Originally known as The Research Studio, the Maitland Art Center is a part of the National Register of Historic Places for its role in cultivating and promoting the arts in the country. It was initially established in 1937 as an art colony by owner and founder J. Andre Smith, who was a well known artist and architect.

The venue of the Maitland Art Center is historical as well. It features details that exemplify the rare and almost extinct “Mayan Revival”, also known as fantasy architecture, in the region. Most of the designs in the site are derived from the ancient cultures of Mesoamerica.

Today, the Maitland Art Center offers art classes and lectures to those interested. It also boasts of 23 structures, along with its beautifully sculpted gardens and courtyards.