If you're considering a trip to Florida, you’re not alone. In recent years, Florida has had record-breaking visitation, with 118 million visitors annually by the state's most recent accounting. In addition to its well-known theme parks and amusement attractions that draw families and fun-seekers in droves, art lovers will find much to appreciate in Florida, including the great art fairs and festivals.

While on a trip several years ago I met a gentleman who produces over 80 art fairs throughout the United States, with the majority of the events taking place in Florida. Although we often think of the uber-sophisticated international art events such as those which take place during Miami Art Week, the state is also home to hundreds of community-based art fairs and events such as those operated by Howard Evans, the man I met during my travels. Although smaller in scope than the Basels and the Superfines, these gatherings offer truly enjoyable art experiences that attract respected artists from all over the country as well as internationally.

Whether visiting art fairs is the main purpose of your travel or you’re looking to incorporate bonus activities as part of your vacation, Florida art fairs and festivals are a worthwhile venture. From the Emerald Coast to South Beach, there is hardly a spot on the Florida map that doesn't lay claim to an art fair that bears its name.

What Makes Florida a Great Place for Art Fairs?

Fabulous art shows. Talented artists. Live entertainment. The options and attractions are many. Florida is a great place to visit based on the sheer number of art shows but there are many more reasons to consider a trip, including the myriad attributes that make it a great cultural and recreational destination.

1. Beautiful Settings

Florida is known as the Sunshine State for a reason. The year-round moderate temperatures are conducive to outdoor activities and events, so visitors aren't limited to a specific time of year in which art fairs take place. Depending on where you’d like to visit, you can always find an art fair in Florida no matter what the season.

Florida frequently earns accolades as one of the most beautiful states in the nation. With lovely beaches, crystal clear waters, and gorgeous oceanside communities, it’s hard to think of better natural aesthetics to serve as a backdrop for exceptional art events, especially the outdoor variety.

2. Unique Fairs and Incredible Art

Many of Florida’s art fairs are consistently ranked among the best, attracting top-notch galleries and international artists. Sunshine Artist magazine has ranked half a dozen Florida fairs in the top 20 for fine art fairs as measured over the most recent past decade, including Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival, Coconut Grove Art Festival, and Naples National Art Show.

3. Diversity of Experiences

From many a fancy fine art show in sophisticated cities to down-to-earth gatherings featuring handcrafted local goods, with its vast number of art events, festival enthusiasts will have interesting options from which to choose. Examples include:

• Prestigious international art events such as Art Basel Miami at the Miami Beach Convention Center
• Fine art by top contemporary artists within an expansive ballroom in West Palm Beach
• Handcrafted arts and crafts on the waterfront at Art Fest Fort Myers
• Mind-blowing chalk art that takes over the streets of Sarasota
• "Green Markets" featuring handcrafted goods by local artisans in Jacksonville
• Heritage arts showcasing crafts by artists preserving ancient traditions in Pensacola

Not your typical art fests, Florida fairs incorporate interesting and unique elements including culinary and entertainment options that contribute to one-of-a-kind experiences.

4. Fun for the Whole Family

One of our favorite things about art fairs and festivals that distinguishes them from a more traditional museum or gallery experience is the festive atmosphere and engaging activities. These often include artist demonstrations, live music, and booths featuring great local restaurants.Among the activities that make for a great event are those which engage kids with art. For parents who want to experience art with their kids and not in spite of them, art fairs create the perfect environment. These include hands-on painting and crafting as well as kid-centric entertainment.

There are many great examples of kids’ events at Florida art fairs. The Downtown Gainesville Festival and Art Show has extensive children's programming via their "Imagination Station" where kids can participate in interactive activities. They include puppet-making, mask design, and chalk drawing.

The town of St. Petersburg hosts the annual Mainsail Art Festival which bills itself as an event in which "everyone is invited." In addition to children’s art activities, the entertainment includes mimes and strolling minstrels and a "Young at Art" exhibit featuring local area kids' artworks.

5. Community Specific Arts and Culture Opportunities

There are over 160 museums in Florida according to Museums USA, many of them primarily focused on arts and culture. The Dali Museum in St. Petersburg, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota, and the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art in Winter Park are frequently ranked among the best, with dozens more highly acclaimed Florida cultural institutions throughout the state.

Compound this with the hundreds of art galleries featuring renowned artists that dot palm tree-lined streets in many of Florida’s bigger cities as well as charming small towns. We’ve recently highlighted a handful of the best galleries in Palm Beach and Orlando and there are many more to discover as part of your art fair tourist adventures.

While you’re at it, don’t overlook the brilliant street art and public art in Florida. When it comes to these unique methods of artistic expression, the state has a flavor all its own.

It’s relatively easy to take advantage of a city’s many other arts and cultural options especially those that are closely connected with art fairs and festivals. For example, the Las Olas Art Fair takes place on Los Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale. In addition to the fair itself, visitors can enjoy authentic cuisine, charming boutiques, and art galleries, all conveniently located along the boulevard.

Ready to plan your trip? You can find a wealth of resources to guide you. In the meantime, you can check out Florida-inspired art on UGallery’s website, as well as original works from a range of artists updated weekly.