West Palm Beach, Richard and Pat Johnson Palm Beach County History Museum. (Photo by: Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Jeff Greenberg/Getty

Palm Beach County History Museum

West Palm Beach


For all the region's activities and museums, it can be hard for outsiders to get an insight into the history and people of the Sunshine State. This small museum, housed in the restored 1916 courthouse and staffed by volunteers, aims to change that. Quirky exhibits – featuring models, photographs and period artifacts – highlight individuals who have contributed to the growth and prosperity of Palm Beach County.

Informative plaques on everyone from Flagler and Mizner to Alligator Joe and the first settlers make the tour a fascinating one. Also has temporary exhibitions that change annually.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby West Palm Beach attractions

1. Flagler Museum

0.65 MILES

This museum is housed in the spectacular 1902 mansion built by Henry Flagler as a gift for his bride, Mary Lily Kenan. The beaux arts–styled Whitehall was…

2. Sea Gull Cottage

0.72 MILES

Sea Gull Cottage was constructed in 1886 overlooking what was a freshwater lake (now the Intracoastal Waterway) by RR MCCormick, the Denver railroad and…

4. Norton Museum of Art

1.01 MILES

This is the largest art museum in Florida and arguably the most impressive. It opened in 1941 to display the enormous art collection of industrialist…

5. Bethesda-by-the-Sea

1.09 MILES

After visiting Tiffany's windows on Worth Ave, head to Bethesda-by-the Sea to admire its glorious Tiffany window and grand Gothic architecture. Built in…

6. Worth Avenue

1.37 MILES

This quarter-mile, palm-tree-lined strip of more than 200 high-end brand shops is like the Rodeo Dr of the East. You can trace its history back to the…

7. Ann Norton Sculpture Garden

1.37 MILES

This serene collection of sculptures is a real West Palm gem. The historic house, verdant grounds and monumental sculptures are all the work of Ralph…

8. Ragtops Motorcars Museum

1.44 MILES

This spot was originally a classic-car dealership with three convertible Mercedes, but Ty Houck's incredible automobile collection quickly grew,…