The legacy of old Florida lives on in Martin County, where arts and culture embody the quintessential, beachy beauty of classic Florida. Dance, music, theatre, visual arts, and historical preservation are an integral part of the community, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy each every week. Start by catching a show at downtown Stuart’s historic Lyric Theatre, a former silent movie house of the 1920s, now a newly renovated multi-use arts venue. Don’t forget to visit one the many historical landmarks that make Martin County truly a one of a kind destination! Below are just a few of our favorite locations.
Take a journey on the Arts & Culture Trail. Originally developed to celebrate Martin County’s dynamic collection of arts and cultural attractions and drive excitement ahead of ArtsFest. The free, mobile-exclusive trail highlights more than 30 local points of interest. Participants sign up for the trail and are encouraged to follow along to learn more about these significant sites and redeem special discounts at select attractions. Scavenger hunts take place from time to time and you can find works of art from local artists hidden along the stops on the trail. Sign up here.
Built in 1937, this art deco-style gallery was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1997. As the oldest and largest visual arts museum in the country, the Court House Cultural Center & Gallery hosts fine art exhibitions year round.
Established in 1961, the Elliott Museum in Stuart, Florida has been enriching lives through education for decades. Unlike other institutions, the Elliott Museum does not restrict itself to one central topic of interest. This spot features installments and exhibits dedicated to history, art, community culture and more. Keep reading for just a few of the many reasons to visit the Elliott Museum.
The Lyric Theatre hosts plays, musicals, concerts, and big name talent from around the world. Built in 1926, it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Events range from classical theatre, rock and country bands, orchestra and jazz concerts, to dance recitals, school programs, and movies.
Located in the oldest commercial building in Stuart and Martin County, the Stuart Heritage Museum’s countless relics embody the history of the people, businesses, agriculture and community spirit of both Stuart and Martin County.
Established in 2019, The Creek District is Stuart’s officially-designated arts and entertainment district.
Located just south of Confusion Corner and encompassing Colorado Avenue and surrounding streets, this charming section of Stuart is home to a lively music scene, monthly art walks, and a wonderful selection of shops and eateries.
With Colorado Avenue as the main corridor, The Creek District is easily-walkable. Frazier Creek (our namesake), with its plentiful mangroves, as well as scenic Bruner Pond, are a quick stroll or tram ride from Downtown Stuart. The area is peppered with fine art sculptures, a growing collection of murals, and more to come!
The goal of the Hobe Sound Murals Project is to beautify specific locations, enhance civic pride, encourage positive networking and plant seeds for future cultural accomplishments. Since 2009, this ‘paint-the-town’ initiative, spearheaded by professional artist Nadia Utto, has provided opportunities to spend some time ‘on-the-wall’ contributing a personal touch to the local ambiance, for over 40 skilled regional artisans and hobbyists, along with approximately 100 individual residents and visitors.
There are fun ‘treasure-hunt’ hidden aspects painted within each mural…. So stop by the Chamber for a Mural Tour Map/Brochure – and walk, bike, drive or take a sponsored tour to and around these landmarks! Get a map of all the murals at the Hobe Sound Chamber of Commerce 8958 SE Bridge Rd, Hobe Sound, FL 33455
Nestled in the heart of charming Downtown Jensen Beach is the Artist Colony, a tangle of vibrant, tin-roofed cottages that have been converted into artist studios. Painter Karen Leffel-Massengill can often be found working at easel, creating one of her iconic Florida-inspired landscapes. Sally Eckman Roberts also has a studio at the cottages, and her paintings of seahorses, dragonflies, herbs, and fruit have been transformed into all sort of home décor items, including rugs and pillows. She can often be found working in the studio and is happy to talk with visitors about her work. Watercolorist Barbara Lapham can also be found in the village. It’s a whimsical pocket worth checking out close to unique boutiques, quirky cafes, and excellent eateries.
The Aya Fiber Studio is Martin County’s premier fiber art workshop destination. It is also the working studio of Suzanne Connors. Gather and mingle with like-minded fiber artists, learn new techniques, and more! Check the event calendar to see what’s planned for the weeks ahead. Intimate fiber workshops offer the perfect opportunity to learn a new skill. With small class sizes, you’ll have plenty of one-on-one attention from our experienced instructors. In addition, they offer open studio days where you can practice your new skills. It’s a great opportunity to create in an intimate fully furnished fiber studio in South Florida!