Atlantic Avenue is the vibrant hub of Delray Beach in south Florida. This village by the sea features a proliferation of outdoor cafes, art studios and trendy shops. There are many ways to get around downtown and beyond – some expected, and some a little more off-beat. As far as I am concerned, whatever mode of transportation you choose, visitors and locals alike fall in love with downtown Delray.
Tool Around by Car
Many people drive to get around Delray Beach. Just as the cafes are made for people to see and be seen, the streets invite those who want to show off their wheels and check out the competition. On any given night, you will see the full gamut of cars, from high end to low. Hotrods still gun their engines down the main street, even though the practice is outlawed and frowned upon by the authorities. At the chic, upscale restaurants along the strip, you will almost certainly get an eyeful of sleek Maserati’s and Lamborghini’s, which you will probably hear before you see. The night would not be complete without spotting a couple of Rolls Royce’s. For those at the lower end of the auto spectrum, convertibles with music blasting is a must.
Motor Around on Two Wheels
If you have your own bicycle, Delray Beach is a great place to ride. Even if you don’t, you can always rent one at a local bicycle shop. Motor scooters and motorcycles are also popular options. One restaurant, Johnnie Brown’s, is located right in the heart of Atlantic Avenue and offers a “biker bar” atmosphere with traditional, moderately priced American food. But the restaurant is better known for its music, serving up Elvis nights and classic rock ‘n roll that draws crowds.
Try a Segway
A cool way to see Delray Beach is to take a Segway tour around town. A Segway is a battery-powered electric vehicle that is controlled by the user who shifts his weight to go forward or backward. People on a Segway tour are visible around Delray along the beach and on the Avenue. Segway riders get to see the Atlantic Ocean and the typical architecture of the area.
Take a Boat Ride
Taking a boat from Delray Beach is a natural way to see the sights, since you have the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Intracoastal Waterway just a little bit inland. You can use your own boat or rent one to explore the area. A popular destination is Peanut Island in Lake Worth with its lagoon for snorkeling, beaches and nature paths. There is also a yacht tour you can board right on Atlantic Avenue at the Intracoastal.
