LGBT Backgrounder - Discover The Palm Beaches

YEAR 2017
The Palm Beaches is the best way to experience Florida®
In South Florida, The Palm Beaches’ collection of 39 distinctive towns and cities offer a proud tradition of hospitality
to all who visit. The Palm Beaches offer visitors an opportunity to become immersed in an authentic Florida vacation
experience.
Relax on any of the countless Atlantic Ocean beaches; explore the wildside of The Everglades and the best in an
alfresco lifestyle – shopping, dining and fitness. Not to mention “best-of-The-Palm Beaches” experiences, such as the
annual Gay Polo Week each April, cabaret traditions at The Colony Hotel’s Royal Room Cabaret and the best in spa
experiences at the renowned spas at The Boca Raton Resort & Club and the Eau Palm Beach Resort.
From iconic resorts to friendly bed and breakfast accommodations, discover a wide range of accommodations for
every taste, budget and lifestyle. Fabulous shopping and superb culinary venues also await, along with a year-round
event calendar paired with a cultural assortment second-to-none.
Stroll Worth Avenue, the historic luxury-brand avenue in Palm Beach, be immersed into the vacation history of The
Palm Beaches at the Beaux-Arts style Flagler Museum and then relax at The Breakers, the storied 140-acre
oceanfront resort originally conceived and built by Henry Flagler in 1896.
Explore the local gay community in Lake Worth and West Palm Beach, home to gay bars and restaurants. Also, pop
into Compass, the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of The Palm Beaches, to learn about local LGBT social
groups and community events.
Come experience Palm Beach Pride and discover a diverse mecca of LGBT-welcoming activities, events and
accommodations throughout the destination.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Boca Raton Resort & Club - http://www.bocaresort.com/
The Boca Raton Resort & Club, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, has been redesigned as an icon of elegance with more
than 80 amenities for every type of guest. Situated on 356 acres with 1,038 rooms, this eclectic, private village offers
the best of all worlds: championship golf and tennis, expansive beach, luxury marina, a world-class spa, which was
recently rated the #1 spa by Conde Nast Traveler.
The Brazilian Court Hotel - http://www.thebraziliancourt.com/
Equally as rich in history and architecture, The Brazilian Court Hotel has been meticulously restored as one of the
quintessential Palm Beach and West Palm Beach hotels. The Brazilian Court Hotel offers 80 beautifully renovated
studios, one, two and three bedroom suites in Palm Beach featuring luxurious amenities and impeccable service
surrounded by lushly landscaped courtyards.
The Breakers Palm Beach - http://www.thebreakers.com/
Experience the irresistible charm and storied history of this legendary 540 room oceanfront resort, which seamlessly
blends an amazing range of modern amenities. This American historical gem reflects the enduring legacy started by
The Breakers’ founder, Henry Flagler. In late 2015, The Breakers introduced The Flagler Club, a 25-room boutique
hotel within the resort, following a $5 million transformation. This exclusive, ultra-luxury hotel welcomes guests with
private access to redesigned accommodations and personalized service from pre-arrival to departure. After an $8
million renovation, The Spa at The Breakers re-opened in late November 2015, completely transformed as the
resort’s coveted destination for personal renewal.
Casa Grandview - www.casagrandview.com
Casa Grandview Luxury Historic Inn, Cottages, & Suites offers all the modern conveniences of a downtown historic
sophisticated city retreat, the privacy of a luxury vacation home or villa, state-of-the-art modern amenities and
services of a luxury boutique hotel, as well as the unique character of an intimate charming bed and breakfast inn.
Chesterfield Hotel – www.chesterfieldpb.com
The Chesterfield Hotel Palm Beach, is located in the heart of a residential section of Palm Beach and just two blocks
north of the world famous Worth Avenue. Designed in the manner of a European bed and breakfast, it features newly
renovated suites, including an 1800-square-foot penthouse with an outdoor deck and Jacuzzi.
The Colony Palm Beach - http://thecolonypalmbeach.com/
Since 1947 The Colony has been at the center of Palm Beach social life hosting U.S. Presidents, European royalty
and American “snowbirds” down for the winter season. Its location is ideal; adjacent to world famous Worth Avenue
in the center of the town and a short block from Palm Beach’s most renowned beach. The resort’s 90 guest rooms
and various public spaces were recently re-designed by Carleton Varney, one of America’s best known interior
designers.
