Your expert guide to public art, hip havens, and where to stay to see it all
You’ve been to the beach, seen a show (or two) and grabbed a bite to eat—now what? Here in Florida’s Cultural Capital®, you can walk, bike, or drive around any of our five distinct arts districts. Each district has their own “look” and “feel,” so instead of choosing one: visit them all!
Boynton Beach
Its official motto is “America’s Gateway to the Gulfstream,” but art fans know that Boynton Beach serves as home to one of Palm Beach County’s most vibrant arts districts. Boynton Beach Arts District (BBAD) and the city’s Art in Public Places program paint a picture (pun intended) of an area that places importance on, above all, artists. The murals that decorate the once-drab metal garage doors that dot BBAD, the moving metal structures that adorn the city’s Avenue of the Arts (created for 2013’s International Kinetic Art Exhibit & Symposium)—all of it reinforces that Boynton Beach is truly more of a “gateway” to arts and culture in The Palm Beaches.
Sun-Dek Beach House is, just like Boynton Beach, completely and totally unique. All of the property’s accommodations are one-to-two-bedroom suites, which provide a comfortable, home-like alternative to some of the more orthodox hotel offerings. All just steps away from the beach!
West Palm Beach
There’s a lot to love about the largest arts district in The Palm Beaches: from the giant, colorful murals that decorate its buildings to the exciting energy that pervades the one and only Clematis Street, West Palm Beach’s Arts & Entertainment District has something for everyone. With more than 20 cultural destinations, the district offers performances for theatergoers at Palm Beach Dramaworks, professional photographic exhibitions and classes for lens lovers at Palm Beach Photographic Centre, permanent collections and expert architecture for those seeking aesthetic beauty at the Norton Museum of Art, and so, so much more.
Just a short drive away from the Arts & Entertainment District is the Hilton West Palm Beach, which features local art on display and provides first-class accommodations for anyone visiting The Palm Beaches.
Lake Worth Beach
Locals will tell you that there’s just something “different” about Lake Worth Beach, and it’s not hard to see why. Beach town vibes intersect with classic architecture in the city’s downtown arts district, named LULA after the two main avenues (Lake and Lucerne), all a short drive away from breezy intercoastal waters and a fantastic shoreline. For those that enjoy theatrical amusement, the Lake Worth Playhouse offers a full season of plays, musicals, and other events, in addition to a small, independent moviehouse (The Stonzek Theatre) for visiting cinephiles. Prefer visual art inside against the backdrop of a beautiful Art Deco building? The Cultural Council for Palm Beach County has called Lake Worth Beach home since 2011 and inside its headquarters at the Robert M. Montgomery, Jr. Building, art-lovers can explore the free galleries, and browse the Roe Green Uniquely Palm Beach Store.
Across the bridge from Downtown Lake Worth Beach, the luxurious and modern Tideline Ocean Resort & Spa welcomes guests to enjoy oceanfront views, stellar dining, and a one-of-a-kind pool and spa.
Lake Park
The Palm Beaches’ Lake Park Arts District is a hotspot that delivers a colorful and busy setting for all ages and backgrounds. The murals decorating the main thoroughfare provide insight on an area that was crafted by artists for artists to convene, collaborate, and enjoy themselves. Craft beer aficionados, fine art fans, and those craving a taste of the local music scene can come together and mingle at The Brewhouse Gallery, where dozens upon dozens of paintings and drawings (created by area artists) hang from the unassuming walls. After grabbing a drink at The Brewhouse, head over to the Lake Park Black Box next door for theater, live music, independent film, and comedy in a comfortable, spacious setting.
Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa, which boasts luxurious beachfront views, fine dining at its featured restaurant, 3800 Ocean, and the relaxing shade of its poolside cabanas is just a few miles away from Lake Park Arts District.
Delray Beach
There’s simply no trip to Downtown Delray Beach complete without a stop in one of its neighborhood arts districts: Pineapple Grove. Just a quick turn away from Atlantic Avenue, the area features a long list of hot restaurants, fashionable boutiques and some of the destination’s top cultural organizations. Old School Square could be described as a district on its own! The arts center has four different arts properties, each with their own unique charm: the Cornell Art Museum, the Crest Theatre (currently closed), the Pavilion, and the Fieldhouse. Looking for a bit of nightlife? Skip the clubs and head to Arts Garage, where you can see some of South Florida’s best jazz, Latin, and rock artists in an intimate setting.
Smack dab in the middle of the district, you can book a room at the Hyatt Place Delray Beach to make the most out of your trip to Pineapple Grove. Rest, relaxation, and art! Who could ask for anything more?
