Artsy Vibe

See the best of naples’ artistic offerings by checking out its top museums, theaters, gardens, and galleries.

By Meryl D’Sa-Wilson

Naples has one of South Florida’s best art scenes, with upscale fine art, eclectic galleries, visiting orchestras, and more to bring color and culture to the city. These institutions and galleries support local and global artists and give visitors another avenue of activity when traveling the paradisiacal coast.

Thanks to the support of loyal donors, Artis—Naples is Southwest Florida’s main cultural resource, bringing art, music, and culture to locals from all over the world. Home to The Baker Museum and the Naples Philharmonic, they feature a wide range of art exhibitions and performances, including music, theater, and dance. Visit their Pelican Bay complex to discover new artists or see a show! The Artis—Naples is a must-see.

If live theater is on your Naples trip agenda, don’t miss The Naples Players’ current season for a lineup of whatever you’re in the mood for. Catch old classics like The Sound of Music and A Christmas Carol, or transport back in time with Something Rotten. Check out upcoming performances and book ahead of time, as it’s sure to be a full house!

With more than 40,000 square feet, the Gulfshore Playhouse brings the magic of the stage to people of all backgrounds from its South Naples performance space. Their 2022–2023 season is full of heartwarming hits, award-winning renditions, and inspiring plays.

For more visual arts, take a trip to the Naples Art District, which has something for everyone. This ever-growing and expanding space is a must-visit for those wanting to support local artists and get their creativity flowing. You’ll find painters, jewelers, photographers, sculptors, and more. Visit their studios to see them at work, peruse their galleries, or sign up for classes. With a yearlong calendar of events, you can meet other art enthusiasts or have a funfilled, art-focused date night.

For a more eclectic scene, you’ll find multiple galleries within the Third Street South district, Fifth Avenue South, and Crayton Cove. Third Street South, known as the birthplace of Naples, is a one-stop shop for all your shopping and dining needs. Take a walk around, discover new stores, view galleries, and grab a bite from one of the many cafés. Crayton Cove offers a waterfront view filled with shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Galleries recommended by locals include the Richardson Fine Art Gallery, East West Fine Art, Art On Fifth Ave Naples, and the Coco Art Gallery Naples, a nonprofit organization. They host contemporary and modern art from all over the United States while highlighting Southwest Florida’s artists and artisans and may just have your next fine art purchase.

Keep your eyes peeled as you explore the streets of Naples for works spread across the city, from gallery windows to wall murals. There are several sculptures by Israeli artist Ruch Block at The Englishman Fine Art and other contemporary pieces outside the Mary Martin Art Gallery.

If you venture farther south to Marco Island, you must visit the Betty Newman Art Gallery and the Local Color Art Gallery. Newman’s gallery boasts coastal-inspired art pieces at the Shops of Old Marco with bold contemporary designs, often infused with a seaside color palette and shapes, a favorite in island homes and businesses.

And while you’re here, visit the Marco Island Center for the Arts. Browse their galleries, buy a handmade souvenir by island artists from their gift shop, or attend one of their outdoor art festivals.

The Naples Botanical Garden’s preferred medium is meticulously curated gardens and diverse landscapes. In addition to its awardwinning horticulture, it boasts exhibitions and displays, from architecturally placed waterfalls to grass rivers and an orchid-lined boardwalk. The Kapnick Caribbean Garden is an educational and cultural center for the region. And the Brazilian Garden brings a rainbow of plants and vegetation from Brazil to Florida.

Your time in Naples won't be complete unless you take some time to appreciate the many

works of art that can be found here and there. The neighborhood welcomes you to take in all the vibrant sounds and sights and leave feeling inspired.