Boca Raton, familiarly known to locals by its first name "Boca," truly has it all. Beaches and golf courses; fine hotels and wondrous art museums (and the Festival of the Arts BOCA); jazz clubs and concerts at Mizner Park; the glittery Town Center at Boca Raton shopping mall, with 220 upscale and elite specialty shops; and, elsewhere around town, countless family-owned boutiques. And let's not forget fine restaurants, some of the best in the south. After all, Boca is located in The Palm Beach and, more to the point, in the heart of Florida's Atlantic Ocean Coast. Along those lines, give some thought to staying at the Boca Raton Resort & Club, one of the nation’s premier resort destinations.
Breakfast and Brunch:
Best Breakfast: http://www.10best.com/destinations/florida/boca-raton/restaurants/additional-breakfast/ Absinthe 5150 Town Center Cir Boca Raton, FL 33486 Phone: 561-620-3754 Hours: Breakfast Mon-Fri 6:30am-10:30am; Sat-Sun 7am-11am All Day Menu Daily 11:30am-11pm Absinthe Lounge Sun-Thu 11:30am-11pm; Fri-Sat 11:30am-Midnight Cuisine: American, New American Dining Options: Bar / Lounge, Bar Dining, Disabled Accessible, Live Music, Non-Smoking
Best Brunch: http://www.10best.com/destinations/florida/boca-raton/restaurants/additional-brunch/ Abe & Louie's 2200 W Glades Rd Boca Raton, FL 33431 Phone: 561-447-0024 www.bbrginc.com Hours: Sun-Thu 11:30am-11pm; Fri-Sat 11:30am-Midnight Cuisine: American, Steakhouse Dining Options: Bar / Lounge, Non-Smoking, Parties / Private Rooms | |
Lunch:
Best Lunch: http://www.10best.com/destinations/florida/boca-raton/restaurants/additional-lunch/ La Cigale253 SE 5th Ave Delray Beach, FL 33483 Phone: 561-265-0600 www.lacigaledelray.com Hours: Sun-Thu 6pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 6pm-11pm Dining Options: Bar / Lounge, Parties / Private Rooms Cuisine: European, French,Mediterranean Lunch: Vibrant and atmospheric, this colorful brasserie indeed delivers "a taste of the Mediterranean." The affordably priced cuisine doesn't skimp on flavor or quality. Instead, it takes advantage of great technique and preparation. Traditional favorites like escargot, pâté, vichyssoise, and foie gras satisfy hardcore francophiles, while grilled seafood, tender steaks, osso buco, and coq au vin please most other palates. Duck, no matter the culinary treatment, is always a success, succulent and rich. Desserts also meet with acclaim, whether you opt for tarte tatin, a luscious slice of cake, or something lighter like sorbet or a soufflé. |
Dinner:
3. Kee Grill Sporting a tasteful, tropical theme, this restaurant pays due homage to its namesake, an edenic beach in Hawaii. The cuisine itself features a number of Pacific Rim-inspired entrees, including soy and sesame-glazed swordfish, a crowd favorite. Crab cakes, macadamia-crusted snapper, and a chunky, fragrant cioppino are also available, and seafood appears frequently in appetizers. Meat-eating patrons appreciate lamb chops, chicken, steaks, and the popular grilled veal chop. Each entree is accompanied by a selection of side dishes, which include creamed spinach, asparagus, and the like. Given the restaurant's perennial popularity, waits are not unlikely, so plan accordingly. (561-995-5044) 2. Kathy's Gazebo Café A long-time resident of Boca's top echelon of restaurants, Kathy's consistently delivers wonderful ambience and spectacular food. In season, it can also be a difficult restaurant to get into, since many people are now privy to its excellence. Fresh seafood is a specialty, and Dover sole meunière has practically become a legend with regulars. Duck and shellfish are also exceptional, keeping company with such standards as calf's liver and veal with morels. You'll also find steak if you're a devoted red-meat fan. Luscious desserts and a well-chosen wine list are additional perks at a restaurant that can be pricey but is definitely worth the expense. (561-395-6033) 1. 