Most people have heard of Naples in Italy, but did you know that there’s another Naples in the USA? As one of the richest cities in Florida, it’s famous for its unspoiled white sand beaches, known as the Paradise Coast.
Cultural Attractions in Naples, Florida
Outdoor activities like kayaking in the Everglades are extremely popular with visitors. There’s also a wealth of cultural attractions and art in Naples, Florida. Take a tour with us as we explore the highlights of this beautiful area.
1. Art in Naples, Florida
There are some fantastic artworks dotted around Naples, including several sculptures by Israeli artist Ruth Bloch, at The Englishman Fine Art, like the Couple on The Wooden Bench. Over at the Mary Martin Gallery, you’ll find some striking contemporary pieces.
Even the hotels here have an arty vibe – the lobby of the Club Level Suites at Inn on Fifth is one example.
2. Naples Botanical Garden
Whether you’re into gardening or not, don’t miss Naples Botanical Garden. Founded in 1993, these stunning gardens spread over 170 acres. There are lots of different themed areas to discover, including this tranquil Asian garden.
The botanical garden has regular outdoor exhibitions, such as Origami in the Garden. Artist Kevin Box created gigantic metal origami sculptures, in collaboration with his wife Jennifer and other well-known artists such as Michael G. LaFosse.
You’ll find a charming refuge from the sun at the Caribbean Garden.
There’s also a 90 acre nature sanctuary with a birding tower – over 150 species have been spotted.
Whilst in the Children’s Garden, you’ll come across a very picturesque dolls house! Naples Botanical Garden is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, and 8 am to 5 pm on Tuesdays. There’s a well stocked shop and café for refreshments.
3. Philharmonic Center for the Arts, Artis-Naples
At Artis—Naples, art and music come together under one roof for the delight of locals and tourists. There’s a world class arts museum, The Baker, as well as the Naples Philharmonic.
We attended a fantastic performance of the iconic Nutcracker ballet. Miami City Ballet breathed new life into this perennial favourite by including local children studying ballet in their dance troupe.
Superb choreography by George Balanchine was matched by stunning costumes designed by Jos̩ Varona Рwhat a treat!
4. The Baker Museum at Artis Naples
You’ll also find The Baker Museum within Artis—Naples, considered to be the foremost art gallery in Southwest Florida and one of the best things to do in Naples. There’s an impressive steel statue of Apollo by Tim Read.
This quirky artwork by Kevin Box is entitled Conversation Peace.
We were fortunate to attend a talk given by Kevin, where he explained the processes involved in creating origami sculptures. This particular artwork is by his fellow artists Michael G LaFosse and Richard L. Alexander.
Something out of Nothing is composed of multiple hand-folded butterflies, to stunning effect.
There’s also a great permanent collection with an impressive glass chandelier by world famous artist, Dale Chihuly. It leads up to the permanent collection on the upper floors of the museum.
This ornate piece shines brightly in the sunshine.
There are some impressive American paintings too. One of the most striking things to see in Naples, Florida is the Persian Ceiling by famous sculptor Dale Chihuly.
Final Thoughts on Culture in Naples, Florida
This charming Florida city has much to recommend it including friendly locals and some of the best white sand beaches in the USA. And with its warm climate year-round, it makes for the perfect getaway destination no matter when you visit.
We hope that you’ve enjoyed this tour of some of our favourite cultural attractions in Naples FL. From world-class museums to landmarks steeped in history, there are plenty of Naples attractions for enthusiasts of culture and creativity. The city’s many galleries also hold art from across the globe, giving every visitor something special to enjoy.
Naples, Florida is truly an unforgettable place to explore and immerse yourself in its unique culture. Whether you want to rejoice in the beauty of nature or discover architectural wonders, this majestic corner of paradise definitely needs to be visited at least once in your life.
You might also enjoy these Florida travel guides:
- Best Beaches in Sarasota, Florida
- Best Restaurants in Sarasota, Florida
- Kayaking in the Everglades
- Naples FL Restaurants
- Paradise Coast Outdoor Activities
- The Best Museums in the United States
- Things to Do in Florida Besides Visiting Theme Parks
- What to Do in and around Naples, Florida
Which of these galleries and museums in Naples, Florida do you prefer and why?
