village of the arts

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.

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.

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.

I know the area because I use to have a radio program and know about the place, I would like you help me to find a Hotel or Motel in the area. You can help me I will go to the Ringling Museo with at least 45 people.

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.

My wife and I moved to Bradenton a couple of years ago and we are still exploring it. My wife discovered just a part of this village, a quaint piece of history, where most of the houses are form the 1920 s .My wife ordered a cheese cake, she took me along the next day to pick it up. A small house with very limited parking, but it was a cafe, and a small bakery. It had a couple of nice tables where you could sit and have your morning espresso along with a very fresh pastry. The master baker makes cakes that I can not describe you would have to go to his site which I will pass along It is called Sugar Cubed http://www.getsugarcubed.com/ My wife and I want to explore the rest of this little village. Here is a link to the village which will list links for everyone in the village along with an idea of what you will see.

Lovely old, cottage galleries with great little street walking and good food to be found! Friendly people, but may be a long walk for some senior travelers. Take your car if this presents a problem, but don't let that stop you.

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.

A little of everything- but it is worth a drive-by to see the variety and eclectic little neighborhood. An artsy "Red Barn" type experience if you are a local.

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.

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.

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.

The Village is truly downtown Bradenton's gem! You will always find friendly, talented (and reasonably priced) artisans.

But I was able to walk about on a Saturday morning. Lots of shops in individual houses - interesting to stop in as many as you could. Lots of eccentric and artsy "one of a kind" pieces. Save a few hours to make it to them all!

Live - work art community with charm and style. Come see Bradenton's vision in this creative paradise.