The Palm Beaches strive to be an accessible destination for all travelers.

Wheelchair-Accessible and Sensory-Friendly Experiences: Discover Inclusive Adventures in The Palm Beaches

The Palm Beaches have a long tradition of unmatched hospitality and making travel dreams come true. We welcome visitors of all abilities to relish our abundant sunshine, enjoy 47 miles of beautiful waters and soft sands, discover the rich local arts and culture scene, and delight in family-friendly attractions.
 
The Palm Beaches are pleased to welcome visitors of all abilities. This page presents several attractions, museums, performing arts centers, and recreational activities to discover, as well as accessibility information to make your trip easier.

From accessible hotels to inclusive attractions, we’re here to ensure every visitor can enjoy Florida’s Most Stylish Vacation Destination.

Accessible Experiences

Wheelchair-Friendly Cultural Attractions in The Palm Beaches

Here is a list of wheelchair-friendly and accessible cultural attractions in The Palm Beaches, Florida

By: Rosemarie Rossetti

I am Rosemarie Rossetti, an accessibility consultant and expert in universal design. I have a spinal cord injury and use a manual wheelchair. When traveling, I also bring a folding scooter.

This May, my husband, Mark Leder, and I enjoyed a three-day itinerary in The Palm Beaches, Florida. Our itinerary included several cultural attractions in West Palm Beach, Palm Beach, and Lake Worth Beach.

Here is a list of the most wheelchair-friendly cultural attractions we have visited during our trip. I focused on accessibility features and services at each destination I visited. In many of the venues, I was met by leaders for a private tour. I have shared my experiences so you will be more informed when deciding to visit the Palm Beach area.

Norton Museum of Art, West Palm Beach

Address: 1450 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL 33401

Phone Number: (561) 832-5196

During our first day in The Palm Beaches, we toured a beautiful art museum in downtown West Palm Beach.

The Norton Musuem of Art showcases collections of American, European, and contemporary artists, as well as Chinese art & photography.

As we arrived at the Norton Museum of Art, my husband and I were greeted in the accessible parking lot by Scott Simmons, Public Relations Manager. There was a pushbutton at the entrance to open the main door.

I rolled along in my manual wheelchair as he led us through the three-story museum. It was easy to roll on the flooring throughout the museum. The museum is fully wheelchair-accessible and features ramps and elevators.

Accessibility Features:

• Accessible parking
• Pushbutton at the entrance to open the main door
• Hard surface flooring throughout the museum
• Elevators with Braille signage
• Wheelchair accessible ramps
• Complimentary manual wheelchairs and walkers are available on a first-come first-served basis
• Assistive listening devices are available during guided tours, lectures, or other events
• Accessible group gallery tours can be requested
• Audio description and automated captioning are available online for selected programs
• American Sign Language interpretation can be arranged upon request
• The accessible restrooms have ample space for mobility devices and grab bars
• Braille signage in many public spaces
• Large print materials, including exhibition labels and museum maps, can be provided upon request
• Service dogs are welcome

Mounts Botanical Garden, West Palm Beach

Address: 531 North Military Trail, West Palm Beach, FL 33415

Phone Number: (561) 233-1757

Another cultural attraction in West Palm Beach perfect to spend a sunny day is Mounts Botanical Garden.

Mounts Botanical Garden offers visitors a serene environment, educational programming, and special exhibits throughout the year. People who use mobility devices can rest assured that they will have access to enjoy this horticultural paradise. Visitors will enjoy the beautiful vistas and the fragrances of the flowers in bloom. Have your cameras ready to zoom in closely at some very unusual plant specimens.

This 20-acre garden has 25 unique garden areas. There is a map of the gardens at the entrance with a QR code so people can download the map to their smartphone.

In my scooter, it was easy to roll throughout the botanical garden on the many wide, hard surface pathways.

The gift shop was accessible and contained an accessible restroom. There was a second accessible restroom in the Hutcheson Complex at the back of the garden. Both restrooms had ample room for a wheelchair, grab bars and accessible sinks.

Accessibility Features:

• Accessible parking near the entrance
• Map of the gardens at the entrance with a QR code so people can download the map to their smartphone
• The gift shop can be navigated easily in a wheelchair
• Accessible paths of travel throughout the garden
• Almost all areas are accessible by wheelchair
• Gentle ramps allow people with mobility devices to access various parts of the garden
• Many plants were identified by name with labels that could be viewed easily
• Accessible restrooms with ample space for mobility devices and grab bars
• Service animals are permitted on a leash
• Benches are throughout the garden so people can rest and enjoy the views

Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, West Palm Beach

Address: 701 Okeechobee Boulevard, West Palm Beach, FL 33401

Phone Number: 561-651-4444

If you like musicals and other live performances, a can’t-be-missed cultural venue is the Kravis Center for The Performing Arts located in downtown West Palm Beach.

The facilities include four venues – the 2,195-seat Alexander W. Dreyfoos Jr. Concert Hall, the 289-seat Rinker Playhouse, and the 170-seat Helen K. Persson Hall. Additionally, the Kravis Center’s facilities include the Cohen Pavilion, housing the Weiner Banquet Center and the Gimelstob Ballroom, The Elmore Family Business Center for the Arts, and The Picower Foundation Arts Education Center, which includes Persson Hall and The Khoury Family Dance Rehearsal Hall

The Cohen Pavilion is a grand, multipurpose facility with meeting and catering facilities, including the 10,500 square-foot Weiner Banquet Center and Gimelstob Ballroom with seating for more than 700 people, and The Picower Foundation Arts Education Center with the Helen K. Persson Hall, practice rooms, classrooms, lecture halls, theatre labs, a dance studio, and recording studio. These and many more amenities make this one of the most versatile and beautiful facilities in Palm Beach County.

