Lake Worth Beach City Library
Lake Worth Beach’s library story began in 1912, when early settlers John and Lucille McKissock opened their living room to house donated books for the new community of Lucerne—later renamed Lake Worth. Appeals in the Lucerne Herald brought generous responses from across the U.S. and Canada, and the collection quickly outgrew their home.As the city grew, so did the library—moving first to the Club House in 1916, then to City Hall in 1926, and finally to its elegant, permanent home in 1941. The 10,000-square-foot building included a reading room, community space, and room for a growing collection.Despite the loss of anticipated federal funding, the community stepped up—raising funds through bake sales, bond drives, and donations, including a pivotal $10,000 gift from James and William Strait, Ohio winter residents. The building was proudly completed without a single cent of federal money—a point of civic pride that still resonates today.The library’s legacy continued with the formation of the Friends of the Library in 1988, and a major renovation in 2021 honoring 80 years of service. From its humble bicycle-powered beginnings to its current role as a hub of learning and creativity, the Lake Worth Beach City Library remains a vibrant symbol of community spirit in the heart of downtown.
Lucerne Avenue
Lucerne Avenue, named after the city’s original name—Lucerne—has been part of Lake Worth Beach’s story since the beginning in 1912. Running parallel to Lake Avenue, it developed as a key part of the downtown grid, with early businesses, civic buildings, and gathering spots lining its path.While Lake Avenue was the main retail corridor, Lucerne carved out its own identity—home to local institutions, service shops, and later, creative spaces. Its wide sidewalks and charming storefronts reflect the city’s early 20th-century roots, with architecture that echoes the Florida land boom era.Today, Lucerne Avenue is a mix of historic charm and modern energy, featuring galleries, restaurants, salons, and studios. It's also a favorite route during parades and festivals, helping keep Lake Worth Beach’s quirky, artistic spirit alive and well.
Lake Worth Art League
Founded in 1941, the Lake Worth Art League has been a creative cornerstone of Lake Worth Beach for over 80 years. Established to promote the visual arts, the League has long enriched the cultural life of the community through exhibitions, education, and outreach.The League’s legacy is visible in several historic locations—most notably within the Lake Worth Beach City Library, where its former gallery space now serves as the Meeting Room. Nearby areas where artists once gathered to paint are now home to the Florida Room and Children’s Reading Room. Over the years, the League has also held programs and exhibits at the Annex and the Lake Worth Casino.As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Lake Worth Art League continues its mission with the support of dedicated members and donors. Contributions help sustain local creativity and ensure that the arts remain a vibrant part of Lake Worth Beach for generations to come.
Lake Worth Beach Post Office
Long before the city of Lake Worth Beach was incorporated, postal service in the area played a vital role in building community—and challenging social barriers. In 1889, Fannie James, a woman of mixed race, was appointed postmaster of the Jewell Post Office, located near what would become downtown Lake Worth. Her appointment came at a time when federal postal jobs were some of the few public positions open to African Americans, making Jewell a noteworthy chapter in the broader story of civil rights and federal service.Today, while the current Lake Worth Beach Post Office serves as a functional civic hub, its roots trace back to a time when delivering the mail meant delivering progress, inclusion, and connection in a segregated South.
City Hall
This striking Moorish Revival building wasn’t always where city ordinances were made—it once rocked with performances and civic pride as a public auditorium in the 1920s. Designed with grand flair, its third floor even had a 350-seat theater! Though the crowds now gather for council meetings, the spirit of performance and public life still echoes through its halls.
South J Street
Boydston Building (1922):Just steps away on J Street, the Boydston Building complements this cultural corridor. Built in 1922, it houses Propaganda Lounge—a go-to concert venue for local and indie bands—and Common Grounds Coffee Bar, known for its quality brews and welcoming vibe. Together, these buildings form a vibrant stretch that blends Lake Worth Beach’s musical legacy with its evolving creative spirit.Paradise Building (1923):A historic cornerstone of downtown Lake Worth Beach, the Paradise Building has long been a hub for music and nightlife. Home to the iconic Bamboo Room, it continues to celebrate live performances and local culture. Renovated by owner Gary Goldring in 2019, it now serves as a modern venue that honors its past as a beloved gathering place for the community.
Lake Worth Playhouse
Originally built as the Oakley Theatre in 1924 by brothers Lucien and Clarence Oakley, this iconic building is the oldest on the Art Deco Society of Palm Beach County’s registry. It opened as a lavish movie palace and vaudeville house, complete with a $10,000 Wurlitzer organ and live orchestra.After being destroyed by the 1928 hurricane, it was quickly rebuilt—but the Great Depression forced the Oakleys to relinquish ownership. The theatre changed hands many times over the years, until it was purchased in 1975 by the Lake Worth Playhouse, a community theatre group founded in 1953.Today, the Playhouse is a thriving cultural hub, offering live performances, films, concerts, and educational programs year-round—continuing its legacy as the heart of Lake Worth Beach’s performing arts scene.