EAU Palm Beach Resort & Spa - http://www.eaupalmbeach.com/
Eau Palm Beach brings a new sense of style with new-fashioned luxury that is more relaxed, spontaneous and
genuine in a setting reminiscent of a Palm Beach estate. Situated on a private beach on seven acres of oceanfront,
guests are welcomed with champagne, breathtaking ocean views and cooling tropical breezes. The resort recently
partnered with famed potter, designer and author Jonathan Adler to define a new guestroom experience reflective of
the relaxed elegance of the new Palm Beach.
Four Seasons Palm Beach - http://www.fourseasons.com/palmbeach/
Nestled in an expansive beach of silken sand, the intimately sized Four Seasons Resort in Palm Beach, Florida
presents an oasis of laidback sophistication amid calm ocean waters. Relish beautiful year-round weather, chic
luxury and an ever-attentive hotel staff. With 210 guestrooms and suites and situated on one of the finest sweeps of
sun-splashed beach in South Florida, minutes from challenging golf and endless diversions on land or sea, the fivestar resort is the perfect vacation retreat.
Grandview Gardens Bed and Breakfast - www.grandview-gardens.com
Grandview Gardens is Palm Beach County’s leading gay owned and managed boutique bed & breakfast resort.
Members of the LGBT Community Center, Compass, and supporters of various events throughout the year for LGBT
causes, Grandview Gardens offers both B&B stays and rental vacation homes for a diverse range of travelers.
Mango Inn Bed & Breakfast - www.mangoinn.com
Nestled on a secluded corner lot, this historic property was built in 1915 and is said to be one of the oldest homes in
Lake Worth, FL. Casual elegance, privacy and cascading water fountains create a private oasis. A full gourmet
breakfast awaits on the veranda overlooking the pool each morning. The inn is a short 10 minute walk to the beach
and downtown Lake Worth where visitors will find wonderful restaurants, shops, antique stores and galleries.
Palm Beach Hibiscus - www.palmbeachhibiscus.com
Palm Beach Hibiscus is a hidden tropical oasis in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach. Conveniently located
between City Place & Clematis Street, it’s just a short stroll to movie theaters, restaurants, nightclubs, shopping, art
galleries, & specialty stores. The property is also close to Palm Beach Convention Center, The Kravis Center, Norton
Museum of Art and the sandy shores of Palm Beach.
Sabal Palm House Bed and Breakfast - www.sabalpalmhouse.com
The Sabal Palm House Bed & Breakfast Inn, filled with antiques and art work, combines all the qualities that make
The Palm Beaches a wonderful place to visit. Built in 1936 and renovated in 1997, the Sabal Palm House is a large,
historic and distinctive two-story home across from the Intracoastal Waterway. Just a short distance from the beach,
golf courses, antique shops, art galleries, regional theater, unique restaurants and cafes, this cozy B&B welcomes
travelers from all walks of life.
Seagate Hotel & Spa– www.theseagatehotel.com
Located in Delray Beach, this charming, beach-chic façade, relax in contemporary comfort surrounded by 7,000gallon aquariums, a 2,500-gallon shark tank, and sea-inspired fixtures evoking tropical tranquility. Enjoy luxuriously
appointed guest rooms with the finest features, a full-service spa and fitness center, a poolside paradise, six
distinctive dining venues, and endless amenities that capture the tranquility of the sea—all in Seagate style. The
Seagate also offers guests priveleges at their private Seagate Beach Club and golf at the Seagate’s Country Club.
Sundy House Inn - www.sundyhouse.com
The Sundy House features 12 luxurious guest accommodations tucked within an acre of tropical gardens, creating a
haven of blissful relaxation. Each uniquely themed room and suite is appointed with hand painted details, original
artwork, pampering bed linens and natural themes reflecting the lush landscape. Enjoy patios or balconies with
beautiful views.
West Palm Beach Marriott - www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/pbimc-west-palm-beach-marriott
At West Palm Beach Marriott, enjoy innovative guestrooms designed with comfortable décor and deluxe amenities,
with ample space to stretch out and stay connected. Experience our exquisite onsite restaurant, Bistro 1001,
featuring herbs and vegetables grown in our very own courtyard, our outdoor heated pool and Jacuzzi and unique
amenities throughout our hotel providing Floridian style with a tropical flair. Explore the area’s top attractions just
minutes from our doorstep.
LGBT ANNUAL EVENTS
March: PrideFest of Lake Worth - www.compassglcc.com/pf.html
PrideFest of Lake Worth has grown from a small gathering to one of the largest festivals in South Florida and The
Palm Beach's largest LGBT event. A celebration of the community's true and great diversity, PrideFest is a two-day
gathering produced by Compass, the largest gay and lesbian center in the Southeast United States. The event,
which takes place each March, features a full slate of exceptional live musical entertainment, fine merchandise from
booth vendors, and an awesome selection of food from many local restaurants. The pinnacle parade in downtown
Lake Worth at Lucerne & M Street is a must see.
