10 Hidden Gems of Worth Avenue: Discover the Secret Vias of Palm Beach

Most visitors to Palm Beach and Worth Avenue walk along the main street, admiring its luxury boutiques and designer storefronts, unaware of the hidden beauty tucked away in the side alleys, or “Vias.” These charming, European-style passageways are filled with art, history, fountains, secret courtyards, and incredible dining. Whether you’re dining in a secret courtyard, discovering rare books, admiring sculptures, or stepping into a piece of fashion history, these hidden passageways offer a glimpse into the true elegance of Palm Beach. Venture just of the beaten path and beyond the storefronts. You never know what treasures you’ll find!

Here’s your guide to the 10 must-visit hidden gems in the Vias of Worth Avenue.

1. Step Back in Time at Via Mizner

Named after the legendary architect Addison Mizner, Via Mizner is one of the most historic and picturesque spots in Palm Beach. As you stroll through its corridors, you'll find courtyards, Mediterranean-style fountains, and Mizner’s former home, where he once lived with his famous pet monkey, Johnnie Brown.

2. Discover a Pet Cemetery While Dining at Pizza Al Fresco

Tucked into the charming courtyard of Pizza Al Fresco in Via Mizner, you’ll find two small tombstones marking the graves of Johnnie Brown (Mizner’s monkey) and Laddie (a beloved dog), the only cemetery or burials allowed on the Island of Palm Beach. After the loyal canine Laddie was buried here, the Town of Palm Beach ruled that no other creature or human could ever be buried on the island again! Have a seat, enjoy a bite and pay your respects while dining at Pizza Al Fresco.

3. Stroll Through Via Roma and Peek into Raptis Rare Books

Via Roma is a hidden paradise for book lovers. Here, you’ll pass Raptis Rare Books, an elegant bookstore featuring first editions, signed manuscripts, and rare literary finds.

4. Admire Art and Sculptures Tucked Into the Vias

The Vias of Worth Avenue aren’t just historic—they’re filled with unexpected works of art. Look for:
🎭 Sculptures of historical figures hidden in courtyards
🎨 European-style fountains and mosaics
🖼 Handcrafted iron gates and tilework that tell a story

5. Have a Chic Lunch at Bice Palm Beach

Located off Worth Avenue, Bice Palm Beach is a local favorite for its elegant Northern Italian cuisine and stylish setting.

6. Enjoy a Romantic Meal at Renato’s

If you want an intimate, old-world dining experience, head to Renato’s. Nestled in a hidden courtyard covered in ivy, it feels like you’ve stepped into an Italian villa.

7. Explore Via Amore

Tucked away off Worth Avenue, Via Amore is a secret escape that feels like stepping into a storybook European village. With cascading flowering vines, sculptures, and the soothing sounds of fountains, this charming courtyard invites you to slow down and take in its beauty. Don’t miss a stop at Lilly Pulitzer, where you can design your own custom signature shift dress for the ultimate Palm Beach keepsake.

8. Stop by antique and consignment shops just off Worth Avenue

Stop by the antique and consignment shops tucked away in the vias and side streets of Worth Avenue. This is where society trades their ready to renew art, furnishings, couture and fashion finds. The Church Mouse, just North of Worth Avenue on South County Road is a local favorite.

9. Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour with Rick Rose’s Guidebook

For a deeper dive into the stories and secrets of Palm Beach, grab Rick Rose’s book, Palm Beach: The Essential Guide to America’s Legendary Resort Town.

📖 Why You’ll Love It: He weaves together history, architecture, and tales of the eccentric characters who once roamed these vias with a detailed map designed for a walking tour of the Worth Avenue vias at your leisure.

10. Stop by the Colony Hotel

Located 1 block from Worth Avenue on Hammond Ave, the pink Colony Hotel is the ultimate insta-fabulous place for pics and people watching, or unwind and enjoy an afternoon refreshment. Request a poolside table in the garden under the palm trees.

Plan Your Visit: A Half-Day in the Vias of Worth Avenue

To make the most of your trip, follow this simple itinerary:

✔ Start with Via Mizner, Via Parigi then Via Roma.
✔ Stop for lunch at Renato’s or Pizza al Fresco for more casual fare, both tucked into via Mizner
✔ Peek inside Raptis Rare Books to glimpse a rare first edition in Via Roma. Discover tranquil gardens, fountains, and sophisticated art and sculptures in Via Amore.
✔ Shop at the quaint shops, antique and consignment shops tucked into the vias and just off Worth Ave.
✔ Stop by the Colony Hotel, just off Worth to unwind, refresh and people watch.