"Sarasota – Florida’s Cultural Capital" Sarasota by Tolik

Sarasota Travel Guide: 287 reviews and 505 photos

Sarasota – Florida’s Cultural Capital - Sarasota

Sarasota is a dynamic city with an international flair. The city offers big-city sofistication yet maintain the natural beauty that attracts visitors to the Sunshine State. Far enough away from Tampa and St. Petersburg to have identity very much its own, Sarasota is one of Florida’s cultural centers. In fact, many people believe that Sarasota is the cultural capital of Florida. Many visitors to Florida spend their time in Sarasota County because there is so much to keep them entertained and stimulated, including the magnificent Ringling Museum of Art, the very fine Asolo Center for the Performing Arts and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.

Legend has it that Sarasota was named after the explorer Hernando de Soto’s daughter, Sara (hence, Sara-sota). In more recent times, the town most famous resident was circus legend and visionary John Ringling (1866 – 1936). He built a palatial bay-front mansion known as Ca’d’Zan, erected outstanding museum to house his world-class collection of baroque paintings, and built the causeway out to St. Armands and Lido keys.

Offshore, 35 miles (56 km) of unbelievably white beaches fringe a chain of long, narrow barrier islands called Keys. Shielded from the Mexican Gulf by Lido Key, St. Armands has one of Florida’s ritziest shopping and dining districts. To the south, Siesta Key is a quiet residential area popular with writers and artisans. And stretching north to Bradenton, Longboat Key is one of Florida’s wealthiest islands.

  • Intro Written Sep 11, 2002
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Reviews (11)

Marie Salby Botanical Gardens ... - Sarasota Marie Salby Botanical Gardens ... Things to Do (3)

Marie Salby Botanical Gardens is a “must see” for serious plant lovers, this peaceful place on the Sarasota Bay is said... more travel advice

Built in 1925 and modeled... - Sarasota Built in 1925 and modeled... Local Customs (4)

Built in 1925 and modeled after a Venetian palace, the Ringlings’ 30-room winter residence Ca’d’Zan (House of John) is... more travel advice

The John and Mable Ringling... - Sarasota The John and Mable Ringling... Things to Do (3)

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is a “must see” for the art lovers. Take a trip back in time as you stroll... more travel advice

Warm Mineral Springs (now,... - Sarasota Warm Mineral Springs (now,... Off The Beaten Path (1)

Warm Mineral Springs (now, Golden Springs) is the only spa resort in Florida. Water of rare quality attracts... more travel advice

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