West Palm Beach is a tourist’s dream escape. The downtown area is bustling with art, history, and an amazing culinary scene. There are many great things to do in West Palm Beach. Dazzling beaches, waterfront hotels, seaside restaurants, and an abundance of museums create the culture. A little bit of glamour lives in the heart of this old city, and it’s expressed within some of the area’s most luxurious resorts and clubhouses. With so many stunning sights to see, couples searching for the perfect wedding destination may need a little help choosing. Here are the top 25 picks for tying the knot in West Palm Beach.
1. PGA National Resort & Spa
Beautiful landscaping, tropical gardens, and spectacular sunsets make this lakeside resort a premier wedding location. The bride and groom may tie the knot on the cobblestone terrace, placid waters sparkling behind them. A floral arbor, neat rows of white wood chairs, and perfect palms complete the idyllic scene. The outdoor pavilion sits at on elevated position along the shoreline, revealing dazzling views of the Utopic setting below. The space accommodates between 150-400 guests. The grand ballroom, which seats 500 attendees, is dressed glamorously in champagne hues and chandeliers. Additional ballroom options offer the same level of elegance. Butler passed hor d’oeuvres, a coursed dinner, and a four hour open bar are just a few of the many perks available. Explore West Palm Beach beaches.
400 Avenue of the Champions, Palm Beach Gardens, FL, Phone: 844-709-6090
2. Norton Museum of Art, West Palm Beach
Newly renovated and offering luxurious and contemporary event spaces, Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach provides a wedding venue that is ideal for nearly every couple’s imaginings. This sleek, contemporary venue offers eight event spaces ideal for weddings. The Great Hall is their largest indoor space with over 3,000 square feet. It accommodates up to 280 seated dinner guests. The 3829-square-foot Pamela and Robert Goergen Garden and McGraw Terrace accommodates 100 seated guests (350 cocktail reception) and features a courtyard with tall palm trees, detailed sculptures, and gorgeous sunsets. The museum provides in-house catering and bar services, although couples can choose outside vendors. Other wedding services include a bridal suite, event rentals, sound and lighting, Wi-Fi, and cleanup.
1450 South Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL, Phone: 561-227-1249
3. Wedding Venues Near Me: Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa
This resort strives for elegance beyond expectation, making it a premier wedding destination in West Palm Beach. Over 30,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor entertainment space, is divided among several venue options. The courtyard, which seats 350 guests, overlooks the tranquility pool to the Atlantic. Couples marry to the sound of crashing waves and warm sea breezes. The main ballroom boasts geometrically shaped recessed ceilings, which tower fourteen feet into the air. Glamorously dressed in gold textures and enormous Austrian crystal chandeliers, the room seats 450 guests. Casual and intimately sized banquets may instead be hosted within one of the beachfront cabanas. The creative team of wedding specialists ensure that every service and amenity is delivered with perfection. Find West Palm Beach restaurants.
100 South Ocean Boulevard, Manalapan, FL, Phone: 800-328-0170
4. Wedding Venues in West Palm Beach: The Club at Ibis
Located near the Grassy Waters Nature Preserve, this luxury golf course presents an idyllic setting for the exchange of vows. The bride and groom may wed in the club’s courtyard, overlooking the tropical landscaping of the course. From intimately sized banquet halls to the grand ballroom, there is no wedding too big or small. Between 10 and 480 guests may be exquisitely accommodated. Floor to ceiling windows, panoramic views, superb design, elegant furniture, and crystal chandeliers put this golf course venue on par with some of the area’s most opulent hoteliers. An attentive catering department guarantees a mouthwatering culinary experience, while professional coordination services ensure the big day is executed flawlessly. Browse our best places to visit in Florida guide for more ideas.
8225 Ibis Blvd West Palm Beach, FL, Phone: 561-625-8500
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5. Wedding Venues in West Palm Beach: Ballen Isles Country Club
The country club rests upon acres of bright green fairways lined with palms and brightly colored tropical blooms. A step inside the grand lobby reveals Florida’s signature white craftsman walls, polished marble flooring, and exposed mahogany beams. The design is fresh, with clean architectural lines. There are three entertainment spaces to choose from, seating between 80-380 people, depending on the room and configuration. The main ballroom has a bright modern feel, with contemporary style furniture. A white, silver, and gold color scheme create a tailored ambiance. Picture windows allow in plenty of soft light. Couples may choose between buffet style catering, or plated dinner menus. The club may be contacted directly for wedding package inquires.