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In association with VISIT FLORIDA and Florida’s Paradise Coast, car hire provided by Hertz.co.uk
I always love the fantastic art you put on your blog 🙂 (and your dresses are fab too!)
Hope you’re well and having a great 2017 thus far x
That’s very sweet, thanks Frankie! Have a lovely week ahead
I’d never heard of Naples but it looks like it has so much to offer! The art is super cool and to echo Frankie below you look stunning in your dresses.
Oh bless you, Angie, I bought all the dresses in Naples – great place for shopping! As for the art, we loved it
What a beautiful place. I had never heard of the American Naples. Great photos. Love your maxi dress in the photo at the top.
Gemma x
www.jacquardflower.uk
Thanks Gemma, got the maxi dress in Naples – some really great shops there!
Yes and this one has Italian restaurants that are no doubt as good as the ones in Italy…I’ll be sharing about those too so watch this space
Such a beautiful place, amazing pictures. Looks like you had amazing time.
Nina
Nina’s Style Blog
We loved it, great weather, food, people and lots to see
These pics are so dreamy, babe! Love Naples too!
xoxo, Vanessa
www.WhatWouldVWear.com
Thanks very much Vanessa, and I’m not surprised you love it!
Nope. Never even heard of Naples, Florida! Haha. It looks so lovely though, and I love how some of the architecture mirrors the famous city in Italy. Loving that photo of you hanging out the window. 🙂
-Emily www.coatandcoffee.com
There were so many photogenic spots, couldn’t resist getting lots of photos!
Never heard about this, but it looks so incredible!! 🙂
Nati xx
www.simplyartdicted.com
I’m glad to share it with you
I love how so many cities in America are actually just borrowed from Europe hehe. The botanical gardens look amaaaazing. Definitely adding this to my list!
xx, Pia
http://gymbagsandjetlags.com
There are a lot of places named after European cities, it’s true! The gardens are so beautiful, you’d love them
I must admit to never having heard of Naples in Florida until you mentioned you were visiting! The botanical gardens look like a wonderful place to immerse yourself in those beautiful colours and you’ve captured some fabulous shots Suze!
It definitely deserves to be better known. The gardens were really impressive and they’re adding even more attractions there.
I had no idea Naples had so much fantastic art and architecture! The origami cranes are incredible, I wish I could see them in person.
http://passportcouture.com
It was a very pleasant surprise for us too! Hope you get to visit
So beautiful! I’ve got to visit Naples sometime. Every place definitely has its secret magical place.
www.fashionradi.com
That’s true, Radi and this Naples is well worth a visit
I’m glad to share it with you, Elle! Hope you’re well and enjoying the New Year
So much to see- and the art makes for some stunning photos!
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
I agree, Ashley, the art was stunning to look at and to photograph!
I’d heard of Naples before but didn’t know it was such a hub for art and colour. Definitely want to visit here someday now.
Sxx
www.daringcoco.com
You definitely should, Sonia as I’m sure you’ll love it
You have captured Naples and the gorgeous art around beautifully! Looks like a gorgeous place to visit!
Miriam
www.londonkitchendiaries.com
Thanks Miriam, there was so much great art that we were spoilt for choice
Such a beautiful city!! The Persian ceiling so Stunning!
Adi xx
fancycorrectitude.com
instagram.com/fancycorrectitude
This place looks so cool, I love all of the artwork
xo
www.laurajaneatelier.com
We are visiting Florida in a few months and this will be a helpful guide to have on hand such great remonndations Lucy x (FoodieForce)
I wish I could beam myself to Florida right now! It’s just too freezing cold in Luxembourg these days…
I have never been to Naples. I had no idea it had so many attractions.
Amy Ann
Straight A Style
Spent a good 15 minutes looking at photos of those botanical gardens. Florida is such a gorgeous state and thanks to your posts, clearly a really diverse one, too. xx
Amazing place! Everything so colorful and magical! Charmed!
Thanks @LuxuryColumnist:disqus