April: International Gay Polo Week - www.gaypolo.com
Set in the heart of Wellington, the winter equestrian capital of the world, the International Polo Club Palm Beach
hosts the Annual International Gay Polo Week. Each year, the event brings the best of the Gay Polo League (GPL)
and hordes of spectators to enjoy the “sport of kings.” From an elaborate tailgate competition to the non-stop flowing
champagne, enjoy the festivities and love for adventure, fun, and the challenging sport of polo.
CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS
Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens - www.ansg.org
The Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens comprise the former residence of sculptor Ann Weaver Norton. Displayed
throughout the house, studio and gardens are more than 100 works by the artist, including nine monumental
sculptures, eight in brick and one in granite. The Gardens were designed by Ann Norton and Sir Peter Smithers. The
largest tract of garden containing the great brick sculptures is designed in a natural style. The experience of coming
across Norton's mysterious monoliths as surprises in their lush green jungle-like setting is akin to discovering another
world.
Boca Ballet Theatre - www.bocaballet.org
For more than 24 memorable years, Boca Ballet Theatre has passionately pursued our mission to enrich the cultural
landscape of our community and to educate our youth in classical ballet and concert dance through focused training,
interaction with professional dancers and participation in full-length ballets and contemporary choreography.
Boca Raton Museum of Art - www.bocamuseum.org
The Boca Museum of Art is a leading cultural institution in South Florida, achieving international recognition for its
dynamic changing exhibitions and distinguished permanent collection. The Museum’s many public programs include
artist presentations, family activities and more than 100 classes per week at its studio Art School.
Flagler Museum - www.flaglermuseum.us
When it was completed in 1902, the New York Herald proclaimed that Whitehall, Henry Flagler's Gilded Age estate in
Palm Beach, was "more wonderful than any palace in Europe, grander and more magnificent than any other private
dwelling in the world." Today, Whitehall is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public as the Flagler
Museum, featuring guided tours, changing exhibits, and special programs.
Kravis Center For The Performing Arts - www.kravis.org
The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, located in West Palm Beach, Florida, is one of the premier
performing arts centers in the Southeast with a growing national and international reputation. True to the spirit in
which it was created, the Center is expanding programming by initiating projects on local, national and international
levels.
Norton Museum of Art - www.norton.org
The Norton Museum of Art is internationally known for its exhibitions and collection of American, Chinese,
Contemporary, and European Art – and Photography. From its founding in 1941, the Museum has been acclaimed
for masterpieces by Gaugin, Monet, Picasso, and many others. Its Chinese Collection is among the best in the world,
and its Photography Collection spans decades. In 2016, the Norton broke ground for a visionary expansion designed
by architecture firm Foster + Partners, under the direction of Pritzker Prize-winning architect Lord Norman Foster.
The project reorients the Norton’s entrance to the main thoroughfare of South Dixie Highway, restoring the symmetry
of the museum’s original 1941 design, and includes a new 42,000-square-foot West Wing that doubles education
space, and increases gallery space for the Norton’s renowned collection.
The Royal Room at The Colony Hotel - http://thecolonypalmbeach.com/the-royal-room-cabaret/
Hailed the “best place for Cabaret on the planet” by The Palm Beach Post, the Royal Room at The Colony Hotel
features sizzling, song-filled performances by fast-rising performers straight from New York City’s leading Cabarets.
Society of the Four Arts - www.fourarts.org
The Society of the Four Arts offers quality cultural programming to the growing resort community of Palm
Beach. Each season, The Four Arts offers a dynamic lineup of cultural programing, including notable speakers,
concerts, films, educational programs, and art exhibitions. The campus is home to beautiful sculpture and botanical
gardens, a library and children’s library, and a state-of-the art educational facility.
The Wick Theatre & Costume Museum - www.thewick.org
The Wick Theatre presents spectacular musicals ranging from timeless classics to lesser known shows throughout
the year. The Costume Museum at the Wick Theatre is an astounding exhibit of the finest costumes ever brought to
the Broadway stage by the most honored and respected designers in the history of the American Musical Theatre.
This incredible venue houses a collection of original costumes from over 35 Broadway productions and revivals.
