The Village of the Arts in Bradenton, Where Each House Is as Quirky as It Gets

In times past, in a small depressed neighborhood in Bradenton, Florida, a social worker opened a bakery cafe. Then the other artisans came along opening their businesses and reclaiming the troubled community in artistic ways. A few decades later, a sore thumb of Bradenton has been transformed into a thriving artistic village with dozens of quirky places for anybody to visit.

This Village wasn't all sunshine and rainbows not that long time ago, with the high crime rate and drugs on the streets it was like night and day from what you see on the streets now. Colorful facades, bright murals, fanciful hand-crafted signs and tons of whimsical sculptures in front of the houses great you once you set your foot there. When boldness, love of the place and creativity go hand in hand amazing things could happen to the community.

Located in the southwest of Florida, the Village is just 50 miles south of Tampa and 13 miles north of Sarasota that makes it a perfect side trip if you on the route to a famous Siesta Key beaches or visiting the surreal world of Salvador Dali in St. Pete. I was looking for a unique day trip beyond the beach, I got more than I bargained for.

Many businesses are open only a few days a week, at certain hours of the day, so check online or call before you visit. On my trip to Tampa, I made it there quite late in the day when all the studios were already closed. However, I enjoyed wandering around and just soaking in the ambiance of the place. If you don't feel like wearing your walking shoes and prefer to laze in the quiet of the small cafes or hunt for that very unique souvenir, then make sure you check the Village's open hours ahead of the trip.