Delray Beach, often celebrated for its vibrant arts scene and sunny coastline, also boasts a rich history that deserves equal attention. A walking tour through its historic landmarks reveals how this once-sleepy settlement grew into a cultural hub.
The Colony Hotel
Built in 1926, the iconic pink-and-white Colony Hotel stands as a jewel of Florida’s Mediterranean Revival architecture. Still operating as a hotel, it offers visitors a direct link to the glamour of Delray’s early tourism boom.
Old School Square
At the heart of downtown, Old School Square was once the city’s original schoolhouse. Today, it’s a thriving cultural arts center featuring museums, a performance hall, and community events—all while preserving the building’s historic character.
The Sundy House
The oldest home in Delray, the Sundy House was built in 1902 by the city’s first mayor. Now a restaurant and inn surrounded by lush tropical gardens, it blends history with hospitality.
Spady Cultural Heritage Museum
This museum highlights African American history in Palm Beach County, showcasing stories often left out of traditional narratives. Exhibits honor the contributions of Black pioneers who helped shape the community.
Historic Pineapple Grove
Named for the pineapple farms that once thrived here, this district blends art galleries and murals with reminders of Delray’s agricultural roots.
Together, these landmarks tell the story of Delray Beach’s transformation from farming village to seaside destination. Exploring them connects visitors not only to the past but also to the community spirit that continues to define Delray today.
Harlan Kilstein the publisher of this website is a resident of Delray. He has lived in Palm Beach County since 1997, In that time he has explored everything for surfing on private beaches in Delray to walks up and down Atlantic Avenue.
He is known to drop everything at a moment's notice to fish in Delray Lakes, bird watch, goes horseback riding or play pinball at the Delray Pin Ball Museum.
You can find him either sipping a coffee on Atlantic Avenue or drinking a flight of whiskey at Warren's.
One thing is certain, he knows Delray Beach.
