Naples is a hub of arts and culture. It’s something you can feel in the air. There are always gallery openings, exhibits, concerts and events.
Art in Downtown Naples
There is a dedicated section of town for art galleries called Gallery Row and downtown Naples is full of galleries, too. They perfectly complement Fifth Avenue and Third Street South’s local shops, boutiques and restaurants. But it’s not just downtown Naples. There are art galleries all over, from North Naples to East Naples to Marco Island.
Artis—Naples and the Baker Museum
There are a variety of musical and visual arts performances year-round at Artis—Naples, which is also home to the Baker Museum and its diverse collection of exhibitions that celebrate all types of artwork. Past exhibitions have included Monet to Matisse, Untold Stories About Gorillas, Student Exhibitions, Origami in the Garden, American Impressionism from 1870 to 1940, the Pursuit of Abstraction, and more. Artis—Naples is also home to the Naples Philharmonic. If you haven’t seen them perform, it’s a real treat.
Naples National Art Show
Many people visit each year for the Naples National Art Show. Naples Art in Downtown Naples also puts on a variety of art shows and exhibitions. The show takes over Fifth Avenue South, where the exhibits are set up. Grab a coffee from Starbucks or Fifth Avenue Coffee Company and stroll down the avenue and admire the works. You might find something to bring back home, you never know! Be sure to get there early. This is one of Naples’ most beloved events and residents and visitors alike come out for the day to enjoy it.
Southwest Florida Photographer, Clyde Butcher
Clyde Butcher, known for his large-format black and white landscape photographs and nicknamed the Ansel Adams of Florida, also has a gallery in Ochopee, the next town over. This gallery is a bit of a drive, but it’s a must-visit destination. Looking at Butcher’s photos evokes a feeling of calm and serenity. You also get to drive through the wonderfully weird world of the Florida Everglades, and that makes it a win-win.
Local Theaters and Performance Halls
If you’re a fan of the visual performing arts, Southwest Florida is home to a variety of community theaters. Naples Players and Gulfshore Playhouse are located in Downtown Naples and TheatreZone is in North Naples. They’re beloved local institutions and shows are met with rave reviews. A favorite pastime for locals is to catch a show downtown and enjoy a fantastic dinner when you’re done. You can’t go wrong with any of the restaurants on Fifth Avenue South and there’s nothing like dining outside on the street at night when the street and the trees are lit up. It’s simply magical.
Naples Museums and Naples History
If you’re a history buff, Naples is home to some interesting museums and historical attractions. Visit Palm Cottage, the oldest house in Naples, the Collier Museum at the Naples Government Center, Museum of the Everglades, Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch, Naples Depot Museum and Marco Island Historical Museum.
