Live It Up With Local Culture
Go from enjoying sunny days to watching stars on the stage. Southwest Florida’s cultural scene is thriving, and an evening of art is just the right way to add a fresh perspective to your vacation.
Starting in the historic River District, you have your choice of live performances. Originally constructed as a vaudeville house and cinema in 1915, the beautifully restored Arcade Theatre has been home to the acclaimed Florida Repertory Theatre group for over 25 years. Catch a world-class presentation of a classic play or contemporary piece from this ensemble of artists and come back to take in a more intimate show at the adjacent ArtStage Studio Theatre.
A jewel in the Fort Myers cultural scene, the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center promises a memorable time. Art, music, theater, and dance come together in this beautiful space — all part of the mission to carry out the legacy of Berne Davis to open the arts up to the Southwest Florida community.
Diverse voices and thought-provoking performances take the stage downtown at The Laboratory Theater of Florida. Built around the philosophy of taking artistic risks, Lab Theater is the vision of three performing artists that has grown through collaboration with local organizations and philanthropic partners.
Creativity abounds at Alliance for the Arts. Find your favorite style of performance from outdoor concerts to storytelling showcases, along with an array of youth theater and hands-on visual art workshops. A community-powered nonprofit organization, Alliance for the Arts is an innovative hub that brings together two vibrant theaters and three art galleries that are active year-round.
Music aficionados will find extraordinary performances at the Southwest Florida Symphony. Enjoy an evening of orchestral music from the oldest symphony orchestra in the state, which has been an institution for more than half a century. Enjoy all styles of performances from masterworks to intimate chamber music concerts.
Spend a perfect date night or family day out in Fort Myers at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre. In the Main Theatre you can enjoy dinner and a top-caliber performance — with “Chicago” and “A Christmas Carol” coming up this season. Matinee shows feature family-friendly acts, while the Off Broadway Palm Theatre offers a more intimate setting for innovative productions.
Explore more cultural events at the Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs. Two unique spaces celebrate all things art: The Visual Arts Center features several fine art galleries, art studios and a sculpture garden; the Performing Arts Center showcases both film presentations and live performances, concerts, reading series, and kid-friendly shows.
Cape Coral’s Cultural Park Theatre Company has been running strong for over 60 years. From top-tier Broadway series to lively concerts and tributes, every weekend offers something special on stage.
All you have to do is step indoors, and you’ll discover just how strong creativity runs in the Fort Myers area. Plan an afternoon matinee or look forward to an evening on the town for a memorable foray into culture.
