Our top picks for a stay in Palm Beach County, Florida
The “Seven Beings” at Ann Norton Sculpture Garden (Photo by Erica Moody)
The sunny society mecca has everything you want in a winter escape: beautiful beaches, luxury hotels, charming restaurants and unlimited arts and culture.
CURATED CULTURE
Planning a trip but not sure where to start? Get an itinerary specifically tailored to your interests, courtesy of the Cultural Council of Palm Beach’s Cultural Concierge program. palmbeachculture.com, 561-214-8082.
Flagler Museum (Courtesy Photo)
PALM BEACH CLASSICS
The Norton Museum of Art, which has one of the finest collections of Chinese, European and early 20th century American art in the Southeast, is undergoing a $100 million expansion scheduled for completion in 2018. Until then, admission is free to the public. norton.org.
Henry Flagler, one of the founders of Standard Oil, built the 55-room mansion “Whitehall” as a wedding gift for his third wife in 1893. Now the site of Flagler Museum, his opulent former abode is one of the largest historic homes in the country and offers a glimpse into early Palm Beach society. flaglermuseum.us.
Art by Sam Tufnell at Cornell Art Museum Old School Square (Photo by Erica Moody)
CONTEMPORARY ART
The Boca Museum of Art is a feast for the senses, with modern and contemporary art exhibitions that are daring, diverse and thoughtfully executed. Bonus: there’s a great sculpture garden too. bocamuseum.org.
For edgy work from regional artists and beyond, the Cornell Art Museum Old School Square, housed in a 1913 schoolhouse, is worth the short drive to historic Delray Beach. oldschoolsquare.org.
There are 16 acres to roam at Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens (Photo by Erica Moody)
OUTSIDER ART
More than 100 sculptures join more than 300 species of tropical palms at the historic house, studio and garden that make up the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens and Norton House. It’s a must for both art and nature lovers. ansg.org.
Tea ceremonies, Japanese culture courses, bonsai gardens and exhibitions from Japanese artists can be found at Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. There’s also interesting wildlife roaming the 16-acre gardens – see how many iguanas you can spot! morikami.org.
PERFORMING ARTS
For Washington residents with homes in Palm Beach, the Kravis Center for Performing Arts is Kennedy Center South. With more than 800 annual events, this cultural staple is home to the Miami City Ballet and the Palm Beach Opera. kravis.org.
Avocado margarita at Avocado Grill (Photo by Erica Moody)
WHERE TO EAT
Ta-boo
A Palm Beach institution, you’ll want to visit Ta-boo to chat with owner Franklin deMarco as well as people watch and munch on the famed Cobb salad. The cozy eatery is located on Worth Avenue, perfectly placed for a little high-end shopping after lunch. taboorestaurant.com.
Avocado Grill
Fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and avocado margaritas keep guests coming back to this imaginative restaurant in funky West Palm Beach. avocadogrillwpb.com.
Pistache French Bistro
With classic but casual Palm Beach sophistication and updated French fare, brunch at this modern bistro in downtown West Palm is a must. Don’t miss the grilled chicken paillard and seasonal salads. pistachewpb.com.
Tideline Ocean Resort and Spa (Photo by Erica Moody)
WHERE TO STAY
Tideline Ocean Resort & Spa looks out over the Atlantic Ocean with stunning balcony views, a top-notch spa and stellar seaside dining. tidelineresort.com.
This story appeared in the Jan/Feb 2017 issue of Washington Life.
