Village of the Arts is an area of Bradenton that was once rundown, but through the efforts of the community and artists that has been been transformed to an interesting arts community. Because the residents are creative, independent spirits, their are very few uniform hours. The artists pick the days of the week and the hours of the day they want to be open. However, there is a calendar of regular art walks during which large number of the residences are open. Walking through the neighborhood to look at the brightly painted houses and decorated yards is an experience in itself.
The artisans were all so nice an helpful. Pick up a map and make a day of it. We will go back as we got there late and most shops close at 4pm.
Make sure you check the opening hours of the individual galleries. It really is a visit you should not miss. Lots of creative variety to meet every artistic interest.
Live - work art community with charm and style. Come see Bradenton's vision in this creative paradise.
First of all, most of the houses/galleries were closed when we were there, as each of them has very specific opening hours. However, this didn't bother us because looking at the houses and gardens seemed to us more interesting than looking at the actual art that may have been for sale. Of course you have to keep in mind that we're talking about folk art here (so it may be more "crafts" than "art"). So in short, it's a great and beautiful and fun place to go for a walk. So we can't say a lot about the actual art, but the area itself is highly recommendable. We especially recommend the Sugar Cubed bakery (1506 13th Street West Bradenton, FL 34205) which really doesn't look like much from outside but is very fun, unique and cozy on the inside, has very friendly people and a nice variety of baked goods.
The Village is truly downtown Bradenton's gem! You will always find friendly, talented (and reasonably priced) artisans.
A little bit of this and a little bit of that along with restaurants here and there. If you like arts and crafts you will enjoy the experience at this area of Bradenton. Nice people, well skilled and helpful.
Great spot to visit on the first Friday Night or Saturday of the month. Their are so many artists displaying their works of art. After your walking tour you can go right down the block to Motorworks Brewery for a cold pint.
This looked like a fun place to visit but I only gave it a 2 rating because we went on a Tuesday morning and nothing was open. The weekend seems like the best to time to visit. There were only 2 or 3 galleries open so we walked around a little and took pictures of the outside of the brightly colored cottages and some of the art work out front.
This is a colourful neighbourhood of funky little homes with galleries and shops. Unfortunately, we went on a Tuesday when virtually all were closed. The later in the week you go, the more are open. This is clearly outlined on the brochure.