Sunset Lounge

Aerial view of the Sunset Lounge from southeast looking northwest

Historic Sunset Lounge

609 8th Street

The Sunset Lounge is an exciting historic preservation project located in the heart of West Palm Beach's Historic Northwest district.Closeup of the Sunset Lounge sign The West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is currently contracted with Gast Construction Group, Song & Associates, and VStarr to complete the Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FF&E) which involves finalizing and installing all these essential elements to ensure the Sunset Lounge is fully functional and ready for use. The goal is to complete the project by the fall of 2025, with a soft opening scheduled to follow.

 

HISTORY

A landmark in African American music and entertainment, the Sunset Lounge was one of the most significant venues in the South during the 1940s and 1950s. Located in the heart of the Historic Northwest neighborhood of West Palm Beach, it played host to legendary artists such as Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald, and Louis Armstrong during the era of segregation, when Black performers were often denied access to mainstream venues. More than just a nightclub, the Sunset Lounge became a cultural beacon and gathering place for the local community, fostering a sense of pride and artistic expression. Now undergoing major renovations, the revitalized Sunset Lounge will include a new two-story, 7,200 square-foot building featuring a full-service restaurant, bar, rooftop space, and event amenities—ushering in a new era for this historic venue while honoring its rich legacy.

TEAM

  • West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency

  • Construction: Gast Construction Group

  • Interior Design: V STARR

  • Architect: Song & Associates Inc.

FURNITURE, FIXTURES AND EQUIPMENT (FF&E) TIMELINE

  • Mobilization: Mon, 4/14/2025

  • FF&E Installation: Fall 2025

  • Project Completion: Mon, 10/6/25

  • Soft Opening: Late 2025 (Exact date to be determined)

CONTACT INFORMATION

Sunset Lounge across from Heart & Soul Park

Sunset Lounge with Heart 7 Soul Park sign in the foreground

View from the historic stage

wide view of the second floor dance area

Recreating an intimate bar and restaurant area

bar-restaurant area at entrance to the Sunset Lounge

Original Sunset Cocktail Lounge sign

Sign inside the Sunset Cocktail Lounge

Frequently Asked Questions

 

When will the Sunset Lounge be completed?

The Sunset Lounge renovation is currently underway, with substantial completion of furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E) scheduled for October 6, 2025. We’re working hard to restore this historic venue to its former glory, and we look forward to sharing more updates as we get closer to reopening.

 

When will the Sunset Lounge be open?

The Sunset Lounge is expected to open to the public at the end of 2025, following the completion of the renovation project. 

 

Who will be operating the Sunset Lounge?

The West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), as the owner of the building, will operate the Sunset Lounge once the renovation is complete. The CRA is committed to preserving the venue’s historic significance while bringing high-quality music and cultural performances to the community.

 

Can I reserve the Sunset Lounge for an event?

At this time, the Sunset Lounge is not available for private event reservations. While opportunities may arise in the future, the current vision is to honor the venue’s historic roots as a premier destination for live jazz and high-quality music performances. The goal is to preserve the integrity of this iconic cultural landmark and continue its legacy as a vibrant hub for world-class entertainment, just as it was in its heyday.

 

Can I see it now?

The Sunset Lounge is currently an active construction site and is not open to the public at this time. For safety reasons, no entry is allowed until the renovation project is fully completed. We’re excited to welcome visitors once the work is done—stay tuned for updates on our official opening!

 

Can I be added to the list of entertainment?

Absolutely! While we will be sourcing entertainment for the Sunset Lounge, you can submit your inquiries and performance proposals to myevents@wpb.org. We welcome talent and look forward to considering a diverse range of musical acts to continue the venue's rich legacy.

 

 

How can I stay updated?

You can stay informed about the Sunset Lounge updates in a few ways:

  1. This webpage will be updated monthly, by the 15th, to share the latest progress and updates on the interiors.

  2. Attend the Historic Northwest Community Meetings to get firsthand information and ask questions:

    • August 7, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.

    • November 6, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.

      Meeting location is currently being updated from Heart and Soul Park due to the heat. We will post here when the location is confirmed and share on our newsletter and social media at: https://www.facebook.com/WPBhistoricnorthwest

       

  3. Join our newsletter by emailing cra@wpb.org and requesting to be added. You’ll receive monthly updates directly to your inbox!

 

Back to top