Family-Friendly Adventures to Complete Your 2019 Vacation Checklist: Part 1

Family-Friendly Adventures to Complete Your 2019 Vacation Checklist: Part 1

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Family-Friendly Adventures to Complete Your 2019 Vacation Checklist: Part 1

By Hannah M.

family friendly

Are you looking for an adventure to intrigue the entire family on vacation this year? Southwest Florida has endless fun in store for all!

 

10 Ways to Have Fun with The Whole Family This Year:

  1. Explore Beyond Florida

One of the most refreshing and fun ways to spend your summer this year is exploring one of the many novel parks in Southwest Florida. From rainforests, circus events, and train rides, there’s endless fun to be had!

  1.  Smuggler’s Cove

Get ready for the perfect putt putt adventure! Smuggler’s Cove Adventure Golf courses offer plenty of exciting ventures for the family. Lay the course through caves, pirate ships, and waterfalls. End the day in a unique way and feed the live alligators at Smuggler’s Cove Alligator exhibit.

  1. Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex

Looking for a break from fun in the sun? Southwest Florida has an array of adventures beyond the beautiful beaches. Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex provides a groovy diversion from the heat with DJ skate sessions and more!

  1. Shark Teeth Shakedown

Breathtaking scenery and swimming through sparkling waters isn’t the only alluring attraction of Florida’s gleaming white sand beaches. Venice Beach is the perfect place to hunt for shark’s teeth!

  1. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Explore the secrets of the sea and pet the sharks and stingrays at the Mote Aquarium!

  1. Search For Sea Critters

Gear up with your water shoes and nets and search the Sarasota Bay! There’s no shortage of unique sea life to observe to here.

  1. Summer Beach Fun Run

Running from June through August, this one-mile excursion along Siesta Beach is the perfect family outing – create your own friendly competition and see who can make it to the finish line first! All participants get a ribbon and popsicle at the end.

  1. Siesta Key Drum Circle

Sunday evenings in Siesta are full of entertaining things to do; the Siesta Key Drum Circle being just some of the fun! This is a year-round event, so be sure to stop by and check out this lively crowd on your vacation!

  1. Downtown Farmer’s Market

Downtown Sarasota’s Farmer’s Market has tons of tasty treats to enjoy! Explore Sarasota’s artisan culture with the hand-crafted goodies and live music events found here.

  1. Circus Arts Conservatory

Be sure to squeeze in a spot on your adventure checklist for the circus! Sit back and watch the splendor or for an extra twist of excitement for the kids, they can join in on the fun in the kids-only Sailor Circus.

 

Explore Southwest Florida

The whole family is in for memorable trip with these exciting excursions added to your itinerary. No matter when or where you choose to spend your vacation this year, Southwest Florida brings unforgettable adventures!

Original Article Here

 

Festive Florida Events: A New Year’s Eve to Remember!

Festive Florida Events: A New Year’s Eve to Remember!

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Festive Florida Events: A New Year’s Eve to Remember!

By Hannah M.

Festive Florida Events: A New Year's Eve to Remember!

New Year’s Eve Events in Sarasota and Bradenton

Are you looking for festive, fun ways to celebrate The New Year? Check out these coastal celebrations in Sarasota and Bradenton!

 

Fireworks Cruises and Displays

One of the many exciting ways to ring in The New Year on the West Florida Coast is by watching the dazzling firework displays. There are many options to experience the extravagant exhibits, including from the water! It’s the perfect time of year to board a New Year’s Eve firework cruise; the pleasant tropical climate paired with dazzling lights against the Florida night sky will bring an unforgettable evening.

Marina Jack Dinner and Dancing Cruise

One of the top dining destinations in West Florida, this celebration cruise promises an exquisite evening of entertainment. Included in your ticket will be live music, dancing, a delicious buffet, and a champagne toast to finish the night under the fireworks. Don’t forget to call ahead at 941-955-9488 to make your reservation!

La Barge Tropical Sunset Cruise

This sunset cruise is a tropical dream! Watch the dolphins while the sun goes down over the gulf of Mexico. This cruise will feature an array of cocktails and live music. Call ahead of time at (941)-366-6116 to reserve your spot for this memorable celebration under the fireworks and stars.

