What does the name Boca Raton mean?

There are two stories on what Boca Raton means. One story tells about how Boca Raton in Spanish literally means "Rat's Mouth," which referred to the hidden pointed rocks that gnawed ships’ cables. Another story said that while the word Boca means mouth in Spanish, it can also refer to an inlet, and that Raton was a term for a cowardly thief. The "Thieves Inlet" was associated with an inlet in the Biscayne Bay area nearby. Either way, the correct pronunciation remains Rah-tone.

Architect Addison Mizner (1872-1933) transformed South Florida in the 1920s with the introduction of the Mediterranean Revival style, a style inspired by his childhood travels. The original architect of the Boca Raton Resort & Club, Mizner was an eccentric character who often wandered the resort in his silk pajamas with a parrot on one shoulder and his pet monkey, Johnnie Brown, on the other. Johnnie Brown became nearly as famous as Mizner himself, reportedly even running for mayor of Palm Beach while Mizner was in the midst of an argument with the current (human) mayor. Mizner’s colorful antics—and stunning architectural legacy—only add to the legend that is the Boca Raton Resort & Club.

Tasty Tip

If you're craving sweet treats while at the Elite Meetings Alliance, check out Serendipity 3. Located in the Boca Raton Resort & Club (a short shuttle ride from the Boca Beach Club), Serendipity will serve up the sugar rush you need. It's best known for its "Frrrozen Hot Chocolate," but also offers delectable ice cream dishes. Perhaps the Golden Opulence Sundae will tempt you. But beware—it'll cost you $1,000!