100 BallenIsles Circle, Palm Beach Gardens, FL, Phone: 561-622-0220
More ideas: Best Romantic Getaways in Florida
6. Benvenuto Restaurant & Banquet Facility, West Palm Beach
Tuscan architecture and design make this the ‘go-to’ location for the Italian bride and groom. There are seven gorgeous entertainment areas to choose from, seating between 30-240 guests. The outdoor European courtyard has the largest capacity. The space is enclosed along the periphery, by bright green foliage. Stone tile flooring and a carved water fountain adorn the space. Inside, the main ballroom is dressed in creamy white hues, light wood flooring, and gold seating. Multi-layered recessed ceilings, elegant carpeting, and tasteful chandeliers add a touch of opulence. A smaller island-style banquet room livens things up a bit, with famed panels of tropical wall paper and polished mahogany seating. Event coordinator and catering services are provided. Browse the best romantic Florida islands.
1730 North Federal Highway, Boynton Beach, FL, Phone: 561-364-0600
7. Breakers West Country Club, West Palm Beach
Expansive golf course greens and a view of the pond create an idyllic setting for the exchange of vows. The clubhouse offers three different entertainment areas. Guests may gather on the terrace to sip cocktails and delight in butler-passed hor d’oeuvres. The main ballroom has a soft white palette, polished marble floor, and wall-length glass doors and windows. A modern recessed ceiling and sparkling crystal chandeliers hang overhead. The club takes pride in its eye for detail, attentive service, and exceptional food. Wedding day perks include five hours of signature bar service, cake design, a champagne toast, and so much more. Browse our things to do in Florida guide for more ideas.
1550 Flagler Parkway, West Palm Beach, FL, Phone: 561-653-6310
8. Tideline Resort
If you dream of tying the knot at the edge of the ocean you need look no further than the Tideline Resort in West Palm Beach. Here, overlooking the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean, you can choose exchange vows outdoors (indoor ceremony area is also available if the weather does not play along) surrounded by friends and family. After your ceremony you can move indoors for the reception – the upstairs event space can be dressed up for a sophisticated theme or toned down for a more rustic feel. The resort has a dedicated events team who will work with you to establish your budget, choose your menu and arrange everything else from flowers to DJ and photographer. Florida beaches offer a cheap way to enjoy the state's natural beauty.
2842 S. Ocean Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33480, 561 540 6441
9. Wedding Venues in West Palm Beach: Flagler Museum
Set on Lake Worth, the elegant and historic Whitehall mansion is now a modern-day wedding venue, fit for royalty. There are a variety of awe-striking spaces, some colossal, and others intimate. The grand ballroom expresses 19th century splendor with its marble flooring, double staircase, domed ceiling, gold leaf finishes, and crystal chandeliers. Once home to Flagler Kenan’s private railcar, the glass-roofed pavilion features towering archways of turquoise-green oxidized cooper, which form an open periphery corridor. Beyond each archway is a floor-to-ceiling window of the same shape and scale; a remarkable sight. The maze of private courtyards, immense foyers, and jaw dropping ballrooms leave little argument that this place is a palace. On average, seating accommodates 200-300 very lucky guests.
One Whitehall Way, Palm Beach, FL, Phone: 561-655-2833
10. Wedding Venues in West Palm Beach: Flagler Banyan Square
The architecture of this rooftop wedding venue resembles the multi-tiered construction of a cruise ship. Located on the Palm Harbor marina, the rooftop stretches 42 feet above sea level, offering panoramic intercoastal views. The top-most platform of the cascading roofline houses the main event space, perfect for cocktail hour. A cable wire balcony rail might make guests feel as though they are floating mid-air. Umbrellas, lounge furniture, and an oversized island bar complete the space. For wedding ceremonies guests may want to reserve the Event Lawn; a large quad with clean-cut grass and towering palms. Couples may contact the event site for catering and capacity information.
