By Kara Franker

While the big city lights attract the crowds, nestled in between Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach, there’s a hidden gem. With so many fun things to do, Delray Beach is perfect for a couple’s escape or a vacation for the whole family.

It's no wonder Delray Beach was named Most Fun Small Town in the USA by Rand McNally, USA Today and the Travel Channel. This funky beach town is an eclectic mix of friendly Old Florida meets vibrant village by the sea.

Stay at one of my favorite luxury boutique hotels, The Seagate Hotel & Spa. Whether you’re into golf, water-sports, the spa or simply catching a few rays by the oceanfront pool at the Seagate's Beach Club, this hotel has something for everyone.

The hotel is located in the heart of all the action on Atlantic Avenue, which runs through the center of town from the Interstate to the ocean. The main drag is lined with trendy boutiques, colorful art galleries, sidewalk cafes and bars featuring nightly entertainment.

Here are five awesome things to do in Delray Beach, FL.

1. Hang out at one of the most beautiful beaches in South Florida -- the Delray Municipal Beach.

Hop on a stand-up paddle board or rent a kayak from Delray Beach Watersports (400 S. Ocean Blvd.). There's public parking along South Ocean Blvd.

Things to do in Delray Beach

Delray Beach Fun At The Beach

- DelrayBeachWaterSportsRentals

 

2. Catch a show, take a class or browse the gallery at Arts Garage.

Bring your own food and drink and enjoy a fabulous musical performance or a play by seasoned performers. Arts Garage is a theater, performing arts academy and cultural center -- all rolled into one. And they're actually part of a garage. Check out Delray's artistic offerings for yourself at 180 N.E. 1st St.

Things to do in Delray Beach, FL - Visit an Art Gallery

 

- Gallery Arts Garage

 

3. Go restaurant and bar hopping along Atlantic Avenue and Ocean Blvd.

Hitch a ride on one of the free golf carts from the Delray Downtowner and check out one of the many restaurants and bars such as Sandbar, 50 Ocean, Boston's on the Beach (shown below) and many more.

Things to do in Delray Beach - Dinning on a Tiki Bar

Dining on the beach and fun tiki bars.

- Boston's On The Beach

 

4. Explore the Pineapple Grove Arts District.

Located just off Atlantic Ave in downtown Delray Beach, the Pineapple Grove Arts District features an eclectic mix of art galleries, boutiques and shops. It's home to Artist Alley, where you will find working artists in their studios.

Northeast Second Avenue, near the entrance to the Pineapple Grove Arts District.

Northeast Second Avenue, near the entrance to the Pineapple Grove Arts District.

- Photo by Peter W. Cross

 

5. Attend one of the yearly street festivals.

Downtown Delray Beach plays hosts to an array of fun-filled events, including the Delray Affair, On The Ave gallery walks and the lighting of a 100-foot Christmas tree during the holidays.

Happy People, happy Delray Beach!

Happy People, happy Delray Beach!

- VMA Studios

Insider Tip: For help planning your Delray Beach vacation, check out to VisitDelrayBeachFL.com

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