Sarasota County in Florida, USA, is situated on the west coast of the state, bordered by Manatee, Hardee, De Soto and Hillsborough. It encompasses the city of the same name, along with other towns and areas: North Port, Venice and Longboat Key.
Content:
- Siesta Key Beach
- The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
- Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
- Myakka River State Park
- Anna Maria Island
- Sarasota Art Museum
- Golf clubs
- Sarasota Opera House
- Walk through the mangroves
- Old Columbia House Restaurant
- Buying a home in Florida!
Many individuals aspiring to move to the sunny state or buy property in Florida choose Sarasota. Renowned for its amazing beaches, rich culture, historical sites and opportunities for various leisure activities, Sarasota is one of the most attractive places to live in and spend a holiday. The region features a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. In summer, temperatures reach 30 °C, while in winter they remain around 20 °C. Sarasota offers numerous parks, hiking and biking trails and golf courses. In this post, we will explore some of the most interesting places in the district that are certainly worth visiting.
Siesta Key Beach
Siesta Key has been voted the most scenic beach in the United States for several consecutive years. Moreover, it has secured a prominent position on the list of the world’s best beaches. Situated near the village of Siesta Key, the beach of the same name is famous for its quartz sand and turquoise waters. Visitors can enjoy evening entertainment, explore the area’s best attractions and visit local boutiques and nightclubs. Every Sunday, the weekly Siesta Key Drum Circle festival is held on the beach, drawing dancers and musicians for a traditional gathering.
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
One of the state’s largest museums, with 21 galleries, allows visitors to learn about the history of the Ringling family, founders of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus. Situated on Bay Shore Road, the museum complex boasts impressive landscaping and beautiful palm trees that form part of the Bayfront Gardens. You can explore the exhibits independently or opt for a guided tour to learn more about the city's history from an experienced guide. The Ringling Art Museum regularly updates its photographic exhibits, ensuring that each visit offers something new and interesting.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
The Marie Selby Botanical Garden, providing stunning views of Sarasota Bay, is a haven for rare flowers and beautiful tropical trees. Positioned on the accessible South Palm Avenue, this garden boasts one of the most diverse arboretum collections in the United States. We recommend visiting the koi pond exhibit, the jungle with interactive plants and climbing to the top of the treehouse to take in the entire panorama. Also don't miss the Butterfly Garden, one of Sarasota's main attractions and make sure that you take your camera: there are numerous picturesque spots to capture!
Myakka River State Park
If you want to visit one of the most stunning state parks in Florida, then head to Myakka River! As one of the oldest and largest parks in the state, this picturesque area in Manatee County, situated between Bradenton and Sarasota, is famous for its diversity of fauna, hosting creatures like alligators, ospreys and turtles.
Spanning nearly 150 square kilometres, the Myakka River Park lies within the North Port area. In this well-preserved wetland, you can canoe, kayak or sail while enjoying stunning views. Whether you’re into hunting or exploring the surrounding area, there are designated walking trails for these purposes and you can also opt to rent a bicycle.
Anna Maria Island
If you’re in search of the finest white sand beaches in the area, Anna Maria Island is a true gem among the barrier rocks off the Florida Gulf Coast. Within this locale, Bean Point Beach stands out for its stunning sunsets and dazzling blue waters. Anna Maria Island is also an interesting historical site that used to be one of the most significant Spanish towns in Sarasota County. Don’t miss the pier, built in 1911 and the Anna Maria Historical Museum, established in the 1920s – both are must-see attractions.
Sarasota Art Museum
This is one of the most popular places in the city of Sarasota. Spanning an area of over 1300 square metres, you can immerse yourself in collections of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics and artefacts. The museum's exhibition is one of the largest in Florida and is constantly updated. It features works by famous painters as well as pieces by local talented craftsmen. The museum regularly holds performances and educational workshops for aspiring artists. After exploring the exhibition, you can grab a snack at the café, purchase souvenirs and take a stroll through the sculpture garden.
Golf clubs
Sarasota is often referred to as the "Cradle of Golf" due to its abundance of top-notch courses. Notable municipal clubs include Tatum Ridge Golf Links and Bobby Jones Golf Club, featuring an 18-hole course designed in 1927 by the famous designer Donald Ross. There are also private clubs in the area, such as Sara Bay Country Club and TPC Prestancia, where you can purchase a membership to refine your skills.
Sarasota Opera House
The Sarasota Opera House is impressive in its Mediterranean Revival-style architecture, listed on the National Register of Historic Landmarks. If you are interested in architecture and music, visiting this legendary place is a must! The 1,100-seat theatre is a perfect blend of superb acoustics and artistic aesthetics.
Walk through the mangroves
While in Sarasota, you also have the opportunity to swim through a labyrinth of mangroves, where the only sounds are birdsong and the gentle splashes of oars. Here you can watch fish, crabs and manatees play in their natural habitat. Ted Sperling Park in Lido Key offers two-hour group kayak tours every day at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., led by experienced guides. Alternatively, you can rent a boat and explore on your own.
Old Columbia House Restaurant
Located at 411 St. Armand's Circle in Sarasota, this authentic restaurant will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Mediterranean, with a delectable selection of tapas and gourmet Spanish dishes. In this vibrant setting, you can enjoy a Cuban roast pork, ham and cheese sandwich, a dish that originated from an immigrant community. This venue is loved by both locals and tourists, confirmed by its high rating on Tripadvisor. Don't forget to try Columbia's signature 1905 salad, expertly prepared tableside with a secret dressing created by the owner. You can also enjoy a refreshing mojito or sangria while sitting outside on the patio. After your meal, you can enjoy a stroll around the shops and art galleries of the area.
Buying a home in Florida!
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