32 East A warm, inviting ambience beckons diners to this contemporary bistro, which bathes diners in the same muted light that gleams on polished wood surfaces. An exhibition kitchen gives hints of the incredible fare the kitchen produces. New American in name, the cuisine also has touches of Mediterranean spice and technique. Believing that the best ingredients make the best food, chef Nick Morfogen creates a daily menu, incorporating what's freshest at the market. Artfully presented plates include pan-seared salmon, grilled scallops, glazed halibut, and grilled pork chops. You'll also find steak, pasta, and game, depending on what's in season. Everything is incredible, and patrons return time and again for the great atmosphere and always-perfect food. (561-276-7868) Best Restaurants: http://www.10best.com/destinations/florida/boca-raton/restaurants/best-restaurants/ |
Local Recommendations:
One of our advisors, Ross Kuflik made the following suggestions:
- Tuccis Pizza on 1st Ave off Palmetto Park Road
- Matteos Italian on Federal Highway off Palmetto Park Road
- Ninos Italian Restaurant on the corner of Palmetto Park Road and Powerline Road
- also Zingers Kosher Style Deli same location
- Villagio Italian Restaurant in Mizner Park
- New York Prime
Nightlife:
10. The Duck Tavern
The Duck Tavern, a local hole-in-the-wall, caters to a more diverse crowd age-wise than the nightclubs of Mizner Park, but it's great for munching on wings while, sipping on cold beer and people watching. The place is as unpretentious as they come, and happy hour prices can't be beat. ((561) 998-8288)
9. Vino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas
At Vino Wine Bar, more than 280 bottles are available by the glass, and with a kitchen that stays open until midnight serving Italian tapas, you'll never be hungry. The tiny place, located in an unassuming strip mall, has the feel of a jazz club from a bygone era once you enter. Nightly live entertainment rounds out the experience. ((561) 869-0030)
8. Mizner Park
Featuring entertainment, culture, dining, and shopping galore, this open-air mall is a city mainstay and one of the area's most upscale venues. Many of the restaurants transform into nightclubs as the hour gets late, and you'll find everything from see-and-be-seen bars to chill Irish Pubs. There's also an eight-screen movie theater for a more family-friendly nightlife scene. (561-362-0606)
7. The Black Rose Irish Pub
With a great outdoor seating area complete with a projector for sports and a pool table inside, the Black Rose is a popular place to relax with locals. Come on Thursdays for karaoke night or any night for billiards, darts and sports on the flat-screens. ((561) 392-3808)
6. The Funky Buddha Lounge & Brewery
The Funky Buddha combines two great things: excellent microbrewed beer and hookahs. Set in a dark, candlelit lounge, this bar has a great atmosphere, especially when a live jazz set plays in the background. In addition to the beers brewed on site, the Funky Buddha pours 110 other craft beers, 40 types of loose leaf tea and packs their hookahs with 40 flavors of shisha. ((561) 368-4643)
5. Dada
Housed in a 1920s home, this two-level restaurant and club boasts artistic appeal. If you've come to nibble, try the sugar cane-skewered beef tenderloin over soba noodle salad, or a full serving of penne pasta with crab, brie, sun-dried tomatoes and asparagus in a lemon butter sauce. Live bands, poetry slams and fashion shows delight guests, who lounge on couches and enjoy the live entertainment offered at this intimate, relaxed spot. (561-330-3232)
4. Lion & Eagle English Pub
If your idea of a good night out involves a friendly neighborhood bar with good beer and good food, then go to the Lion & Eagle English Pub. There's nothing flashy about this place, but that's part of its charm. It's also one of the best places in Boca Raton to catch a European soccer match. ((561) 447-7707)
3. Prime Cigar & Wine Bar
