Enjoy Sunny Sarasota’s Coastal Charm At These Local Attractions!

05/15/2019 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Enjoy Sunny Sarasota’s Coastal Charm At These Local Attractions!

There’s no place to be like Sunny Sarasota this summer! No matter how you choose to spend your time, Sarasota has endless fun in store for all.

Here Are Some Of Sunny Sarasota’s Best Local Attractions:

Artist’s Retreat

The Ringling

Art lovers from all over revel at The Ringling’s 66-acre breathtaking bayfront hideaway. Once the estate of art appreciators John and Mable Ringling, this historic museum includes priceless art, a circus, gorgeous gardens, historic tours, and more! With classic collections from the original owners to modern artists, the magnificent art display at The Ringling has something for everyone.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

This 15-acre scenic site is full of blooming florals and many different types of plant life. If you’re looking for an artsy adventure for the whole family, the Selby Botanical Gardens features The Children’s Rainforest, which has many different kids activities to enjoy. A tropical paradise filled with orchids, banyan trees, ferns and many more local plants, this peaceful retreat is a spot you must visit.

Nature Lover’s Paradise

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Another adventure the whole family can enjoy, Sarasota Jungle Gardens allows you to take an intimate look at the habitats of florida’s most fascinating animals. This 10-acre site is home to over 150 rescued animals, including parrots, lemurs, monkeys, crocodiles and many more. Feed the flamingos or watch the reptile show on this intriguing tropical venture.

Big Cat Habitat

If you can’t get enough of florida’s exotic animal life, check out the Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary, a Sarasota non-profit and rescue sanctuary. Pet the goats and llamas, or watch the giant cats and vibrant birds in the animal shows performed.

Mote Marine Aquarium

This amazing aquarium houses over 100 species of marine life! The “Shark Zone” is a 135,000 gallon tank of shark frenzy fun everyone will enjoy gazing at. Stroll by the touch tanks and pet the stingrays, sea cucumber and other aquatic life. Don’t forget to wave goodbye at the friendly Mote mascots, the manatees Hugh and Buffett!

Mixon Fruit Farms

Yet another family-friendly adventure Sunny Sarasota offers, Mixon Fruit Farms has tram rides, historical charm and more! Wind through the citrus groves on a relaxing tram ride and check out the butterfly garden, all while learning of the Sunshine State’s fabulous fruits.

Original Article Here

The Best Of Sarasota: 6 Exquisite Waterside Dining Experiences

05/05/2019 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Whether your dream Sarasota vacation includes water activities, safari adventures, or relaxing by the waterside with a good book, you will want to make time to grab a bite at some of these six breathtaking waterside restaurants. If you want to make the most of your time in Sunny Sarasota, you’ve come to the right place! Below you will find Sarasota’s best waterfront restaurants; sit back, relax and enjoy Florida’s freshest bounties with serene saltwater on your horizon.

Fin’s at Sharky’s

Take a short trip to the south end of Venice Island, where you will find Fin’s at Sharky’s, the only local restaurant situated right on the Gulf of Mexico. Sip on a carefully crafted cocktail while drinking in the beauty of the Gulf. Famed for their Tuna Tacos and unbelievable view, Fin’s at Sharky’s will be a lunch or dinner treat to remember.

Old Salty Dog – City Island

Complete your Sarasota adventures with a lunch break at Old Salty Dog. Their namesake, Salty Dog, is a must try! This treat is a quarter pound hot dog deep fried to golden perfection and served on a toasty bun – the ideal Sarasota vacation isn’t complete without it! Also famed in Sarasota for their bloody marys, the “Spicy Mary” comes highly recommended to sip with your seafood.

Ophelia’s On The Bay

Looking to experience serene Sarasota in style? Stop by Ophelia’s On The Bay to enjoy their exclusive wine, fresh seafood and more! Be sure to reserve your seat at an outdoor table ahead of time.

The Crow’s Nest

South of Venice Island has all of the best-kept secret spots! Dock on the side of The Crow’s Nest for a relaxing midday meal. The crabcake is The Crow’s Nest’s famed meal – the most flavorful crab you’ll find in Sarasota!.