Sarasota Bay Explorers

If you’re looking for an activity for the whole family to enjoy, Sarasota Bay Explorers takes you to all of the best aquatic life spots; an adventure with fun to be had by all! This two-hour sea life tour finishes off with a flashy show of fireworks over the bay.

New Year’s Eve Celebration and Fireworks Display

The complete celebration with every festive activity you can think of starts at 6 p.m., Fishermen’s Village in Punta Gorda. This free and family-friendly event gives you the full festive Florida experience with live music, magic shows, face painting and more! Head down to the west dock around midnight to start the New Year with a breathtaking show of fireworks.

Sarasota New Year’s Eve Pineapple Drop

https://www.paragonartevents.com/S-87-Sarasota+New+Year%27s+Eve+Pineapple.html

Party under the stars in the balmy Florida night! A twelve-hour long occasion with fun for the whole family, Sarasota’s New Year’s Eve Pineapple Drop is a holiday experience you do not want to miss! Starting off the festivities with food, live music, and performances, the fun continues into the night and well after the pineapple drops at midnight! The New Year is celebrated with a dazzling display of fireworks directly after the pineapple drops.

 

Main Street Live

Old Main Street is bustling and bright this New Year’s, with a end of year celebration starting at 5 p.m. and continuing through midnight. Live music, local vendors with food and drinks, this holiday hotspot will be an exciting event. Explore Main Street and view all of the festive attractions while waiting for fireworks!

 

Riviera Dunes Dockside Social Bar and Grill

Don’t forget to stop in at Riviera Dunes Dockside Social Bar and Grill this New Year’s Eve to see Glass Onion, the area’s best Beatles cover band! This is a great start or end to your evening; Riviera Dunes Dockside Social Bar and Grill will be open until 1 a.m. and starts the fun again the next day, opening regular hours on New Year’s Day.

 

Ring In The New Year With These Memorable Sarasota and Bradenton Events!

Complete your Florida stay with these festive, fun holiday ventures! Following this complete New Year’s Eve Event Extravaganza, you’re sure to have an unforgettable celebration!

 

Original Article Here

Riviera Dunes Dockside Social Bar & Grill!

Riviera Dunes Dockside Social Bar & Grill!

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

As you may know Blu Mangrove is
becoming

Riviera Dunes Dockside Social Bar & Grill

Below is some helpful information regarding this transition. We sincerely hope this will be a great change for our valued guests and staff!

blu mangrove

 

As you have seen we continue to operate as Blu Mangrove and will continue to do so
into early January. PLEASE COME JOIN US NEW YEARS EVE as we will have Glass
Onion playing the area’s BEST Beatles cover band. Our phone number has changed
to 941-304-3689 please make a note. Here’s a brief overview of upcoming events.

  •  We will be open until 8pm Xmas Eve then closed Xmas
  •  We are open until 1am on New Years Eve with live music
  • We are open New Year’s Day
  • We plan to close the Blu Mangrove on Monday, January 7th for renovations
  • We plan on re-opening Thursday, January 10th as Riviera Dunes Dockside with
    the following changes:

             o ALL NEW FOOD MENU
             o NEW WINE MENU
             o NEW COCKTAIL MENU
             o NEW HAPPY HOUR MENU
             o NEW DÉCOR CHANGES
             o NEW TV’S
             o NEW TAKE OUT PROGRAM INCLUDING A SMALL FRESH FISH MARKET
             o CONTINUED IMPROVED MUSIC LINEUP
             o NEW AREA WITH STAGE FOR MUSIC INDOORS
             o NEW WEBSITE

Our pledge to you

WE PROMISE TO DO EVERYTHING IN
OUR POWER TO MAKE DOCKSIDE YOUR
FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT

We appreciate your patience as we make this
transition

rd dockside logo

Festive Florida Events: Part 2

Festive Florida Events: Part 2

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Festive Florida Events: Part 2

By Hannah M.

Festive Florida Events: Part 2

There’s No End to The Coastal Christmas Fun in Florida

If you’ve been looking for the perfect holiday retreat, Sarasota and Manatee are the places to be! There’s plenty of festive fun to be had on your Florida getaway; however you choose to celebrate this year, seeing these breathtaking displays will be unforgettable!

Check out these dazzling holiday displays throughout Sarasota and Manatee!