Aside from being a relaxing place to sip on some wine, Prime Cigar & Wine Bar's main draw is its well-maintained humidor stocked with sticks at every price point. It's nicer than your typical bar, filled with sofas and armchairs where you can kick back and watch a game or catch up with friends. ((561) 613-6130)
2. Dubliner Irish Pub
The jovial atmosphere of this Mizner Park pub is only matched by the excellent Irish pub grub. The pub draws a friendly crowd and is serviced by friendly staff. Smithwicks, hard cider and Guinness on draft are perfect for washing down that Shepherd's Pie while you listen to the night's live music offerings or watch the big game on TV. ((561) 620-2540)
1. Yard House
Even though Yard House is a chain, it's certainly worth a visit for the extensive beer selection and tasty menu of pub grub. If you're unsure about what beer to try, the staff are always happy to pour samples. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, and the service is always prompt and friendly. ((561) 417-6124)
Best Nightlife Locations: http://www.10best.com/destinations/florida/boca-raton/nightlife/best-nightlife/
The Duck Tavern, a local hole-in-the-wall, caters to a more diverse crowd age-wise than the nightclubs of Mizner Park, but it's great for munching on wings while, sipping on cold beer and people watching. The place is as unpretentious as they come, and happy hour prices can't be beat. ((561) 998-8288)
9. Vino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas
At Vino Wine Bar, more than 280 bottles are available by the glass, and with a kitchen that stays open until midnight serving Italian tapas, you'll never be hungry. The tiny place, located in an unassuming strip mall, has the feel of a jazz club from a bygone era once you enter. Nightly live entertainment rounds out the experience. ((561) 869-0030)
8. Mizner Park
Featuring entertainment, culture, dining, and shopping galore, this open-air mall is a city mainstay and one of the area's most upscale venues. Many of the restaurants transform into nightclubs as the hour gets late, and you'll find everything from see-and-be-seen bars to chill Irish Pubs. There's also an eight-screen movie theater for a more family-friendly nightlife scene. (561-362-0606)
7. The Black Rose Irish Pub
With a great outdoor seating area complete with a projector for sports and a pool table inside, the Black Rose is a popular place to relax with locals. Come on Thursdays for karaoke night or any night for billiards, darts and sports on the flat-screens. ((561) 392-3808)
6. The Funky Buddha Lounge & Brewery
The Funky Buddha combines two great things: excellent microbrewed beer and hookahs. Set in a dark, candlelit lounge, this bar has a great atmosphere, especially when a live jazz set plays in the background. In addition to the beers brewed on site, the Funky Buddha pours 110 other craft beers, 40 types of loose leaf tea and packs their hookahs with 40 flavors of shisha. ((561) 368-4643)
5. Dada
Housed in a 1920s home, this two-level restaurant and club boasts artistic appeal. If you've come to nibble, try the sugar cane-skewered beef tenderloin over soba noodle salad, or a full serving of penne pasta with crab, brie, sun-dried tomatoes and asparagus in a lemon butter sauce. Live bands, poetry slams and fashion shows delight guests, who lounge on couches and enjoy the live entertainment offered at this intimate, relaxed spot. (561-330-3232)
4. Lion & Eagle English Pub
If your idea of a good night out involves a friendly neighborhood bar with good beer and good food, then go to the Lion & Eagle English Pub. There's nothing flashy about this place, but that's part of its charm. It's also one of the best places in Boca Raton to catch a European soccer match. ((561) 447-7707)
3. Prime Cigar & Wine Bar
Aside from being a relaxing place to sip on some wine, Prime Cigar & Wine Bar's main draw is its well-maintained humidor stocked with sticks at every price point. It's nicer than your typical bar, filled with sofas and armchairs where you can kick back and watch a game or catch up with friends. ((561) 613-6130)
