Exploring the Art Scene in 30A, Panama City Beach, and Destin
Are you an art lover looking to explore the creative side of your vacation? The stunning communities along 30A, Panama City Beach (PCB), and Destin are not only known for their beautiful beaches but also for their thriving art scene. From local galleries and artist studios to hands-on workshops, there are countless ways to tap into your creative spirit along Florida’s Emerald Coast.
Discover 30A’s Vibrant Art Scene
30A is home to a community of talented artists and offers many opportunities for art enthusiasts to explore, learn, and create.
Justin Gaffrey Gallery
Justin Gaffrey, known for his textured acrylic paintings inspired by the natural beauty of the Emerald Coast, offers “Paint and Pour” events where you can create your own masterpiece while sipping wine. His gallery, located along 30A, showcases his signature style and is a must-visit for both admirers and aspiring artists.
Location: 21 Blue Gulf Dr, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Website: justingaffrey.com
Fired Up! Paint Your Own Pottery
A family-friendly art experience, Fired Up! in Seaside allows you to personalize and paint your own pottery. Choose from a wide selection of pottery pieces, from mugs to plates, and bring home a unique souvenir of your artistic adventure.
Location: 27 Quincy Cir, Seaside, FL 32459
Website: firedupseaside.com
Glass Deer Studio
This unique glassblowing studio offers workshops where you can learn the intricate art of glassblowing. You’ll be guided through the creative process of making stunning glass art, from fusing to flameworking. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, you’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind glass creation.
Location: 35 Mussett Bayou Rd, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Website: glassdeer.com
Rock Paper Scissors 30A
Perfect for both kids and adults, Rock Paper Scissors offers a range of hands-on crafting workshops including macrame, candle-making, and soap-making. This is a fun way to unleash your creativity and bring home a handmade piece of art.
Location: 3422 US Hwy 98 W, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Website: rps30a.com
30A Songwriters Festival
While this event focuses on music, many local artists display their work alongside the musical performances, making it a perfect blend of visual and performing arts.
Dates: January 17-20, 2025
Website: 30asongwritersfestival.com
ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival
Held annually in WaterColor, this art festival brings together over 150 artists from around the country, showcasing everything from painting and sculpture to photography and mixed media. Stay tuned for 2025 event details!
Website: culturalartsalliance.com/artsquest
Flip Flops & Graffiti
This annual event held in Alys Beach brings together talented street and graffiti artists who create vibrant murals in real-time, transforming the coastal town into an outdoor art gallery. Attendees can watch live art demonstrations, interact with artists, and even participate in hands-on workshops. The event blends urban creativity with the serene backdrop of the Emerald Coast, offering a unique cultural experience for locals and visitors alike.
Dates: Annually (Check local listings for upcoming dates)
Location: Alys Beach, Scenic Highway 30A, FL
Website: alysbeach.com/events
Panama City Beach Art Experiences
Panama City Beach also offers exciting opportunities for artists and art lovers to engage in creative activities.
Paul Brent Gallery
Paul Brent is a nationally recognized artist known for his coastal watercolors and paintings. His gallery features original works, prints, and even workshops for aspiring artists who want to learn from a master of coastal art.
Location: 413 W 5th St, Panama City, FL 32401
Website: paulbrent.com
The Blue Giraffe
This vibrant gallery features work by local artists, including paintings, sculptures, and handmade jewelry. The Blue Giraffe is a great place to find one-of-a-kind gifts and take part in art workshops that cover everything from watercolor painting to mixed media.
Location: 1777 E County Hwy 30A, Suite 101, WaterColor, FL 32459
Website: bluegiraffe30a.com
PCB Mural Tour
Take a self-guided tour through Panama City Beach’s mural scene, where local artists have transformed the city’s buildings into stunning works of public art. You’ll find murals featuring everything from marine life to coastal scenes, creating the perfect backdrop for an Instagram-worthy photo.
Website: visitpanamacitybeach.com/murals
Public Eye Soar
Held in Panama City Beach, this innovative digital graffiti and art projection event celebrates creativity by projecting artwork onto buildings and other surfaces around the city. Artists’ digital creations are brought to life through light and color, offering a unique take on traditional graffiti. It’s a family-friendly event with live performances, interactive exhibits, and local art displays, creating an immersive artistic experience.
Dates: Annually (Typically in November)
Location: Various locations in Panama City Beach, FL
Website: publiceyesoar.net
Art in Destin
Destin, known as “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” offers more than just water sports and fine dining; it’s also home to some exceptional art spaces.
The Shard Shop
This unique workshop allows visitors to create their own glass art using colorful glass shards. It’s an easy and fun way to make a beautiful mosaic piece to take home as a memento of your trip to Destin.
Location: 34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy Suite 126, Destin, FL 32541
Website: shardshop.com/destin
Destin’s HarborWalk Village Art Walk
Take a leisurely stroll through HarborWalk Village, where you’ll find artists displaying their works in a vibrant outdoor setting. From hand-painted coastal scenes to photography, this is a great place to shop for art while enjoying live music and entertainment.
Website: emeraldgrande.com/harborwalk-village
Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s Festival of the Arts
This annual art festival is one of the top-rated fine art shows in the Southeast, featuring over 100 artists. In addition to art displays, the festival offers live demonstrations, interactive children’s activities, and live music.
Location: 4323 Commons Dr W, Destin, FL 32541
Website: mattiekellyartsfoundation.org
Let Benchmark Management Inspire Your Artistic Journey
Whether you’re an experienced artist or just beginning to explore your creative side, Benchmark Management provides the perfect base for your art-filled vacation. Our premier vacation rentals put you close to art galleries, workshops, and festivals, allowing you to dive into the rich artistic culture along 30A, Panama City Beach, and Destin. After a day of painting or glassblowing, return to your luxurious rental and unwind in comfort.
Book your stay with Benchmark Management today and let your artistic spirit soar while exploring the vibrant art communities of Florida’s Emerald Coast!
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