Light Displays

Country Christmas

Hunsader Farms

5500 C.R. 675, Bradenton, Florida

December 14th-16th, 21st-23rd 6-10 p.m.

A treat for the whole family, this farm is a thrilling adventure waiting! Tickets purchased for this event includes all activities offered, such as hayrides, mini train rides, Christmas movies, photo shoots with Santa, a petting zoo and more. The excitement doesn’t end there; snacks, beverages, and pony rides are available for purchase to make a perfect end to your family day!

Visit their website for admission prices and more!

Lights in Bloom

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

900 S. Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL

December 20th – January 6th 6-9 p.m.

900 S. Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236

A dazzling display of over a million lights greet you from the garden and continue through the walkways, leading you into an enchanting evening. Explore the eye-catching gardens, fully decorated for the holidays. Take a leisurely walk through the maze of flowers filled with butterflies, dragonflies and other tropical attractions! This breathtaking excursion has everything to complete your holiday venture checklist. Nightly visits from Santa and his elves, kids activities and games, live performances, grilled food; this Sarasota tradition is one that you don’t want to miss.

Check out their website here for more information and admission prices

If you’d prefer to sit back, relax, and enjoy the view, trolley rides are available from 5:30-10 p.m.

Neighborhood Light Displays

Enander’s Winter Wonderland, Nokomis

2281 Mission Valley, Nokomis

This private residence is open to the public for their extravagant yearly holiday display. Before beginning the tour of over 2 acres filled with dazzling displays and lights, visitors are given a neighborly holiday greeting by the owner, Enander, dressed in a santa hat and handing out candy canes. There’s no end to the Christmas fun to be had here! Featuring toy soldiers, polar bears, and a plethora of other bright decorations, you will want to have your camera ready to capture these memories. The light displays go out at 10 p.m. every night – check out their Facebook page here for more information about this magical Christmas event!

Sarasota:

Cedar Hollow

Cedar Hollow Neighborhood is another community you don’t want to miss out on this Christmas! The entire neighborhood is fully decorated for the holiday; from brightly lit rooftops to shining tunnels to drive through, every corner you turn will offer new sights to marvel at. Keep the magic of Christmas alive for the whole family on this adventure – you may even see a few runways awaiting Santa’s sleigh visit. You’ll feel as if you’ve entered the North Pole in full holiday glory with weekend visits from Santa, Mrs. Claus and even the elves! Enjoy a cozy cup of cocoa and some popcorn with the family as you cruise through this Christmas attraction. Check out the neighborhood Facebook page for more information on special events and visits being held throughout the holiday season.

East Mark Drive

Journey down East Mark Drive for rows of houses brilliantly lit in anticipation of the holiday. From sparkling lights to fun decorations, this friendly Christmas competition is a community you have to visit! At the end of the drive is East Mark’s neighborhood gem, featuring radiant lights, Christmas creatures and other displays, all flashing to holiday tunes.

Colonial Gables

This neighborhood located on the corner of Bee Ridge and Woodmont Drive offers a remarkable coastal Christmas display. Stop for a cup of cocoa at the Bee Ridge Starbucks and be on your way to a remarkable holiday adventure! The displays are available to view by car or walking; regardless of how you want to start your exploration, this whole neighborhood is lit up with Christmas cheer. With sparkling archways, snow machines, gingerbread houses and snowmen, this captivating Christmas Town is the perfect end to any Sarasota winter day!

Bradenton:

Spinnaker Drive

Some of the most fascinating Florida homes can be found beautifully decorated for the holidays on Spinnaker Drive in Bradenton. The crowning jewel to this neighborhood is 4724 Spinnaker Drive, whose twinkling lights shine on time to Christmas music.

147th Street East

Lights, lights, lights! This Bradenton home is luminous under the Florida stars. Featuring fun, festive decorations, set your car radio to the station they have the lights timed to shine to, sit back, and watch the show!

Light Tours

If you’d rather sit back and relax this holiday season, there are trolley tour options available to view some of Sarasota’s most dazzling light displays. Private groups or public tours around 2 hours long are both available. You’re in for a treat with a seasoned trolley guide leading the tour; you’ll be brought to some of the most stunning neighborhoods and holiday displays.

SRQ Trolley

4041 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, FL

Beginning the first Friday in December and continuing throughout the rest of the month, the SRQ Trolley runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and offers off-site pickup for groups – normal pick up location is at the corner of Bee Ridge and Cattlemen.