2. Dubliner Irish Pub
The jovial atmosphere of this Mizner Park pub is only matched by the excellent Irish pub grub. The pub draws a friendly crowd and is serviced by friendly staff. Smithwicks, hard cider and Guinness on draft are perfect for washing down that Shepherd's Pie while you listen to the night's live music offerings or watch the big game on TV. ((561) 620-2540)
1. Yard House
Even though Yard House is a chain, it's certainly worth a visit for the extensive beer selection and tasty menu of pub grub. If you're unsure about what beer to try, the staff are always happy to pour samples. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, and the service is always prompt and friendly. ((561) 417-6124)
Best Nightlife Locations: http://www.10best.com/destinations/florida/boca-raton/nightlife/best-nightlife/
Things to do:
Friday, March 18, 2016
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM FREE History of Bourbon Seminar (Seminar Tent)
(Limited to 40 guests)
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM The Sazerac Classic Bourbons (Seminar Tent)
Kapow Noodle Bar, Exec Chef Chuck Gittleman
Food & Bourbon Pairing Seminar (Limited to 40 guests)
1792 Small Batch, Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare, Blantons
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM Bourbon & Bacon Happy Hour (Limited to 70 guests)
(Loggia)
Buffalo Trace, Four Roses Small Batch, Kinsey, Templeton Rye
Hudson Waterway East, Caffe Luna Rosa, Da Da & 50 Ocean
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM High Rollers: Bourbons & Ryes Tasting (Seminar Tent)
Tideline Ocean Resort & Spa, Exec Chef Chris Schaefer
Food & Bourbon Pairing Seminar (Limited to 40 guests)
Sazerac 6yr, Pendleton 1910, Four Roses Small Batch, Breckenridge, E H Taylor Single Barrel
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Pappy Van Winkle Tasting Experience (Limited to 25 guests)
The Rebel House, Exec Chef Danielle Herring
Tasting experience of 5 rare varieties of Pappy Van Winkle
(10 year, 12 year, 13 year, 15 year, 20 year)
(Seminar Tent)
Saturday, March 19, 2016
NOON – 2:00 PM Bourbon Lovers Brunch (Limited to 70 guests)
(Loggia)
Includes Bourbon Bloody Mary bar
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM USA vs Ireland (American Whiskey vs. Irish Whiskey (Seminar Tent)
S3, Exec Chef Chris Miracolo
Food & Bourbon Pairing Seminar (Limited to 40 guests)
Palm Ridge, Balcones Baby Blue, Charles Goodnight, Irishman 12 yr Single Malt, Teelings Single Malt
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM The RARE Collection: Tasting
Farmers Table, Exec Chef/Owner Joey Giannuzzi
(Seminar Tent)
Food & Bourbon Pairing Seminar (Limited to 40 guests)
Prichards Chocolate, 1792 Port Finish, The Experimental Buffalo Trace Sour Mash, Garrison Brothers, Rock Hill
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM Classic Bourbons, Ryes & Whiskies (Seminar Tent)
Catering CC, Exec Chef/Owner Winston Williams
Food & Bourbon Pairing Seminar (Limited to 40 guests)
Stagg Jr, Templeton, Elmer T Lee, Troy & Sons Oak, Tap 357 Sherry Finished
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Bacon & Bourbon Dining Experience (Limited to 70 guests)
E H Taylor, Blantons, 1792 Small Batch, Eagle Rare
(Loggia)
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Pappy Van Winkle Tasting Experience (Limited to 25 guests)
Tryst, Exec Chef John Thomas
Tasting experience of 5 rare varieties of Pappy Van Winkle
(10 year, 12 year, 15 year, 20 year, 23 year)
(Seminar Tent)
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM FREE History of Bourbon Seminar (Seminar Tent)
(Limited to 40 guests)
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM The Sazerac Classic Bourbons (Seminar Tent)
Kapow Noodle Bar, Exec Chef Chuck Gittleman
Food & Bourbon Pairing Seminar (Limited to 40 guests)
1792 Small Batch, Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare, Blantons
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM Bourbon & Bacon Happy Hour (Limited to 70 guests)