I visited the Alexander W. Dreyfoos Jr. Concert Hall to see the performance of the musical Hamilton. We were staying across the street at the Hilton West Palm Beach, which made it very convenient to cross the street in my manual wheelchair and go up the theatre ramp entrance into the lobby.

We arrived an hour before the show to take a tour of the accessible features of the theater and the services provided to patrons with disabilities. Senior Director of Marketing and Public Relations Phala Murray led the tour. I found it easy to roll through the lobby and the ramps leading from one floor to another.

I was the first person allowed into the theatre before the performance. I was awestruck! The expansive number of seats, a giant stage, and beautiful lighting were overwhelming.

I requested to transfer to an aisle seat and was escorted by a trained staff member. The closest to the aisle armrest on the seat folded back, allowing me more clearance as I transferred from my wheelchair to the seat. A tag was placed on my wheelchair and I was given a claim ticket. My wheelchair was then parked adjacent to the aisle against the wall near my seat so that I could keep an eye on it.

During the intermission, I went to the single-person accessible restroom.

The Kravis Center is committed to providing accessible features and services to its patrons. The building was designed with accessibility in mind. The staff is dedicated to ensuring all patrons can fully enjoy their performances regardless of ability.

Accessibility Features:

• Accessible customer service with trained staff are available to assist patrons and provide guidance
• Complimentary wheelchairs are available to assist patrons on a first-come, first-served basis
• The counter at the concession area accommodates people who are in wheelchairs or short-statured
• Next to the concession area are low dining tables suitable for people in wheelchairs
• Hard surface flooring and low pile carpet make it easy to roll on in a wheelchair
• Ample lighting is available throughout the theatre before and after the performance
• Accessible restrooms equipped with grab bars and ample space to accommodate patrons with mobility devices
• Wheelchair-accessible ramps lead patrons from one level of the theater to another
• Four elevators take patrons from one floor to another
• Wide aisles throughout the theater make it easy to access seating
• Wheelchair-accessible and companion seating is available on multiple floors
• Selected seats on the aisle were designed for easy transfer from a wheelchair or scooter with armrests that swing away
• Patrons who transfer from their wheelchair or scooter to an aisle seat will have their mobility devices stored against the wall near their seats
• Patrons who transfer from their wheelchair or scooter to an aisle seat will have a claim ticket attached to their mobility device

Click here for a more detailed description of the Kravis Center accessibility features and special services.

Historic Walking Tour of Worth Avenue, Palm Beach

Address: Worth Avenue, Palm Beach, FL 33480

Phone Number: (561) 659-6909

If you are visiting Palm Beach on a Wednesday between October and April, I recommend you join the Historic Walking Tour of Worth Avenue. Rick Rose, the historical docent with colorful stories and an outfit to match, gave us inside information about the past and present of the area.

The Worth Avenue Area has shops, a hotel, restaurants, art galleries, and more. The streets are lined with luxury shopping, including men’s, women’s, and children’s apparel, jewelry, art, rare books, cigars, home furnishings, eyeglasses, linens, flowers, fashion accessories, shoes, and leather goods!

I was on my scooter and found it easy to navigate the wide sidewalks and cross the many streets in this area during the 75-minute leisurely tour. Frequently, I found myself at the head of the line so I could be closer to Rick Rose as he spoke.

Accessibility Features:

• Wide sidewalks were easy to navigate in a wheelchair
• Accessible curb cuts and crosswalks were clearly identified
• Benches were present to allow people to rest on the tour

Henry M. Flagler Museum, Palm Beach

Address: One Whitehall Way, Palm Beach, FL 33480

Phone Number: (561) 655-2833

Located not too far from Worth Avenue, the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum is a one-of-a-kind mansion rich in history, beautiful architecture, art, and elaborate furnishings. The museum is a 75-room, 100,000-square-foot Gilded Age mansion. This home was completed in 1902. The private estate of a wealthy entrepreneur and cofounder of Standard Oil, Henry Flagler, named this mansion “Whitehall.”

On a recent visit, I rolled in my manual wheelchair from the accessible parking lot to the front gate and toured the museum.

My husband and I were led on a tour by David Carson, Public Affairs Director. We toured the museum’s first floor and the Flagler Kenan Pavilion, which houses Flagler’s Railcar No. 91.

Accessibility Features:

• Accessible parking close to the entrance
• Accessible exterior and interior ramps
• Elevator
• Wheelchair-accessible hallways, exhibitions, galleries and rooms
• Hard surface flooring throughout
• Wide doorways throughout
• Ample room for navigation throughout in a mobility device
• Wheelchair-accessible restrooms on the first floor of Whitehall and in the Flagler Kenan Pavilion
• Self-directed audio guides (Telecoil enabled)
• Sign Language Interpretations can be arranged by request
• Braille and large print materials are available by request
• Docent-led tours that utilize a group guide system for amplification and a smartphone app (Bluetooth enabled)
• A closed caption video is playing outside of Railcar No. 91 as an alternative option for visitors who cannot safely climb steps
• Service animals are welcome and must be on a leash

Visitors to Palm Beach and people who live in the area should not miss visiting the Flagler Museum. You can’t help but notice this magnificent mansion as you drive by and wonder what’s inside. From my experience on a tour of this museum, I learned the history of Henry Flagler and how he was the co-founder of Standard Oil and a pioneer in developing the state of Florida.

The interior design was breathtakingly beautiful, including the furniture, artwork, woodworking, and lighting. One can only imagine what it would’ve been like in the early 1900s when the Flagler family lived here.

