5401 Bay Shore Road - (941) 359-5700 | map | website
A trip to Sarasota isn’t complete without visiting the Ringling Museum. The museum is on a big plot of land and features an art museum, a circus museum, and the famous Ca d’Zan ("House of John," the Ringling’s mansion) with its spectacular grounds and views. There’s also a cafe and gift shops. The Ringling Museum always has some special events and workshops, so visit the website for the latest news.
Key words: tourist attraction, museum, local favorite, popular, family friendly

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St. Armand’s is on Lido Key, and the entire circle is full of unique shops, excellent restaurants, and some of the best people-watching in town. You can go casual for an inexpensive dinner at Cha Cha Coconuts and some ice cream at Ben & Jerry’s or one of the smaller, independent ice cream stops. Then take a walk and do some free window shopping. Or, get snazzed up and drop a pretty penny at Cafe L’Europe, then head up to the Straight Up Nightclub at 15 South Ristorante Enoteca to cut a rug with your sweetheart. St. Armand’s is great for families, lovers, and friends alike.
Key words: Lido Key, local favorite, family friendly, tourist stop, good for visitors

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Drive along Ocean Blvd. into Siesta Key. You’re there. Siesta Key’s beaches are a sight to see– beautiful, pure white sand as fine as baby powder. So fine, it sticks to you and won’t let go. Drive slowly along Ocean Blvd. and look for free parking in the small beach access lots along the boulevard. If you’re heading there anytime after Memorial Day, you’re well advised to get there very early, or else arrive at an odd time when people might be leaving. Siesta also has a nice concession and restroom area (and the restrooms are actually clean). By the way, if you’re not a year-round resident, you’ll be pleased to know that our Gulf waters are swimable even as early as February or March.
Key words: Siesta Key, local favorite, place to take visitors