Visiting the West Coast of Florida? Try Sarasota

Sarasota

Sarasota is a great place to vacation because it provides sparkling fine white sand, calm ocean waves, mild weather for most of the year, interesting nightlife, architecture, and plenty of daily activities.

About Sarasota

Modern-day Sarasota is known for its thriving art scene, being the founding point and home of Ringling Brother’s circus (and all that sprung from it) and contemporary homes and offices as a result of one of Florida’s best architecture schools. Sarasota also has six barrier islands including beautiful Siesta Key and the exclusive Long Boat Key.

Sarasota, Florida has a unique feel that is a cross between a city and a laid-back village. Part of the reason for this may be that Sarasota County has 35 miles of beaches which both residents and tourists visit often which keeps everyone calm. Sarasota has a large arts community and plenty of activities and entertainment that are family friendly.

Places to Eat

Lazy Lobster

Although it’s in a strip mall it has service worthy of a Park Avenue address. Known for excellent service, great food, and a few creative dishes, most meals run $30 to $40 dollars.

Heinrich's German Grill

Located in a Wal-mart plaza this authentic German restaurant is blessed with knowledgeable staff, great chefs, pleasant atmosphere, and prompt service. Try the goulash, schnitzels, potato pancakes, or let the wait staff offer suggestions.

Visit the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

No tourist trip would be complete without visiting part of the history that made Sarasota what it is today, Ringling’s influence; so go to the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. This museum is not about the circus. Rather it is a museum of art built from the money John Ringling made from the circus. The museum has a wide array of art from the last five centuries.

Sarasota Nightlife

Le Barge Tropical Sunset Cruise is basically a nightclub on a houseboat. It has a bar and dance floor on one level, and a solo musician or duo near the cocktail tables inside. Le Barge sails several times a day around Sarasota Bay their late afternoon cruises offer great views of the area and the spectacular sunsets.

The Gator Club. Any place that has good live music seven nights a week is bound to be a hit. It’s in a small historic building and the downstairs area has a dance floor. Upstairs there are pool tables and comfortable sofas and a bar.

Sarasota: A Great Place to Vacation

Sarasota is a winner as a vacation spot. It has some of the world’s best beaches. It has great restaurants, an aquarium, state parks, botanical gardens, circuses, museums, shopping, and an exciting nightlife. It is a relaxing atmosphere yet has enough to keep you interested. It is not overly expensive. The people are friendly. All and all, not a bad place to visit or to live.