West Palm Beach?s City Place

Written by Beth Garrett

City Place, which opened in October 2000, is a city with-in a city. Although it is located in the heart of downtown Palm Beach County, one gets the feeling that they are visiting a quaint European city. City Place?s grand opening last fall was one of the year?s most anticipated events in South Florida. Since then it has become the hot spot of Palm Beach County. High-end retail shopping and revolutionary restaurants and cafes fill this unique 55-acre space. A 20 screen high-tech movie theater and live performances provide additional entertainment. Not only do people play at City Place; they work and live there as well. Beautiful residential and office spaces are available to those who want to inhabit this exciting atmosphere daily.

City Place?s History and Architecture

City Place prides itself on its splendid architecture inspired by Europe's City Place Restaurant

most acclaimed architects. The Former First United Methodist Church acts as City Place?s centerpiece. Built in 1926, over six million dollars has since been spent restoring it. Reminiscent of Spanish Colonial Revival Structures the church now serves as a cultural arts center. Performances, community gatherings, art exhibits and school forums are held here frequently. Renamed the Harriet Himmel Gilmon Theater this beautiful building is available for weddings, parties and celebrations.

The Fountains and Lights at City Place

In the center of the main plaza stands a 3.5 million-dollar fountain. It is truly a wondrous sight to behold. Three fountains come together to marry the Old World ambiance of Italy with modern day technology and design. These 2,500 square foot fountains provide an enchanting stage for spectacular water shows choreographed to music and lights.

Shopping at City Place

Six hundred thousand square feet of City Place is dedicated to retail stores The Palladium Plaza Fountain at City Place

including ten specialty shops. Have your hair styled at the Aveda Salon while waiting to pick up a pair of glasses from City Lasik and Optical. Search for the perfect home accessories at Pottery Barn or Williams- Sonoma. The choices are endless. A treat for children and adults alike is the 16,000 square foot FAO Schwarz store. This store serves as one of City Place?s most recognizable and loved landmarks. The giant teddy bear gracing the entrance and the signature toy soldier patrolling the tower are an invitation for merriment and fun for people of all ages.

See the Movies at City Place

The 20 screen Muvico theaters feature valet parking, stadium-style seating, and a premium reserved seating section. There is a supervised playroom for children while parents attend a movie. An upscale concession area provides gourmet treats, prepared meals and international coffees. The majestic Paris Opera House was the major influence behind this building?s design.

Dining out at City Place

Currently there are ten dining establishments in City Place with the promise of more to come in the future. The palate may be tempted by Italian, Japanese, Mexican and American cuisines in addition to others. Most establishments also offer up phenomenal wine lists for lovers of the grape. Outdoor seating provides a perfect opportunity for people watching.

Current Events at City Place

Upcoming City Place events include ?Art in the City?. Every Tuesday night from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. local artists will have a chance to show off to the public The Vicenza Fountain at City Place

their creations. Feel free to purchase an original piece of artwork for your home or just enjoy the sights. Friday and Saturday evenings from 6 p.m. until 9p.m. City Place offers ?Entertainment on the Palladium Plaza?. The plaza comes alive with live musical entertainment featuring some of South Florida?s most talented musicians. For children, ? Camp City ? provides a safe and fun environment for kids during every second Saturday of each month from 10a.m. until 2p.m. Activities include arts, crafts and games.

Hours of Operation and Location

City Place retail stores are open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Sundays from noon until 6 p.m., with restaurants remaining open later. Parking is free and widely available. There is a trolley service that runs seven days a week between City Place and Clematis Street. City Place is located on East Okeechobee Blvd.

For more information about City Place call 561 366-1000.