(Loggia)
Buffalo Trace, Four Roses Small Batch, Kinsey, Templeton Rye
Hudson Waterway East, Caffe Luna Rosa, Da Da & 50 Ocean
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM High Rollers: Bourbons & Ryes Tasting (Seminar Tent)
Tideline Ocean Resort & Spa, Exec Chef Chris Schaefer
Food & Bourbon Pairing Seminar (Limited to 40 guests)
Sazerac 6yr, Pendleton 1910, Four Roses Small Batch, Breckenridge, E H Taylor Single Barrel
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Pappy Van Winkle Tasting Experience (Limited to 25 guests)
The Rebel House, Exec Chef Danielle Herring
Tasting experience of 5 rare varieties of Pappy Van Winkle
(10 year, 12 year, 13 year, 15 year, 20 year)
(Seminar Tent)
Saturday, March 19, 2016
NOON – 2:00 PM Bourbon Lovers Brunch (Limited to 70 guests)
(Loggia)
Includes Bourbon Bloody Mary bar
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM USA vs Ireland (American Whiskey vs. Irish Whiskey (Seminar Tent)
S3, Exec Chef Chris Miracolo
Food & Bourbon Pairing Seminar (Limited to 40 guests)
Palm Ridge, Balcones Baby Blue, Charles Goodnight, Irishman 12 yr Single Malt, Teelings Single Malt
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM The RARE Collection: Tasting
Farmers Table, Exec Chef/Owner Joey Giannuzzi
(Seminar Tent)
Food & Bourbon Pairing Seminar (Limited to 40 guests)
Prichards Chocolate, 1792 Port Finish, The Experimental Buffalo Trace Sour Mash, Garrison Brothers, Rock Hill
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM Classic Bourbons, Ryes & Whiskies (Seminar Tent)
Catering CC, Exec Chef/Owner Winston Williams
Food & Bourbon Pairing Seminar (Limited to 40 guests)
Stagg Jr, Templeton, Elmer T Lee, Troy & Sons Oak, Tap 357 Sherry Finished
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Bacon & Bourbon Dining Experience (Limited to 70 guests)
E H Taylor, Blantons, 1792 Small Batch, Eagle Rare
(Loggia)
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Pappy Van Winkle Tasting Experience (Limited to 25 guests)
Tryst, Exec Chef John Thomas
Tasting experience of 5 rare varieties of Pappy Van Winkle
(10 year, 12 year, 15 year, 20 year, 23 year)
(Seminar Tent)
10. Deer Creek Golf Club
Don't let the spiffy design and country club airs keep you away -- this topnotch course just so happens to be open to the general public. One of South Florida's most highly reviewed courses, Deer Creek has hosted a USGA Senior tournament (2003) as well as the LPGA Tour's Mazda Classic (1979-84). The course, which was designed by Arthur Hills, is known for its rolling fairways (a rarity in the Sunshine State) and greens that feature TifEagle Ultradwarf Bermuda grass. (954-421-5550)
9. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
In the early 20th century, a group of Japanese immigrants came to Florida to institute an agricultural community. It didn't succeed, but one of its members, George Morikami, donated 200 acres to honor the effort and his native country. Today, that initial gift has blossomed into an entire cultural complex that features exhibitions on Japanese culture and traditions. A chronicle of the intended farming community can be traced, and visitors may also view artwork, bonsai, domestic artifacts, and crafts. Also on the grounds are a theater, a library, a multi-media center, an authentic tea house, a shop, cafe, and amazing gardens and water features. Classes in traditional crafts and ceremonies are also available. (561-495-0233)
8. Delray Municipal Beach
The beach at Delray is busy and well-frequented by people of all ages and persuasions. You'll see families on vacation, young people playing volleyball, and older folks basking in the warm sun. Parking is available nearby, as is a good supply of restaurants and eateries to take care of hunger pangs that inevitably spring up. The waters are ideal for swimming, and lifeguards posted along the shore guarantee that everyone is protected and safe. A good hang-out year-round.
