There’s no doubt that Sarasota has some of the most impressive attractions in all Florida. From art museums to outdoor activities, there’s something here for everyone. When you’re here in Sarasota, Florida there are a few extraordinary destinations you won’t want to pass up. Check out the nine best places you’ll have to add to your list below. #3 is our favorite!
1. Myakka River State Park
Known as one of Florida’s oldest and largest state parks, Myakka River Park extends across 58 square miles of wetlands, hammocks, pinelands and prairies. The park is one of few state-protected wildlife sanctuaries where untouched natural beauty resides. Featuring a river and two lakes, the park offers limitless natural features and activities to enjoy the Florida outdoors.
2. The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art
There’s an unparalleled level of fine art and masterpieces at The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art. The museum features thousands of Medieval, Renaissance, Greek, Roman and Cypriot antiques and works of art. Some of the world’s oldest and greatest collections attract everyone from art enthusiasts to architecture and culture lovers.
3. Lido Beach
Lido Beach is a destination that is easy to access but hard to forget. Situated less than five miles southwest of the city center, Lido Beach offers more than 3,000 feet of white beaches and pristine water. What’s more, Lido beach sits within walking distance of St. Armand’s Circle so that visitors can stop by and enjoy various shops and eateries. From picnic-ing to seashell hunting to swimming, this beach has it all.
4. Ca’ d’Zan
Appreciated as one of Sarasota’s most beloved historic gems, Ca’ d’Zan is a historic mansion with Venetian Gothic-style architecture and elegant interiors. John Ringling was the owner of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus and his wife, Mable was charmed by Sarasota’s nature and weather, the couple made the town their permanent home by building a mansion unrivaled beauty and architecture. Today, it’s a not-to-be-missed local attraction.
5. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Featuring the tranquil atmosphere and scenic views of Sarasota Bay, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is home to more than 20,000 exotic plants and beautiful flora. Within its eight greenhouses are fascinating collections such as ferns, bamboo, banyan trees, and orchids. Additionally, the garden’s kid-friendly areas – including a Butterfly Garden and a Children’s Rainforest Garden – make this place a perfect destination for families.
6. Sarasota National Cemetery
Designed to highlight Sarasota’s background as a military post for flight training, the 295-acre Sarasota National Cemetery has served as the final resting place for thousands of fallen veterans since it opened to the public in 2019. Funerals are still regularly held at the facility and visitors are more than welcome to pay their respects. This is where some of the nation’s honored veterans and our heroes rest in peace.
7. Sarasota Golf Courses
Sarasota is often referred to as “The Cradle of Golf” because of its abundance of top-notch courses and many golfers seek out the area’s championship courses. There are plenty of courses available to the public and residents at BLVD Sarasota even have a private indoor simulator available for them.
8. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
Part-research center, part-aquarium, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium features nine exhibits with two interactive areas and a 135,000-gallon shark tank. The property houses more than 100 species of marine animals such as sea turtles, otters, and manatees. The facility is passionate about protecting our reefs and ocean and educates the public to coexist with the precious life in the ocean.
9. Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary
Listed as the top destination for animal lovers and families, Sarasota’s Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary has cared for exotic animals like lions, tigers, bears, and chimpanzees since 1987. In addition to housing various wildlife, the facility hosts bird and big cat shows with educational talks and demonstrations to teach the importance of protecting these animals.
Amazingly, all of these destinations are just around town. With so many things to do and so many places to visit, downtown Sarasota is an area in the heart of city’s arts and culture scenes. Now, you can be a part of Sarasota’s dynamic culture at BLVD Sarasota, the area’s new luxury condominium located in downtown Sarasota.
The most exciting part? BLVD Sarasota has recently completed construction! And with only 16 condominiums remaining, BLVD Sarasota offers a landmark lifestyle and picturesque location for its residents. The spacious designs offer some of the largest floor plans around ranging in size from 3,550 sf. to 3,900 sf and priced from the $1.9 million.
BLVD Sarasota residents are always just steps away from the city’s world-class entertainment, museums, art galleries, and restaurants. A future development titled ‘The Bay’ is working to deliver live entertainment, outdoor activities, and a gorgeously designed social center-right to the Rosemary District’s doorstep. Another future development titled The Quay Sarasota will serve to fill a need for shops and entertainments within the Rosemary District’s area.
Interested buyers are urged to visit our new sales studio and furnished model residence inside the building. Call our client liaisons at 941-316-1499 to schedule your tour today. BLVD Sarasota is located at 1224 BLVD of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236. Stop by for a visit, download our Digital Brochure, or visit our website at BLVDSarasota.com.
