Tour Questions & Answers
The Village of the Arts History and Shopping Tours is a customized tour introducing you to artists and galleries by appointment. Let us know your interests: textiles, ceramics, paintings, stained glass, jewelry, or handcrafted eclectic art. Walks are held on Fridays, 10:30 AM to noon, or by special appointment. We meet at the corner of 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West (1017 12th Avenue West).
Do we need reservations?
Yes, Reservations are required. Call 941-756-5088.
What is the Cost?
This escorted tour is by appointment with the galleries. Cost is $15. Please ask about our group discounts of 5 or more. Payment is by cash or check. Cash is the most common method of payment.
What shall we bring?
We suggest you wear comfortable clothing, bring bottled water and wear sunscreen.
What if it rains?
Part of the tour is inside houses. We only cancel under severe weather conditions.
What will we see?
You will visit restored bungalows and homes built in the 1920s and 30s that have been restored as shops and studios. A few are even older! One is an original 1924 Craftsman bungalow. Some houses we enter are accessible, but not all.
Who leads the Tour?
Georgia Brown is a journalist and historian. Since 1974, she has traveled the state and written many articles on historic places for magazines and newspapers. Combining her love of history with experience as a national spokesperson for wildlife causes, she enjoys walking and talking about Florida history to visitors and new residents.
Weekday Group Tours
On weekdays join us for authentic interior experiences customized for your group. By special permission we visit three sites: The historic 1913 Courtroom in the Manatee County Courthouse*, the 1922 Cox Chevrolet Building and the 1926 Professional Building. A wide selection of restaurants and cafes are open for lunch after the 90-minute tour if the group’s schedule allows.
*Note: For access to the Manatee County Courthouse visitors are required to be 18 years of age and carry a picture ID or a US Passport. Pen knives and other sharp objects are not permitted and will be confiscated by security officers.
The Village of the Arts History and Shopping Tours is a customized tour introducing you to artists and galleries by appointment. Let us know your interests: textiles, ceramics, paintings, stained glass, jewelry, or handcrafted eclectic art. Walks are held on Fridays, 10:30 AM to noon, or by special appointment. We meet at the corner of 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West (1017 12th Avenue West).
Do we need reservations?
Yes, Reservations are required. Call 941-756-5088.
What is the Cost?
This escorted tour is by appointment with the galleries. Cost is $15. Please ask about our group discounts of 5 or more. Payment is by cash or check. Cash is the most common method of payment.
What shall we bring?
We suggest you wear comfortable clothing, bring bottled water and wear sunscreen.
What if it rains?
Part of the tour is inside houses. We only cancel under severe weather conditions.
What will we see?
You will visit restored bungalows and homes built in the 1920s and 30s that have been restored as shops and studios. A few are even older! One is an original 1924 Craftsman bungalow. Some houses we enter are accessible, but not all.
Who leads the Tour?
Georgia Brown is a journalist and historian. Since 1974, she has traveled the state and written many articles on historic places for magazines and newspapers. Combining her love of history with experience as a national spokesperson for wildlife causes, she enjoys walking and talking about Florida history to visitors and new residents.
Weekday Group Tours
On weekdays join us for authentic interior experiences customized for your group. By special permission we visit three sites: The historic 1913 Courtroom in the Manatee County Courthouse*, the 1922 Cox Chevrolet Building and the 1926 Professional Building. A wide selection of restaurants and cafes are open for lunch after the 90-minute tour if the group’s schedule allows.
*Note: For access to the Manatee County Courthouse visitors are required to be 18 years of age and carry a picture ID or a US Passport. Pen knives and other sharp objects are not permitted and will be confiscated by security officers.