7. Boca Raton Museum of Art
The beginnings of this fine museum date back to the 1940s, when a group of culturally-minded residents united their efforts to increase Boca's arts presence. More than 60 years later, the museum resides in an incredible facility in Mizner Park and boasts more than 4000 works in its permanent collection. Modern European and American pieces are prominent, along with pre-Columbian Mesoamerican art, Oceanic items, and western African tribal art. A ceramics collection, an outdoor sculpture garden, and impressive photography holdings are also available to visitors. A gift shop and changing exhibitions can be found as well. (561-392-2500)
6. Gumbo Limbo Environmental Complex
A mission to spread awareness of the natural world and of Florida's environmental concerns defines this center. Named for a local tree, the facility occupies 20 acres along the coast and preserves the landscape for visitors and native wildlife. An elevated boardwalk and a viewing tower provide vistas of the terrain, and the museum boasts educational displays and live creatures. Outdoor saltwater tanks house ocean-dwelling animals and allow folks to examine them close-up. (561-338-1473)
5. Spanish River Park
One of the area's largest parks, Spanish River guarantees plenty of room to spread out and enough diversions to please any visitor. Swimming in the ocean and sunbathing on the beach satisfy plenty of folks, and picnic tables and grills make outdoor dining a no-brainer. If you're the more active type, biking paths and nature trails offer the opportunity for exertion, and pick-up volleyball games are frequent occurrences. Other Spanish River perks include an observation tower and restrooms. (561-393-7815)
4. Boca Raton Resort and Club
Premiering in 1926, this elegant complex was architect Addison Mizner's initial step in establishing Boca Raton as a first-class resort. Intended to resemble a Mediterranean castle, the hotel was known as the Cloister Inn and operated as a private club and as WWII military barracks in succeeding years. Currently, the enterprise is one of the most desirable resorts in the nation and is an upscale destination for well-heeled visitors to the area. The palatial pink landmark features two golf courses, a private beach, tennis courts, a marina, Spa Palazzo and a selection of top-notch restaurants -- just to name a few of its amenities. (888-491-2622, 561-447-3000)
3. South Beach Park
A popular beach that doesn't always get the traffic more developed beaches do, South Beach offers a lovely, lifeguard-patrolled coastline. Swimming attracts most folks, but you'll find opportunity for snorkeling as well.
2. Boca Raton Old Town Hall
This charming structure, originally designed by Boca Raton's visionary architect, Addison Mizner, is a city landmark, especially given its prominent gold dome. Although Mizner's money ran out before he was able to construct the building, William Alsmeyer, another architect, revised the plans and finished the project. These days, the building is a repository of Boca's history, and it shelters a museum with displays about the city's cultural and architectural past. (561-395-6766)
1. Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge
Although many people are familiar with the southern Everglades (the wildlife and nature preserve southwest of Miami), not many realize that there's also a northern aspect to the preserve. This refuge represents the much-diminished northern Everglades, complete with wet prairies, sawgrass marshes, and swamps. Part of the refuge's function is to shelter wildlife, particularly birds, but it also works to maintain water levels for irrigation and emergency needs. In addition, it helps to prevent seawater from encroaching into freshwater reserves. A visitors' center, walking trails, observation platform, and canoe trails are available for education and recreation. (561-732-3684)
Best Attractions & Activities: http://www.10best.com/destinations/florida/boca-raton/attractions/best-attractions-activities/
Don't let the spiffy design and country club airs keep you away -- this topnotch course just so happens to be open to the general public. One of South Florida's most highly reviewed courses, Deer Creek has hosted a USGA Senior tournament (2003) as well as the LPGA Tour's Mazda Classic (1979-84). The course, which was designed by Arthur Hills, is known for its rolling fairways (a rarity in the Sunshine State) and greens that feature TifEagle Ultradwarf Bermuda grass. (954-421-5550)
9. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
In the early 20th century, a group of Japanese immigrants came to Florida to institute an agricultural community. It didn't succeed, but one of its members, George Morikami, donated 200 acres to honor the effort and his native country. Today, that initial gift has blossomed into an entire cultural complex that features exhibitions on Japanese culture and traditions. A chronicle of the intended farming community can be traced, and visitors may also view artwork, bonsai, domestic artifacts, and crafts. Also on the grounds are a theater, a library, a multi-media center, an authentic tea house, a shop, cafe, and amazing gardens and water features. Classes in traditional crafts and ceremonies are also available. (561-495-0233)
8. Delray Municipal Beach
The beach at Delray is busy and well-frequented by people of all ages and persuasions. You'll see families on vacation, young people playing volleyball, and older folks basking in the warm sun. Parking is available nearby, as is a good supply of restaurants and eateries to take care of hunger pangs that inevitably spring up. The waters are ideal for swimming, and lifeguards posted along the shore guarantee that everyone is protected and safe. A good hang-out year-round.
