Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota.
Photo by Getty
Trying to decide where to take your next road trip? Consider Sarasota. Located in southwestern Florida on the Gulf, Sarasota offers one of the nation’s best beaches, a fabulous shopping scene and exciting things to see and do. Check out these five attractions for a taste of a memorable Sarasota vacation.
Siesta Key Beach
Vacationing in Sarasota puts you within 7 miles of one of the nation’s top-ranked beaches. Favored for its 8-mile stretch of white quartz sand, warm blue-green water and stunning sunsets, Siesta Key Beach offers chair and cabana rentals, sports activities, shopping and dining and nightlife options.
John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
It may take most of a day to stroll among the almost 30,000 items within this pink Renaissance-style estate, but it will be worth your time. You will learn things about the Ringling Brothers Circus when you walk through exhibits showcasing memorabilia, artifacts and dazzling costumes. The artworks span the past 500 years. And you won’t want to leave without strolling through the magnificent gardens.
Myakka River State Park
At Myakka River State Park, you can enjoy nature and wildlife with such outdoor activities as canoeing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, biking and horseback riding. You can arrange an airboat cruise around the lake and glimpse bald eagles, alligators and various water birds. For a real treat, take advantage of the canopy walkway, which allows you to climb above the treetops for amazing views of the area and its abundance of wildlife.
Mote Marine Aquarium
The Mote Marine Aquarium gives you the opportunity to marvel at the wonders of the ocean up close, with sharks, dolphins, sea turtles, manatees, jellyfish, coral and various fish species. Hands-on activities provide a fun way to learn about Sarasota and Gulf sea life. You can take a boat tour to watch dolphins in their natural habitat.
St. Armands Circle
For shopping in Sarasota, St. Armands Circle is a must-do. Located within walking distance of beaches and hotels, this outdoor circle of upscale shops and salons features picturesque courtyards and lush tropical plants and flowers. The more than 140 shops offer fashion, jewelry, books, art and more. The circle also provides a wide selection of restaurants.
Final Thoughts
This article gives you a glimpse of the fun you can enjoy on a Sarasota vacation. With a wide variety of resorts, hotels and inns, you should be able to find lodging that fits your budget and preferences.
