Skyscrapers and neon lights set the pace in lively West Palm Beach. While the glamour of its luxurious neighbour tempts many, the city also boasts nature, impressive museums and hidden metropolitan delights.
Admire local art and theatre
West Palm Beach is home to an eclectic array of art museums. The Henry Morrison Flagler Museum is one of the best. Set in a 75-room mansion, this centre collects artefacts from the American Gilded Age of the 19th century.
Named ‘Best Museum’ in the 2019 Palm Beach Post’s Community Choice Awards, this art museum has maintained its charm since opening in 1902. Today the building alone is a National Historic Landmark. There are a range of tour options, including a Docent-led guide. Exhibits explore the art of the Gilded Age, placing each masterpiece in context by exploring the society in which they were created.
The Norton Museum of Art is another premier art destination in West Palm Beach. Its collection consists of some 7,000 items spanning American, European and contemporary art, plus permanent exhibitions of photography and Chinese art. The vibrant events calendar features exciting options including Art After Dark – a series of art talks, live performances, film screenings and interactive workshops.
The city is jam-packed with hidden theatrical treasures, too. Visit the not-for-profit Kravis Centre to enjoy plays, musicals, ballets and more within the gorgeous interior. Harriet Himmel is another great venue, hosting regular improvised comedy nights.
Get lost in nature
West Palm Beach may be known for its skyscrapers as much as its palm trees, but the sanctuary of nature is never far away. Palm Beach Zoo and Conservation Society is located at Dreher Park – a great place to take some time out from city life and see adorable capybaras, sleepy sloths and enormous tortoises.
The whole family will be amazed by the 550 animals that call the zoo home – many are endangered in the wild, including panthers, tigers and exotic birds. Visitors can even book interactive experiences with some of the centre’s friendliest species. If you yearn to get close to a koala, this is the place to visit.
Grassy Waters Preserve is just 20 minutes away from West Palm Beach in a rental car. Here you can enjoy incredible wildlife, tackle a hiking trail and spot authentic American wildlife in its natural habitat.
Cross the lagoon
Take your hire car on a journey towards the golden glitz of Palm Beach. Don’t skip Worth Avenue, the best upmarket retail destination in the area. Wander down the side streets to find some real treasures or relax at Municipal Beach – a must-visit for sun-worshippers.
The lagoon itself is well worth seeing – park your rental car at one of the relaxing islands and go exploring. Snook Island is great for board walking, while Bingham Island is a miniature nature reserve.
Experience Miami
Miami is a little over 90 minutes away from West Palm Beach by car – just take the Florida Turnpike freeway in your rental car to arrive at Miami Beach in under two hours.
Whether you’re in town for business or a dream holiday, rent a car in West Palm Beach to see as much of the city and Florida as you desire.