Visit their website here for more information on ticket prices and group booking!

Siesta Trolley

5804 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34233

The Siesta Trolley tours run through December 30th, departing at 7 p.m. nightly. Sarasota’s holiday lights are a beloved tradition, so the local drivers know the best routes to show you the most alluring holiday attractions!

Visit their website here for information on prices and group tours

Have a magical Christmas with the whole family exploring these spellbinding holiday events and displays!

Looking for more ways to spend the holiday? See Part 1 Here!

Original Article Here

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas in Florida: Festive Fort Myers Events

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas in Florida: Festive Fort Myers Events

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas in Florida: Festive Fort Myers Events

By Hannah M.

There’s No End to The Coastal Christmas Fun in Fort Myers!

Escaping to Southwest Florida for the holidays is the perfect way to finish up the year. There’s an abundance of festive fun to be had on your coastal Christmas getaway! Regardless of how you choose to celebrate, these Fort Myers holiday events are sure to bring an unforgettable adventure.

Add These Four Events To Your Must-Do Holiday List:

1. Edison & Ford Winter Estates Holiday Tours

The Edison & Ford Winter Estates is the ideal adventure for history enthusiasts. Featuring two preserved historical homes, gardens, and a museum, this estate was originally owned by Thomas Edison and Henry Ford! Fully decorated for Christmastime, travel back in time during the breathtaking tour of this property. One of their most alluring attractions is the Holiday Nights event, continuing through December 30th. Take a journey back in time with an unforgettable adventure exploring The Edison & Ford Winter Estates!

2. Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade

Is the sea calling you this holiday season? Check out Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade for an enchanting evening of boats cruising down Estero Bay. This captivating event is viewable from many restaurants and bars along the bay with early booking required.

3.  Annual Holiday House at Burroughs Home and Gardens

The Burroughs Home and Gardens is a spectacular Christmas event that should not be missed! Even though this magnificent estate is open year-round for tours, their holiday light display is the most alluring tour to explore. Not only will are you in for a sparkling Christmas adventure at the Burroughs Home and Gardens, the excitement continues at the neighboring historical Langford-Kinston Estate. If you’re a history lover, this is the dream holiday!

4. Holiday Express in Lakes Regional Park

The whole family is in for a treat at the Holiday Express, running until late December. Travel through Christmas town with the kids on a model railroad and view the dazzling holiday displays and decorations throughout Lakes Regional Park. End the day with a cup of cocoa and a family selfie in one of the many cozy cafes along Gladiolus Drive.

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas in Festive Fort Myers!

With these events on the itinerary for your holiday adventure in Florida, there’s no end to the coastal Christmas fun to be had in Fort Myers! Whether you’re heading to Florida for a peaceful holiday retreat or looking for an adventure for the whole family, Southwest Florida is the best way to end the year. No matter how you celebrate the holiday season, Fort Myers is the perfect getaway!

Original Article Here

Sarasota’s Coffee Culture: A Java Dream!

Sarasota’s Coffee Culture: A Java Dream!

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Sarasota’s Coffee Culture: A Java Dream!

By Hannah M.  

Sarasota's Coffee Culture: A Java Dream!

Sarasota is a Destination Vacation for Coffee Connoisseurs!

If you’re planning a beach vacation for the holidays, there are plenty of cozy corners to find the best cup of joe in Sarasota. Get ready for your dream java vacation with this coffee connoisseur’s guide to Sarasota!

Craving a Caffeine Kick? Here are Sarasota’s favorite locations for roasted beans:

Cafe Venice Restaurant and Wine Bar

The perfect end to any evening, Cafe Venice is famed for their wine selection. After tasting their collection superb wine, don’t forget to finish the night with an aromatic Italian espresso and some dessert!

Columbia Restaurant

Try Columbia Restaurant for some fantastic local beans! Roasted in Tampa, Florida – their cafe con leche with one of their fresh baked treats is highly recommended.

C’est La Vie

The ideal artist’s getaway, C’est La Vie in downtown Sarasota offers a sidewalk view of Main Street with an array of authentic French sweets. Have a macaroon with your macchiato while sketching the day away!

