On a small stretch of Highway in Islamorada, The Morada Way Arts & Cultural District finds its home. Bookended by the historic Hurricane Monument (MM 82) to the north, and the iconic Green Turtle Inn (MM81.2) to the south, this vibrant Art District comes alive with galleries, studio spaces, restaurants, boutique retail shops, and creativity.
All are welcome to spend the day visiting galleries, watching artists create, experiencing world class craft beer, or enjoying a meal at one of Islamorada’s many excellent restaurants – a beer and a meal always set the stage for attending the famous Third Thursday Art Walk, the Art District’s signature event.
Anchor galleries inspire and energize the creative spirit of all who visit. You know you’ve arrived when you see Gallery Morada on the corner of Morada Way and the Old Highway. This American craft gallery offers an eclectic mix of fine craft from nationally known artists – with a truly unique blend of art. They have a “little bit of the best of everything,” all handmade in America.
Across the street, Pasta Pantaleo’s Signature Gallery is housed in a historic 1930 Red Cross hurricane home. Pasta’s art reflects his love of the water, fishing, and nature. His personality and artistry make a visit to this neighborhood more than just an experience. It’s a lasting memory.
Further down Morada Way is Redbone Gallery, Florida’s largest saltwater fishing art gallery. The Redbone Gallery combines art with a cause – the owners, Susan and Gary Ellis, created this gallery to bring attention to the efforts to find a cure for cystic fibrosis, which afflicts their daughter Nicole.
The creative heartbeat of the Art District is Studio 140 (formerly Morada Way Clay). This is the place for pottery and ceramic art in Islamorada, with classes, workshops, private instruction and studio access. A fun and creative environment, this studio weaves traditional and folk-art with Florida Keys energy.
There is no lack of dining in the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, with seven of Islamorada’s most popular restaurants within walking distance: Kaiyo Grill, Chef Michaels, Ma’s Fish Camp, Green Turtle Inn, Islamorada Fish Company, Morada Bay Café, and Pierre’s, all offer unforgettable culinary experiences. The Islamorada “Gucci” Moose Lodge is an unexpected diamond, where great food, drinks, non-stop events, and fellowship occur daily. And no visit to the Art District is complete without a visit to the Florida Keys Brewing Company, the most celebrated micro-brewery in the island chain.
Morada Way Arts & Cultural District is more than a place – it’s an attitude, a feeling of eclectic buzz that goes beyond mile markers 81 and 82.