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill

No Sarasota vacation is complete without dinner at Dry Dock Waterfront Grill. A local favorite for their classic lobster roll, this waterside dining spot will satisfy all of your seafood needs. If you’re not much of a lobster lover, their sandwich selection and pasta dishes provide a mouthwatering affair.

O’Leary’s Tiki Bar and Grill

If you are looking for a picturesque dining experience with unforgettable views, O’Leary’s Tiki Bar and Grill is the place to be. This laid-back, fur-baby friendly grill is the perfect pit stop when exploring downtown Sarasota or end to an adventurous day. The outdoor picnic area is reminiscent of Sarasota’s glistening beaches with soft sands underfoot. Serving seafood classics such as fried shrimp and grilled Mahi Mahi, the tiki bar is a lively haunt, frequented by locals and tourists. Relax over dinner and drinks while gazing at the mangroves and Sarasota Bay, the perfect end to your day!

Regardless of where you spend your vacation in Sunny Sarasota, you will want to make time for a meal at one of these serene seaside spots!

Original Article Here

Dive Into Sarasota’s Tastiest Seafood Spots

04/22/2019 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Dive Into Sarasota’s Tastiest Seafood Spots

By Hannah M.

Are you planning your Sarasota vacation and on the search for the best seafood spots? Southwest Florida has the freshest fish on the Gulf of Mexico! Take a look below at some of Sarasota’s favorite fish restaurants.

Walt’s Fish Market, Restaurant & Tiki Bar

4144 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

Originally started as a fish market by the Wallin family, this restaurant took off in the 40’s when Tom Wallin began to cook up the catch of the day for local fishers. Since then, they have relocated and refreshed their entire business to include a full bar and a variety of fresh fish, including a rotating catch of the day. The grouper sandwich is a local favorite and said to be the best in the area!

Crab & Fin

420 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota

A fundamental pitstop on St. Armand’s Circle for over four decades, Crab & Fin is known for the freshest fish in the region. Serving seafood from near and far, this seafood spot is one of the tastiest around! Their menu features a variety of seafood, from mahi-mahi to crab claws; Crab & Fin will satisfy all of your seafood cravings.

Eat Here

5315 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach

If you are craving the most savory seafood tacos in Southwest Florida, Eat Here has it all!. Featuring fish tacos in a truly authentic setting, this fish taco restaurant brings only the best ingredients to your plate. Served with Sriracha and crunchy vegetables, this taco promises a mouthwatering fare no matter what you fill it with.

Indigenous

239 S. Links Ave., Sarasota

A go-to spot for Sarasota locals, Indigenous offers great meals and good times. While they serve a variety of local food, Indigenous is most renowned for their seafood specials. Chef Steve Phelps carefully crafts each plate to perfection and is devoted to promoting renewable species. This restaurant is a fundamental fishy spot for your Sarasota vacation!

Spearfish Grille

1265 old Stickney Piont Rd, Sarasota

Quaint and relaxing, Spearfish offers fresh fish, shellfish and more right from the Gulf while giving you an close perspective of local life. Serving some of the most scrumptious seafood in the area, Spearfish doesn’t focus on appearance, but rather being known for the freshest catch around.

Original Article Here

Exploring Sarasota’s Burgeoning Rosemary District

04/08/2019 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Exploring Sarasota’s Burgeoning Rosemary District

Take a day trip just north of downtown Sarasota to the Rosemary district, where you will find the peak of Sarasota’s culture. This vibrant coastal corner is Sarasota’s center of modern culture, local art and tasty cuisine!

Sarasota Modern

If you’re looking for the perfect quaint hideaway, Sarasota Modern is in the center of the Rosemary District and focuses on lavish living. This elegant hotel promises a relaxing stay to look forward to at the end of the day.

The Yoga Shack

What better way to start the day than by greeting the sunrise with a salutation? The Yoga Shack starts it’s schedule early, with a variety of classes to suit all levels of yogis.

Lolita Tartine

After your refreshing yoga session, take a short walk over to Lolita Tartine, a tasty, traditional French breakfast spot. Start off with something sweet, like their mouthwatering chocolate croissant or a crepe while you sip on your cafe au lait. For those who like a more filling meal to start the day, give the personal quiche a go with your espresso.

