Separated from mainland Florida by the scenic Lake Worth Lagoon, legendary Palm Beach is a summer island escape unto itself. Declared a “veritable paradise” by its founding father and American industrialist, Henry Flagler, Palm Beach has been a vacation playground for America’s aristocracy, storied tycoons, socialites and summer travelers since the late 1800s. Today, this iconic location to escape boasts an impressive collection of gourmet restaurants, designer boutiques and world-class accommodation offerings. However, you don’t need the budget of an industrialist to enjoy all that Palm Beach has to offer. Here are some recommendations of things to do for the budget savvy:

1. Flagler Museum – Visit this National Historic Landmark to learn more about the most interesting period in America’s history, the Gilded Age. This former home to Florida pioneer Henry Flagler is open year round for visitors and tour groups to admire this grandiose collection of art and elegance. The Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission to the museum is $18 for adults, $10 for youth ages 13-17 and $3 for children ages 6-12. Children aged six and under are free of charge.

2. Par 3 Golf Course – Rated in the Top 50 Most Fun Golf Courses in America by Golf Digest, this Dick Wilson and Raymond Floyd redesigned masterpiece offers 18-holes of challenging fun against a coastal backdrop. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, Par 3 is open to the public and features a practice facility, golf shop and alfresco dining. Rates are from $27.36 for 18-holes and do not include golf cart fees, which are from $15.09 for 18-holes. Tee times can be booked online or by calling (561) 547-0598.

3. Society of the Four Arts – A craving for creativity and inspiration can surely be curbed at this botanical gardens and lakeside museum campus. From art and music to drama and literature, the society offers an ever-changing lineup of art exhibits, concerts, theatre performances and weekly film screenings. Reserve your spot now for the next free Teen Book Club Meeting on July 23 at 2:30 p.m. or for the Shell Chic Summer crafting class with Robin Grubman on August 26 at 10:00 a.m. Tickets for the crafting class are $75 and include all materials. 4. The Colony’s Royal Room Cabaret- Hailed by The Palm Beach Post as the ‘best place on the planet for cabaret,’ The Colony’s Royal Room has a paramount reputation for entertainment that has enticed headliners from Chicago, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and New York City. Take in live cabaret performances as while dining in an intimate setting. This summer don’t miss the vocal stylings of Broadway veteran T. Oliver Read on July 25 and August 1. Reserve a table online or call the Box Office: (561) 659-8100.

4. Bike the Lake Trail – Situated between the Lake Worth lagoon to the west, and luxury mansions to the east; the Palm Beach Lake Trail is popular for cyclists, rollerbladers, joggers and those looking to take a leisurely stroll. Bikes can be rented at Palm Beach Cycle a cost of $15 an hour to take in this 10-mile (or less) trail to explore local historic buildings, residential mansions and oceanic views.

5. The Paramount Theatre- Walk in the footsteps of America’s most adored entertainers, including Judy Garland, Helen Hayes, Bob Hope and Duke Ellington. Tour this retired movie theatre that now serves as a museum and shrine to more than 2,000 first-run films shown between 1927 and 1980. The museum is open to the public Monday – Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and can be toured free of charge.  

7. Sun, Sand & Sea – With more than 12 miles of coastline filled with endless golden sand, Palm Beach offers two public beaches, both of which are kept sea-weed free by the town. Palm Beach Municipal Beach, a centrally located and lifeguarded strip of beachfront, is situated just steps away from The Worth Avenue Clock Tower. Ideal for snorkelers, swimmers and those looking to enjoy a more private oceanfront beach setting, Phipps Ocean Park is located two miles from “Billionaire’s Row” and offers public access to tennis courts, BBQ grills and picnic areas.

8. Cafés & Cuisine – Indulge in the French-American menu of Café Boulud or Palm Beach’s legendary American bistro and bar, Ta-boo. Renowned local Chef Clay Conley also charms Palm Beach diners with culinary expertise at his neighboring restaurants Buccan and Imoto.

9. Worth Avenue – The brilliant and romantic atmosphere of this shopper’s nirvana, maintains its reign as one of Florida’s best destinations for fashion. Best of all, during summer months many retailers offer discounts on merchandise for additional savings. A deep session of retail therapy builds a hunger that can best be satisfied at Pizza Al Fresco, home to some of Palm Beach’s best pizza.

10. HMF at The Breakers – In honor of Henry Morrison Flagler, The Breakers’ founding father, HMF has brought back the art of social drinking and high-style mingling. This ode to Palm Beach’s historic glamour is known for its cocktail culture and sophisticated ambiance. Let loose and try an HMF original, such as the Railcar #91, which was named after Henry Flagler’s private railcar and features Courvoisier VSOP, fresh lemon juice, local honey and orange foam.