NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT

Neighborhood Spotlight Sarasota

Located on the Southwest coast of Florida, Sarasota is known for its white-sand beaches, beautiful barrier islands and vibrant cultural offerings. Home to a ballet, opera and theater companies and multiple art galleries, many artists call this pillar of Florida’s cultural coast home. From sunrise to sunset, there’s plenty to do and beautiful views to take in. Here are a few of our favorite spots.

SIESTA KEY BEACH

#1 as in voted the top beach in the US and #11 in the world by TripAdvisor in 2020. What makes it so special? Pristine white sand that is 99% quartz and so reflective that it stays cool on your toes. Enjoy the dazzling sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico and stay for the nightly drum circle.

THE RINGLING

The Renaissance palace-style art museum that Circus mogul and prolific art collector John Ringling left in his will to the people of Florida is alive and well today, with rotating installations. But that’s the just the beginning. Explore the Circus Museum and wander through the Bayfront Gardens and the property’s crown jewel, the Ca’ d’Zan: the 36,000 square foot Venetian Gothic style mansion that was the winter home of Ringling and his wife, Mable.

MYAKKA RIVER STATE PARK

Enjoy wildlife tours by boat or tram, climb among the park’s oak and palm trees on the Canopy Walkway, or rent a bike or canoe and meander at your leisure through the wetlands and waterways. Keep your eyes up and out for native Florida birds, reptiles and other wildlife. BIG CAT HABITAT AND GULF COAST SANCTUARY

It’s more than lions and tigers at Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. Founded in 1987 by Kay Rosaire, this non-profit offers a home for many exotic and domestic animals in need, including bears, primates, camels, alligators, birds and more. Visit Fridays – Sundays, or book an animal encounter Wednesdays – Sundays.

PHILLIPPI CREEK OYSTER BAR

Known to locals as the “Creek,” this family-owned restaurant has been offering patrons fresh local seafood for lunch or dinner daily for 35 years. Come by water or road, sit indoors or outside, but bring a big appetite and enjoy this Sarasota institution.

THE ROOF BAR & EATS

With dazzling views of downtown Sarasota, the local marina and Sarasota Bay, The Roof Bar & Eats gives a whole new meaning to a room with a view. Located on the 19th floor of The Westin hotel, you can enjoy poolside cocktails, lunch or sundown menus, and live music several nights a week.