The Overton

Experience the Rosemary District and Sarasota culture up close during your lunch break at The Overton. This trendy lunch spot is named after Sarasota County’s first Black community, and is the heart of the Rosemary District. Meander around the neighborhood after lunch and take in the colorful murals, local art and intriguing history. The murals in the Rosemary District are reason enough to visit this charming location; the art found here draws in locals and tourists alike.

Mandeville Beer Garden & Rudolph’s

For some happy hour specials to kick off your evening, Rudolph’s offers a perfectly crafted cocktail. If a local brew is more up your alley, Mandeville Beer Garden keeps a rotating selection of local brewers, including the popular JDub’s Brewing Company.

The Rosemary

Head over to The Rosemary for dinner in classic Sarasota style. With delectable dishes like tuna tartare and duck a l’orange waiting to be enjoyed while watching the sunset, this restaurant is a key dining experience. Named after the Rosemary District, the cultural cuisine served here in a coastal setting is wonderful way to finish the day.

The Blue Rooster

For a lively way to end the evening, The Blue Rooster offers nightly blues entertainment. Featuring local and touring musicians, the soulful sounds found at The Blue Rooster is an esoteric experience.

The Rosemary district is one of Sarasota’s many historical locations! See here for more intriguing historical escapades to enjoy on your vacation.

Original Article Here

Top Ten Ways To Have Fun In Sunny Sarasota

04/03/2019 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Are you looking for the most exciting adventures and activities to occupy your time on your Sarasota vacation? Here is a list of Sarasota’s best places to have the most fun on limited time!

Red Bug Slough Preserve

Explore Florida’s natural habitats at Red Bug Slough Preserve. The plethora of trails to choose from, ranging from short trips to long adventures, are perfect for a limited schedule!

O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill

Check out the local’s favorite spot, O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill for an evening of live music in the tropics. If your schedule allows it, enjoy a cocktail from the bar after riding a paddle boat on Sarasota Bay.

Spa at The Ritz-Carlton

Whether you are in Sarasota for business or pleasure, some pampering at The Ritz-Carlton is a must! Treat yourself to a 45-minute thermal detox or an 80-minute massage.

Red Barn Flea Market

Dive into Red Barn’s bottomless treasures and hunt for souvenirs!

Venice Beach

Miles of glistening sandy beaches, layered with black shark’s teeth await you at Venice Beach, the Shark Tooth Capital of the World. A leisurely walk over the pristine sands will yield timeless treasures to remember your adventures by.

The Ringling

Are you an art lover? The Ringling is a necessary pit-stop for art appreciators of all kinds! Offering free admission on Mondays, this art haven is a must-see.

Yoder’s Amish Restaurant

Enjoy a slice of mouthwatering pie at Yoder’s Amish Restaurant & Amish Village…the classic double crust apple pie is a crowd favorite!

Smuggler’s Cove

Are you looking for family-friendly adventure options, but short on time? Smuggler’s Cove Adventure Golf offers the perfect family retreat. Feed the gators and if your schedule allows, get in a round of putt putt with the kids!

Mote Marine Aquarium

Mote Marine Aquarium is another intriguing, family-friendly venture! Moon over the manatees or head to the other side of the aquarium where the sharks are held for a little scare!

Historic Spanish Point

Take a historical journey through Spanish Point and learn all about the past of Sarasota! Visit their site to see the group tours offered or take a self-guided tour on your own time.

Original Article Here

The Complete Sarasota Road Trip Checklist

03/27/201903/27/2019 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

The Complete Sarasota Road Trip Checklist

By Hannah M.

You’ve booked accommodations, you’ve planned out the perfect vacation itinerary, and you’re almost ready to hit the road to Sunny Sarasota! See below for your complete road trip checklist to make sure you don’t miss a thing.

1. Bring The Party Bus In For A Check Up!

To ensure you don’t hit any unforeseen mechanical bumps on the road, bring your car in for a tune up before leaving. If your car has recently been serviced, be sure to still fill up fluids and check tire pressures for a smooth trip.