Cultural Council for Palm Beach County, Lake Worth Beach

Address: The Robert M. Montgomery, Jr. Building, 601 Lake Avenue, Lake Worth Beach, FL 33460

Phone Number: (561) 471-2901

The Cultural Council for Palm Beach County serves as a visitors center and art gallery in Lake Worth Beach. My husband parked our car in an accessible parking lot across the street. In my manual wheelchair, navigating the sidewalk and ramp leading to the front door was easy.

The solo gallery is approximately 390 square feet and includes movable wall space. There were exhibits on display with information about the artists.

There is an extensive collection of information about the area and cultural programs. The gift shop displays items made by local artists.

This location is an excellent destination for travelers looking to find information about places to visit in Palm Beach County. Not only do they have marketing materials, but the staff at the center is very knowledgeable and can make suggestions for places to travel.

A bonus is your opportunity to see artworks by local artists on display in the galleries. Some of their artwork is available for sale in the gift shop.

Accessibility Features:

• Accessible parking
• Accessible ramp to the front door
• Accessible gift shop
• Accessible displays of information about Palm Beach County
• Accessible art galleries
• Accessible restroom had ample room to navigate in a wheelchair, grab bars, and a sink with knee space underneath

An ASL-Friendly Weekend in The Palm Beaches

With a wide range of ASL-friendly attractions, informative signage, and a welcoming community, The Palm Beaches are an ideal destination for Deaf and hard-of-hearing travelers!

By: Lily Yu

Hi there! I’m Lily, a Deaf Travel Content Creator from Southern California, and I’m thrilled to be back in The Palm Beaches again for a weekend! Did you know this stunning destination holds the title of America’s First Resort Destination? It’s not just one beach, but a collection of 49 stunning towns and cities, stretching from Boca Raton and Delray Beach all the way up to Palm Beach and Jupiter!

The Palm Beaches offer a unique experience for all, particularly travelers who use American Sign Language (ASL). With a wide range of ASL-friendly attractions, informative signage, and a welcoming community, The Palm Beaches are an ideal destination for Deaf and hard-of-hearing travelers. From stunning beaches to vibrant cultural hotspots, we have everything you need for an unforgettable getaway!

Day 1

Land and Unwind: Check-in at Hilton PBI Airport Hotel

After a red-eye flight into Palm Beach Airport, we breezed through car rental and were on our way to relaxation in no time. Our haven for the getaway: the Hilton Palm Beach Airport hotel. Conveniently located just three miles from the beach and minutes from Downtown West Palm Beach, this hotel promised a resort-style atmosphere from the moment we arrived. True to its word, the Hilton impressed us with its modern design, spacious rooms, and stunning views of both Lake Cloud and the city skyline. Excellent service and accessibility made our stay truly unforgettable!

Lunch at Lucky Shuck Oyster Bar & Taphouse

For lunch, we headed to the Lucky Shuck Oyster Bar and Taphouse, a genuine raw bar experience that serves up fresh seafood and craft beer in a unique setting. The moment we step inside, we are struck by the soaring ceilings and vintage-inspired nautical decor, evoking the charm of an early 20th-century shipyard. There’s nothing quite like savoring a moment outside, seated by the table with breathtaking views of the iconic Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, perfectly framed to create a picturesque scene! Our waitress was a delight – not only friendly, but also ASL-friendly! Her willingness to adapt to our communication needs truly made us feel welcome and included. To ensure a seamless and enjoyable dining experience, she utilized written notes whenever needed. Pointing to my desired dishes on the menu worked flawlessly – she understood everything perfectly!

“Fun in the Sun” Paradise in Jupiter and Juno Beach

This stunning coastal duo offers the perfect recipe for a day of pure bliss, relaxation, and adventure. Here is what I recommend you do:

• Immerse in the rich history of the iconic Jupiter Lighthouse, boasting awe-inspiring views of Palm Beach County that span an incredible 5,000 years! The lighthouse offers Deaf visitors informative exhibits with written descriptions, making its rich history accessible and engaging for everyone.
• Unwind on the expansive sandy shores of Juno Beach Pier, where the soothing sound of waves crashing against the pier creates a serene ambiance.
• Explore the hidden gem of Coral Cove Park, featuring towering limestone rock formations revealed only at low tide – a true natural wonder!

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Stroll at CityPlace

After enjoying a delicious dinner, we took a leisurely stroll to CityPlace, a vibrant neighborhood pulsing with energy. This lively hub offers a diverse range of restaurants, shops, and activities, making it an ideal spot for a fantastic night out. CityPlace’s design incorporates open spaces and quiet areas, ensuring Deaf and hard-of-hearing visitors can communicate and navigate with ease. Don’t miss the iconic Wishing Tree, which transforms into a dazzling display of color after sunset. This enchanting visual experience is sure to captivate and delight!

Day 2

Breakfast at the Verdana

We began our day with a peaceful breakfast at Verdana, a charming restaurant nestled inside the Hilton Palm Beach Airport hotel.  This tranquil oasis provided a serene atmosphere, the perfect way to start a day of exploration. We opted for the buffet, which allowed us to serve ourselves and gather food at our own pace, a convenient and stress-free experience.

Finding Inspiration with the Sea Turtles: A Loggerhead Marinelife Center Visit

We visited the Loggerhead Marinelife Center, a non-profit dedicated to ocean ecosystem conservation. We met Jennifer Reily, the Deaf Research Operations Manager, who led us on a fascinating private ASL tour of the facility.

Her passion and dedication to protecting threatened and endangered sea turtles were truly inspiring. Her dedication to educating others about creating safe environments for these incredible creatures was equally admirable.

Jennifer and her team are making a profound impact, driving meaningful change and safeguarding the future of our planet’s precious marine life. Witnessing the adorable sea turtles receiving care from the talented team at the state-of-the-art campus hospital was an absolute delight. The interactive exhibits with clear signage, stunning aquariums, and captivating gift shop all added to the ASL-friendly experience. We left feeling motivated to make a positive impact on our planet’s precious marine life.

