The Ben, Autograph Collection

The Ben is ushering in a new era of West Palm Beach, and the once-overlooked mainland is ripe for the upgrade. The luxury boutique hotel is centrally located on a quiet downtown street, within walking distance of the area’s primary shopping districts: The Square (a massive outdoor mall) and Clematis Street (lined with colorful shops and cafés).

If the location alone doesn’t sell you on The Ben, bibliophiles will swoon over its signature amenity: the Book Butler program. Guests can dial “0” and have a curated book delivered. Talk about white-glove service! Here’s what I thought of the stay. 

What are the rooms like at The Ben, Autograph Collection?

Deep wooden tones, dark leather furnishings and tobacco-hued accents make the rooms feel like a refined study. While masculine in vibe, it’s no man cave. Our king guest room with a water view faced Palm Harbor Marina and was spacious enough for lounging. In fact, I spent several hours reading on the chaise lounge next to the balcony.

The minibar was stocked with snacks and water, plus a Nespresso coffee machine for a quick and easy pick-me-up, while the bathroom featured complimentary amenities such as makeup remover wipes, Ortigia soap and body cream and C.O. Bigelow mouthwash.

Much to my husband’s delight, our room had a secret door panel that, when opened, revealed the bathroom and shower. A great way to sneak up and scare your partner mid-shower.

What are the best places to eat and drink nearby and at The Ben?

Located smack in the center of downtown West Palm Beach, guests of The Ben won’t lack for places to eat. You can walk a few blocks to The Square or down Clematis Street for your pick of restaurants, from Italian at Felice to casual American at Moxies and a wholesome spread at True Food Kitchen. RH Rooftop Restaurant at RH West Palm is also close by.

For something even more convenient, head upstairs to Spruzzo, the rooftop restaurant serving coastal Italian fare and a seafood-forward brunch menu featuring petit lobster rolls you won’t want to share. On the main floor of the property, Proper Grit, a whiskey library and supper club, serves elevated American fare in a moody, leather-decked space.

What experiences can you book at The Ben, Autograph Collection?

For wellness-focused guests, The Ben offers sunrise yoga every Sunday on the rooftop (pair this with brunch at Spruzzo for the ultimate Sunday Funday). Have friends in town? The Ben offers weekday passes to the rooftop pool as well. Cabanas—with bottle service!—are also bookable and a lot of fun with a group. Looking to relax? Make use of the Book Butler program and discover your next great read.

What’s the area like around The Ben, Autograph Collection?

The Ben sits at the edge of downtown West Palm Beach, a couple of blocks from the Intracoastal Waterway and the bridges that whisk you over to posh Palm Beach. That said, you’ll find luxury right on this side of the water and plenty to do and see within walking distance or a quick bike ride away. Ben Bikes, the hotel’s complimentary bike rentals, are available for all guests. Grab one for a DIY tour of Palm Beach or a quick jaunt over to the Norton Museum of Art, one of South Florida’s premier cultural centers.

Getting to The Ben is easy and convenient by car (it’s five minutes from I-95), or you can take the Brightline; the train station is less than a mile away.

Address: 251 N Narcissus Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33401

Price per night: From $400, depending on dates and accommodations

Closest transport: Brightline Station WPB

Book now: via Booking.com

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