201 North Flagler Drive & Banyan Boulevard, West Palm Beach, FL, Phone: 561-903-4093
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11. Indoor Wedding Venues Near Me: Harriet Himmel Theater
Originally built in 1926, this renovated theatre looks like it could have once been a cathedral on the Mediterranean coast of Spain. Gorgeously carved stonework and grand archways tower over five columns of marble steps with tiled accents. Inside, hardwood floors, a lofted stage, a balcony overlooks, and vaulted ceilings structure the space. Beautiful chandeliers hang overhead. A state-of-the-art lighting system sets the desired mood for the wedding. The theatre can seat 200 guests for dinner and 400 guests for an hor d’oeuvres and cocktail style reception. The bride and groom may contact the theatre for catering and wedding package details.
700 South Rosemary Avenue, Suite 200, West Palm Beach, FL, Phone: 561-231-6044
12. Wedding Venues Near Me: Hilton Singer Island Oceanfront Resort
Situated halfway between Palm Beach and Jupiter, this hotel offers budget friendly packages, without sacrificing elegance. The bride and groom may exchange vows on the resort’s own private beach, which can accommodate between 250-300 guests. A weather protected open-air pavilion offers beautiful ocean views. Sweetly sized crystal chandeliers add a touch of glamour to the island-style space. Up to 250 attendees may be seated for dinner. The Caribbean Ballroom is a sweet setting for indoor receptions, and seats up to 140 guests. The bride and groom enjoy a complimentary stay on wedding night, plus amazing group rates. Delicious catering is provided. Beverage packages include four hours of premium open-bar service. Couples must hire their own wedding planner.
3700 North Ocean Drive, Riviera Beach, FL, Phone: 561-848-3888
13. IronHorse Country Club, West Palm Beach
Located in the heart of the Grassy Waters Preserve, this golf and country club lends tailored refinement to the exchange of nuptials. The course and clubhouse sport over 3.5 million dollars in renovations. Gorgeous rolling fairways and palm trees are manicured to perfection. The clubhouse sits on an elevated expanse of land, making it an eye catching centerpiece to the course. A two-level structure, the building has an incredible wrap-around deck that extends beyond the floor-to-ceiling windows of the interior. The deck has panoramic views and is partially enclosed. Garden lights hang impeccably from the rafters, giving off an amber glow. Onsite catering and beverage service are available. Couples will need to hire a personal wedding planner. Read about the best Florida weekend getaways for a relaxing vacation.
8055 Ironhorse Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL, Phone: 561-624-5550
14. Palm Beach County Convention Center, West Palm Beach
The convention center may be a go-to wedding venue for couples who have large guest lists, and even larger design budgets. The ballrooms feature contemporary décor and seat between 120-1,250 guests. A huge amount of production would be needed to personalize each space, which may be ideal for the couple looking to go big on their wedding day. Unique architectural design and art installations offer unique areas for smaller-sized ceremonies and cocktail hours. Most notably, the grand ballroom pre-function space has gorgeous royal blue carpeting, a vaulted wood deck ceiling, and a light fixture configuration that resembles a model ship. In-house catering is provided. Couples may choose from a variety of wedding packages that include pre-set menus. Florida day trips offer a great way to explore nearby.
650 Okeechobee Boulevard, West Palm Beach, FL, Phone: 561-366-3000
15. Wedding Venues in West Palm Beach, FL: Ragtops Motorcars
This antique auto dealership and museum looks like a scene straight out of the television series “Happy Days”. Brightly colored neon signs and memorabilia from the 1950s & 1960s adorn the walls. Classic cars are on display, polished and restored to their original glory. An old drive-in movie screen plays a wedding reel. The venue is a dream location for rockabilly couples and nostalgic baby-boomers. Eighteen-foot high ceilings and 8,000 square feet of entertainment space is available. Seating capacities are available upon request. Catering services are included in venue rental prices. Couples may contact Ragtops for wedding package details.
