This time around, Sarasota was a nice side trip on the way to Boston. And it was an ideal one to decompress and get ready to meet the freezing weather of New England head-on. I flew to Tampa from Houston and then headed down the southwest coast toward the shell- and sun-filled weekend.
Guess which beach is frequently named #1 in the U.S.? That's right, Siesta Key. Its stunning coastline soothes the vitamin D-seeking soul, and I doubt anyone who lives nearby spends their weekends doing anything other than going to the beach.
After walking on the finest sand I've ever felt between my toes and swimming in the gentle, aquamarine Gulf waters, I understand why this spot is an unofficial getaway for both tourists and locals alike.
Add to that the Instagram-worthy colorful lifeguard huts along the beach, free parking, and you've got an award-winning destination.
But the beach is just the beginning. The incredible John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art—the pink gem of Sarasota—along with the Circus Museum and Ca' d'Zan, a Venetian Gothic palazzo, are an absolute treat for the eyes. The Ringling's impressive collection of over 300 Italian, Spanish, and French paintings, combined with the pink palace and the stunning Renaissance courtyard, sweep you right into the glorified past.
Talk about whimsical, fun and happy. You cannot help but smile at all the happy creations that this place carries. I drove by Marietta Museum and was drawn in by their enchanting garden with larger-than-life flamingos, monkeys and the giant bright yellow Live Your Dream sign in front of the museum. A happy place for color and craft lovers. The best part? Admission is free, with only a suggested $5 donation.
Crossing the John Ringling bridge to get there is a marvelous ride in itself. The beautiful views of the bay and blazing sunsets, if you choose to go there later in the day, will accompany you to The Circle. Designed in quadrant areas with the small park in the center, the place has a myriad of fancy art boutiques, coastal restaurants with plenty sittings available outside, gift shops, retail outlets and little shops selling popcorn, taffy, candy and frozen treats. Don't miss the latter, those were really good.
Okay. Okay. It's not actually in Sarasota, but the Village of the Arts in Bradenton is too good not to mention it here and it's only 30 minutes north from Downtown Sarasota.
Taking a wrong turn on my way Tampa I ended up in this vibrant community. Residents of this artsy enclave turned their old houses into bright, highly decorated studios for their work. I made it there quite late in the day when all studios were already closed but nonetheless I enjoyed the wandering around and all the quirkiness of the place. It doesn't hurt to get lost sometimes.
All in all, it's been a nice detour on a way to New England, the one I am more than likely to take again in the months to come.
You’ve got to catch the sunset over the Gulf Coast—it’s absolutely gorgeous! Lido Beach is one of the best spots to do it. The colors are insane as they reflect off the water, and you can hunt for shells while you’re there. The sun looks so huge, close, and bright that it feels like you could almost reach out and touch it! It’s like a giant golden ball just hanging in the sky, making everything around it glow. Just grab a spot and soak in the beauty of it all. You won’t regret it!
If you're in Sarasota, be sure to check out Anna Maria Island, a charming, laid-back barrier island just a short drive away. Known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and quaint local shops. If you cherish a more authentic and serene experience along the Gulf Coast, this is the perfect place to escape and enjoy the simplicity of coastal life, all while avoiding the hustle and bustle of more commercialized tourist spots.
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