 Nestled beside the blue waters of Sarasota Bay, Sarasota is one of Florida's wealthier towns, as well as one of the state's leading cultural centers. It is the hub for the area's history and arts foundation. Sarasota offers arts and culture, activities and entertainment that are fun for the whole family. The area is home to more than a dozen theaters, 30 art galleries and several active artist communities. Delight in the diverse tropical
flora housed at Marie Selby Gardens, including orchids and bromiliads. Most visitors stop to see the Ringling Estate on the town's northern edge. For years, circus magnate John Ringling made Sarasota the winter headquarters of his world-renowned Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus. Ringling and his wife Mable constructed their magnificent winter residence "Ca' d'Zan" (House of John) and a museum to house their extensive art collection. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art includes an art museum specializing in the baroque, a circus museum, gardens and a state-of-the-art theater. The lovely grounds are host to special events and festivals throughout the year. When you see the giant orange and pink flamingos, you'll know you're in the right spot! Enjoy a whimsical moment as you view a variety of quality art objects by diverse artists at The Marietta Museum of Whimsy. Sarasota Jungle Gardens has been delighting visitors since 1939. Come explore a 10 acre tropical oasis just North of downtown Sarasota designed to bring out the nature enthusiast and kid in all of us. Enjoy interactive animal shows featuring parrots, reptiles and other animals. Hand-feed free roaming flamingos, hold an alligator, talk to a parrot or stroll beautiful nature trails. Waterfront activities and restaurants are a big part of Sarasota's allure. Marina Jack, a long-time destination, is located downtown on Sarasota Bay. They offer luxury sightseeing lunch and sunset dinner cruises daily as well one of the area's finest seafood restaurants. At Le Barge you can enjoy a narrated sightseeing cruise, a dolphin encounter cruise or a sunset cruise on their floating tropical island. Also on the downtown waterfront is Oleary's Tiki Bar & Grill for a waterfront breakfast, lunch or dinner with a view. Radiating out from downtown are other fine restaurants and entertainment options for visitors. 
An amazing number of golf
courses are available for those who love the green. Shopping options abound in Sarasota. One of the most famous areas is found just west of downtown Sarasota on Lido Key. St Armands Circle is a quaint, strolling collection of charming shops and unique eateries. Sarasota offers something for everyone: a fun day at the beach, culture, attractions or simple enjoyment of the beautiful Sarasota surroundings. For more in-depth information, your best source is the Visit Sarasota County. |
The distinctive architecture of John
and Mable Ringling's Ca' d'Zan
is a renowned landmark in Sarasota.
and Mable Ringling's Ca' d'Zan
is a renowned landmark in Sarasota.
Art is thriving in the Sarasota area, where visitors
can find more than a dozen theaters, 30 art galleries
and several active artist communities.
can find more than a dozen theaters, 30 art galleries
and several active artist communities.
Top-notch casual eateries abound in Sarasota.
Sarasota proves that there can never be too many beaches on which to relax and bask in the sun!