701 N Dixie Hwy, Lake Worth, FL 33460, Phone: 561-655-2836
16. Riviera Beach Marina Village Event Center
The Marina Village Center is a budget-friendly, waterfront option for couples who don’t mind doing a bit of the legwork. Polished vessels buoy up against the brick-built promenade; a beautiful backdrop for the exchange of “I Do’s. Couples need only a delicately adorned arbor, florals, and Chiavari chairs to create a romantic ceremony. The event center has a rooftop entertainment space and a terrace, should the couple prefer an outdoor reception dinner. Inside, there are two ballrooms to choose from. The contemporary décor consists of white walls, colorful carpeting, and understated light fixtures. Up to 300 guests may be accommodated. There is not a full-service kitchen onsite, however, there is a food warming and prep kitchen. Parking available.
190 East 13th Street, Riviera Beach, FL, Phone: 561-881-7438
17. Places to Get Married: Singer Island Beach Resort
Located just north of West Palm Beach, this seaside hotel boasts seven different event spaces, seating up to 300 attendees. For ceremony, an elegant white gazebo surrounded by tropical landscaping and breathtaking ocean views seats up to 100 guests. Couples may instead choose to exchange vows on the resort’s private beach, beneath an arbor. A covered veranda surrounded by tranquil fountains seats up to 200 guests for a reception dinner. Indoors, each ballroom features contemporary design in a neutral color palette. The largest and most popular space showcases vast blue-water, ocean views. Flavorful cuisine and signature drinks are impeccably prepared and served. Couples will adore the extensive menu of wedding package perks.
3800 North Ocean Drive, Riviera Beach, FL, Phone: 561-340-1700
18. Places to Get Married: The Brazilian Court Hotel & Beach Club
The courtyard terrace of this luxury retreat is a romantic location for the exchange of vows. Couples say “I Do” near a sparkling fountain, with a canopy of palms overhead. The ceremony space can easily be transformed into a cocktail reception space. Guests will love to sip cool refreshments in the warm evening air. Inside, the conservatory proves to be the lightest and brightest of the ballrooms. A creamy white palette and floor-to-ceiling glass doors define the space. The main ballroom has a more rustic appeal, with deep yellow walls and dark woodwork. An ornately leaded skylight stretches overhead. Wedding planning services are offered. Customizable catering options are available. Group hotel rates apply.
301 Australian Avenue, Palm Beach, FL, Phone: 561-655-6060
19. The Breakers Weddings & Celebrations
A world-renowned luxury resort, this wedding venue is of unparalleled elegance. There are six exquisite ballrooms to choose from, each more breathtaking than the other. Everywhere one turns there are domed and frescoed ceilings, gilded moldings, layers of rich drapery, fifteen-foot windows, Venetian chandeliers, and gold upon gold. Each ballroom is of awe-striking size and scale, fit for a royal court. What an incredible feat of Victorian opulence and meticulous craftsmanship. The courtyards and lawns are equally divine, and views of the open sea add to the mystique. Couples can confidently pass the grandest vision of their wedding into the hands of the resort’s thoughtful wedding planners, who will spare no indulgence. Wedding affairs can host between 50 and 500 attendees.
One South County Road, Palm Beach, FL, Phone: 888-251-3633
20. Wedding Venues in West Palm Beach, FL: Tideline Ocean Resort and Spa
Contemporary architecture, cool hues, and dark wood give this event space an effortlessly tailored look. Couples may wed in the white stone terrace, underneath a structured canvas canopy, with deep green palms behind them. Or perhaps the couple prefers a bamboo arbor, with heavy ropes of fragrant white jasmine and soft chiffon drapery. Whatever the look, this oceanfront location is sure to inspire “oohs and ahs”. The grand ballroom is elegant in its simplicity. A two-story ceiling and western wall constructed entirely of large panes of glass, offer expansive views of the Atlantic. The culinary team carefully crafts a tantalizing menu. Premier level bar service is provided. A dedicated wedding planner ensures every detail is executed to perfection.
2842 South Ocean Boulevard, Palm Beach, FL, Phone: 561-540-6440
21. West Palm Beach Lake Pavilion
A LEED certified green event space; this wedding venue is located downtown in the waterfront promenade. There are three stunning outdoor locations for ceremony. Couples may choose between the expansive brick-paver terrace, the beautifully manicured lawn, or the lakefront dock. The property’s building has wrap around, floor to ceiling windows, boasting panoramic intracoastal views. Seating can accommodate up to 175 guests. A prep kitchen, two-section refrigerator, and an ice maker is available to caterers. The bride and groom must supply their own wedding planner, vendors, banquet services, linens, and audiovisual system. Set-up and clean-up services are not included.