Maltz Theater – www.jupitertheatre.org
The Maltz Jupiter Theatre is a 550-seat, nonprofit, community- based regional theatre. A member of the prestigious
League of Resident Theatres, the theatre presents a wide variety of top quality theatrical productions, concerts and
other special events.
Palm Beach Dramaworks - www.palmbeachdramaworks.org
Palm Beach Dramaworks is a professional non-profit theatre company that engages and entertains audiences with
provocative and timeless productions that personally impact each individual. Performances take place at The Don &
Ann Brown Theater located on Clematis Street in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach.
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens – www.morikami.org
The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is South Florida’s cultural destination to experience Japanese culture,
art, gardens, food and more. Owned and operated by Palm Beach County Parks & Recreation, the Morikami
Museum & Japanese Gardens strive to provide guests with authentic Japanese cultural experiences that entertain,
educate and inspire.
Delray Center for the Arts – www.delraycenterforthearts.org
Delray Beach Center for the Arts provides culturally enriching programs and unique arts and entertainment offerings
to The Palm Beaches. From musicals and plays, dance and variety shows, Broadway Cabaret, music and concerts,
comedy, films, lectures and literary events, the Center’s calendar varies throughout the year.
Lake Worth Playhouse – www.lakeworthplayhouse.org
Nestled in the heart of downtown Lake Worth, Lake Worth Playhouse presents year-round programming, including
award-winning dramas, comedies, musicals, Broadway favorites, children’s shows, international ballets and operas in
cinema, live concert series and alternative programming.
In addition to its main stage theatrical fare, the Playhouse presents daily independent and foreign films in the Stonzek
Theatre, an intimate black-box style theatre equipped with a large viewing screen and high-definition projection.
SHOPPING
Antique Row - www.westpalmbeachantiques.com
Located in West Palm Beach, Antique Row is a charming district with over 40 antique shops offering an impressive
selection of 17th to 20th century antiques, fine and decorative arts, period deco, vintage and modern furnishings, and
much more. All within walking distance, this vast array of quality antiques stores, specialty shops and art galleries
are complemented by several award-winning restaurants.
The Gardens Mall - www.thegardensmall.com
The Gardens Mall in Palm Beach Gardens is a luxurious 1.4 million square foot regional shopping center, featuring
over 160 fine specialty shops and has maintained its position as a world-class shopping destination. The blending of
award-winning architecture, fine art and natural landscaping with popular amenities, signature events and an
innovative retail mix makes The Gardens Mall the premier shopping destination in The Palm Beaches.
Mizner Park - www.miznerpark.com
At Mizner Park in Boca Raton, with its resort-like atmosphere, shop, dine and then unwind at the art museum, cinema
or outdoor amphitheater.
Northwood Village - www.northwoodvillage.com
Discover one of the most inviting, funky and hip, micro-neighborhoods in The Palm Beaches. Located less than two miles
north of downtown West Palm Beach, this vibrant area contains restaurants, boutiques, galleries and some of the most
creative and interesting merchants in South Florida.
Palm Beach Outlets - www.PalmBeachOutlets.com
This new shopping destination in West Palm Beach offers a completely different retail therapy experience and the
only outlet center of its kind in The Palm Beaches. Located in West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Outlets features over
100 outlets including many brand favorites such as Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, J. Crew | Crewcuts Factory, Ann
Taylor Factory Store, Banana Republic Factory Store, Kenneth Cole, Nike Factory Store, Talbots, Under Armour
Factory Store, and White House | Black Market.
Royal Poinciana Way, Sunset/Sunrise Avenues
Once Palm Beach’s original Main Street, Royal Poinciana Way still remains one of the town’s most popular locales
for retail pleasure and relaxation. Find classic “mom & pop” shops that sell clothing, furnishings or even fresh locally
grown fruit. Consignment shops and a gourmet stores fill the sidewalks of nearby Sunset Avenue. Royal Poinciana
Way boasts more outdoor dining than anywhere else on the island.
Town Center at Boca Raton - www.simon.com/mall/town-center-at-boca-raton
One of south Florida’s top luxury shopping destinations, Town Center at Boca Raton features an outstanding mix of
upscale and elite specialty shops along with various mall stores in an indoor environment. The impressive lineup of
six department stores and 220 stores at Town Center draws shoppers throughout Palm Beach and Broward
Counties. A recent expansion - The Terrace at Town Center – introduces a number of new lifestyle shops.
Worth Avenue - www.worth-avenue.com
An enchanting resort destination in Palm Beach, Florida with European sophistication and inimitable style and grace,
Worth Avenue is one of the most beautiful and luxurious shopping venues in the United States.
