Whitehall Flagler Museum, West Palm Beach (must see)

The Whitehall Museum, also known as the Flagler Museum, stands as an iconic symbol of the opulence and grandeur of the Gilded Age in West Palm Beach. Built in 1902 by Henry Flagler, a prominent figure in the development of Florida's eastern coast, the museum was intended as a gift for his third wife, Mary Lily Kenan. Its grandeur was widely acknowledged, with the New York Herald describing it as "more wonderful than any palace in Europe, grander and more magnificent than any other private dwelling in the world."

Spanning an impressive 55,000 square feet and boasting no fewer than 55 rooms, the Whitehall Museum is a testament to lavish excess. Its architecture reflects a blend of Spanish and French influences, resembling the grand castles of Europe. Among its many attractions, visitors are drawn to the Louis XV-style ballroom, the Louis-XIV style music room, and the exquisite art gallery, showcasing a collection of fine artworks.

One of the highlights of a visit to the Whitehall Museum is the opportunity to board Flagler's restored private Railcar #91, offering a glimpse into the luxurious travel accommodations of the Gilded Age elite. Designated as "an absolute must-see for visitors to Palm Beach" by National Geographic Traveler, the museum offers a fascinating journey back in time to an era of unparalleled wealth and extravagance.