Just a few miles from West Palm Beach, Wellington is one of Florida’s best-kept secrets. While Miami and Orlando seem to get all the press, they don’t begin to offer what this charming town does. For this edition of our Experience of the Month, we’ll be delving into Wellington’s allure.
Located just inland of the Atlantic Coast and within miles of the Everglades, Wellington is an affluent suburb with fewer than 70,000 residents. Home to The International Polo Club Palm Beach, the world-renowned Winter Equestrian Festival, and countless nature reserves, it is the perfect getaway for animal lovers and sports enthusiasts alike.
Why Wellington, Florida?
Wellington is best known for its equestrian sports, but it has so much more to offer. This high-scale, sunny destination is the ideal respite during the winter. Surrounded by thriving wildlife, pristine beaches, countless golf courses, and premium shopping, it has something for everyone. Those traveling with kids will easily be impressed by it’s family-friendly theme parks and overall small-town community vibe. For those who prefer to fly solo, its gastronomic, shopping, and natural escapes are unparalleled. No matter what your interests are or who you’re traveling with, Wellington’s range of luxury and nature is sure to enchant you.
The Winter Equestrian Festival
Each year from January to March, equestrians from the United States and across the world come to Wellington to share their love for horses. Established in 1974, the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) is the longest-running horse event on the globe, and the largest in the United States.
The WEF brings in an average of 250,000 people—from over 40 countries—per year. The venue provides VIP box seating overlooking 18 arenas and schooling rings. Spectators can watch the world’s finest horses in auctions, jumping competitions, and dressages—with the chance to win up to 12 million dollars in prize money. It’s not just the horses that draw in viewers; the most talented riders, including skilled junior equestrians and seasoned Olympians, perform in these highly esteemed Grand Prix races. It’s a can’t-miss experience for any cowboy, wrangler, or hippophile.
More Unforgettable Experiences
While the Winter Equestrian Festival may be a major draw for tourism 13 weeks of the year, Wellington is also a year-round destination for those who enjoy the finer things in life. The elegance of equestrian life is undeniable, and WEF is just the beginning.
Watch a Sunday Polo Match while Enjoying an Opulent Brunch
If you don’t have the chance to make it to WEF, or you just can’t get enough of the equestrian lifestyle, you’ve come to the right place. Wellington is also home to the prestigious National Polo Center. With five exquisite fields, the United States Polo Association holds its world-class tournaments here. From January to May, you can witness the finest athletes and most skilled horses competing every Sunday.
To take your experience to the next level, you can reserve a premium field-side table at the chic Pavilion. Indulge in a decadent three-hour brunch, famous for their oysters, lobster, and of course champagne! This is the perfect way to watch polo up-close while savoring Florida’s epicurean decadence.
Immerse Yourself in Southern Florida’s Wildlife
As dedicated as Wellington is to horses, this is only a fraction of its animal life. This town is surrounded by conservation bases, sanctuaries, and community parks. Get to know South Florida’s unique wetland flora and fauna. With a trip to the Wellington Conservation Center, you’ll get to see a distinct side of this multifaceted town.
While its main draws are black bears, alpacas, and big cats, this nonprofit’s mission is far greater than any zoo. The organization rescues and rehabilitates species endangered due to poaching, animal trafficking, and deforestation—especially exotic animals from South America. The Wellington Conservation Center provides breeding programs for lemurs, tamanduas, and sloths. In addition, it focuses on training these precious creatures to return to the wild when possible.
Whether you choose to book a tour or a special animal encounter, your contribution goes directly to these animals that would otherwise be abandoned. This is the ultimate opportunity not only to see a variety of colorful animals, but to improve their lives as well.
Treat Yourself
Wellington undeniably has everything that a nature lover and equestrian sports aficionado could desire, but that is just the beginning. There is a reason that this town draws in such high-profile personalities.
Shop for a new pair of diamond earrings or the latest Apple watch at The Mall at Wellington Green. Get in touch with your artistic side with an evening painting class at the Art Cellar where top-notch artists guide you through creating a masterpiece while sipping on a glass of wine or pint of beer.
If you’d rather skip the creativity and get straight to the suds, Copperpoint Brewing Company is a must-visit. Located nearby in Boynton Beach, their world-class beers range from the light-bodied Bee’s Squeeze to the coffee-infused B. Rabbit Espresso Cream Stout. If spoiling yourself leaves you with an appetite, the brewery also features rotating gourmet food trucks offering everything from tacos to ramen.
Get More Out of Every Day with Jet It
If you’re a polo fanatic, animal lover, or beer connoisseur, Wellington offers incomparable experiences. And with Jet It, there is no better way to get there.
There is no need to deal with the stress of commercial flights, renting a car, or the toll-laden drive from Fort Lauderdale. Skip the hassle and treat yourself to a smooth journey into Palm Beach International Airport, a.k.a. PBI, via your own private jet. Our complimentary concierge service will arrange for a driver to take you from PBI to Wellington, just ten miles away. We always ensure a swift and safe arrival at your choice of accommodation—no matter the hour.
Jet It is more than a convenient way to reach your favorite destinations in Florida and beyond. It offers unparalleled freedom, flexibility, and autonomy. Our unique day-based fractional jet ownership model unlocks a world of experiences that are yours by the day rather than the hour. So you can seize every day, moment, and memory, while traveling luxuriously, without the stress, to virtually any of your domestic bucket list destinations.
By becoming a fractional jet owner, you’ll never miss out on the best this world has to offer. With Jet It, you’ll love where you land.