If you’ve traveled to Palm Beach or even Boca Raton, chances are you’ve flown into West Palm Beach Airport. And while you might think the city is just, like, a nice airport, that’s exactly where you’d be wrong.
From its vibrant downtown area to ample galleries and restaurants, this eclectic city offers tons to see and do. Don’t believe me? Just keep reading to find out more—and I guarantee you’ll want to book your next trip here, STAT.
Where to Stay In West Palm Beach
The Ben
For a luxe stay in the heart of West Palm, check into The Ben. This 208-room hotel—part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection (so, yes, you can and should use your points here) feels like it’s been plucked straight out of Miami with its buzzy ambiance and sleek interiors. The property’s main claim to fame is that it’s the city’s only waterfront hotel; however, it offers so much more than ‘gram-worthy water views. Guests here can take a dip in the heated saltwater pool, sip cocktails at the trendy rooftop lounge, nosh at one of two eateries, and take their pick of stylish accommodations, each outfitted with hip, trend-forward touches.
Hilton West Palm Beach
Come to the massive, 400-room Hilton West Palm Beach for its central location—just steps from the many shops and restaurants that make up Rosemary Square (or The Square for short)—and stay for its impressive and expansive pool area, where you can make yourself right at home on a lounge chair or inside a private cabana. The hotel also has four on-site drinking and dining options, including our fav, Provisions, where you can nurse your hangover with a cold brew and a pastry.
White Elephant & The Brazilian Court
OK, OK, you got me. While White Elephant Palm Beach and The Brazilian Court hotels aren’t *technically* in West Palm—sue me, IDC—they’re both an easy seven-minute drive (or 30-minute hot girl walk) away. Both hotels exude coastal grandmother-slash-Old Money vibes in the best way possible. Come to The Brazilian Court to see and be seen lounging by the palm lined-pool or dining at the bougie Cafe Boulud amongst Palm Beach’s finest; alternatively, head to the tranquil courtyard to people-watch and spot Birkins, Chanels, and other designer duds in the wild. Conversely, guests and locals gather at White Elephant Palm Beach to eat, drink, and snap Instas of each other on the patio at Lola 41 restaurant and bar.
What To Eat & Drink In West Palm Beach
RH Rooftop Restaurant
Sure, you can go to RH Rooftop Restaurant up north in NYC, but something about the West Palm locale—which features courtyard-esque, greenery-filed interiors and stunning SoFlo (that’s South Florida, FYI) views—that makes a meal here all the more special (read: worth the $$$$). Whether you’re in the mood for a $38 salmon Caesar salad or a $25 shrimp cocktail, be sure to save some room for the homemade cookies. IYKYK.
Felice West Palm Beach
If you’re from LI/NYC, you’ve likely heard of this Italian restaurant, which has locations across Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Long Island. Felice West Palm marks the restaurant’s first and only out-of-state location, and its chic interiors (think: leather seating, warm woods, and brass accents) are worthy of its own Arch Digest spread—but obv, you’re here for the food. So, grab the squad and snag a table to feast on mouth-watering dishes, including an array of hearty pastas, paired with a glass of vino (or four).
Grato
Sorry, not sorry, that I had to put another Italian pick on here. This bustling eatery—helmed by James Beard-nominated chef Clay Conley—offers a creative, Italian-inspired menu, which changes seasonally. Expect everything from wood-fired ‘zas and handmade noods to innovative entrees like harissa-rubbed swordfish. Tip: Don’t leave here without ordering one of the incred (!) craft cocktails such as the Palm Beach Mai Tai, Spicy Flamingo Margarita, or Chocolatini.
Galley
Come to Galley for the food and stay for vibes because they’re absolutely a 10/10. Open for brunch and dinner, the restaurant has gorg interiors and a greenery-filled outdoor terrace centered by a sleek firepit. We recommend reserving a table for their brand-new bottomless brunch special—served family style, because sharing is caring, ofc—featuring dishes that range from chicken and waffles to avo toast, to tuna crispy rice. Oh, and did I mention there’s an Aperol Spritz flower tower and Bloody Mary bar?
Grandview Public Market
Located in West Palm’s Warehouse District, the 13,000-square-foot Grandview Public Market has something for everyone in your group—yes, even your pickiest, most high-maintenance friend. Between the ten vendors, diners can choose from a wide variety of options like poke, burgers, tacos, Cajun rice bowls, and handmade dumplings, to name a few. Wash it all down with an iced latte or boba tea.
Avocado Grill
This stylish farm-to-table eatery serves flavorful fare featuring locally sourced ingredients. There’s even a small section of apps dedicated to—you guessed it—avocados. (As such, it’s the perf place if you’re in your health and wellness era). When you need a break from all the avos, place an order of the ceviche or edamame dumplings to share. In addition to its excellent selection of salads and seafood dishes, Avocado Grill has an impressive vegan menu.
Johan’s Joe
Upon stepping inside Johan’s Joe, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to Scandinavia. The Swedish restaurant and coffee shop, which opened back in 2015, serves breakfast and lunch, along with next-level baked goods. A few favs include savory crepes and Swedish pancakes—not to mention a handful of menu options also include clever Scandi-inspired names like “The Viking,” “The Midnight Sun,” and “The Lap Land” (We see you, @Johan). Johan’s Joe also doesn’t mess around when it comes to coffee: In addition to signature cold brews, chais, and macchiatos, they offer funky Drinks of the Month like tiramisu lattes (it’s fine, take all my money).
What To See & Do In West Palm Beach
Stroll The Square
You can easily spend an entire afternoon exploring The Square. In addition to 40-plus bars, shops, and restaurants, this 72-acre oasis is home to a giant 32-foot-tall Wishing Tree sculpture adorned with 10,000 LED-lit leaves, plus the interactive 1,400-square-foot Water Pavillon West Palm. The colorful murals and staircases surrounding The Square are also worth a post on your IG story, as well.
Check Northwood Village And The Warehouse District
Don’t leave West Palm without checking out two of the city’s most up-and-coming neighborhoods. Northwood Village is known for its eccentric, boho-esque vibe (think: SoHo but in the South). It’s here where you’ll find several dynamic art galleries, including the famous Habatat Galleries (but more on that in a bit). The Warehouse District, which boasts a laid-back industrial vibe, is another must-visit. The main attraction here is Grandview Public Market, which, besides great food, has a spacious patio area, live music, and more.
Go Antiquing
West Palm Beach Antique Row is home to 40-plus shops, showrooms, and galleries selling everything from fine arts and vintage furnishings, to centuries-old antiques and jewelry. A few of our favorites include T is for Table, Palm Beach Vintage, and Sold Gallery.
Embrace Your ~Artsy~ Side
You may be surprised to find out that West Palm has a vibrant arts and culture scene. In fact, the city is home to Florida’s largest museum, the Norton Museum, where you’ll find over 8,000 works from renowned artists like Piccaso and Warhol. Habatat Galleries—America’s largest glass art gallery—can also be found here.
Image courtesy of Mikhail Nilov/Pexels
