House of Perna, and A Little Wyld. To find surfing gear and beach-focused apparel, head to the Surf District Surf Shop. From surfboards and skimboards to hats and sunscreen, you’ll soon be set for a fun day in the water.

For a serene spa and salon experience, head to the Bond Street Salon, Glavidia Hair Studios, or Karma Eden Salon. Whether you’re seeking a rejuvenated vibe or a fresh new haircut, the pros here will set you up with a new sense of self and style.

Delray Beach has no shortage of amazing community events on the calendar. For some of the best mouth-watering cuisines in South Florida, check out the annual Savor the Avenue event and feast at Florida’s longest table. With over 600 yards of cuisine, about 1,000 diners get the chance to taste the menus of top area restaurants. 

Music rings through the air at the Art & Jazz on the Avenue. With talented live performances, dancing, art shows, and local vendors, you don’t want to miss this popular festivity. The famed South Florida Garlic Fest is another mainstay of the community that’s been running for 24 years, with acclaimed music performances, amusement rides, fantastic food, and more. This massively popular event has won numerous awards for its creativity and entertainment.

To get into the holiday spirit, the Christmas tree lighting ceremony really rings in the season, with music, arts and crafts, food trucks, ice skating, a holiday carousel, and an impressive 100-foot-tall tree full of glistening lights. One thing is certain: living in Delray Beach promises a life full of fun.

If you’re ready to relocate to the beautiful Delray Beach area, team up with the experts at the Jessica Gulick Group. As South Florida’s top-rated team, these pros have what it takes to get results. Thanks to their unparalleled dedication to success and exceptional market insight, the Jessica Gulick Group is ready to help you find your dream property. Reach out today to get started.