101 South Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach, FL, Phone: 561-822-1525
22. Places to Get Married: West Palm Beach Marriott
Over 20,000 square feet of entertainment area divided between twelve different spaces, means the bride and groom have no shortage of choices. Couples may choose to exchange vows in the courtyard, surrounded by tropical blossoms and gorgeous palms. A tented pavilion and romantic garden lights are available for outdoor receptions. Indoors, the largest ballroom seats up to 750 guests. The space features a neutral palette, elegant carpeting, delicate drapery, and domed chandeliers. An executive chef prepares a delicious menu. Professional bar and banquet service exceed expectation. The Marriot’s certified wedding planners have the education and experience to ensure to a flawless wedding event.
1001 Okeechobee Boulevard, West Palm Beach, FL, Phone: 561-833-1234
23. Steel Tie Spirits Co., West Palm Beach
The Steel Tie Spirits Company can be found in the heart of West Palm Beach Warehouse District, where it provides a brilliant wedding venue with loads of atmosphere. There are two large spaces which can connect to each other, providing a great flow. The historic building provides couples with the perfect blank canvas – dress it up or down to suit your wedding theme. House “props” include the fermentation tanks, lots of polished copper and wood barrels which contribute to the very special ambiance. The space can accommodate both your ceremony and reception or you could choose to host your ceremony outside.
1615 Clare Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33401, 561 623 0961
24. The Ben, Autograph Collection, West Palm Beach
The Ben, Autograph Collection overlooks Palm Harbor Marina, offering wonderful views in all directions. They have a spacious rooftop terrace (perfect for your ceremony and pre-reception mingling) with an adjacent Rooftop Ballroom which can be perfectly decked out to suit your wedding theme. In addition, the hotel offers several other spaces to suit the size of your party. The Rooftop Ballroom boasts huge ceiling to floor windows to let in the light and showcase the wonderful views. The hotel’s events director will be on hand to help you plan every little detail of your dream wedding and to ensure you and your guests leave with unforgettable memories.
251 N. Narcissus Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33401, 561 655 4001
The 25 Best Wedding Venues in West Palm Beach, Florida near me today according to local experts:
- 1. PGA National Resort & Spa
- 2. Norton Museum of Art, West Palm Beach
- 3. Wedding Venues Near Me: Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa
- 4. Wedding Venues in West Palm Beach: The Club at Ibis
- 5. Wedding Venues in West Palm Beach: Ballen Isles Country Club
- 6. Benvenuto Restaurant & Banquet Facility, West Palm Beach
- 7. Breakers West Country Club, West Palm Beach
- 8. Tideline Resort
- 9. Wedding Venues in West Palm Beach: Flagler Museum
- 10. Wedding Venues in West Palm Beach: Flagler Banyan Square
- 11. Indoor Wedding Venues Near Me: Harriet Himmel Theater
- 12. Wedding Venues Near Me: Hilton Singer Island Oceanfront Resort
- 13. IronHorse Country Club, West Palm Beach
- 14. Palm Beach County Convention Center, West Palm Beach
- 15. Wedding Venues in West Palm Beach, FL: Ragtops Motorcars
- 16. Riviera Beach Marina Village Event Center
- 17. Places to Get Married: Singer Island Beach Resort
- 18. Places to Get Married: The Brazilian Court Hotel & Beach Club
- 19. The Breakers Weddings & Celebrations
- 20. Wedding Venues in West Palm Beach, FL: Tideline Ocean Resort and Spa
- 21. West Palm Beach Lake Pavilion
- 22. Places to Get Married: West Palm Beach Marriott
- 23. Steel Tie Spirits Co., West Palm Beach
- 24. The Ben, Autograph Collection, West Palm Beach
Attraction Spotlight: Ragtops Automobile Museum
The Ragtops Automobile Museum is located in West Palm Beach, FL and is a premier attraction in the area. The museum was originally established as an antique and special interest automobile dealership and has evolved into the museum of today with a continuously changing inventory that provides a unique backdrop for hosting events. Ragtops started in a gas station with three cars in the early 1980s. By 1989 the company had added a second location at a 1925 Cadillac-LaSalle dealership building.
