For the better part of three decades, Sean MacPherson has been deciding where New York eats, drinks, and sleeps. He is the hotelier and restaurateur behind some of the city’s most beloved institutions, past and present, from the Bowery Hotel to the Jane, from the Marlton to the Waverly Inn. “Hotels, to me, have always been glamorous and optimistic,” he told Sharp Magazine. “There’s this hopeful feeling that something magical can happen.”

Now, like many New Yorkers before him, he’s heading down to Florida. His latest project, the Nora Hotel, brings his particular brand of old-world glamor to Palm Beach. As he prepares to open its doors, MacPherson shares his favorite places to eat, shop, and explore in the beach town.

A view of the Lake Trail, in Palm Beach.

Lake Trail

When I spent the coronavirus pandemic in Palm Beach, my daily ritual was cycling the five-mile Lake Trail. It’s the best vantage point for taking in the region’s natural and architectural beauty. (townofpalmbeach.com)

Carriage House

If you’re fortunate enough to get invited to the members-only Carriage House, take the opportunity immediately. It’s a stylish and contemporary incarnation of an old Palm Beach social club, with spectacular interiors—kitchen included. (carriagehousepb.com)

Outside the Colony Hotel.

Swifty’s at The Colony Hotel

Al fresco dining by the hotel pool is always delicious and lively. It’s also an excellent spot for people-watching. (thecolonypalmbeach.com)

Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens

Visit this historic residence for the 250 rare species of palms and cycads as much as for the artist’s many works. (ansg.org)

Surfboards from the Nomad Surf Shop.

Nomad Surf Shop

Drive 20 minutes south down A1A to Nomad Surf Shop, a business owned by the same family since 1968. It’s the real deal—a classic spot with great custom boards, local lore, and zero pretense. (nomadsurf1968.com)

Antique Row

I’ve been buying treasures from this excellent collection of more than 40 antique shops in West Palm Beach for decades, and I’ve never been disappointed. (antiquerowwpb.com)

West Palm Beach GreenMarket

Now in its 32nd season and featuring 130 vendors, this is the go-to venue for the freshest produce. (wpb.org)

The interior of John F. Kennedy’s bunker on Peanut Island, near Palm Beach.

J.F.K.’s Bunker on Peanut Island

Take a water taxi to the 80-acre island that houses J.F.K.’s historic bunker. It’s currently closed to visitors. (discover.pbc.gov)

Photos: Karsten Moran/The New York Times/Redux; Allen Creative/Steve Allen/Alamy; Photo by Lesley Unruh/courtesy The Colony Palm Beach; Courtesy of Nomad Surf Shop; Hemis/Alamy