West Palm Beach Flights And Sights

Palm Beach, located 65 miles north of Miami, sits right on Florida's Atlantic coast. For generations, the city has been the traditional winter home of American aristocracy -- the Kennedys, Rockefellers and Trumps, among others, have all fled northern climes for this slice of paradise. Beyond the upscale resorts that cater to such a crowd, Palm Beach holds some surprises, including the world-class Norton Museum of Art, top-notch birding and the sparkling Intracoastal Waterway.
Beaches

Public beaches are a rare commodity in Palm Beach, with many of the best cordoned off around private oceanfront estates. Midtown Beach is a notable exception, a golden island of undeveloped strand in a sea of glitz and glamour. Swim in the surf, build sandcastles and work on your tan beneath the eye of a watchful lifeguard. Groomed beach sand, picnic facilities and outdoor recreation dominate at Phipps Ocean Park, another public beach especially popular with families.

Things to Do

Wherever there is an abundance of sun, sand and sightseers, there is golf, and Palm Beach is no exception. Many of the most meticulously manicured and challenging courses are privately owned, but hotel staffs help visitors find available greens. Downtown, the Norton Museum of Art displays works by the world's most recognizable names: O'Keeffe, Pollock, Monet, Renoir and Picasso. Nearby, City Place lures Palm Beachers with department store shopping. Look for strappy sandals, gauzy sundresses and sexy beachwear.

Eating and Drinking

Leave the Bermuda shorts behind in favor of crisply ironed linen for swanky, oceanfront dining in Palm Beach. Overlook the surf dining on platters of freshly caught seafood, from Florida lobster to snapper, at beachside dining rooms. Southern barbecue reminds visitors that Florida is part of the South. Head to Tom's Place, an ultra-casual barbecue shack, for plates of flawlessly grilled and sauced chicken, pork and fish and side dishes of the region's traditional comfort food: black-eyed peas, mashed potatoes and cornbread.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Artists' lofts, sidewalk cafes, bars, restaurants and galleries dot Clematis Street, the pumping heart of Palm Beach nightlife. On weekends, yuppies mingle with stylish Europeans and disheveled artists sipping tropical cocktails at sidewalk tables or dancing to electronic mixes at youthful bars. On Thursdays, 20- and 30-somethings gather for live rock, blues, reggae and an art show for "Clematis by Night." The moneyed set in Palm Beach is most likely found sipping high-end ports and brandies at oceanfront hotel bars.

With convenient American Airlines flights to West Palm Beach, it's easy to plan a fun Florida family vacation. There's something for everyone in this vibrant coastal locale, from beautiful beaches and golf courses to an active cultural community. There are even festivals happening here all year long, thanks to the temperate weather. Start thinking about a getaway here with our tips on the best things to do in West Palm Beach.

There are many activities in West Palm Beach, from sporting pursuits to more leisurely choices such as walking along the beach (and shopping while you go). Many of the city's hotels and resorts feature challenging golf courses along with tennis courts where you can practice your backhand under the clear, sunny skies. Depending on the time of year, you can watch a polo match, BMX race or PGA tournament. There's even a National Croquet Center here with 12 full-sized croquet lawns! And if you're visiting in the spring, you might want to watch a Major League Baseball team in Spring Training.

Cultural attractions are also high on our list of things to do in West Palm Beach. The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is a beautiful venue for attending musicals, classical theater and musical artists. The Norton Museum of Art features an acclaimed permanent collection that includes works by Gauguin, Matisse, Miro, Monet, Picasso, Pollock, OKeeffe and more. There is also an impressive permanent collection of contemporary art along with fascinating special exhibitions.

Those who love to shop won't be disappointed with a visit to Antique Row, a charming area with more than 40 antique shops. Several restaurants are also nearby, so there's no need to shop until you drop. Kids will love a visit to the Palm Beach Zoo, with more than 1,700 animals and an aquarium. You'll be able to see many endangered species in a lush tropical habitat setting. The more daring will enjoy a drive through the Lion Country Safari, where you'll see over 1,000 uncaged animals such as giraffes, zebras and rhinoceroses. The lions themselves are kept behind a fence, however. After a day seeing the sights, one of our favorite activities in West Palm Beach is strolling through the downtown district. You'll find fashionable bars and restaurants where you can unwind and recharge.

It's a wonderful destination for a memorable getaway for the whole family, a group of friends or a couple. Let American Airlines help you fly to West Palm Beach so you can experience it all with carefree convenience.