Westlake FloridaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Westlake, Florida.
1. Westlake Adventure Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY AQUATIC RECREATION
Westlake Adventure Park offers a variety of water activities including a lagoon pool, tower slide, and lap pool for visitors of all ages. The park features expansive lawns, spaces for parties and celebrations, and a basketball court for active recreation. Families particularly enjoy the splash pad for little ones while adults can relax at shady pavilions or cabanas.
2. Lion Country Safari
DRIVE-THROUGH WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
Lion Country Safari is a popular drive-through safari and amusement park near Westlake where visitors can observe free-roaming wildlife from their vehicles. With a 4.5-star rating from nearly 2,000 visitors, this attraction offers an immersive experience with exotic animals in a natural setting. Guests can enjoy both the safari drive and walk-through adventure park with various animal exhibits and attractions.
3. Airboat Rides West Palm Beach
EVERGLADES WETLAND ADVENTURES
Airboat Rides West Palm Beach provides thrilling tours through Florida's wetlands near Westlake with a perfect 5-star rating from over 600 visitors. Guests can experience the unique ecosystem of the Florida Everglades while spotting native wildlife such as alligators and various bird species. These guided tours combine education about the fragile wetland environment with an exhilarating ride across the water.
4. J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area
VAST NATURAL WILDERNESS PRESERVE
The J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area spans thousands of acres of protected wilderness near Westlake, offering a pristine natural environment for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore hiking trails, observe native Florida wildlife in their natural habitat, and enjoy activities such as hunting, fishing, and bird watching. The preserve represents one of the last remaining large tracts of native Florida ecosystems in the region.
5. Panther Ridge Conservation Center
EXOTIC CAT SANCTUARY
Panther Ridge Conservation Center is a specialized sanctuary dedicated to the care and conservation of endangered big cats near Westlake. Visitors can take guided tours to observe magnificent felines including panthers, cheetahs, jaguars, and other exotic cat species in a natural setting. The center focuses on education, conservation, and providing a permanent home for rescued exotic cats who cannot be released into the wild.
6. McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary
HANDS-ON WILDLIFE REHABILITATION
McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary is a highly-rated wildlife rehabilitation and education center that rescues and cares for injured and orphaned animals near Westlake. With over 3,600 positive reviews, this sanctuary offers intimate guided tours where visitors can observe exotic animals and learn about wildlife conservation efforts. Guests appreciate the educational experience and the opportunity to see tigers, lions, primates, birds of prey, and other wildlife up close.
7. Wellington Environmental Preserve
WETLAND TRAILS AND OBSERVATION
The Wellington Environmental Preserve features an array of natural Florida ecosystems with hiking and biking trails winding through wetland habitats near Westlake. Visitors can explore the elevated boardwalk that provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and access to a fishing pier. The preserve includes observation towers offering panoramic views of the surrounding wetlands and the diverse bird species that inhabit the area.
8. Ocklawaha River
CRYSTAL CLEAR WATERWAY
The Ocklawaha River in Westlake is renowned for its crystal clear waters that are ideal for swimming, fishing, and wildlife observation. Visitors can spot native Florida wildlife including manatees, alligators, otters, and various fish species while enjoying the peaceful river atmosphere. The river provides a tranquil natural setting for water-based recreation and serves as an important ecological corridor in the region.
9. Mangrove Mamas Kayak & Ecotour
GUIDED KAYAKING ADVENTURES
Mangrove Mamas Kayak & Ecotour offers guided paddling experiences through the waterways and mangrove ecosystems near Westlake. Adventurers can explore the unique coastal environment while learning about the ecological importance of mangrove habitats and spotting local wildlife. These eco-friendly tours combine outdoor recreation with environmental education for an enriching natural experience.
10. Aerial Trapeze Academy
FLYING CIRCUS ARTS EXPERIENCE
The Aerial Trapeze Academy offers visitors near Westlake the unique opportunity to learn flying trapeze and other aerial circus arts in a safe, instructional environment. With positive reviews from dozens of participants, this attraction provides exhilarating lessons suitable for beginners and more experienced aerialists alike. Visitors can challenge themselves physically while experiencing the thrill of aerial performance under professional guidance.
11. Piquet Entertainment & Race Park
MOTORSPORT AND GAMING CENTER
Piquet Entertainment & Race Park combines racing experiences with gaming entertainment for visitors near Westlake. The facility features a sports complex with racing opportunities for motorsport enthusiasts looking for high-speed thrills. Guests can enjoy both competitive racing activities and relaxed entertainment options in this multifaceted venue.
12. Hot Shots Paintball
TACTICAL OUTDOOR GAMING
Hot Shots Paintball offers an action-packed recreational experience for visitors seeking adrenaline-fueled competition near Westlake. Players can engage in tactical paintball games across various themed fields designed for different play styles and skill levels. The facility provides all necessary equipment and safety gear, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced paintball enthusiasts.
13. La Petite Cheval Farm
EQUESTRIAN EXPERIENCES AND EDUCATION
La Petite Cheval Farm provides equestrian experiences and horse interaction opportunities for visitors near Westlake. The farm offers a peaceful rural setting where guests can learn about horses and possibly participate in riding activities. This family-friendly attraction connects visitors with the region's equestrian heritage in an accessible and educational environment.
14. Grassy Waters Preserve
URBAN WILDERNESS WATERSHED
Grassy Waters Preserve features the Owahee Trail, a straight path atop an embankment offering stunning wetland views of this natural watershed near Westlake. The 23-square-mile preserve serves as both a natural area for recreation and the freshwater supply for the City of West Palm Beach. Visitors can hike, canoe, and observe wildlife while learning about this crucial ecosystem through guided nature programs.
15. Ocean-to-Lake Trail
CROSS-FLORIDA HIKING ADVENTURE
The Ocean-to-Lake Trail is an epic hiking route that traverses from the Atlantic Ocean to Lake Okeechobee, passing near Westlake through various ecosystems including swamps and wilderness areas. Hikers can experience diverse Florida landscapes including Bowman Island, which offers a unique dispersed camping experience that makes visitors feel like they're stranded on a remote island. The trail provides both challenging hiking opportunities and intimate connections with Florida's natural environments.