2. Don’t Forget Your Paperwork

Don’t forget to bring any necessary paperwork you may need for the trip, such as hotel reservations and insurance information.

3. Emergency And First Aid Kit

Having an emergency kit on hand is a must for any road trip! See here for some ideas of what to include in your emergency road trip kit. You will also want to ensure that your car’s first aid kit is fully stocked and ready to go.

4. Snack Cooler

No road trip is complete without some sweet and savory snacks to munch on. Easy and tasty road trip snacks include: trail mix, cheese sticks, grapes and berries, cut fruit, and granola. Make sure you have plenty of water and choice drinks to stay hydrated with.

5. Pet Supplies

Doggie bags, a small treat bag stored in the glove compartment, and chew toys are all good ideas to bring along for your furry friends!

6. Map Out Route

Before heading out, you will want to print out your directions and research some stops or meal options for a seamless ride.

7. Car Games

8. Trash Bin

9. Tissues and Wet Wipes

10. Headphones/AUX and USB cables

11. Change For Tolls

12. Rain Jacket/Sweater/Extra Clothes

With this complete road trip checklist, you are ready to hit the road to sunny Sarasota this summer!

Original Article Here

7 Group Tours To Further Your Sunny Sarasota Explorations

03/21/2019 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

7 Group Tours To Further Your Sunny Sarasota Explorations

Learn all about Sarasota’s rich history, taste the local brews and fully experience all of the breathtaking sights Sunny Sarasota has to offer with these 7 group tours!

Discover Sarasota

Discover all of Sarasota’s most intriguing stories and folklore aboard Discover Sarasota’s trolley tour. With multiple tours to choose from exploring every corner of Sarasota, you are in for an unforgettable adventure. “Love Stories of Sarasota” is a local favorite, with complimentary beer and wine offered prior to boarding. The sweet peak of this tour is certainly the stop at Peterbrooke Chocolatier, a chocoholic’s dream!

Sarasota Suncoast

Another tour that delves into the rich history of Sarasota, Sarasota Suncoast Tour is a creative’s ideal exploration. The “Gods, Goddesses, & Myths” tour is a wonderful way to learn about Sarasota’s folklore while viewing the local art.

Key Culinary

Key Culinary, run by the same management as Sarasota Suncoast Tours, gives a savory perspective of Sarasota’s tastiest spots. Sarasota is a foodie paradise and aboard Key Culinary you will experience all of the best flavors! Travel across the world on the “International Flavors” tour, which comes highly recommended.

SRQ Fun Trolley

Make sure to reserve your spot on SRQ’s Fun Trolley’s Sunday Tour for a fantastic day of fun around the town! Sample Sarasota’s microbreweries and local wine on this entertaining and relaxing Sunday afternoon tour.

Sarasota Bike Tours

Breeze by Sarasota’s most intriguing sights on Sarasota’s Bike Tours! All equipment for the tour is included, along with a tour guide to give you all of the interesting facts about the local area. With a plethora of different tours to choose from, Sarasota Bike Tours has something for everyone! The “Downtown Historic Tour” is a crowd favorite that runs year round.

Original Article Here

Spring Events In Sunny Sarasota

03/13/2019 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

If you’ve been looking for the perfect spring adventure to explore Florida, Sarasota is full of fun to be had! Take a look at the exciting events below on sunny Sarasota’s schedule this spring.

Sarasota Garden Club

Experience Sarasota’s Spring season with all of it’s fantastic florals at Sarasota’s Garden Club. With a private garden tours following a Wedding Flower Show at the end of the month, Sarasota’s Garden Club offers a relaxing day venture for all. Featuring a breathtaking display of native and tropical plants on over an acre of beautifully maintained grounds, this spring paradise is an adventure you don’t want to miss.

Jewish Film Festival

Travel the world on your vacation to Sarasota this Spring at the Jewish Film Festival. Sarasota’s 10th annual Jewish Film Festival is held all throughout march, featuring many different films from all around the globe!

Ringling Underground

Running throughout March and April in the Ringling Museum Courtyard, Ringling Underground offers an serene evening under the stars, in addition to food, drinks, and local music. End the night while under Sarasota’s starry skies with this enchanting evening event.

