Where to Stay Near Clematis Street in West Palm Beach

Clematis Street is the center of downtown West Palm Beach. It is where you will find the highest concentration of restaurants, bars, live music venues, galleries, and boutique shops in the city. If you want to experience West Palm Beach on foot, without depending on a car or rideshare for every meal and outing, staying near Clematis is the move.

The Ben is one block from Clematis Street, sitting on the waterfront at 251 North Narcissus Avenue. It is the only hotel in the downtown core with direct waterfront views, overlooking Palm Harbor Marina and the Intracoastal Waterway.

“The Ben is my downtown base — an Autograph Collection hotel on the waterfront, with design nods to Byrd Spilman Dewey’s Ben Trovato estate and a quick walk to Clematis. Head to Spruzzo for the water-facing rooftop.” — The Adventurist Magazine

What Is Walking Distance from The Ben

From the hotel’s front door, you can walk to Clematis Street in about two minutes. Rosemary Square, the open-air shopping and dining complex formerly known as CityPlace, is a short walk south. The waterfront promenade runs along the Intracoastal, providing a scenic route for morning walks or evening strolls.

“No need to leave this property. They have everything and then some!” — TripAdvisor guest, Dec 2025

“Tons of dining options within walking distance.” — TripAdvisor guest, Sep 2025

Guests mention specific restaurants within walking distance, including Elisabetta’s directly across the street, which multiple reviewers recommend for dinner. Galley is noted for great steak dinners near the hotel. Tropical Smokehouse gets called out for local BBQ.

“We had a fantastic dinner across the street at Elisabetta’s Restaurant. Highly recommended.” — TripAdvisor guest, Aug 2025

For getting slightly further afield, the hotel operates Bruno, a complimentary electric shuttle within a two-mile radius. This covers Palm Beach Island, Worth Avenue, and The Breakers. Complimentary bicycles are available for longer explorations.

“Take the bikes to The Breakers.” — TripAdvisor guest, Jun 2025

“They offer a shuttle from 10 am to 10 pm for short trips like to Rosemary Square, Worth Avenue, or The Breakers.” — TripAdvisor guest, Jun 2022

The Brightline Connection

For travelers arriving without a car, The Ben’s location is particularly convenient. The Brightline high-speed rail station in West Palm Beach is accessible on foot from the hotel. Guests coming from Miami or Fort Lauderdale can take the train directly into downtown and walk to the hotel without needing a rental car.

“Easy walk from the Brightline station if you’re car-free!” — TripAdvisor guest, Mar 2025

“Uber is plentiful and better than a rental car.” — TripAdvisor guest, May 2025

Tips from Guests Who Have Stayed Here

Request a water-view room on a higher floor, ideally 5th floor or above, facing east. Corner suites offer the most expansive views. The 7th floor has the highest ceilings. If you are visiting on a weekend and prefer quiet, request a lower floor away from the rooftop bar.

“Ocean view rooms are THE best. The rooms closer to the elevator have the best views. If you want a good view make sure it’s above 5th floor.” — TripAdvisor guest, Feb 2025

Valet parking is $57 per night, but the Banyan Parking garage across the street offers self-parking for around $20 to $29 per night. Make restaurant reservations on Palm Beach Island well in advance, especially during season from January through April. The bridges to Palm Beach go up on the quarter hour, so plan your timing accordingly.

“The bridges go up 15 till and 15 after. Just prepare for that when booking reservations for lunch or dinner!” — TripAdvisor guest, Feb 2024

“Gets busy on weekends. Make reservations for restaurants early!” — TripAdvisor guest, Dec 2023

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How far is The Ben from Clematis Street?

A: One block. You can walk from the hotel to Clematis Street in about two minutes. Rosemary Square is also a short walk away. The entire downtown dining and entertainment district is accessible on foot.

Q: Do I need a car if I stay at The Ben?

A: Not necessarily. The hotel is walking distance to Clematis Street, Rosemary Square, and the waterfront. It offers a complimentary electric shuttle within a two-mile radius and free bicycles. The Brightline station is accessible on foot. Many guests describe the location as extremely walkable.

Q: What restaurants are near The Ben?

A: Dozens. Clematis Street has the highest concentration of dining in downtown West Palm Beach. Guests specifically recommend Elisabetta’s across the street, plus the hotel’s own Spruzzo and Proper Grit. Galley and Tropical Smokehouse are also nearby favorites.

Q: Is The Ben walkable to Palm Beach Island?

A: Palm Beach Island is accessible via a short bridge crossing. The hotel’s complimentary shuttle Bruno will take you there, or you can use the complimentary bicycles. Note that the bridge goes up on the quarter hour, so plan accordingly.

Q: When is the best time to visit West Palm Beach?

A: The peak social season runs January through April, with the best weather and the most events and activities. Conde Nast Traveler advises booking luxury hotels two to three months ahead during this period.