Things to do over Memorial Day Holiday
My husband and I will be in Naples 5/24-28. We like art galleries, live music, the beach, etc. What other things are there to do? We are staying closer to downtown. Thank you for any input or suggestions!
Naples is a fantastic destination for a long weekend over Memorial Day, especially if you enjoy art, music, beaches, and local culture. Staying near downtown gives you easy access to many attractions and activities without needing to drive far.
1. Art and Culture
- The Baker Museum: Located in the Naples Art District, it features contemporary and classical art exhibitions and often hosts special events.
- Art galleries along Third Street South and Fifth Avenue South: Explore local galleries with paintings, sculptures, and photography by both local and international artists.
- Naples Historical Society and The Holocaust Museum & Education Center: If you enjoy history alongside art, these are worthwhile visits.
2. Live Music and Entertainment
- The Naples Philharmonic at Artis—Naples: Check their schedule; they often have concerts over holiday weekends.
- Downtown Naples live music: Restaurants and bars along Fifth Avenue and Third Street often host live jazz, acoustic sets, or other performances.
- Sunset at Naples Pier: Bring a blanket or just stroll along the pier in the evening—there’s often informal live music or local performers during sunset hours.
3. Beaches and Outdoor Activities
- Naples Beach & Naples Pier: Classic sandy beach with great swimming and fishing opportunities.
- Vanderbilt Beach and Lowdermilk Park: Both are excellent for sunbathing, swimming, and casual beachside activities.
- Kayaking or paddleboarding: You can rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the calm waters of Naples Bay or nearby mangrove estuaries.
- Bike Rentals: Downtown and beach areas are very bike-friendly, offering a relaxed way to explore local sights.
4. Shopping and Dining
- Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South offer a mix of boutique shopping, art galleries, and local dining experiences.
- Try local seafood restaurants for fresh catches and casual dining spots with outdoor seating.
- Farmers markets: The Naples Downtown Farmers Market on certain days can be a great stop for local produce and artisanal products.
5. Optional Excursions
- Day trips to nearby state parks such as Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park or Clam Pass Park for nature walks and birdwatching.
- Everglades tours from Naples: Airboat tours or guided eco-tours are a popular choice for seeing wildlife.
- Sunset cruises: Enjoy a boat tour along the coast, often including dolphin sightings and beautiful evening scenery.
Overall, with 4-5 days in Naples, you can enjoy a blend of art, live music, relaxing beach time, and exploration of the natural surroundings. Downtown Naples provides a convenient base to combine culture, dining, and seaside relaxation.