Moon Over Myakka Concert

Head out to Myakka State Park for a captivating night away from Southwest Florida’s hustle and bustle. Moon Over Myakka on March 15th features Florida-based Eagles cover band, The Alter Eagles, from 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Soak Up The Sunshine: Brown Bag Lunch Concert

Take it easy in the sunshine at the Brown Bag Lunch Concert in Phillipi Park every Thursday this March. This is a relaxing way to spend the day for all, especially if you’re searching for family-friendly activities!

Sarasota County Fair

Check out Sarasota locals favorite place to have fun at the 83rd annual Sarasota County Fair! Get your fill of deep-fried foods, agricultural exhibits, along with carnival festivities March 15th – March 24th at the Sarasota County Fairgrounds.

My Hometown Fest

March 23rd from 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at Nathan Benderson Park

Lastly, My Hometown Fest is a great way to experience Sarasota. Established in 2016 as a charity event to support the Sertoma Club of Greater Sarasota, which assists families with language disabilities. With craft beer, classic cuisine from local restaurants, live music and endless family-friendly fun, My Hometown Fest is undoubtedly a perfect way to spend the day.

Original Article Here

Sarasota-Manatee’s Tastiest Taco Locations

03/04/2019 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Sarasota-Manatee’s Tastiest Taco Locations

Let’s not burrito round the bush…Sarasota is the tastiest taco location in Florida! Keep reading for some of Southwest Florida’s most exclusive taco stops.

Sarasota’s Best Taco

First opened over a decade ago, Melange is a local favorite; their tiny tacos are a delicious start to your meal! Famed for the curry-braised rabbit tacos topped with a piece of mango, Melange is Sarasota’s ultimate taco spot!

Best Shrimp Taco

Tacos – To Go’s specialty is the Honduran baleadas, a giant taco filled with spicy shrimp and layered with pico de gallo, guacamole and cheese. While their shrimp taco is the main attraction, the appetizing selection of Latin American specialties found at Tacos – To Go is unique to Sarasota.

Wicked Cantina

Tacos are a go-to meal anytime of day! Wicked Cantina is locally famous for their savory breakfast tacos, served in flour tortillas and topped with cholula, with an array of fillings to choose, from chorizo, avocado, bacon, and more. Wicked Cantina promises a scrumptious start to your day!

El Tio Carlos

Located inside the Red Barn Flea Market, this tasteful taco stand’s forte is roasted pork stuffed inside a thick tortilla, topped with a spicy red sauce. Well-known to Sarasota for their distinctive Middle Eastern take on traditional tacos, El Tio Carlos offers an enticing experience.

Poppo’s Taqueria

For the tastiest chicken taco you’ve tried yet, check out Poppo’s Taqueria. Chicken can be a predictable route to take when trying tacos, but Poppo’s Taqueria doesn’t let a single flavor go unused! Simmered down in ancho chili powder with endless topping choices, Poppo’s chicken taco is a tantalizing adventure for your taste buds.

La Brisa Tacos Y Mariscos

Are you looking for the yummiest carnitas in Southwest Florida? Head over to La Brisa Tacos Y Mariscos to satisfy your carnita craving! Tossed together inside of a corn tortilla and drizzled with homemade sauce, this taco is a must-try.

Fish Taco Frenzy

For a perfect pairing of seafood stuffed in tortillas, Eat Here is sure to be an impressive affair. The featured fish taco here changes daily to include the freshest catch; regardless of what’s on the menu, you’re in for a treat!

Best Vegetarian Spot – Taco ‘bout Tasty!

Are you looking for mouthwatering vegetarian-friendly taco spots? Birdrock Taco Shack has something for everyone. The “Avocado Banh Mi” is a favorite vegetarian option, filled with fresh fruit and jalapeno-pickled vegetables.

Original Article Here

Sarasota: A Bookworm’s Paradise

02/25/2019 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Sarasota: A Bookworm’s Paradise

What could be more relaxing than spending your vacation venturing into a world of your favorite literary characters? Grab a fresh coffee from one of the many local Sarasota roasters on your way to the book nooks below and get ready to read the day away!

