Like paint on a canvas or dancers on stage, cuisine is a work of art. Whether you’re visiting The Palm Beaches or exploring your own backyard, Florida’s Cultural Capital® offers a veritable smorgasbord of arts, sciences, history, and culinary experiences. Each September, it’s easy to enjoy the local food scene through Flavor South Florida, the region’s largest restaurant month. Keep reading for a sampling of cultural destinations and restaurants paired to pique every sense during your next arts adventure.

 

 

Loggerhead Marinelife Center + Little Moir’s Food Shack

 

“Sea” endangered turtles up close at Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach. This ocean conservation hub lets visitors view rehabilitating sea turtles and discover Florida’s marine and coastal ecosystems through exhibits and aquariums. Guests can also participate in science-focused programs, like guided sea turtle walks. Want even more adventure? Check out the nearby Juno Dunes Natural Area for a quick hike.

 

Afterward, head to Little Moir’s Food Shack for a global menu inspired by Southeast Asia, Hawaii, and more. Try the sweet potato-crusted grouper, tuna and basil roll or—my favorite—the Shack Bowl, bursting with fresh herbs, *the best* coconut rice, a lemongrass-ginger-lime broth, and your choice of protein (my favorite is fresh snapper).

 

 

Lighthouse ArtCenter Gallery & School of Art + Stage Kitchen & Bar

 

Ready for hands-on creativity? Visit the Lighthouse ArtCenter in Tequesta for art classes and workshops for every skill level and interest, including illustration, jewelry-making, and pottery. The center’s gift store and rotating exhibitions also feature works by professional artists.

 

Refill at Stage Kitchen & Bar, where flavors from South and West Asia, the Caribbean, and the United States collide. Case in point: duck confit rolls with peanut chutney. Savor scrumptious cocktails like Palm Beach Problems—featuring wild rose gin with fresh juices and rosemary—and don’t miss the butter chicken masala (it truly healed me). Oh, and save room for the cardamom cheesecake!

 

 

Society of the Four Arts + Echo Palm Beach

 

An oasis in the heart of Palm Beach, The Society of the Four Arts is one of the most unique places to rest and reset. With a dynamic lineup of art, literature, and performing arts programs, there’s something for everyone. Stroll the organization’s lush demonstration and sculpture gardens, or take in an exhibition or lecture. The King Library also offers a haven for bookworms looking for that next read.

 

Continue the inspiration at Echo Palm Beach, an iconic eatery that blends East and Southeast Asian influences. Order the Grand Marnier shrimp, the Palm Beach roll topped with baked spicy conch, or feed your soul with flavorful Shanghai soup dumplings.

 

 

Richard & Pat Johnson Palm Beach County History Museum + Isla & Co.

 

It might seem hard to believe, but The Palm Beaches was once a small resort destination surrounded by agricultural communities and wild subtropical forests. At the Richard and Pat Johnson Palm Beach County History Museum, see local history come to life through thousands of paintings, books, images, and more documenting the region’s rich heritage.

 

Afterward, head to Isla & Co. an Aussie-focused restaurant in the West Palm Beach warehouse district. From kangaroo skewers with cucumber salad to fish and chips, each bite will transport you to the land Down Under. For dessert, order one of the gourmet espresso martinis. One features rum, sherry, and Australian tim tam cookies—erm, biscuits. Because if you’re going to indulge in that coffee cocktail, you really should do it here.

 

 

Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge + Warren

 

Don’t sleep on The Palm Beaches’ only national wildlife refuge. With multiple trails, including a boardwalk through a cypress swamp, Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge is the perfect place to discover the Everglades. Keep your eyes peeled for species like pileated woodpeckers, white-tailed deer, and coyotes! Pro tip: bring sunscreen, water, and a change of clothing for dinner.

 

The world of whiskey can be as diverse as Florida nature. At Warren, experts can walk you through an impressive collection of bourbon and other spirits from around the world. With an equally inspiring atmosphere, you’ll want plenty of time here. Try the shaved Brussels salad or bone-marrow blend burger, and leave room for bread pudding, a bourbon flight, or inventive beverages like the shimmering Rose Gold cocktail.

 

 

Arts Garage + Dada

 

There’s nothing like live music. At Arts Garage in Delray Beach, both renowned and emerging soloists and ensembles take the stage in this intimate venue. Enjoy R&B, rock, jazz, funk, and even tribute shows at the many performances Arts Garage hosts throughout the year. They also hold a monthly open mic; if you have something to say, sing, or play, do sign up!

 

Before you rock out, grab a pre-show bite at Dada. Located in a historic home, the artsy haunt features a variety of fare, like vegan butternut squash ravioli, braised short rib with smoked tomato jam, and to-die-for-dates stuffed with Spanish chorizo and goat cheese.

 

 

To get started on planning your next arts adventure in The Palm Beaches, download our destination guide.