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Discover City Place West Palm Beach: Upscale Living & Events

In the heart of downtown West Palm Beach, a vibrant urban center has emerged, offering a unique blend of upscale living, entertainment, and events. CityPlace, formerly known as Rosemary Square, is a New Urbanist mixed-use development that has transformed the area into a thriving hub of commerce and culture.

This upscale lifestyle center spans over 600,000 square feet, featuring more than 60 restaurants and stores, alongside rental apartments, condos, and offices. With its distinctive Mediterranean and Venetian architectural influences, CityPlace creates a unique atmosphere that distinguishes it from typical shopping centers and residential developments.

Key Takeaways

  • Upscale shopping and dining experiences in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach.
  • A vibrant urban center that attracts tourists and locals alike.
  • A mixed-use development integrating retail, residential, and office spaces.
  • A unique blend of Mediterranean and Venetian architectural influences.
  • A hub for commerce, culture, and entertainment in West Palm Beach.

The Evolution of City Place West Palm Beach

city place west palm beach history

The story of City Place West Palm Beach is one of rebirth and revitalization, turning a once-troubled area into a thriving urban oasis. By the 1980s, downtown West Palm Beach had acquired a reputation for crime, poverty, and vacant businesses, with U.S. Senator Lawton Chiles describing it as a “war zone.”

From Downtown/Uptown to Urban Oasis

In 1986, investors David C. Paladino and Henry J. Rolfs proposed a $433 million project, known as Uptown/Downtown, to revitalize the western side of downtown. This ambitious plan included 3,700,000 square feet of office space, 190,000 square feet of retail space, 800 hotel rooms, and 700 residential units, marking the beginning of City Place’s transformation into a New Urbanist mixed-use development.

The Name Changes: CityPlace, Rosemary Square, and Back Again

CityPlace opened to the public in October 2000. In 2019, it was rebranded as Rosemary Square as part of a $550 million transformation plan by the Related Companies. However, on May 1, 2024, the development was renamed back to CityPlace, responding to community sentiment and recognizing the original name’s strong brand recognition. Throughout its evolution, City Place has maintained its status as a vibrant part of downtown West Palm Beach, adapting to changing urban trends and community needs.

The area now known as City Place began as a troubled section of downtown West Palm Beach but has evolved significantly over the years. After initial development challenges, the city acquired the land in 1995 and approved the CityPlace project in 1996. The development has continued to adapt, with the most recent change being the return to its original name, CityPlace, in 2024.

Architectural Beauty and Design

City Place West Palm Beach showcases a captivating architectural design that reflects European influences, creating a unique ambiance in the heart of South Florida. The development is a prime example of New Urbanist mixed-use design, blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.

Mediterranean and Venetian Influences

The architecture at City Place is predominantly West European-inspired, with Mediterranean and Venetian elements being particularly prominent. This is evident in its design, which includes elegant squares, arcades, and promenades. The development spans 600,000 square feet, maintaining a cohesive visual experience throughout.

The Historic Harriet Himmel Theater

At the heart of City Place lies the historic Harriet Himmel Theater, a former Methodist church built in 1926 in the Spanish Colonial Revival style. After a $6 million restoration, it now serves as a cultural center, hosting various performances and events. The theater is a significant landmark and a testament to the area’s rich history.

The surrounding area is enhanced by 2,000-square-foot water fountains and lush landscaping, creating a picturesque setting. City Place is also within walking distance of the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts and the Alexander W. Dreyfoos, Jr. School of the Arts, making it a hub for cultural activities in West Palm Beach.

Shopping and Dining Experiences

city place west palm beach restaurants and shops

With its extensive retail space and diverse dining options, City Place West Palm Beach stands out as a top shopping and dining hub in Palm Beach County. Spanning across 600,000 square feet, the center offers a comprehensive shopping experience with over 60 stores, ranging from national brands to unique local boutiques.

Retail Therapy: Stores and Boutiques

The retail landscape at City Place is anchored by major establishments like LA Fitness and Publix, drawing consistent foot traffic. Shoppers can explore a diverse mix of retail options along South Rosemary Avenue, with stores offering everything from fashion and accessories to home goods and specialty items.

Culinary Adventures: Restaurants and Cafés

The dining scene at City Place features an impressive array of restaurants and cafés, catering to various tastes and price points. Popular establishments like The Cheesecake Factory, Sloan’s Ice Cream, and Starbucks serve as dining anchors, while other culinary options range from casual eateries to upscale restaurants ideal for special occasions.

Despite the closure of some original anchors, City Place continues to evolve its retail and dining mix to meet changing consumer preferences, maintaining its position as a premier shopping and dining destination in West Palm Beach.

