Fort Myers has a wild-spanning local art culture. From the many galleries resting in its cornerstone neighborhoods to the social groups, workshops, and markets, the city has collectively elevated art to the forefront.
You can get a taste of the downtown Fort Myers River District when you visit Florida for your next vacation getaway to Fort Myers. Stay at one of our top Fort Myers beachfront vacation rentals and unlock a world of artistic possibilities. See local artisans hone their craft and celebrated artists establish their name locally.
The absolute best place to explore the intricate art of Fort Myers at the Art Walk in Downtown Fort Myers River District – held on the first Friday and Saturday of each month.
Downtown Art
The Downtown Fort Myers River District sits along the Caloosahatchee River. It is a street lined with art galleries, Fort Myers restaurants, and an assortment of family-friendly activities. It is a central place to see some of the finest attractions of the city in a small area.
But it is also a special showcase for art. During the first Friday of the month from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and the following Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the area opens itself up to at least 14 different art galleries during the Art Walk. Participating galleries include:
- Arts for ACT Gallery
- The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center
- Art League of Fort Myers Gallery
- Art of the Olympians
- Coloring the World
- Syzygy Gallery
- daas Gallery
- HOWL Gallery/Tattoo
- Green-n-Groovy Gallery
- In One Instant Gallery of Photography
- Mad Hatter Gallery
- Lovegrove Gallery
- Space 39
Each of various galleries involved with the Art Walk contributes to events surrounding the day. This could include workshops teaching passersby tricks of the trade. It could also include “Meet the Artist” showcases during which the artists are actively working on a project and can be talked to.
Each gallery embraces the Art Walk in their own way. Contests are often conducted for participants who want to win an original piece. Some shops host live entertainment. Come for the art and stay for the street party.
Rotating Exhibits and Galleries
What makes the Art Walk special is the rotation of fascinating local and traveling artists and exhibits. For example, FSW Arts will present The Border (less) exhibit at The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center.
The showcase will feature local art from the students of Florida Southwestern State College. The theme celebrates cultural differences and the dynamics of inclusion/exclusion. The gallery will be part of the art walk for April.
Also for April is the ArtPoems. The Arts for ACT gallery will feature 12 artists and 12 poems, collectively inspired from the other.
The poems are reflections of the art, and vice versa. The result is a dizzying interpretation of themes to appeal to a wide audience. These are just a few of the fascinating art attractions you will encounter during the Art Walk.
Performances
The art events coincide with local live performances. Musicians often gather along the art walk to play jazz, rock, and other genres to visitors. Guests can sit and enjoy the local music. A handful of street vendors offering trinkets and souvenirs will also be present.
The event is 100% free. Enjoy the ambiance, see the art, and find a rich world of local community and culture. It is a celebration of uniqueness and creativity.
Art, Dining, and the River Walk
The Art Walk officially begins at 6 p.m. on the First Friday of the month and ends at 10 p.m. It also continues the following Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The district is filled with plenty of dining options to keep you well fed between treks from one art venue to another.
Stop by one of the area’s best restaurants after visiting your choice of art destinations:
- Firestone Grill Room and Martini Bar for cocktails or a steak
- Scoops on First for some local homemade ice cream
- Or grab a drink at the delightful British United Ale House
The art walk is one of the most satisfying ways to experience the local art culture of Fort Myers. Stop by during your Fort Myers beach vacation to immerse yourself in the artistic sights while staying at one of our acclaimed Fort Myers beachfront vacation rentals. Make the most of your time in our beautiful and history-filled coastal city.
