West Palm Beach is having a moment. Residents and visitors in the know have long appreciated our city’s under-the-radar charms, but now the secret is truly out. Tripadvisor, the world’s largest travel platform, recently crowned West Palm Beach as the 2025 winner of the Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice® Award for Destinations in the United States.
Based on reviews from millions of visitors to the platform over the past twelve months, this #1 designation reflects West Palm Beach’s absolute desirability as a travel destination. What makes it such a great place to visit? The fantastic weather and an enviable location with seven miles of waterfront shoreline are just the beginning. The city’s incredible growth over the past decade—a testament to thoughtful revitalization, new development, and historical preservation—has helped attract new businesses, events, and residents. All these elements contribute to making West Palm Beach a destination with something for everyone.
“This award is a testament that there is more to see and more to do in West Palm Beach,” says Keith James, mayor of the City of West Palm Beach. “Our city offers exceptional experiences to every visitor, and this recognition underscores the unique charm and vibrant spirit that makes our city a top destination for travelers from around the world.”
West Palm Beach’s most visible charms are on full display year-round, with sailboats dotting the sparkling waters of the Intracoastal Waterway along the city’s unique downtown waterfront, which is a short walk from the bustling hubs of CityPlace, Clematis Street, and the Convention Center District.
The redevelopment of Downtown, Northwood Village, Historic Northwest, CityPlace, and its surrounding areas has spurred measurable growth in the form of new hotels, restaurants, and retail spaces. It has also driven investment into surrounding neighborhoods like the mixed-use Nora District, which has attracted world-class, carefully curated tenants eager to be part of the West Palm Beach renaissance.
As any savvy traveler knows, the lifeblood of great cities and destinations is reflected in the diversity of their neighborhoods and the people who populate them. From Chinatown in San Francisco to Little Havana in Miami, a city’s neighborhoods reveal the true heart of its community. West Palm Beach is more than the sum of its parts—from parks and outdoor activities to museums and historic homes, West Palm Beach’s character is on full display. It doesn’t take long to discover that West Palm Beach offers much more than year-round sunshine—and 2025 promises to be a banner year.
Can’t-Miss Events and Activities
Here’s a quick look at some must-see events and activities for tourists and locals alike in the coming months:
West Palm Beach GreenMarket: Celebrating its 30th season this year, the West Palm Beach GreenMarket has been recognized as one of the best farmers’ markets in America (ranked #1 for the past three years and nominated for a fourth). With more than 130 vendors offering everything from fresh organic produce to baked goods, housewares, essential oils, prepared foods, and more, the market runs every Saturday from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM through April 26. It’s the perfect place to shop for a fabulous dinner party or enjoy a quick al fresco breakfast.
The Cognizant Classic: The Cognizant Classic, formerly the Honda Classic, continues its legacy as one of the premier tournaments on the PGA TOUR. This highly anticipated event, set in the scenic beauty of The Palm Beaches, draws the world’s best golfers and thousands of fans each year. Taking place from February 26 to March 2, 2025, this championship promises unforgettable moments on and off the course. Whether you’re a die-hard golf enthusiast or new to the sport, the Cognizant Classic offers a thrilling blend of competition, entertainment, and hospitality.
Palm Beach International Boat Show & Palm Beach Modern & Contemporary: Yachts and fine art go hand in hand in March, as these two high-profile luxury events take place concurrently. With more than 800 yachts—ranging from 8-foot inflatables to 300-foot superyachts—valued at over $1.2 billion, the Boat Show is expected to draw more than 50,000 visitors. Meanwhile, the nearby Palm Beach Modern & Contemporary Art Fair at the Convention Center showcases some of the world’s top galleries and artists.
More Art via ArtLife WPB and Collection Connection: The City of West Palm Beach’s Public Art Program is responsible for over 80 artworks throughout the city, including installations, murals, sculptures, and more. Public art provides a sense of belonging and community while showcasing artists from around the world. Beginning in February, ArtLife WPB and the downtown Mandel Public Library are launching a joint project called Collection Connection, encouraging locals and visitors to explore these commissioned pieces. Pick up an art passport at the library starting February 12, explore the city to find at least ten featured pieces, and return for a commemorative enamel pin and a chance to win a grand prize!
MORE TO SEE
Historical Society of Palm Beach County
Celebrating Black History: Portraits of the Highwaymen (Feb 5-29)
Wish You Were Here: Tourism in the Palm Beaches (thru Jun 28)
The Norton Museum of Art Sorolla and the Sea (thru Apr 13)
Palm Beach Zoo Tiger Forest Experience
La Traviata
The Marriage of Figaro
London Symphony Orchestra (Mar 1)
Chamber Music Society Baroque Feast (Mar 6)
Cox Science Dino Safari (thru Apr 27)
Views from Restoration Hardware
MORE TO DO
TO DO
The Norton Museum of Art Art After Dark (Fridays)
Ann Norton Sculpture Garden Jazz in the Garden Concert Series
Family Fun Night at The Park (Fridays)
The Ben Winter Wonderland Ice Skating Rink (thru Mar 1)
MLB Spring Training at CACTI Park
Grassy Waters Preserve Sunset Canoe
Evening on Antique Row (Apr 5)
Downtown guided Water Tours, Paddleboarding and Kayaking
West Palm Beach is ready to welcome visitors and locals alike in 2025 with exciting developments, unforgettable events, and an ever-growing list of things to see and do. Whether you’re exploring for the first time or rediscovering your hometown, there’s never been a better time to experience all that West Palm Beach has to offer.