The Ultimate Book Lover’s Adventure: A. Parker’s Book Bazaar

Beloved by Sarasota locals and a destination bookstore for readers, A. Parker’s Book Bazaar is an antique book utopia filled fascinating collectibles. The lifeline of this unique book lover paradise is the room behind the locked glass door, filled with collectibles and artifacts that the owner, Gary Hurst, sells to international collectors. The oldest book held there is an Italian artifact from 1604! The abundance of history and knowledge you can find here makes it one of the top places to visit on your reading journey. The towering bookshelves create a maze through vintage works of literature, inviting you on an adventure for the books.

Best Bookstores in Sarasota

Bookstore1Sarasota

Located at 12 S. Palm Avenue, Sarasota, Bookstore1 is home for word lovers of all kinds! Featuring live poetry nights, an annual poetry festival, and even book suggestions from Sarasota locals, watch written words come to life on your visit to Bookstore1.

Brant’s Used Books

Found at 429 N. Lime Avenue, Sarasota, Brant’s offers a new kind of reading environment. You can buy books here or if you have some old books you’ve crossed off your reading list, you can even trade those in for some new reads!

Enjoy Sunny Sarasota’s Coastal Charm At These Local Attractions!

There’s no place to be like Sunny Sarasota this summer! No matter how you choose to spend your time, Sarasota has endless fun in store for all.

Here Are Some Of Sunny Sarasota’s Best Local Attractions:

Artist’s Retreat

Nature Lover’s Paradise

Fin’s at Sharky’s

Old Salty Dog – City Island

Ophelia’s On The Bay

The Crow’s Nest

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill

O’Leary’s Tiki Bar and Grill

Regardless of where you spend your vacation in Sunny Sarasota, you will want to make time for a meal at one of these serene seaside spots!

Dive Into Sarasota’s Tastiest Seafood Spots

Are you planning your Sarasota vacation and on the search for the best seafood spots? Southwest Florida has the freshest fish on the Gulf of Mexico! Take a look below at some of Sarasota’s favorite fish restaurants.

Exploring Sarasota’s Burgeoning Rosemary District

Take a day trip just north of downtown Sarasota to the Rosemary district, where you will find the peak of Sarasota’s culture. This vibrant coastal corner is Sarasota’s center of modern culture, local art and tasty cuisine!

Mandeville Beer Garden & Rudolph’s

The Rosemary district is one of Sarasota’s many historical locations! See here for more intriguing historical escapades to enjoy on your vacation.

Are you looking for the most exciting adventures and activities to occupy your time on your Sarasota vacation? Here is a list of Sarasota’s best places to have the most fun on limited time!

The Complete Sarasota Road Trip Checklist

1. Bring The Party Bus In For A Check Up!

2. Don’t Forget Your Paperwork

3. Emergency And First Aid Kit

4. Snack Cooler

5. Pet Supplies

6. Map Out Route

7. Car Games

8. Trash Bin

9. Tissues and Wet Wipes

10. Headphones/AUX and USB cables

11. Change For Tolls

12. Rain Jacket/Sweater/Extra Clothes

With this complete road trip checklist, you are ready to hit the road to sunny Sarasota this summer!

7 Group Tours To Further Your Sunny Sarasota Explorations

Learn all about Sarasota’s rich history, taste the local brews and fully experience all of the breathtaking sights Sunny Sarasota has to offer with these 7 group tours!

If you’ve been looking for the perfect spring adventure to explore Florida, Sarasota is full of fun to be had! Take a look at the exciting events below on sunny Sarasota’s schedule this spring.

Sarasota-Manatee’s Tastiest Taco Locations

Let’s not burrito round the bush…Sarasota is the tastiest taco location in Florida! Keep reading for some of Southwest Florida’s most exclusive taco stops.

Sarasota: A Bookworm’s Paradise

What could be more relaxing than spending your vacation venturing into a world of your favorite literary characters? Grab a fresh coffee from one of the many local Sarasota roasters on your way to the book nooks below and get ready to read the day away!

The Ultimate Book Lover’s Adventure: A. Parker’s Book Bazaar

Beyond The Books: Cozy Corners to Explore