Creative Escapes: DIY Studios & Post-Art Bars for Adult Fun

Sometimes, you just need to let loose, get messy and tap into your creative side—preferably with a paintbrush in one hand and a glass of wine in the other (or waiting for you afterward). Here are seven spots to unleash your inner artist and where to celebrate your masterpiece with a well-earned drink aprés art.

1. Arts A Blaze Studio, Lakewood Ranch

If paint-your-own pottery sounds like your kind of fun, Arts A Blaze Studio in downtown Lakewood Ranch offers a relaxed, walk-in-friendly environment to create something beautiful. More interested in creating the pottery itself? The studio also offers intimate pottery wheel classes

Sip Nearby: The fun doesn't have to end once the paint dries! Stroll over to GROVE, just a stone's throw away, for a crisp glass of wine on the shaded patio or a signature cocktail at the ornate bar. Or walk just a touch further to B&B Chophouse, a dark and swanky bourbon bar with live music. 

2. The Artful Giraffe, Downtown Sarasota

Part art gallery, part working studio, The Artful Giraffe in the Historic Downtown Village of Gillespie Park lets you explore ceramics, acrylic and watercolor painting, stained glass, wave art resin and more. Plus, you can shop for local art and gifts inside its colorful cottage while your piece dries. Opt for the Paint and Sip group booking to enjoy a social event with wine and friends. 

Sip Nearby: Hop in the car for a short drive into Downtown Sarasota. For a Mediterranean-inspired cocktail, head to State Street to snag a seat inside the newly relocated A Sprig of Thyme. For a more casual vibe with your crew, opt for a pitcher of margaritas at the tequila-bourbon bar and restaurant, Circo. 

3. Nailed It DIY Studio, Venice

Perfect for those who love home decor and fun DIY projects inspired by Pinterest, this hands-on workshop allows you to hand-build customized wood signs, porch greeters, serving trays and other farmhouse-style pieces. Host a party or team-building experience at Nailed It DIY, or simply choose a project and book your preferred studio time.

Sip Nearby: Treat yourself to a post-project piña colada or mojito at Venice's Dockside Waterfront Grill, just a 15-minute drive north. The waterfront patio scenery and vibe is hard to beat and a great way to clear the senses after an afternoon or evening in the studio. 

4. Painting with a Twist, South Sarasota

With easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions, Painting with a Twist is all about having fun with friends while bringing a blank canvas to life. Plus, it’s BYOB! This is the perfect girls' night to create and share compositions (from painting your pet to your favorite pop star), have some laughs and break open a bottle of wine. 

Sip Nearby: If you’d rather have someone else mix your drinks, head to Gecko's Grill & Pub (also in the Palmer Crossing shopping center) for a laid-back sports bar atmosphere and comfy booths perfect for happy hour. Or venture a short drive further to Neat SRQ for a more elevated experience, featuring craft cocktails and fine wine in an upscale speakeasy setting.

5. Artistic Flair Studio, Nokomis

Offering a variety of mixed-media workshops, Artistic Flair Studio is a great place to create one-of-a-kind handmade gifts or experiment with different artistic techniques. Pour resin to create everything from coasters and charcuterie boards with a coastal flair or piece together intricate mosaic pieces to frame and hang on the wall. Check the calendar to select a workshop and register for your art day out!

Sip Nearby: Hop over to Pop's Sunset Grill, just a quick drive away in Nokomis. The lively live music and multiple outside bars create a tropical tiki setting that is beloved by locals and visitors alike. Treat yourselves to a round of rum runners and watch the boats pass by. 

6. The Makery SRQ, Limelight District

From seashell suncatchers and moss art frames to bubble gazing mugs and painting wine glasses, The Makery, nestled in the artistic neighborhood of the Limelight District, specializes in trendy, hands-on projects perfect for team building, a creative night out or a crafty birthday party.

Sip Nearby: Gather the crew aprés artmaking and hop in the car for a short drive to unwind at Sun King Brewery, where award-winning craft beer and casual vibes flow freely in its open-air taproom and back patio. You just may catch a fun community event going on, such as trivia or musical bingo. 

7. Sarasota Clay Company, North Sarasota

Get your hands dirty in the best way possible with a pottery class at Sarasota Clay Company. Whether you’re hand-building or throwing on the wheel, expect a fun, tactile experience by esteemed local artists and instructors. One-off classes, like Friday Date Night or Popcorn & Pottery, are available, or if you're highly interested in advancing your skills, four-week classes are also an option. 

Sip Nearby: After washing all the clay off your hands, reward yourself at The Original Wolfie's and Rascal House in the nearby Rosemary District. The beautiful outdoor seating at this upscale Broadway-themed deli restaurant sets the scene for a mixed drink in the sun and a chance to catch up on your latest creations and shared art experience.