Escape to the Peanut Island

We secured advanced water taxi tickets at Sailfish Marina for the 11:30 am departure to Peanut Island, a hidden gem in The Palm Beaches. The staff was friendly and helpful, and we were able to communicate easily using our phone’s speech-to-text feature when we needed directions to find a water taxi. Since water taxi departures are limited, planning ahead was key. With a return taxi at 3:30 pm, we had a perfect three and a half hours to explore this enchanting isle.

Peanut Island offered a tranquil escape from the ordinary, a chance to unwind amidst its natural beauty. Whether you prefer snorkeling, paddling, or a scenic hike, the island caters to all types of relaxation. We opted for a breathtaking 1.25-mile trek, rewarded with jaw-dropping 360-degree views. Crystal-clear waters beckoned me for a snorkeling adventure. While the elusive baby sharks, stingrays, and manatees remained shy this time, vibrant fish swirled around the colorful rocks, captivating my attention. So gorgeous!

Explore Downtown West Palm Beach

We savored the vibrant atmosphere of Downtown West Palm Beach at our own pace. This thriving hub of The Palm Beaches radiates tropical energy, its palm-lined streets pulsating with an infectious rhythm. As the epicenter of nightlife, entertainment, cultural attractions, and recreation, Downtown West Palm Beach offers an unparalleled experience.

We made a memorable stop at Lost Weekend, a legendary bar that seamlessly blends billiards, art, and vintage games, creating a unique and captivating ambiance that lingers long after the night ends. Ordering drinks was incredibly easy, as I could simply type my request on my phone and show it to the staff, eliminating any misunderstandings.

Day 3

See the Exhibit at the Historical Society of Palm Beach County

We had the privilege of experiencing the captivating exhibits at the Historical Society of Palm Beach County.  Kalani, our knowledgeable docent, expertly guided us through the exhibit, accompanied by a skilled ASL interpreter, ensuring an inclusive and enriching experience.

This ASL-friendly exhibit explored the fascinating evolution of Palm Beach resort wear over the past 129 years. This captivating display highlighted how Palm Beach, known for its luxurious ambiance and subtropical climate, became a leader in setting resort fashion trends. Over 85 pieces from top designers and brands like Saint Laurent, Gucci, Valentino, Lilly Pulitzer, and Iris Apfel adorned the exhibit, showcasing a range of styles – from timeless elegance to playful prints. Dresses, swimsuits, sportswear, and accessories likely filled the space, offering a glimpse into the history of Palm Beach fashion.

This immersive experience left a lasting impression, and the Historical Society offers many other captivating exhibits throughout the year.

Lunch with a View: RH Rooftop Restaurant

We savored a luxurious lunch at RH Rooftop, elegantly situated atop the Restoration Hardware furniture store. This refined rooftop retreat offers an exceptional culinary experience, showcasing a range of timeless American classics and an impressive wine selection, all set against the stunning backdrop of Downtown West Palm Beach. As we indulged, we were enveloped by the warm glow of chandeliers, the gentle trickle of fountains, and breathtaking views of the city below, crafting a truly unforgettable experience that delighted our senses and left a lasting impression. It’s a must-visit! The friendly waiter easily understood our order when we pointed to the menu, and we appreciated the seamless communication.

Shopping on Worth Avenue: A Luxury Experience

We took a stroll at the Worth Avenue, a picturesque street just steps from the ocean, where historic charm and luxury converge. This iconic avenue is a dream destination, beckoning us to explore its enchanting “Vias” – secluded passageways off the main street, home to one-of-a-kind boutiques and exquisite outdoor dining experiences. We appreciated the clear and easy-to-read signs, making navigation accessible for Deaf and hard-of-hearing visitors like ourselves.

Picturesque Spots You Won’t Want to Miss

• Worth Avenue Clock Tower: This iconic clock tower stands sentinel at the entrance of Worth Avenue, its face gazing out upon the prestigious avenue and the stunning Atlantic Ocean beyond.
• Via Amore: With three inviting entrances and a treasure trove of visual delights, Via Amore is a close second to Via Mizner in terms of recognition and charm.
• Via Mizner: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Via Mizner boasts a rich history as the former residence of renowned architect Addison Mizner, who designed the impressive five-story apartment building that anchors this picturesque via.
• Via Parigi: As the via closest to Coconut Row, Via Parigi greets passersby with a lush, Mediterranean-inspired archway that beckons visitors to explore its charming oasis.
• Blue Door: When strolling through Palm Beach, be sure to snap a photo in front of the famous blue door on Peruvian Avenue, conveniently located across from Renato’s.

Unleash Adrenaline at Shark Wake Park

We got ready for an adrenaline rush like no other at Shark Wake Park, an outdoor adventure paradise that guarantees non-stop thrills! This action-packed park offers an array of heart-pumping experiences, including cable wakeboarding, kneeboarding, and a challenging floating obstacle course complete with slides, climbing towers, and more.

As a first-timer, I was eager to try cable wakeboarding and kneeboarding, and the park’s expert guides were on hand to offer valuable tips and tricks. With the help of an ASL interpreter, our conversation was seamless, and I was able to follow their instructions with ease. While safety briefings may not be offered in ASL, the park staff is visually oriented and uses clear hand signals for instruction. The experience was exhilarating, and I can’t wait to go back for more!

Dinner at the Avocado Grill

We dined at the Avocado Grill, a vibrant restaurant that truly celebrates the art of flavor. Inspired by the warmth of the sun and the freshness of the sea, this culinary gem employs world-class techniques and the finest local ingredients to craft refreshing cocktails and mouth-watering small plates. The atmosphere is effortlessly chic, with a hip and modern décor that spills out into an open-air setting, perfect for a relaxed yet stylish dining experience.

