West Palm Beach came into existence when Henry Flagler established a community to house the servants who worked in the two grand hotels that were located on the island of Palm Beach. The city’s name was originally spelled "Westpalmbeach." However, at a time when the city was failing, the thirteen-letter word was thought of as a dreadful omen for the city’s future. West Palm Beach is like so many other areas in that it has had its economic ups and downs.
During the 1920s, the city enjoyed wealth and prosperity and was even one of Miami’s rivals. It was during this prosperous time that many of the now historic structures and neighborhoods were developed. However, hurricanes, the Great Depression, and unchecked suburbanization caused the city to quickly decline.
Another wave of prosperity hit West Palm Beach in the 1960s with the completion of Palm Beach County's first enclosed shopping mall and indoor arena. However, in the 1970s West Palm Beach faced another decline. The crime that resulted from racism and vacancy rates was a contributing factor. Because West Palm Beach is like the mythical Phoenix who burned only to arise from the ashes to begin a new life, it enjoyed a second resurrection in the 1980s through the start of the new millennium. Tremendous growth occurred because newcomers rediscovered the city's historic areas, elegant new high-rises including Trump Plaza were developed, the downtown entertainment district came alive, and the shopping district, CityPlace, was created.
This rebirth and renewal has made West Palm Beach a great place to visit. The entertainment and retail districts that are located downtown include trendy nightclubs, fine restaurants, elegant martini bars, elite boutiques as well as other shops and retail establishments.
There are also many interesting and fun filled activities in this great city including the following:
•The Palm Beach Zoo at Dreher Park contains more than 23 acres of tropical landscaped habitats. It is the home to 1,100 animals from Florida, Asia, Australia, and Central & South America.
•City Place, a uniquely designed shopping center, resembles a European town. It includes over 50 well-known retail stores and many restaurants and fast-food eateries.
•Norton Museum of Art, the largest in Florida, has an impressive array of artwork including masterpieces painted by artists such as Picasso, Monet, and Matisse.
West Palm Beach is a travel destination that provides visitors with a full-array of cultural, recreational, entertainment, dining, and shopping experiences. Its natural beauty and great weather make the experience all the more wonderful.