Head to Jupiter for a Galactic Getaway

Tucked away on Florida’s southeast coast in Palm Beach County lies the tropical town of Jupiter. This charming seaside gem boasts beautiful white sand beaches, more than 25 parks for outdoor activities, year-round events, live theater, quaint shops, world-class restaurants and even a towering lighthouse to explore! Plus, Jupiter has that laid-back, coastal vibe that lures travelers from around the world.

With so much to see in Jupiter, what stands out as the shining star in this out-of-this-world destination?

“Our beaches are exceptional, with soft, clean sand; clear, calm water; and plenty of free and accessible parking,” says Marlee Sartory, Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce director of marketing and communications. “We’ve even got dog-friendly options. It’s basically heaven!”

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What can you do in Jupiter? Here are seven ideas to start your trip planning.

1. Climb a Lighthouse

For stunning, panoramic views of the area, head to the top of the landmark 1860 Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, a 108-foot tower with 105 cast-iron spiraling stairs. Then, explore 5,000 years of regional history at the 1892 George Washington Tindall House, the 1929 Lighthouse Keeper’s Workshop and the 1940 World War II Naval Housing Building housing the museum. This national heritage site shines a light on the area’s Spanish expeditions, shipwrecks and legends, set against the backdrop of historic pathways and breathtaking nature trails.

See more: 5 Things to Do in Beautiful Mount Dora, Florida

2. Take a Guided Turtle Walk

In nearby Juno Beach, you’ll find Loggerhead Marinelife Center – a nonprofit focused on ocean and sea turtle conservation. With interactive exhibits, saltwater aquariums and an on-site sea turtle hospital, you can see recovering patients and learn about sea turtles’ nesting and egg-laying process. With a recently renovated and expanded 27,500-square-foot campus, the new space “aims to be a delight for the community, with invaluable impact on ocean conservation and education,” Sartory says.

3. Gear Up for Family Fun

The young and young-at-heart will enjoy visiting Jupiter Inlet Village (aka the “funky fishing village”). Then, tee up for a 36-hole round of mini-golf at the nautical-themed Lighthouse Cove Adventure Golf. Next, take an eco-cruise, book a manatee-viewing adventure or hop on a guided bike tour – all available through Love Street Outdoor Center. Interested in learning a new watersport? The Outdoor Center also offers lessons on how to hang 10 on electronically powered E-foil surfboards.

See more: 10 Florida Travel Ideas for In-State Summer Fun

4. Waterfront Dining and Shopping

Foodies will love Charlie & Joe’s at Love Street, which dishes up four dining experiences, including a contemporary American grille, raw bar, fresh casual hot spot and a rooftop tapas bar with a craft cocktail lounge. Or head to the sprawling Harbourside Place, a waterfront complex nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway. It offers more than a dozen shops, restaurants, the luxurious Wyndham Grand Jupiter Hotel and an amphitheater showcasing year-round live entertainment.

5. Swing, Batter Batter

As the spring training home to both the Florida Marlins and the St. Louis Cardinals, Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium gives you an up-close look at two World Series pennant-winning baseball teams. It’s also the country’s only stadium to host four minor league teams, including the Jupiter Hammerheads and Palm Beach Cardinals. Batter up!

6. Hit the Beach

Whether you’re an adventure-seeker or toes-in-the-sand tourist, Jupiter’s beaches offer plenty to do. If you love to swim, snorkel or paddleboard, stop by DuBois Park, where you can also tour the historic DuBois Pioneer Home. Play beach volleyball, enjoy lunch in the picnic pavilion or cast your line for some great saltwater fishing at the 46-acre Jupiter Beach Park. In addition, the amenity-packed Carlin Park offers an exercise trail, bocce and tennis courts, softball fields and even an amphitheater for live entertainment.

See more: 9 Reasons to Visit the Magical Seaside Town of Dunedin

7. Get Back to Nature

If you want to avoid tourist traps, ask a local about the community’s must-see hidden gems. High on the local bucket list? Jupiter’s natural beauty. “Riverbend Park is such a treasure,” Sartory says. “Visit the lush property to enjoy biking or walking the trails or kayaking the Loxahatchee River. It’s also home to the Loxahatchee Battlefield, where you can learn about the historic site of the Second Seminole Indian War.” Her second recommendation is the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary. “This nonprofit wildlife hospital and educational facility is open to the public,” she says “Adults and children enjoy walking the paths and seeing animals such as alligators, foxes, owls and even bears! Oh my!”