The menu boasts a diverse range of dishes, from savory tapas and fresh salads to satisfying entrees and decadent desserts. Be sure to try their signature whole avocado vinaigrette, creamy guacamole, and seared tuna poke.

Our ASL-friendly waitress was great! I used my phone to ask for her food recommendations, and she helpfully pointed to the menu items, making my choice easy and straightforward.

Self-Pouring at The Garden District

After dinner, we ventured to The Garden District, West Palm Beach’s first self-pour tap room, which we were thrilled to discover is ASL-friendly! This haven for hop lovers boasts a constantly evolving selection of 25 craft beers, ciders, seltzers, and wines, all on tap and ready to be discovered at your own pace.

We appreciated the self-serve system, which allowed us to order and enjoy our drinks without needing to interact with waiters, making it an inclusive experience for Deaf and hard-of-hearing visitors like ourselves.

A stunning mural showcasing the vibrant spirit of The Palm Beaches adorned the wall, adding a touch of local flair to the already inviting atmosphere. The ASL-friendly environment and independent service made our visit even more enjoyable!

Day 4

Wildlife Encounter at Lion Country Safari

We saw over 900 incredible animals, including lions, giraffes, zebras, ostriches, and rhinos, all roaming free at Lion Country Safari! Large herds of animals representing six continents roam freely in the safari, we got to observe them from the comfort and safety of our enclosed vehicle.

But that’s not all! After our unforgettable four-mile drive-through safari experience, we headed to the exciting Safari World Amusement Park, where we saw even more animals, fed giraffes, and even watched a giraffe create art on a canvas! The safari offers written materials, such as maps, guides, and informational signs, to help Deaf and hard-of-hearing visitors navigate and enjoy the park.

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Where History Meets Elegance: Flagler Museum

We discovered an impressive art collection and original furnishings, transporting us back to an era of elegance and refinement. Nestled in the heart of Palm Beach, the Flagler Museum is a breathtaking estate that whispers tales of a bygone era.

Built in 1902 as a testament to Henry Flagler’s devotion to his third wife, Mary Lily Kenan, this magnificent property is a true masterpiece of Gilded Age architecture and design.

This National Historic Landmark is open to the public where we can explore 75 lavish rooms and 100,000 square feet of stunning space.

Marvel at the neoclassical Beaux Arts architecture, a masterpiece of its time. The Flagler Kenan Pavilion is a must-visit, housing Henry Flagler’s private Railcar No. 91 and the charming Cafe des Beaux-Arts, where we can indulge in a Gilded Age-inspired tea service.

Be sure to browse the Museum Store, offering a curated selection of books, gifts, and memorabilia that celebrate Florida’s rich history. Written brochures are available in multiple languages to enhance your visit.

Meet the Gentle Giants: Manatee Lagoon Encounter

We encountered manatees and support conservation at Manatee Lagoon! This free experience ignites curiosity about the Lake Worth Lagoon and its gentle giants, the manatees. Interactive exhibits with visual and tactile elements entertain while teaching about these endangered creatures.

Manatee Lagoon, a non-profit, champions manatee research, awareness, and protection. Witness these marvels during winter when cooler snaps with minimal cloud cover draw them to the warm water discharges from the nearby FPL power plant. Free admission, making it accessible to all.

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Norton Museum of Art

Our whirlwind tour of The Palm Beaches left us wanting more! The Norton Museum of Art is a must-visit ASL-friendly destination that exceeded our expectations during our 2022 visit.

With an impressive permanent collection of over 7,600 works spanning five curatorial departments, this accredited gem is one of the largest and oldest in Florida, offering ASL-friendly exhibits and interactive experiences. The museum showcases an array of European masters, including El Greco, Monet, and Van Gogh, alongside American greats like Cassatt and Pollock.

What truly impressed us, however, was the Norton’s commitment to accessibility, providing an exceptional American Sign Language interpreter for our private tour, who breathed life into the artworks with captivating stories and infectious enthusiasm, making the experience truly unforgettable. We appreciated the museum’s dedication to inclusivity, ensuring that Deaf and hard-of-hearing visitors can fully immerse themselves in the world of art through travel in ASL.

The Palm Beaches offer an unforgettable experience for Deaf and hard-of-hearing travelers, with ASL-friendly attractions, services, and amenities. Bookmark this post for your ultimate Palm Beaches itinerary and get ready to bask in the sunshine, soak up the culture, and fall head over heels for the charm of this incredible destination! Follow Deaf Journey on social media for more inspiring adventures!

Traveling With a Disability in The Palm Beaches

Travel influencer Lily Yu shares her experience as a deaf visitor in Palm Beach County.

It was our first trip to The Palm Beaches, Florida! We had the most wonderful time of our lives and visiting The Palm Beaches gave us beautiful memories that we will always remember for our lifetime! We would like to share our 3-day itinerary, experiences, and tips, so you can keep it in your mind when visiting Palm Beach County in the future.

Day One

My husband, Daniel, and I got an ADA-Accessible Deluxe King room booked at The Seagate Hotel in Delray Beach for 2 nights. The room has a cozy king bed, sleeper sofa, and amenities such as a ramp-accessible private balcony and an oversized marble shower with grab bars. The view was beautiful outside the private balcony with two chairs and a small table. I let The Seagate Hotel and Spa know my husband and I are both deaf, and they wanted to accommodate our needs by providing an interpreter for us when we checked in.

