CULTURAL

Whether you are taking a client to the theater or catching the latest in art, the Manatee Riverwalk District is exactly what you are looking for.

Discover Art Center Manatee, Manatee Countys premier visual arts center featuring the artwork of many talented local, state and national artists. Exhibitions change monthly in the three galleries with paintings, drawings, pottery, sculpture and more, certain to appeal to visitors. The Artists Market in the lobby of the ArtCenter, features prints, cards, jewelry, pottery, vases and much more, most by local artists. Classes and workshops are offered in pottery, drawing, watercolor, oil painting, mosaics and more. No matter which you choose, youre sure to have fun.

View outdoor movies at Lamb & Sutton Park in Palmetto. Outdoor amenities at the park include basketball courts, tennis courts, baseball/softball fields as well as a playground for the children.

The Manatee County Main Library has three stories of books, Internet access, videos, tapes and programs for those residents looking for relaxation or working on that research project.

For a history lesson don't miss the Palmetto Historical Village with Wedding Chapel in the heart of Old Palmetto. The Wedding Chapel is a favorite for those wishing to tie, or retie, the knot. The Village houses the original post office and is home to the Agricultural Museum where you can explore five rooms, each featuring an aspect of Palmetto's agricultural history.

For a piece of history try the Manatee Historical Village located in East Bradenton. See a working farm, beautiful restored church and a general store in a picturesque location.

Looking for a unique place to take your client? The Manatee Players has local talent performing year round staging everything from popular broadway shows to entertaining productions for children.

The Palmetto Branch Library is under renovation and will offer state-of-the-art internet access as well as the latest media resources at their Old Main Street location.

Everything under one roof! The South Florida Museum houses excellent examples of early Florida artifacts. The Parker Aquarium has one of the oldest living manatees in captivity, County's mascot (over age 55), Snooty the Manatee. Don't miss the chance to join Snooty for his annual birthday party in July. Bishop Planetarium recently underwent a massive reconstruction to update the facility and install state-of-the art equipment.

Village of the Arts is the jewel of downtown Bradenton where artists live, work and sell their wares. In 1999, the Artists Guild of Manatee, Inc. was formed to revitalize a blighted neighborhood into a quaint, picturesque showplace. Today, visitors can enjoy antique shops, cappuccino bars, outdoor cafes, and festive ARTWALKS held the first weekend of every month.

Top