Entertainment and Events at City Place

events at city place west palm beach

City Place is not just a shopping center; it’s a dynamic entertainment hub that complements the nearby Clematis Street’s vibrant scene. Located in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach, it offers a diverse range of events and activities throughout the year.

Year-Round Events Calendar

City Place hosts a variety of cultural performances, seasonal celebrations, and special events in its public spaces, creating a dynamic atmosphere that changes with the seasons. The development’s proximity to the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts and the Alexander W. Dreyfoos, Jr. School of the Arts enhances its status as a cultural destination in Palm Beach.

Arts and Culture Offerings

The entertainment options at City Place are further enriched by its connection to other cultural venues in West Palm Beach. Visitors can easily navigate between City Place and other downtown attractions via the charming early-century trolleybus that circles the downtown area, connecting these vibrant entertainment zones. Although the AMC Parisian20 and IMAX theaters have closed, City Place continues to evolve as a central hub for entertainment in Palm Beach County.

With its diverse calendar of events and proximity to other cultural attractions, City Place remains a premier destination for both locals and tourists in West Palm. The area’s vibrant atmosphere is a testament to the successful blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment options that City Place and nearby Clematis Street offer.

Living and Working in the Heart of West Palm Beach

city place west palm beach apartments

As a premier New Urbanist mixed-use development, City Place West Palm Beach seamlessly blends living, working, and entertainment. This vibrant district is home to over 600 private residences, including luxury condominiums in buildings such as CityPlace Tower, Montecito, and CityPlace South Tower.

Residential Options and Amenities

The residential options at City Place are designed to provide an unparalleled living experience. Residents can enjoy luxury condominiums with top-notch amenities, all within walking distance to shopping, dining, and entertainment venues. Additional residential developments like One City Plaza and Two City Plaza expand the living options in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach.

Residents of City Place benefit from proximity to cultural institutions like the Raymond F. Kravis Center for Performing Arts and the Palm Beach County Convention Center, enhancing the appeal of living in this urban core.

Office Spaces and Business Opportunities

For businesses, City Place offers prime office spaces, including the postmodern CityPlace Tower constructed in 2007. Plans for additional office towers containing approximately 300,000 square feet of space are underway, further solidifying the area’s status as a business hub.

The business environment at City Place benefits from the area’s high foot traffic, affluent demographic, and central location in Palm Beach County, making it an attractive option for companies seeking a prestigious address.

The Related Companies has committed approximately $550 million for future development, including plans for a new mixed-use luxury residential tower that will add 300-400 new residential units to the area. This investment will further enhance the living and working experience at City Place, solidifying its position as a premier destination in West Palm Beach.

Conclusion: Why City Place Remains a West Palm Beach Landmark

City Place West Palm Beach stands as a testament to the power of urban redevelopment. Since its grand opening in October 2000, it has transformed the downtown area into a thriving center of commerce and culture. Despite name changes from CityPlace to Rosemary Square and back again, the development has maintained its status as the heart of West Palm Beach’s urban renaissance.

The $550 million investment by Related Companies demonstrates ongoing commitment to evolving this New Urbanist mixed-use development. City Place continues to adapt to market changes, with plans for new restaurants, residential units, and office spaces, ensuring its enduring appeal as a cohesive urban environment.

FAQ

What is CityPlace?

CityPlace is a new urbanist mixed-use development located in the heart of downtown, offering a unique blend of shopping, dining, entertainment, and residential options.

What kind of restaurants can I find at CityPlace?

CityPlace features a diverse range of restaurants and cafes, serving everything from Mediterranean and Venetian cuisine to modern American fare, ensuring there’s something for every taste and preference.

Is CityPlace within walking distance of any major attractions?

Yes, CityPlace is within walking distance of Clematis Street and the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, making it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy the best of downtown.

How many residential units are available at CityPlace?

CityPlace offers a range of residential units, providing upscale living options for those who want to be at the heart of the action.

What kind of entertainment options are available at CityPlace?

CityPlace is home to the AMC Parisian IMAX theater and hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and more, ensuring there’s always something new to experience.

Can I work at CityPlace?

Yes, CityPlace offers office spaces and business opportunities, making it an ideal location for professionals and entrepreneurs looking to establish themselves in the heart of downtown.

What is the history behind CityPlace?

CityPlace has undergone several transformations, from its origins as Downtown/Uptown to its rebranding as Rosemary Square and back again, reflecting the evolving character of the area.

What architectural styles influence CityPlace?

CityPlace is characterized by Mediterranean and Venetian architectural influences, giving it a unique and distinctive charm.

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