We arrived on time for check-in and met an interpreter on-site and The Seagate Hotel and Spa members. Our meeting went smoothly, and our communication was easy with a fantastic CERTIFIED INTERPRETER! We were very impressed with how deaf friendly they are and understood how to accommodate deaf people’s needs; We had never experienced having an amazing interpreting service for check-in. I highly recommend deaf people to stay at The Seagate Hotel when visiting Delray Beach! The Seagate Hotel and Spa is a cute boutique hotel for nearly 100 years in the charming town of Delray Beach and provides everything you need, including an outdoor heated swimming pool, whirlpool spa, wellness center with fitness classes, a full-service spa, steam rooms, and a tranquility lounge, gift shop, café, and restaurant.https://www.instagram.com/reel/CgPzisXMkvK/embed/?cr=1&v=14&wp=540&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thepalmbeaches.com&rp=%2Fblogs-deia-blogs%2Ftraveling-disability-palm-beaches#%7B%22ci%22%3A0%2C%22os%22%3A4750.799999952316%2C%22ls%22%3A1536.0999999046326%2C%22le%22%3A2335%7D

Tips: If you stay at The Seagate Hotel and Spa, you can request for a private shuttle in the front of the hotel entrance and a chauffeur can take you anywhere in Delray Beach for up to few miles and to the Beach Club. You don’t need to drive and park at the garage instead.

After we checked in, we decided to take a stroll in the Downtown Delray Beach nearby. It was recently awarded “Best of the Road – Most Fun Small Town in America” by Rand McNally and USA Today. Downtown Delray Beach has many cute boutique shops, galleries, restaurants, and artworks. We took pictures and videos of the cute Pineapple Grove Sign at the Pineapple Grove Arts District and huge pineapple sculpture with the tall palm trees.

Then, we drove to the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens which is around 30 minutes away. The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens has been a center for Japanese arts and culture in South Florida since 1977. Visiting there made us feel like we were traveling in Japan! We saw many beautiful animals such as koi fishes, turtles, lizards, and colorful birds. You can buy fish food for only a dollar to feed koi fishes. There’s a Bonsai Collection display where you can view many different kinds of bonsai! It’s the Japanese art of growing and training mini trees in the containers. The museum hosts several exhibitions of Japanese art and artifacts throughout the year, and you can even buy souvenirs at the Morikami Museum Store. They have a Tea House where you can participate in a tea ceremony.

Tips: Stop by Cornell Café, the open-air café on the terraces overlooking the gardens. You can order authentic Japanese lunches from a Pan-Asian inspired menu. We ordered sushi, bento boxes, and boba tea. Everything tasted good! Not only that, but the price is also reasonable. The Japanese garden is huge! Make sure to wear comfortable sneakers to be prepared for a long walk.

After visiting Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, we went back to our hotel to get ready for dinner at Atlantic Grille, located in The Seagate Hotel and Spa. We have already made a dinner reservation and when we arrived at the restaurant, they asked us if we needed an interpreter. We nodded and did not expect an interpreter was waiting for us! We were surprised because we had never experienced interpreting service for dinner before and it was easy to communicate with a waiter without having to type on our phone! We invited an interpreter to join us for dinner and we enjoyed chatting to get to know each other better. The view was beautiful in front of us – the baby sharks in a big tank! Eating New American Cuisine for dinner was amazing from the appetizer down to the dessert! Seafood and meats were fresh with organic ingredients! We also tried the famous Florida’s Key Lime Pie. It was delicious!​

Day Two

We ate breakfast at Atlantic Grille to get refreshed for a long day! We attended the Norton Museum of Art for a private tour with ASL interpreters. The tour is a great way to experience the extraordinary permanent collections and special exhibitions with a museum tour guide expert which made it more interesting because we learned a lot about art history. The Norton Museum of Art features over 8,200 artworks in 5 different departments including European, American, Chinese, Contemporary and Photography. I loved seeing some of my favorite artists’ work such as Dale Chihuly and Pablo Picasso! There’s a beautiful glass ceiling where you can walk under.

Tips: If you want to save time, you can stop by The Restaurant at The Norton located inside the museum for lunch. Light modern-American food was good with breathtaking garden views! There’s indoor and outdoor seating. The service was top notch! After lunch, we explored Palm Beach for the rest of our day! Did you know Palm Beach is one of the wealthiest cities in Florida? This vibrant city offers so much like excellent shopping, unique dining, museums, and beaches in a walking distance!https://www.instagram.com/reel/CgSxJv8Pwyj/embed/?cr=1&v=14&wp=540&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thepalmbeaches.com&rp=%2Fblogs-deia-blogs%2Ftraveling-disability-palm-beaches#%7B%22ci%22%3A1%2C%22os%22%3A4754.599999904633%2C%22ls%22%3A1536.0999999046326%2C%22le%22%3A2335%7D

Things to do in Palm Beach:
1. Royal Palm Way is stunning because the tall palm trees are lined up in 4 rows on a street!
2. Palm Beach Memorial Fountain is a beautiful linear plaza with a central reflecting pool and fountain.
3. The Colony Hotel is the pinkest boutique hotel since 1947. Very cute!
4. Worth Avenue Clock Tower is a gorgeous landmark sit right at the entrance to Worth Avenue and behind the Mid-Town Municipal Beach. Worth Avenue is a must to see because it’s one of the most beautiful, upscale shopping districts in America! There are several cute courtyards like Via Mizner, Via Amore, and Via Parigi. Via Mizner courtyard has beautiful, tiled stairways.
5. The Breakers Palm Beach is one of America’s most iconic resorts. The Breakers is an Italian Renaissance-style hotel on 140 acres of oceanfront property!
6. Church of Bethesda-By-The-Sea is the oldest existing congregation in Palm Beach with a gothic revival style, surrounding a beautiful courtyard and garden.

