The Must-see Attractions
of Sarasota in Florida…
Attractions sarasota fl,
sarasota tourist attractions, mote marine sarasota, ringling museum sarasota
There is something in Sarasota for everybody—delicious foodstuff, art and
culture, sports, beaches, etc! Yes, there have been changes too, what with
escalating prices of real estate and industrial growth; yet, it is still
a lovely place to visit!
(1) If you are a food lover but wish to stay close to the beaches and
museums, you should step into Hibiscus Suites Inn that is a non-smoking
inn. It is located just off the Tamiami Trail on Stickney Point Road.
Then again, if you are missing home, treat your palate to delicious home-cooked
food such as an old-fashioned meat loaf and pies at Sugar & Spice
on Cattlemen Road or Yoder’s on Bahia Vista! The only snag is that you
might have to stand in queue, considering that there is a large crowd
always; reservations are not allowed. There is an Amish settlement called
Pinecraft, situated right in the heart of the city, where you can experience
the Amish style of cooking in quite a few restaurants there. If you prefer
a modern hotel, there is a new Ritz Carlton waiting for you, though a
bit expensive.
Now, if your taste buds hanker for some steaks or seafood, pasta or pizza—take
the advice of locals. There is one place that has received an “Award of
Excellence” year after year from the Wine Spectator; it is the Bijou Café.
Situated downtown in Sarasota
City, this upscale restaurant has also received the highest
food score during a Zagat Survey! The best pizzas can be had at a place
called Patellinis, which is run by an Indian named Patel. Situated directly
across from the Santa Fe Trails Gallery, this place offers flavored, thin
crust pizzas that are scrumptious!!
(2) Apart from the pristine, wonderfully powdery, white quartz crystal
beaches, there is a hands-on science museum known as G WIZ. You can create
your own robot, explore your physical abilities, play with sound and light
waves, view bees and snakes and fish—in fact, a thoroughly enjoyable place
for young and old alike! There is also a KidsZone for children aged below
6 years. Another marvelous must-see attraction is the Mote Aquarium set
up by Mote Marine Laboratory. How would you like to see a preserved giant
squid or a live sea turtle or a live manatee at such close quarters? You
could even go one step further and hold a sea star in your hands or pet
a Manta Ray! The icing on the cake is the 135,000-gallon shark exhibit!
(3) Are you an Art fanatic? Then do not forget to take a look at the
Ringing Museum of Art that is situated close to the Siesta Key beaches
and North of Highway 41. The 17th century Baroque Art collection should
make your eyes pop out in wonder! Other museums that are worth visiting
are the Circus Museum and Ca d’Zan (This is the 32-roomed Venetian-Gothic
house of Mable and John Ringling that is located on Sarasota Bay). A few
other galleries, as well as shops that offer snacks and entertainment
can be found on Palm Avenue.
(4) Some of you might enjoy sports more than anything else. Try lawn
bowling at the facility situated on the Tamiami Trail; it is just north
of downtown. For baseball, check out the Cincinnati Reds; you might see
them in action during a spring training game!
(5) Finally, some of you might just enjoy shopping and want nothing more.
St. Armand’s Circle is just the place for you! It has an astounding 140
upscale shops, along with art galleries, restaurants, and boutiques. Other
purchasing centers offer Saks Fifth Avenue, Ann Taylor, Burdines, etc.
Outlet stores are to be found in Ellenton, and flea markets in Venice
and Bradenton. The best place to go for bargains is the Woman’s Exchange
downtown. This consignment shop even offers scholarships and grants, along
with sales of unique items.
So, when are you heading for splendid Sarasota?
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