Looking for things to do in Boca Raton, FL? You’re in the right place.
This guide is more focused on things to do in Boca Raton for adults rather than families. Think couples trips, friend weekends, or a kid-free escape where the goal is to relax, eat well, and enjoy a little bit of everything Boca does best. This city makes it easy to go from laid-back mornings by the ocean to vibey dinner and cocktails without missing a beat.
As you put together your adults-only itinerary for your weekend in the City of Boca Raton, use this guide to make sure you cover all the Boca bases.
Where to Stay in Boca Raton
First things first: where should you stay?
There are a lot of resorts and hotels in Boca Raton, so choosing one might be difficult. For the ultimate Boca experience, The Boca Raton is a historic icon. It originally opened in 1926 and recently went through a massive renovation.
It’s a sprawling property with so much to do right on site, including five distinct hotel concepts, a private beach, multiple pools, a marina, golf course, and a spa. The property’s amenities are reserved for hotel guests and club members only. If you’re not a member or staying on property, you need to be invited by a member or hotel guest to experience it. Staying here feels extra special and exclusive. It also puts you in close proximity to Mizner Park, where shopping, dining and people-watching are top things to do in Boca Raton.
There’s also the Waterstone Resort on Lake Boca near the inlet, a Curio Collection by Hilton property. This resort exudes laid-back luxury with a quiet atmosphere. There’s a waterfront pool, on-site dining (seriously good sushi with a really good happy hour), and the beach and Mizner Park are just minutes away. Overall, the energy is more relaxed and low-key than a bigger resort.
If you’re open to staying just west of the beach, these are all solid, comfortable options near shopping and dining hubs:
How to Spend the Day in Boca Raton
Beach & Culture
Your first day of any South Florida vacation should start out at the beach!
Kick things off with breakfast in Boca Raton at long-time community staple, the Boca Beach House. It’s on Palmetto Park Road, walking distance from South Beach Park, one of the main Boca beaches that locals love to visit. There is a pavilion, restrooms and showers, plenty of space to settle in on the sand, and parking is available. Click here for more information on beach accommodations and Boca Raton activities in Boca Raton.
After you’ve enjoyed your fun in the sun, it’s time for some culture and art in Boca Raton — and air conditioning. Head over to the Boca Raton Museum of Art, located next to the Mizner Park Amphitheater. With a roster of unique rotating exhibits, there is always something interesting to see at the museum.
If your idea of culture lies more in nature than a museum, visit Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. Wander through the shaded boardwalk trails, climb the 40-foot observation tower for panoramic views, and explore peaceful spots like the butterfly garden and Ashley Trail, which leads to a traditional Chickee Hut overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway. The center also features outdoor marine aquariums with native fish and sea turtles. A stop at Gumbo Limbo makes for an easy, scenic mix of nature, wildlife, and waterfront views all in one stop.
Dining & Leisure
Your tummy must be rumbling by now, so it’s a good thing there are a variety of options nearby. Downtown Boca has a lot of great places to eat, many of which are in Mizner Park. The vibe is so South Florida. Outdoor seating, palm trees, fountains, and a mix of casual and elevated restaurants where you can find everything from fresh salads and smoothies, to seafood, burgers, pasta or sushi.
Mizner Park is also known for its retail options. Stroll the plaza after lunch and check out stores like Aroma360, Birch Lane, Michelle Farmer, RH Outlet, Sugar Boo & Co, Tommy Bahama, and more.
For an even bigger shopping destination, Town Center is about a 10 minute drive. There’s a mix of high-end stores, everyday favorites, and department stores including Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue. Shopping at Town Center is one of those things to do near Boca Raton that everyone should experience at least once.
If a spa treatment is calling your name, Boca can deliver. Take a break from shopping and eating to visit FacialWorks or The Maui Spa and Wellness Center for a truly relaxing pause during the day.
The day isn’t over — stick around for happy hour in Boca Raton to take advantage of all the food and drink specials. If you’re in Mizner Park, head over to Kapow. Just a few minutes south is Royal Palm Place where Farmhouse Kitchen and The Standard have great deals too. If you’re over near Town Center, stop by Motek in Restaurant Row for its signature $5 happy hour. It can’t be beat!
You can stay in Downtown Boca for dinner, or venture back out near the mall again. Here are my top recommendations for different styles of cuisine:
- Seafood: Corvina Seafood Grill
- Asian: Kapow Noodle Bar
- Italian: MIA Rosebud
- Steakhouse: Abe & Louie’s
- Mexican: El Camino
- Mediterranean: Motek
- American: Sixty Vines
- Indian: Stage Kitchen and Bar
- Health-Forward: Farmer’s Table
After Dinner
If you’re not ready to head home after dinner, The Funky Biscuit is the move for live music Boca Raton entertainment. It’s one of Boca’s most well-known venues and regularly brings in both local and national acts, making it an easy late-night option that still feels low-pressure.
There’s also a new tiki lounge in town with a hidden speakeasy. Boca Tiki Island Lounge, formerly Salt & Spirits, is giving Key West vibes, slinging island-style drinks until 2 am on the weekends.
Don’t Miss These Things to do in Boca Raton, FL
There seems to always be some kind of Boca Raton event happening throughout the year. Depending on when you are visiting, you might just get lucky enough to participate in one.
- January: Boca Raton Seafood Festival
- March: Boca Street Fest
- June/July: Summer in the City Live Music Series
- July: Fabulous Fourth of July
- August: Battle of the Bands
- October through May: Monthly Night Market
- November: Holiday Tree Lighting
- December: Holiday Street Parade
The Mizner Park Amphitheater is home to many different festivals, concerts and community events throughout the year too. Make sure to check out the calendar to see if anything coincides with your trip!
Download the Circuit App for easy local rides. It’s an eco-friendly shuttle service that operates in key areas and makes getting around Downtown Boca surprisingly simple.
Boca Raton celebrated its Centennial in 2025 and the city has been going through a lot of changes to give locals and visitors only the best. If you need more suggestions for your Boca Raton itinerary, click here.
It’s easy to see that you most definitely will not be bored when you visit with a helpful guide of things to do in Boca Raton, FL!
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post by the City of Boca Raton.
FAQs
It depends on where you stay. If you’re near Downtown Boca or Mizner Park, you can walk or use ride sharing apps and the City’s local shuttle. If you need to travel to Miami, Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach, the Brightline Boca station is also located downtown. A car is helpful if you plan to explore multiple cities or stay farther west.
The best time to visit Boca Raton for the weather is from November through April. This time of year is typically warm and sunny, but much less humid. Keep in mind that January and February can get chilly. This is also peak season, so you’ll get the best beach days and overall experience, but prices will be higher and there will be more crowds.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly trip, May through early October are great shoulder months with fewer crowds and still-solid weather. Summer (June through September) is the most affordable time to visit, but expect heat, humidity, and a higher chance of rain. This time of year is also hurricane season, but just be sure to keep an eye on the weather when planning your travels.
More than likely, yes, especially if you’re planning to dine at popular spots in Mizner Park or Downtown Boca. Many of the best restaurants fill up quickly between 7–9 PM.
If you’re more flexible, try for earlier dinner times or sit at the bar and you should be accommodated without a reservation.