History
The company began hosting events during the years between 1990 and 2010.Its inventory consisted of one hundred and ten cars spread across three properties.
In 2011, Ragtops moved to its current location at the previously named Club LaSalle, which is just next door to the location they occupied for twenty-four years. Since the move, the Ragtops Automobile Museum has continued to market itself as a must-see attraction in the Palm Beach area. With its antique vehicles and authentic collectibles, it provides events hosted in its building with a unique setting sure not to be forgotten.
Inventory
The automobiles offered at the Ragtops Automobile Museum are antique and part of a constantly changing inventory. The ever-changing inventory gives first-time and returning visitors new automobiles to explore. Current inventory includes the following:
1966 Chevrolet Corvette- Built in 1966 convertible has a four-speed manual transmission and has been spectacularly restored to NCRS standards. It boasts a tan interior, jet black finish, and black top. This Stingray has also had Vintage Air conditioning professionally installed and has less than sixty thousand miles on it.
1941 Cadillac Sedan Convertible- Built in 1941 this automobile is one of only four hundred manufactured in 1941 for the price of $1,965. This Cadillac Sedan Convertible was bought at the Miami Auto Show of 1941 by a local couple in South Florida and has remained in the family being passed down through the generations.
1956 Ford Sunliner- Built in 1956 with a white top and painted pink and white with matching interior, this Ford is a perfect reminder of 1950s Americana. Under the hood, visitors will find a powerful 312 V-8 automatic transmission complete with a Continental Kit from the time-period.
1952 Chevrolet Deluxe Tin Woody Wagon- This automobile belongs to the owner of Ragtops and is an Alumni automobile. The wagon boasts three rows of seats, seating nine passengers and straight-6 engine with a three-speed manual transmission.
1973 Ford Mustang- This automobile is the actual Mustang Lee Laccoca presented as an award to Sam Marshall of Marshall Ford in Cleveland for Dealer of the Year. The mustang only has twenty-six thousand miles, a Cleveland 351 and all the bells and whistles including factory air conditioning. It is painted red and has a black and white stripe interior with a white soft top.
1962 Oldsmobile 98- This automobile retains its two-tone green interior and has been repainted its original light green. Under the hood, buyers will find a 394 V-8. The Oldsmobile has power steering, power brakes, and power windows.
1948 Chevrolet Stylemaster Pickup Truck- This seventy-one-year-old pickup was recently given a two-tone, red and black, paint job, a new muffler system, and new brakes. The pick-up has been named the Smucker’s Farm Truck. It has a 216-cubic inch Inline six-cylinder engine with a four-speed manual transmission under the hood. Classic trucks hold their value better than all other automobile types.
1964 Chevrolet Corvair- The Corvair is a hybrid of Corvette and Bel Air. It was the only American-designed, mass-manufactured passenger car to employ a rear-mounted air-cooled engine. Seven different body styles were sold. This Corvair is painted black and has red interior. It also boasts skinny white walls and a chrome luggage rack. Under the hood buyers will find an Overhead valve aluminum 164 cubic inch Flat Six engine with a two-speed Powerglide Automatic transmission.
Special Events
The Ragtops Automobile Museum offers a unique venue and hosts a variety of corporate and special events throughout the year. The eight thousand square-foot museum is divided into two four thousand square-foot rooms by a roll-drop curtain. Guests at these events find themselves surrounded fantastic memorabilia, a drive-in movie screen, and classic cars sparkling around the room.-
Ragtops Memorabilia at Auburn Auction- The Ragtops Automobile Museum has put part of its diverse collection up for sale at the Auburn Auction. Pieces at auction include several sought-after, unique, and hard-to-find pieces of Ty Houck’s private collection that he built up over more than forty years.
Car Storage
The Ragtops Automobile Museum offers car storage for all types of Florida residents. The storage facility houses a diverse variety of automobiles.
