5 South Florida Art Galleries & Museums to Visit Based on Occasion

By Alejandra Zamora

     South Florida is a tropical hub of culture and creation, which means that our art and history scene is abundant and full of life. Whether you’re interested in it or not, perusing through halls full of stories told through exhibits and sculptures is a great activity to take part in as the hot summer months start to creep up (hello, air conditioning!). You’ll probably learn something new, too! Whether you’re looking for a new spot for date night, somewhere to keep the kids interested, or just want to try visiting a place you’ve never been to in town, art galleries and museums are your answer. Below, we’re spotlighting five of our favorite spots that you should head to, including upcoming events & exhibits and what occasions they’re best for. 

1. JF Gallery in West Palm Beach

Clean white walls and plenty of space describe the JF Gallery on Antique Row in Palm Beach, making plenty of room for the star of its show: contemporary art pieces from esteemed painters and sculptors. Right now, you can see colorful street art-inspired paintings from William Finlayson, funky facial sculptures by Chris Riccardo, and refined portraits of famous icons like Princess Diana and James Dean by Christana Major on display-- you can even purchase the art you see, too! 

The perfect occasion to visit: Date night or an art shopping day

2. Children’s Science Explorium in Boca Raton

This museum doubles as a child’s dream playground and interactive classroom! With its whimsical, touch-able exhibits that span from rocket ships to atoms and molecules, kids and kids-at-heart alike can be actively engaged in scientific learning through their innovative world. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the science center or participate in a number of kid and family programs available. 

The perfect occasion to visit: Kid’s birthday outing or after-school playdate

3. Bonnet House Museum and Gardens in Fort Lauderdale

Located on a sprawling estate complete with an art museum, gallery, studio, and tropical garden, the Bonnet House in Fort Lauderdale celebrates creative expression in tandem with South Florida’s lush environment. The Bonnet House is both luxurious and inspiring; classes, festivals, concerts, and more are always happening at the house. It’s also often rented out for weddings, and you can even make a donation to be eligible to spend a night at the museum!

The perfect occasion to visit: A special anniversary or other noteworthy celebration 

4. Museum of Illusions in Miami Beach

Step into a warped environment you’ve never seen before at the Museum of Illusions on Miami Beach, but be careful not to get your reality twisted! This one-of-a-kind museum has 3D attractions and photo ops that can make you look like you are floating in space, have superpowers, or are twice the size of your friend standing just four steps away from you. Kids and adults alike are sure to have tons of fun at this marvelous museum.  

The perfect occasion to visit: A fun night out with friends or the family 

5. Boca Raton Museum of Art

This museum is a staple of Boca Raton local culture, being located in the heart of the city: Mizner Park. At the Boca Raton Museum of Art, unique exhibits are always in rotation; this month, visitors can catch Bonnie Lautenberg: Art Meets Hollywood - Artistica! and Art of the Hollywood Backdrop. Social events and workshops are always happening, with members of the museum getting an all-access pass to everything that goes on. 

The perfect occasion to visit: A pre-dinner outing before exploring Mizner Park for food & drinks