Day Three

We ate breakfast at Atlantic Grille again. After breakfast, we relaxed by the pool and suntanned by the beach at The Seagate Beach Club. I love the Beach Club because you can have exclusive access to a private beach with no crowds! The Beach Club is for members and registered hotel guests only. There’s also a saltwater swimming pool, dining room and outdoor patio bar where you can order food and drinks. They offer valet parking and complimentary water and towel you can bring to the pool and beach. You can rent a cabana and water sports. The beach is beautiful because of crystal clear water ocean and soft, white sands! It was a perfect day under the sun.
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10 Things to Do in Palm Beach

Start exploring Palm Beach, Florida with these 10 not-to-be-missed attractions!

Sophisticated and elegant, Palm Beach is a world-renowned destination for its intriguing architecture, blue ocean waves, small-town character, genuine hospitality, and cultural offerings. This stunning town nestled between the Lake Worth Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean offers plenty of things to do. Here we have listed our top 10!

1. The Breakers Palm Beach

An iconic destination for more than 125 years, The Breakers is a luxury, Italian Renaissance-style resort situated on 140 acres of oceanfront property in the heart of Palm Beach.

Founded by Henry M. Flagler in 1896, this stunning property delights guests with gracious service, unparalleled seaside glamour and world-class amenities. The resort’s legacy began in 1894 with the development of the Royal Poinciana Hotel, a Georgian beauty built on the shores of Lake Worth. Opening to universal acclaim, Flagler quickly decided to expand his estate, constructing a second hotel on the beachfront portion of the property, down by “the breakers,” or where the waves crash. 

Throughout the years, The Breakers has been rebuilt twice due to fires in 1903 and 1925. The second reconstruction was awarded to New York City-based designers Schultze and Weaver, who used European influences and inspiration from the Villa Medici in Rome.

Upon reopening, the resort’s reputation continued to grow, and today, The Breakers is recognized as one of America’s most iconic resorts. Book a suite or enjoy a spectacular brunch experience at The Circle on Sunday morning.

2. The Henry M. Flagler Museum 

Situated on the west side of Palm Beach Island, the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum offers tours of Henry M. Flagler’s Gilded Age-era estate, Whitehall.

Completed in 1902 and used by Flagler and his wife as a winter retreat until 1913, the 100,000-square-foot mansion is today a National Historic Landmark. The museum has restored Whitehall in all its gilded glamour, and highlights Flagler’s accomplishments in shaping Florida’s history and America’s Gilded Age.

Changing exhibitions and special programs are offered throughout the Palm Beach season, and visitors can climb aboard Flagler’s private Railcar No. 91 which dates to 1896. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, and on Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm. Buy your tickets here.

3. Worth Avenue

Worth Avenue is an enchanting and a world-renowned shopping destination spanning three blocks from the Atlantic Ocean to the Intracoastal Waterway.

Considered one of the most beautiful shopping venues in the country, Worth Avenue is a sophisticated area where the spectacular shopping and dining scene pairs with art exhibit and architectural beauties. Here, you’ll find anything from gourmet restaurants to high-end stores and short “vias” located off the main street. Via Parigi, Via Mizner, Via Roma, and Via Amore are just a few of the several vias filled with boutiques and outdoor dining options.

Some of the big brand names that boast a store on this luxurious avenue include Neiman Marcus, Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., Tourneau, Hermès, Ralph Lauren, Gucci and many more.

Stop at the Lilly Pulitzer boutique and shop authentic Palm Beach resorts wear with bright colorful floral patterns. And if you’re hungry, take a seat at Pizza Al Fresco. Located in Via Mizner, this peculiar restaurant offers delicious brick-oven pizzas and classic Italian specialties in an outdoor courtyard surrounded by beautiful architecture.

Hidden among the fern fronds of the restaurant’s courtyard, you’ll find the only cemetery in Palm Beach—actually a pet cemetery. One of the two graves resting there belongs to spider monkey Johnnie Brown, the famous pet once belonging to architect Addison Mizner. Johnnie Brown became famous in Palm Beach around the 1920s, as he made his way around the island on the shoulder of Mizner. His tombstone reads “Johnnie Brown, The Human Monkey, Died April 30, 1927.”

4. The Clock Tower

The Clock Tower—an iconic landmark hard to go unnoticed—is located between palm trees right at the entrance of Worth Avenue.

The clock faces both the avenue and the beautiful Atlantic Ocean that lies behind. The 25-foot tower stands out majestically on the sidewalk of Old Ocean Boulevard—just the perfect place to take a selfie! The clock is also intended to be a monument to the Palm Beach Pier which stood on that site before it was destroyed by a hurricane in 1930.

The construction of the clock was part of a $15.8 million renovation to the stylish Worth Ave in 2010, which included wider sidewalks, antique-style streetlights, and palm trees lining up along the sidewalks.

5. The Royal Poinciana Plaza

The Royal Poinciana Plaza is a high-end shopping destination built in the late 1950s. Today, the plaza includes a total of 50 hand-selected brands surrounded by classic John Volk architecture—a great example of his signature Palm Beach style.

With 180,000 square feet of retail space and lush gardens, the plaza offers a unique international shopping and entertainment experience for indulgence and retreat.

When you’re there make sure to stop at Sant Ambroeus and savor authentic Milanese specialties. This stunning upscale restaurant offers a fine dining experience, a bar with cocktails and café tables, and a signature coffee bar and gelateria.

A few steps away from the plaza, you’ll also find a 11-foot-tall bronze statue of Henry Flagler, located on Royal Poinciana Way on the median east of the intersection with Cocoanut Row and Bradley Place.

6. The Society of the Four Arts

Founded in 1936, the Society of the Four Arts is a nonprofit cultural organization and one of Palm Beach’s oldest and most respected cultural destinations.

This cultural institution offers a dynamic lineup of engaging and inspiring cultural programming, including art exhibitions, notable speakers, concerts, films, and educational programs.

