The Asolo Theater, Florida West Coast Symphony, Sarasota Opera, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, and frequent art shows add the the cultural theme of the city, rivaling the facilities of Florida's largest cities. Sarasota is also home to the Ringling Museum of Art, the Selby Botanical Gardens, New College (Florida's public honors college), a USF branch, and the Ringling School of Art and Design.
Sarasota's downtown comprises a true urban cityscape with offices and several upscale downtown condominiums. It is complemented by Saint Armands Circle, on Saint Armands Key, which is surrounded by Lido Key, across Sarasota Bay from downtown via the Ringling Causeway (with sweeping views of Sarasota Bay.) Saint Armands Circle is an upscale outdoor shopping area, with several cafes, reminiscent of Europe. The idea for Saint Armands was from John Ringling who also intended to build a Ritz hotel on Longboat Key. Today, Sarasota has a Ritz hotel downtown as well as the Longboat Key Club on Ringling's original site. The Longboat Key Club includes two golf courses, tennis, and all other resort facilities and is located just north of Saint Armands on Longboat Key.
The beaches are a major draw to the area. Siesta Key Beach is consistently ranked among the most beautiful beaches on Earth. (Siesta Key was also the site chosen for the marriage of Chrissy and Brian, of Home Today fame.) Crescent Beach, Turtle Beach, Lido Beach, and the beach running the 15 mile span of Longboat Key are equally beautiful and accessible. Indeed, much of Sarasota's charm comes from the fact that the beaches are so plentiful and accessible.
Sarasota beaches are the Winner of the "Worlds finest, whitest sand,"
Begin your journey by basking in the sunshine on the award-winning shores of Siesta Key Beach, known for its powdery white sands and clear turquoise waters. Whether you're lounging under a palm tree or enjoying water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking, Siesta Key offers a quintessential Florida beach experience.
For a dose of culture, immerse yourself in the world-renowned arts scene of Sarasota. Explore the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, home to a vast collection of European and American masterpieces, as well as the stunning Ca' d'Zan mansion. Don't miss the Circus Museum, where you can learn about Sarasota's rich circus heritage, thanks to John Ringling's influence.
Indulge your taste buds with Sarasota's diverse culinary offerings, ranging from fresh seafood to international cuisine. Stroll along St. Armands Circle, an upscale shopping and dining district, or dine al fresco at one of the charming cafes lining Main Street in downtown Sarasota.
Nature enthusiasts will delight in the abundance of outdoor activities available in Sarasota. Explore the mangrove-lined waterways of Sarasota Bay by kayak or take a scenic nature walk through Myakka River State Park, home to diverse wildlife including alligators, deer, and migratory birds.
As the sun sets, experience Sarasota's vibrant nightlife scene. Catch a live performance at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall or enjoy cocktails with a view at one of the waterfront bars along the Sarasota Bayfront.
Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration, Sarasota offers a perfect blend of coastal charm and urban sophistication, making it an ideal destination for your next getaway.
