If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn’t live in Boca Raton – although they do have lots to do and the shopping / dining is wonderful. No, I would live in Delray Beach. It’s a laid back beach town with a great main street with lots of shops and restaurants. But there are plenty of other things to do than putzy the downtown.

Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens

Opened in 1977, the gardens transform a person from Delray Beach to Japan. I mean look at these pictures.

Not a palm tree in sight!  According to their website, the museum allows visitors to:

“Experience traditional and contemporary Japanese culture through rotating exhibits, varied educational programs and seasonal events, a world-class bonsai display, Pan-Asian cuisine and a distinctive museum store.

You can even sign up for classes about sushi making, bonsai trees, flower arrangements, taiko drumming, tea ceremonies, Japanese language and other cultural topics. It’s $13 for adults and $8 for children from ages 6-17.

Wakodahatchee Wetlands

If you are a nature lover or an avid bird watcher, this is the place for you. There are over 140 species of birds within the wetlands. They are listed right here.

There is a wooden boardwalk that allows visitors to walk safely throughout the wetlands.

Great news, admission is free!

Delray Beach Stadium and Tennis Center

Surprisingly, some big time tennis tournaments are held right in downtown Delray.

For event info, check out their website.  Also, if you are in town for New Years, family friendly fireworks are held here.

For those who wish to play a game or take a lesson, they have other courts available to the public or locals for a fee. Check out their site for more information.

Puppetry Arts Center of the Palm Beaches

Crazy for puppets? Well, this is your place. It’s a non-profit organization dedicated to education and inspiration through puppets.

After such a fun day, quench your thirst and appetite with some of excellent dining choices featured here.

If you have time, be sure to check out Boca Raton – just a few miles south of Delray. It has incredible shopping, kid-friendly activities and delicious restaurants as well.