CONSIGNMENT SHOPPING
Allison’s Vintage Clothing - www.allisonsvintageclothing.com
Find fashions by Schiaparelli, Missoni, Halston, Hermès, Chanel, Adolfo and Lilly Pulitzer at this boutique, which also
offers menswear.
Classic Collections of Palm Beach - www.classiccollectionsofpalmbeach.com
This shop only accepts luxury designer women’s apparel, handbags, shoes, accessories, costume and fine jewelry
that has been "momentarily worn" or is brand new.
Deja Vu Palm Beach - www.dejavupalmbeach.com
This shop, which bills itself as “consignment for the designing woman,” says it has the largest selection of Chanel
clothing in Palm Beach, with more than 200 pieces.
Dina C’s Fab & Funky Consignment Boutique - www.fabandfunkyvintage.com
Owner Dina Capehart offers a curated collection of clothing and accessories dating from the 1940s to the present
time by such designers as Azzedine Alaia, Christian Dior, Chanel, Oscar de la Renta, Gucci, Lacroix, Yves Saint
Laurent, Pucci, Galanos, Bill Blass, Geoffrey Beene and Pierre Cardin. She also has a separate men’s boutique.,
Frugal Fashionista - www.frugalfashionistashop.com
Savvy shoppers know this as a place to get their Lilly on — as in Pulitzer. But they can also shop for clothing and
shoes by Armani, Carolina Herrera, Elie Tahari and Stuart Weitzman.
Kismet Vintage & Designer Clothing - www.kismetvintage.com
This boutique offers fashion with a funky twist. Think Gucci tank tops, St. John's skirts and more in downtown Delray
Beach’s trendy Pineapple Grove. On occasion, the shop hosts concerts and other performances.
Man Cave Consignments for Men - www.mancaveconsign.com
Most shops cater to women, but Man Cave boasts its ability to outfit every man from surfers to businessmen, with
designer clothing from Ferragamo, Bugatchi and Quiksilver, as well as electronics, sporting goods and memorabilia.
Serendipity High Fashion Consignment Boutique - www.consignmentboca.com
This shop, just east of Town Center at Boca Raton, offers couture clothing and accessories from Chanel, Hermès,
Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Roberto Cavalli, Emilio Pucci, Fendi and YSL, among others.
LGBT BARS & RESTAURANTS
The Bar - www.barlakeworth.com
The Bar is located in the heart of LGBT-friendly Lake Worth, Florida. With plenty of parking, flat screen TV’s, a pool
table and dance floor, The Bar welcomes everyone for a good time.
H.G. Rooster's – www.roosterswpb.com
H.G. Roosters, located in West Palm Beach, is the heart of The Palm Beach’s gay nightlife. With daily specials,
shows and events scheduled every night of the week, it’s always a good time at Roosters.
The Mad Hatter Lounge - https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mad-Hatter
Just 6 miles south of West Palm Beach, The Mad Hatter Lounger is one of the area’s most popular gay bars. The
friendly neighborhood lounge has a large patio, a pool table and video games, light food and a good mix of cocktails,
beer, and wine.
Rhythm Café – www.rhythmcafe.com
Located on West Palm Beach’s Antique Row in a converted 1950’s drugstore, Rhythm Café has been treating the
fabulous locals/visitors of The Palm Beaches to the finest, creative home-style cuisine since 1988. It features a
tapas-tizer menu, redesigned fish menu, renowned entrees and homemade desserts.
Table 26 – www.table26palmbeach.com
Located in the heart of the historical Mango Promenade district in West Palm Beach and two blocks south of the
Norton Museum of Art, Table 26 is a neighborhood restaurant in a sophisticated, casual setting.Chef Joe Ferro has
created delicious dishes to bring back the basics of Global cuisine. This unique neighborhood eatery has a fullservice bar and complimentary valet.
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About Discover The Palm Beaches
Discover The Palm Beaches, formerly the Palm Beach County Convention and Visitors Bureau, is the official tourism
marketing corporation that promotes the collection of 39 cities and towns and 15 tourism districts spanning 2,000
square miles and 47 miles of pristine beaches from Boca Raton to Jupiter, commonly referred to as The Palm
Beaches of South Florida. Tourism is among Palm Beach County's major industries. It generates an annual
economic impact of $7.1 billion in the local economy, produces $4.55 billion in direct visitor spending and supports
more than 60,000 jobs.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Ashley Svarney, Discover The Palm Beaches
[email protected] /561-233-3030
Kayla Lynskey, Development Counsellors International
[email protected] /212-444-7199