Although “Boca Raton” translates from the Spanish to “Mouse Mouth,” the original name for this area on 18th-century Spanish maritime maps, “Boca de Ratones” refers to "a shallow inlet of sharp-pointed rocks which scrapes a ship's cables." The first settler of the area, T. M. Rickards, was a land surveyor who built a house out of driftwood in 1895 on the east side of the East Coast Canal. In the 1920s, the state of Florida experienced a sharp increase in land value and popularity, and Boca Raton began to grow in earnest. Much like the nearby city of Palm Beach, Boca – as it known by locals – started to develop into an affluent city known for its swankiness and upscale character.
Today, visitors to Boca Raton enjoy a wide array of fun recreational activities, including tennis, golf, horseback riding, polo, biking, boating, snorkeling and swimming. Over 1,500 acres of parks and miles of hiking paths offer plenty of space for being active, and four miles of coastline offer lots of sunshine and room to just sit back and relax in a beach chair with a good book. Art museums and plenty of shops and unique boutiques beckon people inside, and numerous restaurants offer delicious menus for every taste. It’s no wonder that Boca Raton is a top tourist destination! When you have the chance, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the scenic town of Boca Raton. Hotels in the area allow you to stay conveniently close by to where you want to be. When you stay at Choice Hotels, you can enjoy affordable rates, many amenities, and friendly service. Reserve your room today! We look forward to hosting you soon!