As a popular tourist destination, particularly in the Winter months, there are many activities and things to do.
Naples Winter Wine Festival: This is a major event held annually in late January with tastings, special events, wine dinners, auctions and more.
Artis-Naples at 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd.: This is the Naples performing and visual arts center. Here you can attend a performance of the Naples Philharmonic, a concert by top musical artists, a broadway musical or attend an art lecture or film.
The Baker Museum, also at 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., is well-worth the visit. They features works from their permanent collection as well as from temporary exhibitions. I thoroughly enjoyed spending a rainy afternoon seeing an exhibition on the fashion of Yves Saint Laurent and Halston from the ‘70s and a really outstanding show, Naples Collects, featuring many paintings and other works of art from local Naples collectors. It is rare to see such wonderful works by Monet, Renoir, Warhol and more. They also have some wonderful Chihuly glass pieces in their permanent collection.
In terms of shopping, there are several stores and galleries on Fifth Street South, but I prefered the Third Avenue neighborhood. In addition to many clothing stores, there are stores featuring antiques, jewelry, home furnishings and accessories and gifts. There are also several good art galleries.
My top finds include:
A Mano, 301 13th Ave. South, for gifts, table top and home furnishings.
The Englishman at 1190 Third Ave. South, features European furniture and paintings. They have a second location in Surrey in England.
Arsenault Studio & Banyan Arts Gallery. At 1199 Third Street South, the gallery features the colorful work of artist, Paul Arsenault. Upstairs is a large gallery space which highlights other artists as well.
Bay Design Store: For outstanding furniture and outstanding home decor. 326 13th Ave. South.
BR UNO, at 1193 Third Street South, features, gifts, tabletop, jewelry and accessories.
I recently read about the Bayshore Arts District in Naples on Bayshore Dr. where you can shop, see murals, check out great food and explore the Naples Botanical Garden. I will definitely visit the area on my next trip. Friends were just at the garden and really enjoyed it and having lunch at their Fogg Café located in the visitor center.