Lake Avenue
Laid out in 1912, Lake Avenue has been the lively heart of Downtown Lake Worth Beach for over a century. Once lined with wooden storefronts and boarding houses, it quickly became the city’s main commercial strip—thanks in part to the arrival of the Florida East Coast Railway and the bridge to the beach.By the 1920s, during Florida’s land boom, Lake Avenue was buzzing with shops, cafés, and theaters, many in the Mediterranean Revival and Art Deco styles that still give the avenue its charm. Landmarks like the Lake Worth Playhouse have anchored the street through generations.Today, Lake Avenue is a walkable hub of art, culture, and community, blending old Florida character with vibrant local flavor. Whether you're here for a gallery stroll, a street festival, or just a good cup of coffee, Lake Avenue is where Lake Worth Beach truly comes alive.
Cultural Council
Once a glamorous 1940s movie palace, this Art Deco landmark is now home to the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County. While it once played Hollywood classics, today it shines a spotlight on local talent—offering exhibitions, performances, and creative programs that celebrate the arts right here in our community.Inside, you’ll find the Roe Green Uniquely Palm Beach Store, showcasing handmade work by local artists, and the Jean S. and Frederic A. Sharf Information Center. With gallery space, meeting rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere, the Council’s headquarters is a vibrant hub for artists, visitors, and everyone who calls Lake Worth Beach home.
Lake Worth Beach Cultural Plaza and Annex
Originally built in 1914 as Lake Worth’s first substantial schoolhouse, this two-story structure was a response to the city's rapidly growing population. It served as an elementary school until 1928, when new schools opened and the building was repurposed as city hall. After suffering severe damage in the devastating 1928 Okeechobee hurricane, it was rebuilt in 1929 with its distinctive Mission–Spanish Revival style.From 1929 to 1973, it functioned as the city’s government center, housing administrative offices and the commission chamber. Today, the second floor is home to the Lake Worth Historical Museum, which showcases local artifacts, photographs, tools, and antiques that preserve the city’s vibrant history. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1989.
Lake Worth Beach Casino & Beach Complex
Nestled on the edge of the Atlantic, the Lake Worth Beach Casino has been a beloved part of the city’s landscape for over a century. The original Casino and Baths opened in 1922, built in the elegant Mediterranean Revival style. With a ballroom, saltwater pool, and even slot machines (until the 1930s), it quickly became a local hot spot.The building weathered powerful hurricanes in 1928 and 1947, but each time the community came together to rebuild. In 2013, the Casino was beautifully restored to reflect its 1920s charm—with all the modern updates needed to keep it thriving.Today, the complex features: A scenic oceanfront park The William O. Lockhart Municipal Pier A stunning 3,000 sq. ft. ballroom with wraparound ocean views Local dining and shopping options Whether you're here to stroll the pier, enjoy the beach, or soak up some local history, the Lake Worth Beach Casino is a place where past and present meet in true South Florida style.
Our People, Our Pulse
The heartbeat of Lake Worth Beach has always been its people. Our city is more than a place—it’s a patchwork of lives, voices, and stories woven together across generations. From the earliest residents who helped build the town’s foundation to today’s artists, activists, educators, and everyday neighbors, this community has always thrived on connection and character.In Our People, Our Pulse, we honor the individuals who breathe life into Lake Worth Beach. These are the stories of resilience and reinvention, quiet acts of kindness, bold dreams, and shared celebrations. You’ll meet those who’ve shaped our neighborhoods, uplifted our culture, and created the vibrant, diverse city we love today.This section is not just a tribute—it’s a living chronicle. As you explore, we invite you to reflect, remember, and maybe even see your own story in the faces and memories shared here. After all, Lake Worth Beach isn’t just where we live. It’s who we are.
City Events
From vibrant street festivals and holiday parades to cultural celebrations and community traditions, Lake Worth Beach knows how to come together. This calendar highlights major city events throughout the year—so whether you're a lifelong local or a first-time visitor, you'll always know what's happening in the heart of our city.Be sure to check the City's website and our social media for updates, and get ready to celebrate everything that makes Lake Worth Beach uniquely fun, diverse, and welcoming!
Lake Worth Little Free Libraries
Did you know Lake Worth Beach is home to a vibrant network of Little Free Libraries, lovingly nurtured through the vision and passion of Mary Lindsey?These charming book-sharing boxes are more than just miniature libraries—they’re community treasures, inviting neighbors of all ages to "Take a Book, Leave a Book" and celebrate the joy of reading.Mary Lindsey, a dedicated community advocate and literacy champion, helped spark this local movement, turning a simple idea into a citywide celebration of books and connection. Thanks to her efforts and the ongoing support of local volunteers, our Little Free Libraries continue to thrive, bringing free books to front yards, parks, and sidewalks across Lake Worth Beach.Next time you're out and about, keep an eye out for one of these brightly decorated boxes—and don’t forget to bring a book to share!
