Arguably Florida’s most famous resort destination, Palm Beach County includes tony Palm Beach, spa-centric Boca Raton, outdoorsy Greenacres, and small-town Mangonia Park. But West Palm Beach, the largest district in the county, is where lovers of arts and culture flock during the warm, sunny winter months. More relaxed and residential than its neighbors, West Palm Beach is nevertheless packed with things to do. Don’t miss the downtown shopping, especially in Northwood Village, which is lined with bohemian galleries and home décor shops, and look for 17th-through-20th-century fine and decorative art along the legendary Antique Row. Be sure to catch a show at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts or tour one of the city’s museums and sculpture gardens. West Palm Beach is also home to many green spaces, as well as water parks, equestrian centers, and world-class golf courses. Despite the name, there are no actual beaches here, but some of the area’s most beautiful, such as Jupiter Beach, Riviera Beach, and Municipal Beach, are a short drive away. And when the sun goes down, Clematis Street lights up with a lively nightlife scene complete with buzzy restaurants and live music.

When much of the rest of the United States is battling winter frosts and gray days, West Palm Beach is enjoying its best weather. November through April is this tropical destination’s dry season — and its busiest — with sunny days and average temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The summer wet season here is hot, humid, and rainy, with temperatures pushing 90 degrees, regular passing storms, and a risk of hurricanes from June through October. To avoid the crowds and the most extreme weather, book one of the area’s vacation rentals for late spring or early fall.

Okeeheelee Park

Spend a day (or more!) enjoying the great outdoors at the 1,700-acre Okeeheelee Park. There are lakes for water skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing, as well as a 27-hole golf course, basketball courts, tennis courts, and ballfields. Hike, bike, or horseback ride along the park’s trails, or head to the nature center to learn about and encounter local wildlife.

West Palm Beach GreenMarket

Between October and April, a Saturday morning farmers’ market pops up on the waterfront along Clematis Street. If you aren’t shopped out from Antique Row and Northwood Village, pop over to meet the makers, bakers, and farmers of Southern Florida and to pick up seasonal produce, cheeses, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Mounts Botanical Garden

With over 2,000 species of plants from around the world, this is also the oldest and largest public garden in Palm Beach County. Even though it’s located near the airport, you’ll feel worlds away, as you explore the 25 different gardens (the paths are paved, making it wheelchair accessible.) Whether you’re taking in the fragrance of the rose garden or exploring the children’s maze, this is a great place to come and experience a slice of tranquility while visiting West Palm Beach.