From an elegant evening of fine arts performances, to fine galleries, to more laid-back island festivals and arts events, the variety of the cultural scene in the Marco Island area entices both residents and visitors year round.

A short drive away in Naples, The Philharmonic Center for the Arts is the preeminent performing arts venue in Southwest Florida. Popularly known as The Phil, this superb, 90,000-square-foot facility hosts more than 400 events each year, including world-class theater and dance, as well as classical and popular music performances.

With 1,221-seat Hayes Hall and a 2,956-square-foot stage, The Phil is also home to the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra and the splendid 30,000-square-foot Naples Museum of Art, featuring a world-class permanent collection, traveling exhibitions and shows organized by the museum. Phone: 239-597-1900

Additionally, there are several wonderful art centers and organizations on Marco. The Art League of Marco Island is very active in the community and sponsors an assortment of events, field trips, classes and gallery exhibits throughout the year.

The Art League also brings outstanding artists to Marco for workshops, classes, lectures, demonstrations and gallery shows. Gallery exhibits offering visual art in all media change monthly, and a reception honoring the exhibiting artist is held at the opening of each new gallery show.

The Art League also sponsors an annual outdoor fine arts show known as "Marco Art," a juried event that attracts over 100 artists from around the country. Phone: 239-394-4221