Welcome, fellow seekers of beauty and wonder! As an artist happily immersed in the realm of flora and fauna, I often find calm and inspiration in the breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems that surround us. Today, I'm excited to share with you a curated list of 10 serene spots in Palm Beach County, Florida. These destinations are not just places to visit; they are gateways to experiencing the divine beauty that surrounds us, inviting us to connect with the natural world on a deeper level.

1. Mounts Botanical Garden: Nestled in the heart of West Palm Beach, Mounts Botanical Garden is a sanctuary of tranquility and botanical diversity. Wander through themed gardens bursting with vibrant colors and fragrant blooms, and feel the peaceful energy that permeates the air. Lose yourself amidst the lush foliage and meandering pathways, and let the beauty of nature rejuvenate your spirit. Entry Fee: $15 for adults, $10 for seniors (65+), $5 for children (5-12), free for children under 5 and members.

2. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens: Transport yourself to a realm of harmony and serenity at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach. Explore the meticulously crafted landscapes, where every stone, tree, and pond is imbued with symbolic meaning. As you stroll through the gardens, immerse yourself in the timeless wisdom of Japanese aesthetics and find solace in the simplicity of nature's design. Entry Fee: $18 for adults, $15 for seniors (65+), $12 for children (6-17), free for children under 6 and members.

3. Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge: Venture into the heart of the Florida Everglades at the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in Boynton Beach. Here, vast expanses of marshland and wetlands stretch as far as the eye can see, teeming with life and vitality. Embark on a journey of discovery along winding trails and waterways, and witness the intricate interconnectedness of all living beings in this sacred ecosystem. Entry Fee: $5 per vehicle (up to 8 people), $1 for pedestrians, bicyclists, and additional passengers.

4. Green Cay Nature Center and Wetlands: Delve into the wonders of the wetlands at the Green Cay Nature Center in Delray Beach. Follow the boardwalks that meander through a pristine wilderness of marshes and cypress swamps, and encounter a dazzling array of birdlife and aquatic creatures. I was torn between including Green Cay or Wakodahatchee Wetlands, which is basically right across the street. I really love both! Wakodahatchee is smaller, and this is the place to see LOTS of birds and quite close range. You never know what you might see there. Entry Fees: Free admission to both, donations appreciated.

5. McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary: Experience the magic of wildlife up close at McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary in West Palm Beach. Encounter majestic creatures from around the world, each with its own unique story and spirit. As you marvel at the beauty and resilience of these magnificent beings, you'll gain a newfound appreciation for the interconnected web of life that sustains us all. Entry Fee: $25 for adults, $15 for children (5-11), free for children under 5.

6. Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens: Step into a realm of artistic expression and natural beauty at the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens in West Palm Beach. Wander amidst towering sculptures and lush greenery, and feel the transformative power of art and nature intertwining. Let the sculptures speak to your soul and awaken a sense of wonder and awe within you. Entry Fee: $15 for adults, $10 for seniors (65+), $7 for students (with ID), free for children under 12 and members.

7. Grassy Waters Preserve: Embark on a journey of discovery at the Grassy Waters Preserve in West Palm Beach, where pristine wetlands and marshes beckon the adventurous spirit. Traverse winding trails and boardwalks that lead you deep into the heart of nature's embrace, and revel in the sights and sounds of a wilderness teeming with life. Entry Fee: Free admission, donations appreciated.

8. Gumbo Limbo Nature Center: Delight in the wonders of coastal habitats at the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center in Boca Raton. Explore interactive exhibits and nature trails that offer insights into the rich biodiversity of South Florida's ecosystems. From mangrove forests to seagrass beds, each corner of this sanctuary reveals a hidden world waiting to be discovered. Entry Fee: Free admission, donations appreciated.

9. Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge: Lose yourself in the vastness of the Florida Everglades at the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in Boynton Beach. Paddle through tranquil waterways and verdant marshes, and encounter a myriad of native flora and fauna along the way. Let the rhythm of the swamp guide you on a soulful journey of exploration and discovery. Entry Fee: $5 per vehicle (up to 8 people), $1 for pedestrians, bicyclists, and additional passengers.

10. Butterfly World: Enter a realm of enchantment and wonder at Butterfly World in Coconut Creek, just south of Palm Beach County. Immerse yourself in lush gardens filled with thousands of fluttering butterflies, their delicate wings carrying messages of transformation and renewal. As you wander through this magical oasis, allow yourself to be captivated by the beauty and grace of these ephemeral creatures. Entry Fee: $32.50 for adults, $22.50 for children (3-11), free for children under 3.

As we wrap up our exploration of these 10 serene spots in Palm Beach County, Florida, I hope you've discovered new places to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. Whether you seek tranquility in botanical gardens, adventure in wildlife sanctuaries, or inspiration in art-filled landscapes, Palm Beach County offers something for every nature enthusiast. So next time you're craving a breath of fresh air or a moment of peace, consider visiting one of these beautiful destinations. I hope you'll share if you visit!

 ❤️ Bonnie

Please note: Entry fees are based on information available to me online at the time of creating this blog post. Please double check before you go if this is a concern. Thanks for your understanding and happy exploring!

A few quick cell phone pics from my last trip to Morikami: