CITY SPOTLIGHTS

West Palm Beach is one of the oldest cities in South Florida, and the historic areas have a unique tropical ambience, combining the Spanish Colonial Revival influence of renowned 1920s architect Addison Mizner with the updated beauty of sleek contemporary buildings. The distinctive skyline is often photographed from the Intracoastal Waterway, and the city is instantly recognizable from the air as you fly into Palm Beach International Airport. From bohemian and artistic to trendy and modern, urban to upscale, West Palm Beach gives residents much more than balmy tropical weather. Its residents have created a city where people can walk, ride bikes, or push baby strollers, and everyone can explore a long list of things to do. There are two public transit systems: The Tri-rail commuter train makes downtown easily accessible from surrounding communities, and the newest rail alternative, Virgin Trains USA, puts downtown Miami just over an hour away.

The heart of West Palm Beach is the Arts and Entertainment District, with every cultural amenity one would expect in a major urban area, including Palm Beach Opera, Palm Beach Symphony, Ballet Florida, visiting musical acts, world-class museums such as the Norton Museum of Art, the regional theater Palm Beach Dramaworks, an active historical society, the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, and much more.

Rosemary Square is at the geographic center of urban West Palm Beach. The European-style plaza and walkways are lined with shops and restaurants, and live entertainment fills the air with music Friday and Saturday evenings. Clematis Street is the place to go for food, and a short walk will bring you to nearly every type of cuisine in the world, including local landmarks like Roxy’s Pub, where more than 60 beers are available on draft and a rooftop provides an aerial view of the surroundings.

Life in West Palm Beach is all about the water, and the city has amenities that no other place can offer. With the Intracoastal Waterway and Atlantic Ocean to the east and Clear Lake and Magnolia Lake to the west, this is a water-activities paradise. Head down to the waterfront to rent a kayak or Jet Ski, take a snorkeling cruise, or go for a sunset sail on a 50-foot catamaran. On Saturdays from October through May, walk down to the waterfront for the West Palm Beach Green Market, a pet-friendly event where you can buy farm-fresh produce and artisanal prepared foods.

In March, the Palm Beach International Boat Show draws thousands of boats from around the world. The waterfront is also the home of SunFest, Florida’s largest waterfront music and arts festival, attracting more than 275,000 visitors every spring for a celebration of sun, music, food, and fine arts. At Halloween, MoonFest takes advantage of the cool fall air with a costumed street party along Clematis Street.

WEST PALM BEACH

WEST PALM BEACH

561-822-2222 wpb.org

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF THE PALM BEACHES

561-833-3711 palmbeaches.org

BOCA RATON

BOCA RATON

561-393-7700 myboca.us

DOWNTOWN BOCA

561-367-7070 downtownboca.org

Frequently recognized as an ideal living, working, and playing destination, Boca Raton offers its residents and visitors pristine beaches, a thriving corporate community, A-rated education, cultural attractions, recreational amenities, and an amazing dining and nightlife scene. With its five miles of golden coastline and 46 parks, it boasts a perfect location in the center of Southeast Florida.

It was here that famed 1920s architect Addison Mizner established his signature Spanish-Mediterranean style, which went on to become a distinctive hallmark of the city, evident in landmarks both old and new—including the Boca Raton Resort & Club, Mizner Park, and historic Town Hall.

The economy in Boca Raton is strong and thriving and consists of innovative businesses, diversified companies, entrepreneurial incubators, and unique mom-and-pop shops, all anchored by large corporate headquarters. Serving the executive and recreational needs of this coastal town, the Boca Raton airport is an added bonus.

Contributing top talent to the economy are Boca Raton’s main universities—Florida Atlantic University, Lynn University, and Palm Beach State College—positioning the city as an attractive destination for students across the country and within the city limits.

Art and entertainment are embedded in Boca Raton’s rich cultural offerings. The city features the Boca Raton Museum of Art, Mizner Park Cultural Center, an outdoor amphitheater, prestigious cultural arts festivals, concerts, and more all year-long.

Residents and visitors find downtown Boca to be a hip and exciting destination that always has something fun to offer— events, dining, shopping, and recreation. All this comes with a backdrop of beautiful architecture and idyllic public spaces for all to enjoy.

From a thriving corporate community to top-notch education and plenty of fun in the sun, Boca Raton truly does have it all.

MIZNER PARK

COURTESY OF DISCOVER THE PALM BEACHES

BOYNTON BEACH

561-742-6000 boynton-beach.org

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

561-732-9501 boyntonbeach.org

BOYNTON BEACH

From Maine to Miami, Boynton Beach is the closest point to the Atlantic Gulf Stream, earning the title “Gateway to the Gulf Stream.” With the ocean at your fingertips, it is easy to live a relaxing South Florida lifestyle in Boynton Beach. The coastal community runs parallel to a four-mile stretch of the Intracoastal Waterway with access to the ocean through the Boynton Inlet. Located half a mile south of the Boynton Inlet, the Boynton Harbor

Marina offers a multitude of water activities including waterfront dining, boat rentals, fishing charters, drift fishing, scuba diving charters, and Jet Ski rentals.

The waterway is not all Boynton Beach has to offer. Residents can also enjoy Old Florida charm with more than 250 acres of municipal parks, a beach, natural conservation lands, and access to the Florida Everglades via the Arthur Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge—all of which provide unique opportunities to explore endangered species in their natural habitats and enjoy hiking, kayaking, and canoeing. For the golfer, The Links at Boynton Beach features an 18-hole championship golf course and 9-hole family golf course, both of which are open year-round. There are abundant shopping, dining, and entertainment areas in Boynton Beach. The Boynton Beach Mall features Macy’s, JCPenney, and more than 100 specialty stores and eateries. Renaissance Commons, along Congress Avenue, is home to dozens of unique restaurants, several big brand stores, and surrounding townhomes. About a mile north, there is a budding brewery district.

Boynton Beach takes pride in its history. It houses two historical landmarks on the National Registry, a Schoolhouse Children’s Museum and Learning Center (awarded “Best Museum” by South Florida Parenting Magazine), and a very active Woman’s Club that provides additional cultural programs and activities. There are educational plaques at 30 of the city’s historic sites and a City Heritage Trail app with an interactive map to explore 170 historic landmarks. In addition, the city’s municipal library houses an extensive history of Boynton Beach for public viewing and research.

Art and culture are vital aspects of life in Boynton Beach, which features more than 80 displays of public artwork within the city’s 16.25 square miles. Nearly every weekend, Boynton Beach is host to an array of community events such as Pirate Fest, Blarney Bash, Holiday Boat Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, Egg-stravazana, Barrier Free 5K Run, Art Walks, Movies in the Park, Music on the Rocks, and the International Kinetic Art Exhibit and Symposium. Additional cultural destinations include the Boynton Beach Art District, Community Theatre, and Gold Coast Band.

Education is a top priority for city officials. Each of the city’s schools receives continual support. Boynton Beach strives to be a recognized leader successfully connecting resources that promote workforce readiness, civic involvement, and business growth.

As the third-largest city in Palm Beach County with more than 73,000 residents, Boynton Beach aims to #makelifefun for humans as well as their canine friends.

GREEN CAY NATURE CENTER & WETLANDS

DELRAY BEACH

DELRAY

Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in southern Palm Beach County, Delray Beach is rich in history and cultural diversity. This “Village by the Sea,” which began as an agricultural community in the 1890s, welcomes families who are seeking a place to call home and invites visitors to experience the ultimate vacation.

Within almost 16 square miles, Delray Beach embraces a permanent population of nearly 70,000. Well-known for its bustling downtown and vibrant arts district, the city features gourmet restaurants, unique shops, and trendy galleries. Scenic vistas complement charming neighborhoods, making this a desirable bike- and pedestrian-friendly community. The city maintains more than 40 parks and recreational facilities including the award-winning Municipal Beach, a popular destination for both residents and out-of-towners. The Delray Beach Tennis Center, located in the heart of downtown, is a full-service public facility with lighted clay and hard courts. The Delray Beach Golf Club, a city-owned, 18-hole, par-72 course designed by legendary architect Donald Ross, has been designated a historic golf course on the Florida Historic Golf Trail.

The City of Delray Beach takes an active role in health and education. Youth camps, adult programs, and recreational events promote good nutrition and/or physical exercise. Designated a Healthy Weight Community Champion by the Florida Department of Health, the city was also recognized by the National League of Cities for outstanding achievements in health and wellness through Let’s Move! Cities, Towns, and Counties. Academic programs are paramount, and the city was one of just 30 communities across the nation to be honored with a Pacesetter Award by the Campaign for Grade Level Reading for “measurable progress” in summer learning, signifying the city’s commitment to increase the number of children who are reading at grade level by the end of third grade.

Renewal and redevelopment efforts in Delray Beach have resulted in numerous accolades, including the prestigious All-America City Award and USA Today/ Rand McNally’s Best of the Road Most Fun Small Town in America. The city has been the recipient of the John Nolan Award for outstanding achievements in urban growth and development, as well as the Driehaus Form-Based Codes Award for its production and implementation of the Central Business District Code and Architectural Design Guidelines.

Access to public transportation is available throughout the city, and international airports are just minutes away. Public parking garages and surface lots are conveniently located in the downtown area, and the city provides free electric-vehicle charging stations. Free trolley service is also available along downtown Atlantic Avenue.

Delray Beach is host to exceptional special events. Throughout the year, people from around the world visit the city to enjoy championship tennis, fabulous Fourth of July celebrations, and festive holiday events.

DOWNTOWN DELRAY BEACH

561-243-7000 mydelraybeach.com

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

561-278-0424 delraybeach.com

SEAGATE BEACH CLUB

Jupiter is located in the northeast corner of Palm Beach County, between Miami and Orlando. A coastal community that celebrates its history, heritage, and community, Jupiter’s quality of life is achieved by balancing its small-town feel with careful growth. Jupiter’s beautiful beaches, breathtaking inlet, abundant natural areas, and active waterways offer a unique experience for visitors and a superb quality of life for residents. Florida is known for its beaches and waterways, and Jupiter has some of the finest. Jupiter’s wild and scenic Loxahatchee River meanders through neighborhoods and natural areas, eventually meeting the Intracoastal Waterway and the Jupiter Inlet at the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Jupiter is also the place for nature lovers and eco-tourism enthusiasts. There is free public parking on A1A along more than two-and-a-half miles of Jupiter’s public beaches. The famous “dog beach” is a stretch of the shoreline where four-legged friends are welcome. For more coastal fun, several parks, beaches, swimming areas, snorkeling coves, and jetties line the inlet. Seven designated natural areas make up more than 70 acres of environmentally protected land that offers nature trails, wildlife observation stations, kayaking, and paddleboarding excursions, and fishing. Jupiter’s Riverwalk, a two-and-a-half-mile walking and biking path along the Intracoastal, follows the waterway from Jupiter Ridge Natural Area north to Inlet Village, where old Jupiter’s working waterfront heritage still lives.

Jupiter has something for everyone. Whether you are into sports, the arts, history, or just expanding your mind, you can take in a play, learn something new, attend a festival, browse through a museum, or catch a pop-fly. Home to the St. Louis Cardinals and Miami Marlins spring training at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium, the Jupiter Riverwalk, Maltz Jupiter Theatre, FAU’s Lifelong Learning Center, and the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum, Jupiter offers so many cultural opportunities, you’ll want to extend your stay just to experience it all. The feeling of small-town lives on in Jupiter. Friendly neighborhoods offer a unique quality of life for Jupiter’s families, professionals, and businesses. Take a walk through one of Jupiter’s neighborhoods and you’ll see active neighborhood parks; children walking, biking, and playing along safe sidewalks and streets; and a sense of community that comes from pride and peace of mind. When you discover Jupiter, you’ll find that it is the land of discovery. Home to the Scripps Research Institute, G4S, the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, and Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter is the bioscience hub of Palm Beach County. These institutions make exciting scientific and technological advances every day that create unique opportunities for research, academia, and new businesses.

Jupiter’s rich history spans thousands of years, involving Native Americans, explorers, settlers, and pioneers. The famous Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, which sits atop an ancient shell mound, is a beautiful place to learn about the visits by early Spanish explorers, Seminole Indians, maritime shipwrecks, and even World War II radio stations. Jupiter’s early inhabitants and famous pioneer families, such as the DuBois family and the Whites, left the community with rich stories and artifacts of Old Florida life along the beautiful Loxahatchee River.

JUPITER

JUPITER

561-746-5134 jupiter.fl.us

PALM BEACH NORTH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

561-746-7111 pbnchamber.com

LANTANA

The Town of Lantana is a coastal community in Palm Beach County that still retains the charm of its origins as an old Florida fishing village. Nestled along the coast of Palm Beach County and noted as one of the oldest communities in South Florida, it’s a great destination for vacationers and home seekers alike. When it comes to small-town charm, Lantana has it. Step foot inside any of the three square miles of Lantana and you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome.

Originally named after the gorgeous wildflower that grew in the area, Lantana was founded by Morris Lyman and incorporated in 1921. Pieces of Lantana’s history are found throughout town with nods to Lyman and the earlier settlers on various parks, buildings, and developments.

This hidden gem is home to cottagestyle shops, a fishing pier, a two-acre boat-launching facility, a kayak park, and panoramic views of the Intracoastal, making it a destination for a day on the water, kayaking, picnicking, or simply watching boats go by. On a dazzling sunny day, Lantana Municipal Beach is the perfect place to warm your toes in the sand. Ample parking, sand volleyball courts, picnic tables, and a children’s playground create the ideal setting to relax with family and friends, soak up the sun, and watch the clouds pass by.

Just steps from the beach, nature lovers can gather at the Lantana Nature Preserve. Once the town landfill, the land has now been shaped to create a beautiful native habitat for wildlife. These 13 acres of nature sanctuary welcome bird watching and hiking alongside views of the Lake Worth Lagoon.

This unique coastal forest is home to zebra longwing butterflies, red fox, osprey, kestral, green heron, loggerhead shrike, and many more beautiful species of birds and small mammals. Still need convincing? Lantana Nature Preserve has been named the “Best Hidden Preserve” by Florida Weekly.

The town also hosts an array of ways to get involved. Beach cleanups are a fun way to meet new friends and offer an opportunity to give back to the community. The town coordinates these cleanups to help protect the ocean and ecosystem—something the town puts an emphasis on in many different ways. The junior lifeguard program is offered to children interested in learning the responsibilities of ocean lifeguards. The program provides young men and women a sound aquatic background and acquaints them with the hazards of ocean swimming while exposing them to an environment that promotes courtesy, respect, discipline, sound morals, and good sportsmanship. For artist-minded people, the town has an exciting adopt-a-hydrant program, which lets the artist paint a fire hydrant as they wish. From simple stripes to elaborate landscaping, choose a design that fits your style and paint a piece of Lantana.

A few years ago, the town introduced “Enjoy Lantana!,” a town-wide initiative to produce a variety of special events that provide unique year-round experiences for residents and tourists alike. Throughout each year, the community comes together for family-friendly movies at the beach, a concert in the park, Bark in the Park (an event for four-legged friends held at the town’s dog park), and a spectacular July 4th Celebration that features a colorful fireworks display. The “Enjoy Lantana!” lineup is rounded off with the Haunted Nature Preserve in October and a Winterfest Parade in December.

LANTANA

561-540-5000 lantana.org

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

561-585-8664 lantanachamber.com

LAKE

WORTH BEACH

LAKE WORTH BEACH

561-586-1600 lakeworthbeachfl.gov

LAKE WORTH BEACH CRA

561-493-2550 lakeworthcra.org

Lake Worth Beach (formerly Lake Worth) is a vibrant community at the intersection of form and function. It is an extraordinary place where tranquility meets creativity, where the sun shines bright and the ideas shine even brighter, where warm tropics meet hot topics, and where the power of potential turns every day into a blank canvas. This is not just a lifestyle; it is an art form.

The Atlantic Ocean and the broad waters of the Lake Worth Lagoon form the city’s east boundary, and the beautiful fresh waters of Lake Osborne sit west. Next door to Palm Beach, Lake Worth Beach is situated along the latitude, making it the northern-most point of the subtropics. Lake Worth Beach is truly the place “where the tropics begin.” It’s a dynamic, multicultural city with a strong social and environmental consciousness. People are drawn to the city by its independent character, acceptance of different cultures and lifestyles, many historic structures, hip downtown, and distinctive residential neighborhoods. The city has a rich history and is protective of its architectural fabric. More than 1,000 historic buildings contribute to the human scale and charm of the downtown and residential areas.

Myatt Murphy of Sky Magazine wrote: “Palm Beach County owns the phrase ‘Florida’s Cultural Capital’ for very good reason... Palm Beach County’s heart beats from a wide range of cultural opportunities, including music, dance, museums, and theaters.” Lake Worth Beach is the geographic and artistic center of Palm Beach County. The downtown area is considered its artistic soul, with a historic theater and museum, live music clubs, coffee houses, art galleries, antique malls, retail stores, and restaurants. It also is the site of the annual Street Painting Festival.

The Cultural Council for Palm Beach County is headquartered in historic downtown Lake Worth Beach. The Cultural Council is Palm Beach County’s official arts agency and serves nonprofit cultural organizations and professional artists throughout the county. LULA Lake Worth Arts unifies the local art community around a shared vision and invests in partnerships that support the talent and creative community. The City of Lake Worth Beach supports the arts through public-private partnerships and long-term planning to promote the creative spirit.

The Lake Worth Playhouse, the oldest building on the register of the Art Deco Society of the Palm Beaches, has provided nearly 70 years of excellence in the performing arts. The Duncan Theatre brings in top performances from across the United States and beyond.

For visual art connoisseurs and artists, the Lake Worth Art League presents many opportunities to see and purchase outstanding works of art by local artists at their gallery and outdoor art shows. The Clay Glass Metal Stone Cooperative Gallery features the works of local artists and has created an extensive schedule of classes for those who would like to learn.

The City of Lake Worth Beach has supported the growth of the arts industry in a big way. By dedicating two city-owned buildings and forming strategic alliances, the arts are thriving here. The Armory Arts Annex has recently opened in a renovated space and now offers gallery space and programming. However, Lake Worth’s crowning jewel is the Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts. Housed in a historic train depot, the center offers a glassworks studio, gallery, and gift shop. There is also a metalworks studio capable of pouring 69,000 pounds of bronze per year. Both projects are recipients of Cultural Facilities Grants from the State of Florida.

JUNO BEACH

JUNO BEACH

561-626-1122 juno-beach.fl.us

PALM BEACH NORTH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

561-746-7111 pbnchamber.com

Do you enjoy long walks on the beach? Juno Beach is a predominately residential seaside community whose vision is to have neighbors join together to share an exceptional quality of life. The Town of Juno Beach is a partnership of residents, businesses, and town staff creating a hometown atmosphere that emphasizes community involvement, cultural activities, and natural beauty. Fine oceanfront estates and condominiums provide an ideal setting for a vacation or permanent residence. With Juno Beach, activities range from sunbathing, swimming, and fishing to walking, jogging, and bicycling.

The Town of Juno Beach was incorporated in 1953 and is located approximately 14 miles north of West Palm Beach, which is the county seat of Palm Beach County. The town encompasses an area of 1.85 square miles. This unique town is an island with the Intracoastal Waterway to the west, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Jupiter Inlet to the north, and Palm Beach Inlet to the south. Offshore there are Spanish wrecks dating back to the 1500s. The barrier island was created by the cutting of the Intracoastal Waterway. The waterway was dredged along the watershed of Old Lake Worth Creek and cut through Lake Worth in 1898.

The town has operated under the council-manager form of government since 1985. Policy-making and legislative authority are vested in a five-member town council. The council is elected on a nonpartisan basis. Councilmembers serve three-year staggered terms. The councilmembers are elected at large, and every year they select a mayor, vice mayor, and vice mayor pro tem. The town council is responsible, among other things, for passing ordinances, adopting the budget, appointing committees, and hiring both the town manager and town attorney. The town manager is responsible for carrying out policies and ordinances of the town council, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the government, and appointing the heads of the various departments.

The town provides general municipal services such as police, planning and zoning, building, code enforcement, public works, storm water utilities, and cultural events. Fire services are provided by Palm Beach County. Utility services, such as water and wastewater, are provided by neighboring jurisdictions/agencies (Town of Jupiter, Loxahatchee River District, and the Seacoast Utility Authority).

The town has many special features that contribute to it being a wonderful place to live, such as the beach, Juno Beach Pier, Loggerhead Marinelife Center, environmentally sensitive lands, and the Town Center.

Why Juno Beach? Many benefits of being located within the Town of Juno Beach cannot be quantified by a dollar value, but they offer a higher quality of life that can be interpreted as priceless. Some of the benefits to calling the Town of Juno Beach your corporate headquarters (like Florida Power & Light and Tire Kingdom do) or home (like many yearlong and seasonal residents do) are stronger local government voice and superior police protection.

JUNO DUNES NATURAL AREA

PALM BEACH GARDENS

Known for its extraordinary quality of life and dynamic business climate, Palm Beach Gardens was founded in 1959 by insurance magnate John D. MacArthur. The city’s incorporated boundaries span more than 56 square miles, making Palm Beach Gardens one of the largest land areas in Palm Beach County. Residents enjoy many art and cultural opportunities, world-class golf courses, luxury shopping, day spas, resorts, and outstanding dining opportunities. In addition, the city is dedicated to protecting its natural beauty, with nearly 45 percent of its total land dedicated to conservation.

Gardens, as it is affectionately called, has been able to stay true to the vision of its founder by maintaining a careful balance of green space and development. As you explore, you will find tree-lined streets and lush gardens intertwined with homes and businesses. It truly is a cosmopolitan city with a small-town feel. Beautiful beaches are located within a mile, making Gardens a tropical paradise.

Public art is valued in the community, where more than 100 art pieces exist citywide due to an active public art program and partnership with the business community. The Palm Beach Gardens City Hall lobby is home to a rotating national art exhibit, providing an opportunity for the public to engage in a cultural exchange with various artists throughout the year.

Palm Beach Gardens prides itself on the close relationship with the local business community and works to develop policies that respect commercial interests, while maintaining the standards and unique characteristics of the city. With a highly educated workforce, economic and tax incentives, as well as access to transportation routes, a diverse array of companies and many corporate headquarters thrive in Gardens.

Known as “The Golf Capital,” Palm Beach Gardens is home to numerous golf courses, including PGA National Resort & Spa. The City of Palm Beach Gardens hosts the Honda Classic and the PGA of America. Palm Beach Gardens is a vibrant Florida community with a year-round sunny disposition and a lush, tropical ambience that boasts an outstanding quality of life. Many PGA and LPGA players call Gardens home.

COURTESY OF DISCOVER THE PALM BEACHES HONDA CLASSIC

PALM BEACH GARDENS

561-799-4100 pbgfl.com

PALM BEACH NORTH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

561-746-7111 pbnchamber.com

INTERNTIONAL POLO CLUB

Listed by Money magazine as one of the Top 50 Places to Live, the Village of Wellington is located in western Palm Beach County, sharing a southwestern boundary with the worldfamous Florida Everglades.

In 1951, Wellington was purchased by successful accountant and New York investor Charles Oliver Wellington. Because of its close proximity to the Everglades, the area was prone to frequent flooding. In 1953, the Florida Legislature created the Acme Improvement District to provide drainage, water management, and infrastructure development in western Palm Beach County. Acme transformed the water-logged land into fertile farmland. At one point, there were 2,000 acres devoted to strawberry plants, leading to claims that it was the world’s largest strawberry patch. Citrus groves also thrived in the area.

Wellington has come a long way since the 1950s. Located approximately 15 miles from downtown West Palm Beach and 12 miles from the Palm Beach International Airport, Wellington serves as a home base for many. The community shares the convenience of both urban living and easy access to breathtaking natural areas, preserves, and numerous outdoor activities.

The Village of Wellington is internationally recognized as the winter equestrian capital of the world and is an international equestrian destination for show jumping, dressage, and polo. Wellington is the home of the International Polo Club Palm Beach and the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.

Today, this beautiful South Florida town boasts plenty of hometown charm with activities for people of all ages. With an abundance of parks, quality schools, attractive neighborhoods, and equestrian interests, Wellington maintains a high reputation. With several Palm Beach County A-rated schools, some offering specialty magnet programs, Wellington actively supports education.

Wellington’s outstanding Parks and Recreation Department schedules family- friendly events such as movie nights, food trucks, and tribute band concerts and hosts outstanding events for the holidays including a Fourth of July Celebration that culminates with a fireworks spectacular. In the spring and fall, Village Park offers a multitude of sports and family programming, from Saturday morning soccer games to the open gym on Thursday nights. There is always something to do.

Wellington also works closely with both the Palm Beach County Sherriff’s Office and Palm Beach County Fire Rescue to maintain the highest level of safety and services for its residents.

WELLINGTON

WELLINGTON

561-791-4000 wellingtonfl.gov

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

561-792-6525 wellingtonchamber.com

1 NEW PIC

BELLE GLADE

Nestled in the heartland of the state close to Lake Okeechobee, Belle Glade was originally home to the Calusa Indians. Legend has it that the town was named because it was considered “the belle of the Glades.” Today, it is the largest city within the nearly 3-million-acre subtropical Everglades. From its earliest days, agriculture has been a bedrock of the community, with the predominant crops being celery, sugar cane, lettuce, and sweet corn.

Harking back to Belle Glade’s Native American history, an area known as “Indian Mound,” just west of the city, was an important excavation site—first by The Smithsonian Institution in the 1930s and later by the Florida State Museum. Incorporated as a town in 1928, with only 500 residents, Belle Glade is still the site of vital research. The University of Florida Everglades Research & Education Center is located here, with 16 scientists and 80 staff members who are exploring and promoting agriculture that is both profitable and conservation-minded.

Following a devastating hurricane in 1928 that sent floodwater from Lake Okeechobee surging through the community, federal and state governments agreed to build a levee. The Hoover Dike spans approximately 85 miles and reaches heights of 34 feet or more.

Land and water conservation, agriculture, and some of the best sport fishing in the state all thrive in this area. The vast Lake Okeechobee—referred to simply as “The Big O” by locals—provides endless entertainment for anglers eager to snare the wide-mouth bass plentiful in the lake. The Belle Glade Marina Campground is a home away from home for both fishermen and recreational campers who want to soak in the state’s peaceful, rural beauty far from the glitzier east coast. The campground features 350 campsites, boat ramps, miniature golf, and numerous picnic areas. Golfers will find an 18-hole course within walking distance, and hikers will enjoy the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail, with more than 100 miles of lakeside paths.

BELLE GLADE

561-996-0100 belleglade-fl.com

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

561-996-2745 bellegladechamber.com

COURTESY OF DISCOVER THE PALM BEACHES

FORT PIERCE

FORT PIERCE

772-467-3000 cityoffortpierce.com

ST. LUCIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

772-595-9999 stluciechamber.org

Situated on the Treasure Coast, named after the famed sinking of a Spanish treasure fleet in 1715, Fort Pierce is one of the oldest communities on the east coast of Florida. Incorporated in 1901, the city grew from 300 pioneers to more than 41,000 residents today and encompasses approximately 29 square miles. This city is a diverse yet neighborly community, embracing both the richness of its heritage and the promise of the future. The historic downtown waterfront affords residents and visitors contemporary shopping, dining, fishing, and a range of entertainment and activities from the nationally acclaimed Farmers Market, Friday Fest, Jazz Craft Market, and the city-owned and operated historic 1,200-seat Sunrise Theatre for the Performing Arts.

Downtown Fort Pierce ranked among the nation’s most idyllic and historic main streets according to USA Today, and is the only Florida city to make the list. The publication described Fort Pierce as an “Old Florida” town, cooled by breezes off the Indian River. Fort Pierce’s downtown Main Street has been named number one on a consumer-advocacy group’s list of “50 Best Small Town Main Streets in America.” Downtown Fort Pierce has retained its Old Florida charm and scale, even as it continues to welcome new development and revitalization.

Fort Pierce is famous for being a quaint fishing village, but take a closer look and you will find a treasure trove of activities, education, history, and art. Fort Pierce is home to educational and research facilities like the top-ranked Indian River State College, Smithsonian Marine Station, Manatee Observation and Education Center, and Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution at Florida Atlantic University.

Museums in Fort Pierce include the newly enlarged Florida landscape artist A.E. “Beanie” Backus museum and the St. Lucie Regional History Museum. The city’s most popular tourist attraction, the National UDT Navy SEAL museum, commemorates the birth of the Navy frogmen here in Fort Pierce and chronicles the evolution of this military unit to today’s Navy SEALs.

Established in 1938, the Fort Pierce City Marina stands the test of time and continues to improve with its first-in-the- state, eco-friendly Storm Protection System and improved yacht-friendly navigation. Owned and operated by the city, the marina features a state-of-the-art docking system and is centrally located downtown within walking distance of the public library, shops, galleries, restaurants, Sunrise Theatre, museums, parks, and events. Fort Pierce City Marina is also home to the Southern Kingfish Association’s National Championship Fishing Tournament.

Fort Pierce’s natural beauty is worldrenowned as many visitors come for year-round paddleboarding, horseback riding on the beach, diving/snorkeling, kayaking, and world-class fishing on unspoiled beaches. Fort Pierce has the culture, excitement, and drive to rival any “big city” atmosphere. Fort Pierce is truly a unique gem on the Treasure Coast and is committed to making the city shine.

PORT ST. LUCIE

Port St. Lucie is one of Florida’s fastest-growing cities and, with a population of close to 200,000, is the third-largest city in South Florida. The arrival of the Spanish in 1567 began its development as a settlement. In spite of long occupation, Port St. Lucie retains an extensive 21-mile stretch of beaches in a pristine natural state and has 11,000 acres of natural parks and preserves.

The St. Lucie River winds through the city and merges with the Intracoastal Waterway to empty into the Atlantic. Whether you want the ocean views and condominium living available on Hutchinson Island or a home with deep-water access for your boat, the Port St. Lucie area is a great choice for those who enjoy a lifestyle based on boating, fishing, and marine activities. The city has a high rate of homeownership and takes pride in its vibrant, involved community and low crime rate. The city’s Strategic Plan Vision 2030 is dedicated to developing “great neighborhoods.” The Neighborhood Planning Division, a recent initiative, is designed to work with homeowners to gather input that will enhance the community and foster togetherness.

VISIT FLORIDA/ PETER W. CROSS SAVANNAS PRESERVE STATE PARK

VISIT ST. LUCIE

PORT ST. LUCIE

772-871-5225 cityofpsl.com

ST. LUCIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

772-595-9999 stluciechamber.org

Port St. Lucie is also home to PGA Village, owned and operated by the PGA of America and ranked by Golf Digest as one of the top 75 “Best Golf Resorts.” The village offers 54 holes of championship golf courses designed by Tom Fazio and Pete Dye, and the PGA Museum of Golf. With more great golf courses only a short drive up or down the coast, Port St. Lucie is a golfer’s heaven.

For non-golfers, McCarty Ranch Preserve offers hiking, camping, and fishing. There are also more than 40 public parks with a variety of activities including softball, football, and cheerleading leagues. Naturelovers will enjoy strolling the city’s Botanical Gardens, which include an impressive array of separate gardens flourishing with bamboo, orchids, roses, and butterflies. True to its mission of being a place where residents can live, learn, and play, Port St. Lucie offers a free 10-week program, City University, that teaches residents about local government.

STUART

Long known as “The Sailfish Capital of the World,” Stuart was recently recognized as “America’s Happiest Seaside Town.” The recognition came as no surprise to residents of this quaint community of more than 17,000. Stuart is widely recognized for its welcoming atmosphere and Old Florida charm.

Once home to pineapple plantations and flower farms, today Stuart occupies just over six square miles along the St. Lucie River in Martin County on Florida’s Treasure Coast. The city includes attractive residential neighborhoods, active townhome and condominium communities, and a vibrant historic downtown. Pristine, landscaped streets and skyscraper-free views helped Stuart earn the title “America’s Most Beautiful City” for its size in 2008, while the city’s “flip-flop chic” style sets a casual vibe for residents and visitors alike.

The U.S. 1 corridor houses major retailers and restaurants, while smaller business and cultural districts host unique independent businesses, boutiques, galleries, and gourmet eateries. Walkable and bicycle-friendly, Stuart also offers golf cart–friendly neighborhoods. A solar- powered fleet of trams provides free service throughout the downtown and adjacent neighborhoods, connecting residents to Martin County public transportation. Nearby, miles of Atlantic Ocean beaches, golf courses, and nature preserves offer recreation from hiking and golfing to boating and paddleboarding.

A multitude of neighborhood and street-end parks extend tropical greenery throughout the city. Anchor parks include the newly redesigned Memorial Park on East Ocean Boulevard, the waterfront Flagler Park adjacent to City Hall on the St. Lucie River, and the unique barrier-free playground at Kiwanis Park on Colorado Avenue.

Another favorite recreation spot is the Riverwalk boardwalk running along the St. Lucie River from south of the Roosevelt Bridge to east of Colorado Avenue. Incorporating a floating public dock and a fishing area under the Roosevelt Bridge, the Riverwalk is a popular place to stroll, fish, or enjoy the scenic waterfront. It is also home to the Riverwalk Stage and a multitude of events, including more than 50 free outdoor concerts every year.

Other popular events include the annual ArtsFest in Memorial Park, Dancin’ in the Streets (a summer block party and music festival), and the 58-year-old Stuart Christmas Parade—one of the longest- running lighted Christmas parades in the country. Stuart’s vibrant atmosphere has brought recognition from The Huffington Post as one of the “Top 10 Beach Towns in Florida,” Smithsonian magazine as the nation’s number-three “Best Small Town to Visit,” and House Beautiful as the number-nine spot on the “50 Most Beautiful Small Towns in America” list.

Stuart—which is just 45 minutes north of Palm Beach International Airport— prioritizes education. City residents attend Julian D. Parker Elementary School, Stuart Middle School, and Martin County High School or a variety of private educational facilities. Martin Health System provides health care for city residents and the surrounding community. The city runs its own police department, fire department, and trash collection and operates a waterutility program that is recognized year after year as having the best-tasting water in the state by the Florida Rural Water Association’s Annual Conference.

DISCOVER THE PALM BEACHES / TIFFANY NGUYEN CANOPY ROAD

772-288-5300 cityofstuart.us

HISTORIC STUART DOWNTOWN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

historicdowntownstuart.com

GETTING AROUND

PALM BEACH COUNTY

NO MATTER YOUR DESTINATION OR PREFERRED METHOD OF TRANSPORTATION, PALM BEACH COUNTY’S CONVENIENT TRAVEL OPTIONS MAKE AREA COMMUTES A CINCH

Major Arteries Railways and Buses Water Taxis Aviation Local Contact Info Tri-Rail Map

MAJOR ARTERIES

The region’s two major controlled-access highways are located on Florida’s southeast coast. Interstate 95, a multilane freeway, runs the length of the East Coast; Florida’s Turnpike, a multilane divided toll road, spans 313 miles from Wildwood to Florida City. The Florida Department of Transportation makes navigating rush hours on these highways easier with electronic signboards that alert drivers about delays and road closures. A special radio frequency broadcasts emergency messages, and WPTVChannel 5 also runs regular reports during rush hours.

Other major north-south roads include State Road A1A, which hugs Florida’s eastern coast and acts as the “main street” for communities lining the barrier islands, and U.S. Highway 1, which runs from Key West to Maine. Hundreds of bridges crisscross the Palm Beaches’ waterways, including 20 drawbridges maintained by the state or county that span the Intracoastal. No tolls are charged, but bridge openings’ schedules vary.

RAILWAYS AND BUSES

Palm Beach County is serviced by both Amtrak and the regional Tri-Rail, which runs north-south from Mangonia Park to Miami. Tri-Rail runs trains every 20 or 40 minutes, depending on the hour, and every hour on weekends. Plus, the Downtown Trolley in West Palm Beach allows travelers to connect for free between the Amtrak/Tri-Rail station via its Green and Yellow lines. Fares vary, and different passes are offered.

In addition, the recently introduced Virgin Trains USA provides express train service that runs between Miami and West Palm Beach (via a stop in Fort Lauderdale) in just over an hour. Service is scheduled to extend to Orlando in 2022.

The county’s public bus service, Palm Tran, operates daily (except holidays) with 34 routes serving more than 3,200 bus stops. Weekday peak service runs every 30 minutes; off-peak, every hour. Weekend service is hourly on most routes. Fares vary, and different passes are offered.