Sarasota

One of the loveliest and most interesting cities in Florida, in my opinion, is Sarasota, located on the West Coast. The miles and miles of white sandy beaches and warm blue-green ocean to the numerous cultural activities and entertainment attractions, makes this area of Florida a "full package" deal.

I've visited Sarasota several times including the lovely beaches at Anna Maria Island and great shopping in St. Armands. I have to say each visit has always been just as memorable as the last. Let me share just a few of the many other places you can visit.

One of the most well-know attractions in Sarasota is the John and Mabel Ringling Museum of Art - http://www.ringling.org/. The museum is comprised of 21-galleries and is home to a fabulous collection of Baroque art.

If you're a flower lover, a visit to Marie Selby Botanical Gardens - http://www.selby.org is a must. Explore these lush gardens where you'll be surrounded by a variety of tropical plants and over 6,000 orchids!

What would Florida be without its marine life? For an up close look at some of the creatures of the deep, a visit to the Mote Aquarium- http://www.mote.org should be on your agenda.

Another "must see" is the Sarasota Jungle Gardens - http://www.sarasotajunglegardens.com where daily bird and reptile shows get you acquainted with local wildlife.

For the kids, there's the G-Wiz Hands on Science Museum open daily from 10 to 5 and Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf.

Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the greyhound racing at the Sarasota Kennel Club. Racing of these speedy dogs runs December through April.

The Crowley Museum and Nature Center has 190 acres designated as a wildlife sanctuary. The museum also covers pioneer history in Florida and has on display an actual 100-year old cracker house.

At Historic Spanish Point, a 30-acre park that is listed on the National Register, gives you an insight into history for the past 5,000 years. Explore the prehistoric mound for archaeological history, wander the nature trails and learn about the flora native to this region and stroll the formal gardens that were first created in the 1900's.

Cultural activities include the Sarasota Opera - http://www.sarasotaopera.org/Tours.htm the Sarasota Ballet, Sarasota File Festival - http://www.sarasotafilmfestival.com which runs independent and international films and the Asolo Theatre Festival - http://www.asolo.org with performances by a professional troupe of actors November through June.

As you can see, there's a little something for everyone in Sarasota. I hope you've enjoyed this article and if you have a particular city you'd like more information about, please let me know by either starting a discussion or sending me an email at veesuite@suite101.com.

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