The Worth Avenue Clock Tower on Palm Beach Island

Lorea Thomson
Posted by Lorea Thomson
Updated on
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Published in Arts & Culture

The Worth Avenue Clock Tower is an iconic Palm Beach landmark that is hard to go unnoticed. Usually, it's flocked with people taking pictures. It's undeniably one of the most photogenic icons in Palm Beach. The tower is located between palm trees right at the entrance of Worth Avenue to the east. The clock faces both the avenue and the beautiful Atlantic Ocean that lies behind it.

The Worth Avenue Clock Tower stands as an enduring symbol of elegance, history, and charm. This iconic landmark is a picturesque timepiece and it embodies the spirit of a world-renowned destination synonymous with opulence, beauty, and an idyllic coastal lifestyle.

A Glimpse into History

The Worth Avenue Clock Tower is a relatively recent addition to Palm Beach’s historic landscape. Built in 2010, it was designed to enhance the experience of strolling along the iconic shopping street while honoring the area’s rich heritage. Worth Avenue itself dates back to the early 20th century, when it became a hub for high-end fashion, art, and culture under the guidance of Addison Mizner, a visionary architect who helped shape the architectural identity of Palm Beach. The clock tower was commissioned to mark the eastern entrance of Worth Avenue, creating a harmonious blend of past and present. It replaced a modest wooden structure that once signaled the end of the avenue, elevating the area’s aesthetic appeal and solidifying its place as a must-visit destination.

At the eastern end of Worth Avenue, the ocean awaits you with the Town’s landmark Clock Tower. The tower is the perfect place to enjoy picturesque sunsets. The Clock Tower, originally built to monument the Palm Beach Pier, which was destroyed by a series of hurricanes, now symbolizes the fact that time moves on, but Worth Avenue’s magical charm is timeless.

Architectural Elegance

Designed by Smith Architectural Group, the Worth Avenue Clock Tower is a masterpiece of Mediterranean Revival architecture, a style popularized by Addison Mizner in the early 1900s. The clock tower features exquisite detailing, from its coral stone façade to its gracefully arched windows, blending seamlessly with the aesthetic of the surrounding buildings.
The design incorporates classical elements, such as columns and decorative balustrades, while maintaining a breezy, coastal vibe that resonates with the area’s tropical setting. Standing majestically at the eastern terminus of Worth Avenue, the clock tower is a perfect backdrop for photographs, drawing tourists and locals alike to capture its timeless beauty.

Cultural and Social Significance

The clock tower serves as a cultural touchstone for Palm Beach. It has become a gathering spot for residents and visitors, offering a serene vantage point to admire the Atlantic Ocean and the stunning architecture of Worth Avenue. The clock tower is also a symbol of Palm Beach’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing modernity. It bridges the past and present, reminding visitors of the island’s storied history while standing as a testament to its enduring allure

The Experience

A visit to the clock tower is an experience in itself. Just steps away from the ocean, the clock tower is a perfect place to pause and soak in the sights and sounds of Palm Beach. After admiring the tower’s intricate craftsmanship, take a leisurely stroll down Worth Avenue, where luxury boutiques, art galleries, and fine dining establishments await. During the holiday season, Worth Ave transforms into a magical scene, adorned with festive lights and decorations that add a touch of enchantment to the already stunning location. Whether visiting for a romantic evening walk or a daytime shopping spree, the clock tower is a highlight of any Palm Beach itinerary.

Preserving a Legacy

Yes, the Worth Avenue Clock Tower is a beautiful structure, but it’s also a beacon of Palm Beach’s identity. Its presence reinforces the importance of preserving the area’s architectural integrity and cultural legacy for future generations to enjoy. In an ever-changing world, the clock tower remains a constant—a timeless reminder of Palm Beach’s dedication to excellence, beauty, and community.

See for Yourself

Palm Beach is one of the most romantic cities in the country, according to Brides magazine. While we may have already known that, the Condé Nast online publication has just named us to their “10 Most Romantic Cities in the U.S.”. For Your Next Couple’s Getaway” list. The Clock Tower is the perfect starting point for a leisurely stroll and a selfie or two.

The 25-foot tower stands out majestically on the sidewalk of Old Ocean Boulevard. The clock is also intended to be a monument to the Palm Beach Pier which stood on that site before it was destroyed by a hurricane in 1930. The construction of the clock was part of a $15.8 million renovation to the stylish Worth Ave in 2010, which included wider sidewalks, antique-style streetlights, and palm trees lining up along the sidewalks.

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