by T Byrd

Created on: June 21, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

Sarasota, Florida has come a long way from once being the home of John Ringling and his Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus to maturing into a major Florida resort community. Nestled on Florida's west coast it has a perfect location combination of Sarasota Bay, The Gulf of Mexico and thirty five miles of beach. The white sand and beautiful sunsets are a big draw for many vacationers.

If you are considering tryng something different while on vacation then take in a bit of Sarasota's very active performing arts community. You have your choice of attending a symphony, ballet, theater and much more. This little city even has it's own film festival which is held annually and celebrities are often in attendance.

There are a few must sees when visiting Sarasota. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art with it's 66 acres of gardens, art and a view of Sarasota Bay. If you enjoy Eco boat tours then visit Mote Aquarium. This is a starred attraction for dolphin and manatee lovers. There you can also view research areas and touch many types of water creatures. For the true feel of nature then visit Sarasota Jungle Gardens. Flower lovers will enjoy the gardens and kids will love the pony rides. The more adventurous traveler will want to take a narrated tour with Myakka Wildlife Tours. This could be your one chance to ride in an airboat. If you are a golf enthusiast then keep in mind that the area has over thirty golf courses and hotel and golf packages are available.

Professional shoppers should be aware of the shopping damage they could do at St. Armands Circle. More than 150 shops are available for your spending pleasure. The Circus Ring of Fame where circus greats are memorialized is located in the heart of St. Armands Circle. It's a walkway of plaques located in Circle Park. A nice place to visit when you have down time.

Sarasota's accomodations range from motels and small scale hotels to the Ritz Carlton. It won't be a hard task finding a hotel that meets your needs and fits into your budget. The same can be said for restaurants and there is quite a variety. There is also plenty of casual dress dining available which is appreciated when on vacation. Who wants to put on a shirt and tie after being on the beach all day?

If you really want to end your visit to Sarasota on a high note then take a Sunset cruise with Enterprise Sailing Charters. You'll have the best view in town if you do.

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