Why Go to West Palm Beach
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
West Palm Beach is often confused with glamorous Palm Beach, the barrier island across the Intracoastal Waterway where the rich and famous keep their winter mansions. West Palm was originally built to support Palm Beach, but today it's a lively, sunny destination in its own right, with options for every budget.
Explore the shops, restaurants and nightlife of Clematis Street and The Square, and stroll the waterfront along the Intracoastal. Visit the Norton Museum of Art, one of Florida's finest, and the peaceful Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens. Families will enjoy the Palm Beach Zoo and the South Florida Science Center. Browse the Saturday GreenMarket, then cross the bridge to Palm Beach for the designer shops of Worth Avenue, the Flagler Museum and the beaches. Year-round sunshine makes it a perfect winter escape.
West Palm Beach has its own international airport and is an easy drive to Fort Lauderdale and Miami cruise ports. I'll find the right hotel and plan a sunny getaway that mixes city fun with Palm Beach glamour.
BEST FOR
Art lovers, couples, beachgoers and foodies
BEST MONTHS
November–April for milder temperatures
EXPLORE
Downtown centers on Clematis Street and the waterfront; The Square area has shops and restaurants; the Antique Row district is south of downtown; Palm Beach island is across the Intracoastal Waterway.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
West Palm Beach
North America › Southeast › USA › Florida
Waterfront arts, palm-lined streets and South Florida style
Beach & Resort
Shopping
Luxury
Art
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Plan a daytime visit to the Norton Museum of Art, then save Clematis Street and the waterfront for a separate walk or evening meal. If you want an ocean beach day, confirm the route and parking across the Intracoastal rather than assuming the downtown waterfront is a swimming beach.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Review current exhibits and museum admission before your visit.
Norton Museum of Art
Art museum with American, European, Chinese and contemporary collections near downtown.
Stroll in the evening for dining and check the local event calendar.
Clematis Street
Downtown thoroughfare with restaurants, nightlife, shops and frequent community activity.
Check current tenant names and planned events before relying on a specific venue.
The Square
Mixed-use downtown district with shops, restaurants and public gathering spaces.
Visit during cooler morning hours and bring insect repellent.
Mounts Botanical Garden
A botanical garden displaying tropical and subtropical plants in themed landscapes.
Check garden and gallery opening days before visiting.
Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens
Historic studio property and landscaped outdoor sculpture garden dedicated to Ann Norton’s art.
An upscale boutique hotel overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, close to Clematis Street restaurants and downtown waterfront walks. Review room-view options and valet charges.
The Ben, Autograph Collection
Downtown Waterfront / Narcissus Avenue
Hotel Tags
A contemporary downtown hotel within walking distance of restaurants and the convention area. Check rooftop facility access and parking terms.
Canopy by Hilton West Palm Beach Downtown
Downtown / Trinity Place
Hotel Tags
A full-service hotel connected to the Palm Beach County Convention Center and near CityPlace shopping. Convenient for event travelers and downtown exploring.
Hilton West Palm Beach
Convention Center / Okeechobee Boulevard
Hotel Tags
A suite-focused hotel residence in central West Palm Beach, particularly useful for longer stays and guests who prefer additional living space. Confirm stay requirements and services.
Hotel AKA West Palm
Downtown / South Olive Avenue
Hotel Tags
A full-service hotel near the convention district and downtown attractions. A practical option for business travelers and visitors using West Palm Beach as a regional base.
West Palm Beach Marriott
Convention Center Area / Okeechobee Boulevard
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in West Palm Beach
High 81°F · Low 67°F · Rain 3.8 in
The busy season begins with art and cultural events.
November–April for milder temperatures. Verify conditions, local schedules and reservation policies when arranging your trip.
Best Times to Visit West Palm Beach
WHEN TO GO
06
Airport and Beach Transfers
Palm Beach International Airport is nearby, but beach routes can be congested. Arrange transport and parking ahead.
05
Downtown Walking
Clematis Street and waterfront sections are walkable, while Palm Beach island attractions require a bridge crossing.
04
Local Buses and Trolleys
Palm Tran buses cover selected routes; any local trolley operations vary. Check current schedules.
03
Brightline and Rail
Brightline serves West Palm Beach and selected Florida cities; Tri-Rail serves a separate regional corridor. Confirm stations.
02
Local Transportation
Downtown is walkable; Brightline and Tri-Rail provide regional rail options. A car helps for beaches and farther attractions.
01
Arrival and Regional Access
Palm Beach International Airport serves the area.
Downtown is walkable; Brightline and Tri-Rail provide regional rail options. A car helps for beaches and farther attractions.
Getting Around West Palm Beach
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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