420 Claremore Drive, West Palm Beach, FL 33401, Phone: 561-655-2836
Attraction Spotlight: Kravis Center for Performing Arts
Kravis Center’s goal is to boost the quality of life of residents and visitors to Palm Beach County in Florida. The center hosts a variety of artists from all over the country and the world, provides a home for local and regional art to be featured, and supports efforts to market Palm Beach County as a travel and tourist hotspot.
History
Building efforts for an arts center in Palm Beach County began in the 1950s. In 1968, Mary Howes leading a group of residents, established Fine Arts Festival, Incorporated and hosted six different fundraisers to raise money for an arts center that could host major productions. It became obvious, though, that the public was not ready to support that large of an enterprise.
Over the next ten years, the county continued to cultivate the arts. In 1978 the county created the Palm Beach County Council of Arts. It was renamed later as the Palm Beach Cultural Council. The councils goal remained to build a major arts center. The council continued to struggle to find funds to and a location for the art center. It wasn’t until 1991 that the center left the realm of possibility and entered the realm of certainty.
The Kravis Center for Performing Arts opened in September of 1992. Tens of thousands of patrons visited the center during its dedication week for the free performances and displays by local art groups. The Gala Grand Opening happened in November of 1992 and put on a program divided into two acts showcasing several well-known artists and companies.
Performances
The Kravis Center hosts a variety of performing arts including major orchestra, opera, ballets, and theatrical productions.
Special Events
Many special events are hosted by the center and cater to various interests.
Family Fare- This series of events offers wholesome, culturally relevant choices for the whole family to enjoy.
African American Film Festival- This is an annual event that was established by James Drayton. The series showcases films highlighting African American directors and actors and focus on the African American experience.
Kravis Center Film and Literary Club- Guests that attend this series will discuss literary works and films that address the major issues the United States faces today.
Mountainfilm Festival- This annual festival focuses on stories about the human spirit and encourages attendees to create a better world. Documentaries as well as short and rare films are included in the festival.
The Writer’s Academy- Julie Gilbert, noteworthy teacher, novelist, playwright, and biographer, teaches, inspires, develops, and cultivates creative writing in most genres.
Visiting Presenters- The Kravis Center hosts several art institutions that regularly perform. These include Winter Tapestry, Franco Corso, Miami City Ballet, Chris MacDonald, Fred Astaire West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Opera, Paris Ballet, The Palm Beach Symphony, and the Florida Falun Dafa Association.
Annual Gala- The Kravis Center puts on an annual fundraising gala featuring famous artists and art companies.
Palm Beach Wine Auction- This auction is held as a fundraiser for the Kravis Center’s art education programs
Educational Opportunities
The Kravis Center offers several educational opportunities for both the community and educators.
S*T*A*R* Series (Students and Teachers Art Resources) Series- This series offers students the opportunity to experience live theater, inspire discussion in the classroom, and boost studies in the classroom.
Kravis-on-the-Road- The center takes its educational art program on the road to classrooms with kids who might not otherwise be able to experience live theater.
Professional Development Workshops- The Kravis Center’s education department puts on annual Back to School workshops for teachers who teach classes in music, visual arts, dance, and drama.
ArtSmart- This series provides behind-the-scenes arts educational lectures, courses, and workshops.
Summer Programming- The summer programming offered by the Kravis Center includes camps, classes, and workshops taught by renowned faculty and instructors made up of Broadway professionals. These programs vary from summer to summer.
Student Arts Enrichment: Workshops and Master Classes- These courses and workshops offer access to the Center’s visiting artists and experts from the industry.
Dining
During performances in Dreyfoos Hall, visitors can eat a quick meal such as soup, salad, or sandwich, enjoy a cocktail, and other concessions at Bistro Teatro.
The Kravis Center is also located within walking distance from other restaurants such as CityPlace, Brio Tuscan Grille, and Regional Kitchen & Public House.
Shopping
The Kravis Center Gallery and Giftshop is located on the east end of Dreyfoos Hall lobby. The gift shop offers art-inspired merchandise and a variety of souvenirs. It is usually open only during Dreyfoos Hall performances and only an hour before the performance.
701 Okeechobee Boulevard, West Palm Beach, FL 33401, Phone: 561-833-7469