The 10-acre campus along the Intracoastal Waterway in Palm Beach includes a performance hall, an art gallery designed by famed architect Addison Mizner, a modern education center devoted to lifelong learning, a library, a children’s library, and beautiful sculpture gardens designed in 1938.

7. The Lake Trail

In front of the impressive Flagler Museum alongside the western edge of Palm Beach, you’ll find Lake Trail, a place that boasts some of the most exclusive addresses in the world, but also a trail where joggers, nannies, visitors, and Palm Beach locals mix together along walls draped with bougainvillea and ivy.

The trail is 5 and a half miles long, running from South Lake Drive near Peruvian Avenue North to its terminus just north of the famous Sailfish Club.

One of the main attractions on the trail is a giant kapok tree, a transplant from the Amazon rainforest brought here as an experimental crop tree in Palm Beach’s earliest days. Another attraction on the trail is the old Bethesda-by-the-Sea, a deconsecrated church converted to a family residence. The all-wood home is full of early 20th century charm and design, with a concrete path lifted and buckled by an ancient Banyan tree.

Lastly, the sight of the splendid boats with the West Palm Beach skyline in the distance makes for an Instagram shot that should not be missed. 

8. The Sea Gull Cottage

In the shadows of the Flagler Museum is a small cottage, clad in blue shingles and a wood shake roof. Called the Sea Gull Cottage, this unassuming little structure is perhaps as historically important to the Island as Flagler’s palatial home.

Built in 1886, the cottage was considered one of the nicest homes on the island, with stained glass windows and a staircase constructed of mahogany salvaged from a local shipwreck.

Henry Flagler was so impressed he decided to buy the house and the entire tract of land it sat upon. The cottage became Flagler’s winter home, and the land nearby became the construction site for his new mansion, completed in 1902.

The charming, three-level cottage is next to the Lake Trail, and serves the community of Palm Beach for functions and events.

9. Palm Beach Par 3 Golf Course

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Lake Worth Lagoon, renowned Palm Beach Par 3 Golf Course offers an unparalleled golfing experience.

The golf course was originally designed by legendary golf course architect Dick Wilson and his apprentice Joe Lee in 1961. Then, the course was completely renovated in 2009 by World Hall of Fame champion Raymond Floyd.

Palm Beach Par 3 Golf Course is immersed in a beautiful tropical landscape, along with two lakes and lush paspalum turf where there’s always an ocean breeze.

The golf course boasts 18 beautiful holes, from 81 to 211 yards and 3 sets of tees on each hole. There is also a new 2-story Key West style clubhouse that features a fully stocked Pro-shop and al Fresco Restaurant and Bar.

10. Buccan & Café Boulud

No visit of Palm Beach is complete without a gourmet dinner experience in the heart of Palm Beach at Buccan or Café Boulud. Curated by Chef Clay Conley, Buccan offers inventive American cuisine made with the freshest, carefully selected ingredients. On the menu you’ll find dishes with innovative flavors featuring fish, meat, pasta, and even plant-based specialties and raw options, such as ceviche or steak tartare. Reserve your table here.

Café Boulud is a legendary restaurant at the Brazilian Court Hotel. The restaurant boasts a wine cellar filled with vintages from every continent and a menu created by Michelin-starred Chef Daniel Boulud and Executive Chef Dieter Samijn.

Mouthwatering local favorites include Potato Crusted Seabass, Maine Scallops with Summer Squash and Olive Aioli, and the beloved Dover Sole Meuniere, filleted tableside. 

Explore More Attractions, History, and Architecture, Through Guided Tours

Scenic E-Bike Guided Tour of Palm Beach

Embark on a must-try guided tour to experience Palm Beach like a true local! Led by passionate experts, this engaging 3-hour journey is filled with fascinating history, hidden gems, and plenty of fun. Learn about legends like Flagler, Bradley, and Mizner as you explore iconic landmarks—and you might even stumble upon a secret beach! Whether you’re sightseeing, shopping, or soaking in the area’s rich culture, this tour has it all. Ready to start your adventure? Call (561) 970-7977 for more information and to book today!

Learn More

Historic Walking Tours of Worth Avenue

Step back in time with the Worth Avenue Association’s “Historic Walking Tours of Worth Avenue,” where history comes alive through the captivating tales of Henry Flagler, Addison Mizner, and other iconic figures. Led by historical docent Rick Rose, this 75-minute tour runs every Wednesday from November through April. Discover the origins of Worth Avenue, its unique architecture, legendary landmarks, and the lives of its famous residents—all through colorful anecdotes and expert commentary.

Tours begin at 10:30 AM in Via Amore at 256 Worth Avenue, across from Tiffany & Co. and Chanel. Tickets are $25 per person, with a portion benefiting The Historical Society of Palm Beach County.

Tickets & Info

Island Living Tours

Island Living Tours offer an engaging way to explore Palm Beach, blending entertainment with education. Led by Ms. Diver, these tours reveal the town’s rich history, stunning architecture, and intriguing stories of its famous residents. From historical landmarks to tales of renowned figures, these tours provide a unique perspective on this captivating destination.

Highlighted Tours

• Best of Palm Beach Tour: A 90-minute journey showcasing luxurious homes and a stroll through the historic vias on Worth Avenue.
• Island Tour: A comprehensive 2.5-hour driving tour that covers the entire island, with stops at Seagull Cottage and Worth Avenue for photos and brief walks.
• Estate Section & Historic Worth Avenue Vias Tour: Discover Palm Beach’s grandest mansions, designed by legendary architects, and explore Worth Avenue’s charming vias.

These are just a few of the tours available—many more await to enhance your Palm Beach experience.

Check out Island Living Tours website