Indian River County's reputation for offering an exceptionally high quality of life is due in great part to the successful integration of the beauty and benefits of a charming, tropical, home-town atmosphere with the cosmopolitan flavor reflected in the abundance of Arts and Cultural venues available

In 1994, Vero Beach was named "One of the Best Small Art Towns in America."  The criteria for being included in the book "The 100 Best Small Art Towns in America" by John Villiani included location, climate, quality of life, available cultural activities, economic impact of the arts, an active local arts agency, galleries and art festivals, and the opinion of artists who are members of each community.

Most of the established cultural institutions were built by private donations and have become the fabric of this wonderful community.