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Where To Visit in Sarasota

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Where To Visit in Sarasota

Are you planning a visit to Sarasota and looking for ideas and spots worth visiting? Look no further — here are the best places you and your family can enjoy while in Sarasota.

The Beach

Some of the best things to do in Sarasota involve lounging along the gorgeous beaches. Whether you’re looking for cool waters to swim, the beach is always the first place to head. You can find world-class white beaches such as Lido Beach, Siesta Key Beach, Longboat Key, Manasota Keys Beach, and Venice Beach, among others.

These beaches offer great swimming and sunbathing opportunities that include stunning sunsets. You can even go fishing, camping, hiking and scuba diving too. Tourists can also take advantage of kayaking, cycling, sailing and parasailing.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens along with the adjacent Sarasota Bay are one of the best places to watch wildlife. This tropical paradise is on an 83-acre park where you’ll find a variety of plants, flowers and foliage from around the world. Some of the highlights of the garden include Florida habitats, a palm tree collection, a small-sized Japanese tea house, koi ponds as well as a glass lab.

The garden also offers guided tours and a popular bonsai exhibition featuring hundreds of plants. The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is open seven days a week and offers spectacular views with plenty of photo opportunities.

St. Armands Circle

St. Armands Circle is a great place for shopping and dining. It’s just north of Lido Beach and is known for its busy restaurant district. At the heart of St. Armands Circle is a roundabout pedestrian plaza surrounded by shops, entertainment outlets, sidwalk cafés, boutiques and fine restaurants. The stores sell a variety of items including jewelry, clothing, home accessories, fittings and art.

You can also find a number of excellent restaurants in the area where you can try a variety of dishes from Italian, French and Japanese cuisines. It’s the perfect place to do some window browsing, enjoy the night air or grab a bite to eat. St. Armands Circle is definitely worth a visit while in Sarasota.

Myakka River State Park

Myakka River State Park is one of the oldest and largest state parks in Florida. Spanning 37,000 acres, there are plenty of activities here including hiking, fishing, camping and bird watching. Here you can find huge pink lakes that are home to crocodiles, alligators and a variety of wildlife. From areas covered in thick sawgrass to mangrove swamps and sandy oak hangers, it’s the ideal place for an eco-tourism adventure.

The beautiful scenery makes it the perfect place to take pictures and admire nature in its full glory. There are boat tours available as well as multi-mile kayaking trails where you can enjoy the tranquility of the area.

Conclusion

Sarasota is a city with an amazing offer of activities and attractions that are definitely worth visiting. From swimming and sunbathing at any of its abundant beaches to shopping or exploring natural wonders at Myakka River State Park — you’ll be able to make the most out of your trip to Sarasota.

Insider’s Guide to Sarasota, Florida

Sarasota is a charming city located on the western coast of Florida, known for its breathtaking beaches, cultural events, and historic landmarks. Whether you are a first-time traveler or a returning visitor, there is always something new and exciting to discover in Sarasota. In this insider’s guide, we’ve compiled some of the must-visit places during your stay.

Attractions

Sarasota is a vibrant city with a rich history, and it’s no surprise that there are plenty of attractions to visit during your stay. Below are some of the must-see places:

Ringling Museum of Art

The Ringling Museum of Art is a world-renowned museum located on the grounds of the former estate of circus magnate John Ringling and his wife, Mable. The museum houses an impressive collection of art from around the world, including works by Rubens, Van Dyck, and Velázquez. The museum also hosts various exhibitions throughout the year.

Myakka River State Park

Nature lovers will adore the Myakka River State Park, one of the oldest and largest state parks in Florida. The park is home to a vast array of ecosystems, including wetlands, prairies, and forests. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, airboat tours, and wildlife sightings.

Dining Spots

Sarasota has become a foodie destination in recent years, with a plethora of restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Below are some of the must-visit dining spots:

The Rosemary

The Rosemary serves delightful American cuisine, with creative dishes that center around fresh and local ingredients. The restaurant’s atmosphere is chic and intimate, making it an ideal spot for a romantic date night.

Tsunami Sushi & Hibachi Grill

Sushi lovers will delight in Tsunami Sushi & Hibachi Grill, where the chef puts a modern twist on traditional sushi rolls. In addition to sushi, Tsunami also offers other Japanese dishes such as hibachi and ramen.

Cultural Experiences

Sarasota is a city steeped in culture, with several venues offering an array of artistic performances and exhibitions. Below are some cultural experiences to indulge in:

Sarasota Opera

The Sarasota Opera has been entertaining audiences for over 60 years with its exceptional opera productions. The opera house’s grand and ornate interior is a treat in itself, transporting guests to another era.

Sarasota Orchestra

The Sarasota Orchestra offers a variety of classical and modern performances throughout the year. Some of the highlights include the pop concerts, which are perfect for music lovers who enjoy the classics with a modern twist.

Local History

Sarasota also has some fascinating historical landmarks that provide insights into the region’s rich past. Below are some notable places to explore:

Ca’ d’Zan Mansion

The Ca’ d’Zan Mansion is a stunning Venetian Gothic-style mansion that used to be the former home of John and Mable Ringling. The mansion has been restored to its former glory, and visitors can take a guided tour to see its magnificent interior and learn about the Ringlings’ lives.

Historic Spanish Point

Historic Spanish Point is a sprawling outdoor museum and environmental complex that traces back over 4,000 years of Florida history. The museum’s exhibits give a fascinating insight into the region’s past, from pre-Columbian Indian life to early pioneer settlers.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

For travelers looking to go off the beaten path, here are some fantastic suggestions for an out-of-the-ordinary adventure:

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a breathtaking oasis tucked away in the heart of Sarasota city. The gardens offer a serene escape with plenty of delightful flora on display and well-maintained gardens.

Siesta Key Farmers Market

The Siesta Key Farmers Market gives visitors an opportunity to get a taste of local life and meet Sarasota’s vibrant community. The market takes place every Sunday, and vendors sell fresh produce, bread, cheeses, and handcrafted goods.

In conclusion, Sarasota has plenty of exciting places to offer travelers, from cultural experiences and dining spots to historical landmarks and off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Don’t forget to indulge in some of the city’s famous beaches and take in some stunning sunsets before you leave.

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Where To Visit in Sarasota

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!