West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach and the palm beaches are one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. They are nicknamed the "Gold Coast" for all of the treasure-producing Spanish Galleons which sunk here. The pristine beaches in the Palm Beach area consistently rank among the top in the country.

Palm Beach proper is the island on which 99.9% of us could never afford to live - but we can afford to visit and stay in a hotel a few nights. Even though it is an island, you can get there with your car. Just west of Palm Beach, you find the City of West Palm Beach. The city organizes many recreation activities.

Palm Beach itself (remember...the expensive island) is one of Florida's most popular tourist destinations - it's relaxed atmosphere, luxury and culture set it apart from other destinations.

• Japanese culture is elegantly showcased at the Morikami Museum & Gardens, tea ceremony demonstrations, a theatre, and interactive displays.
• The "Sport of Kings" is played every Spring at the the Palm Beach Polo & Country Club, where regular and championship matches are played.
• American and Chinese sculpture, along with art from many famous painters are currently featured at the Norton Museum of Art.
• Musical acts of every style play at the outdoor Coral Sky Amphitheatre. Bring a blanket and listen to your favorite group, under the stars.
• Musical theatre, plays, orchestras, and drama are all featured at the The Raymond Kravis Center of the Performing Arts, one of Florida's finest performance facilities.

Every year, West Palm beach hosts the largest festival in Florida. SunFest is Florida's Largest Music, Art & Waterfront Festival with more than 40 concerts by national recording artists and local bands on three stages. The concerts feature the best in jazz, pop, classic and new rock, reggae, world beat, R&B, gospel and blues. Dates are Wednesday, April 28 through Sunday, May 2, 1999, in downtown West Palm Beach, Florida. More than 60 artisans exhibiting a variety of internationally hand-made arts, crafts, collectibles, jewelry and toys.

There is plenty to do for families...

• Lion Country Safari is a 500-acre drive-through wildlife preserve where you drive through free roaming wild animals such as lions, elephants, and zebras.
• Cool off from the hot, Florida sun at the Rapids Water Park, 12 acres of fun with waterslides and wave pools.
• Discover the mysteries of the dinosaurs at the South Florida Science Museum or you can explore the stars at the Buzz Aldrin Planetarium.
• Paddle down the Loxahatchee River and see native Florida wildlife such as Bald Eagles, Panthers, and Ospreys with the Canoe Outfitters.

For more information about West Palm Beach, visit the Palm Beach County Convention and Visitors Bureau web site.