7. Boca Raton Museum of Art
The beginnings of this fine museum date back to the 1940s, when a group of culturally-minded residents united their efforts to increase Boca's arts presence. More than 60 years later, the museum resides in an incredible facility in Mizner Park and boasts more than 4000 works in its permanent collection. Modern European and American pieces are prominent, along with pre-Columbian Mesoamerican art, Oceanic items, and western African tribal art. A ceramics collection, an outdoor sculpture garden, and impressive photography holdings are also available to visitors. A gift shop and changing exhibitions can be found as well. (561-392-2500)
6. Gumbo Limbo Environmental Complex
A mission to spread awareness of the natural world and of Florida's environmental concerns defines this center. Named for a local tree, the facility occupies 20 acres along the coast and preserves the landscape for visitors and native wildlife. An elevated boardwalk and a viewing tower provide vistas of the terrain, and the museum boasts educational displays and live creatures. Outdoor saltwater tanks house ocean-dwelling animals and allow folks to examine them close-up. (561-338-1473)
5. Spanish River Park
One of the area's largest parks, Spanish River guarantees plenty of room to spread out and enough diversions to please any visitor. Swimming in the ocean and sunbathing on the beach satisfy plenty of folks, and picnic tables and grills make outdoor dining a no-brainer. If you're the more active type, biking paths and nature trails offer the opportunity for exertion, and pick-up volleyball games are frequent occurrences. Other Spanish River perks include an observation tower and restrooms. (561-393-7815)
4. Boca Raton Resort and Club
Premiering in 1926, this elegant complex was architect Addison Mizner's initial step in establishing Boca Raton as a first-class resort. Intended to resemble a Mediterranean castle, the hotel was known as the Cloister Inn and operated as a private club and as WWII military barracks in succeeding years. Currently, the enterprise is one of the most desirable resorts in the nation and is an upscale destination for well-heeled visitors to the area. The palatial pink landmark features two golf courses, a private beach, tennis courts, a marina, Spa Palazzo and a selection of top-notch restaurants -- just to name a few of its amenities. (888-491-2622, 561-447-3000)
3. South Beach Park
A popular beach that doesn't always get the traffic more developed beaches do, South Beach offers a lovely, lifeguard-patrolled coastline. Swimming attracts most folks, but you'll find opportunity for snorkeling as well.
2. Boca Raton Old Town Hall
This charming structure, originally designed by Boca Raton's visionary architect, Addison Mizner, is a city landmark, especially given its prominent gold dome. Although Mizner's money ran out before he was able to construct the building, William Alsmeyer, another architect, revised the plans and finished the project. These days, the building is a repository of Boca's history, and it shelters a museum with displays about the city's cultural and architectural past. (561-395-6766)
1. Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge
Although many people are familiar with the southern Everglades (the wildlife and nature preserve southwest of Miami), not many realize that there's also a northern aspect to the preserve. This refuge represents the much-diminished northern Everglades, complete with wet prairies, sawgrass marshes, and swamps. Part of the refuge's function is to shelter wildlife, particularly birds, but it also works to maintain water levels for irrigation and emergency needs. In addition, it helps to prevent seawater from encroaching into freshwater reserves. A visitors' center, walking trails, observation platform, and canoe trails are available for education and recreation. (561-732-3684)
Best Attractions & Activities: http://www.10best.com/destinations/florida/boca-raton/attractions/best-attractions-activities/
Where to stay:
The Boca Raton Resort and Club on Camino Real across from the famous Royal Palm Yacht and Country Club is the place to be. This Waldorf Astoria Resort is located just 24 miles north of Fort Lauderdale / Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and only 28 miles from Palm Beach International Airport (PBI). Offering golf, spa facilities, pools, and plenty of places to dine, this resort has it all. Find yourself relaxing beach side soaking up the beautiful Boca rays. Book your stay today! http://www.bocaresort.com/ | |
Engel & Völkers Boca Raton East
Engel & Völkers Boca Raton East310 East Palmetto Park Road Boca Raton, FL 33432 Tel: + 1 561 288 6001 Email: [email protected] http://bocaratoneast.evusa.com/ |