La Dolce Vita

Who doesn’t have a soft spot for affogato? Don’t miss La Dolce Vita for your best espresso yet! Known for their gelato affogato el cafe, satisfy your sweet tooth with the array of Italian desserts found here.

Justin Banister’s Out & About Coffee

For a quick cup of joe on the go, check out Justin Banister’s Out & About Coffee mobile coffee cart! Typically found around the east end of downtown Sarasota or near outdoor events, Banister brings a classic coffee house experience with his cold brews and espresso.

Perq

Do you consider yourself a coffee connoisseur? Perq is a coffee shop you must visit! A sophisticated spot for espresso and desserts, you will also find brewing equipment and more; Perq will meet all of your coffee needs.

Are you a bookworm? Don’t miss these locations – perfect for cozying up with a cup of fresh coffee and a good book!

The Green Bean: A Hidden Gem!

A favorite local study spot, The Green Bean is a quaint and quiet shop hidden in north Sarasota. With plenty of cozy corners, grab an espresso, your favorite book and take it easy!

The Reserve Coffee House and bookshop-cafe

Built around 1920, this historical gem is a great place for local coffee and tea! Learn about the history of The Reserve while sipping on some kombucha or craft beer.

Shelf Indulgence Used Bookstore Cafe

Newly opened in 2017, this used bookstore is the ideal day away from the hustle and bustle! Brewing local roasts from Latitude 23.5°, this serene Sarasota coffee spot is where a book lover’s heaven and coffee connoisseur’s paradise meet.

Satisfy Your Caffeine Craving at one of Sarasota’s Many Cozy Coffee Corners!

The holidays just got sweeter planning an exploration through Sarasota’s coffee culture.

With these savory Sarasota coffee corners in mind, you’re ready for a dream java vacation!

Original Article Here

 

Sarasota’s Best Locations for Fresh Produce and More!

Sarasota’s Best Locations for Fresh Produce and More!

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Sarasota’s Best Locations for Fresh Produce and More!

By Hannah M.

Sarasota's Best Locations for Fresh Produce and More!

Navigate Sunny Sarasota’s Farmers Markets Like a Pro

If you’re looking for ideal activities to make your vacation unforgettable, there’s no end to the possibilities in Sunny Sarasota! The Sunshine State is known for the abundance of fresh produce. One great way to experience Florida’s tasty local fruits is by visiting one of the nearby farmers markets. Not only will you get your fill of fresh fruit, but the fun doesn’t end there at Florida’s farmers markets! Here you’ll find many different creatives and skills sets unique to this region.

Keep this advice in mind for the most memorable experience of captivating Sarasota!

  • The early bird gets the worm! The earlier you are, the wider your selection will be!
  • Don’t forget your hat and sunscreen for your Sunshine State adventure.
  • Pack snacks and drinks – you’ll want to stay refreshed and bringing a small cooler is a great way to do so.
  • Talk to the sellers about their products! You’ll learn plenty of interesting tidbits about Sarasota by chatting with vendors.

Here are some of Sarasota’s best farmers markets to visit:

Central Sarasota Farmers Market

Open Saturdays (8 a.m. to 1 p.m.) from October through June, Central Sarasota Farmers Market has the freshest fruit around! Chat with the vendors, who are all local growers, while sipping on your coffee and browsing local honey selections.

Dearborn Street Market

Do you love pairing a bottle of wine with fine cheese? Make sure to add Dearborn Street Market to your list! Open October through May on Thursdays, their selection of artisan cheeses, food from local bakers, and local artists shouldn’t be missed!

Englewood Farmers Market

If you consider yourself a foodie, add this one to your must visit list! Another exciting mid-week event, Englewood Farmers Market is open on Thursday (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.) from October through May. Endless local bakery selections along with fresh produce make yummy stop essential to experiencing Florida!

Newtown Farmers Market

Newtown Farmers Market is open Fridays (12-6 p.m.) year-round, so no matter when your vacation is planned, they will be open with a great selection of fresh local fruits! You can also expect to see a nice variety of local art, as this market is right near The Ringling College of Art and Design.

North Port Farmers Market

Another market that kicks off the weekend early is North Port, open October to April on Friday morning. Food from local bakers, local art vendors and much more makes this farmers market worth your while.

Siesta Key Farmers Market

This farmers market is such a relaxing way to start your beach day! Open year-round (8 a.m. to 1 p.m.), Siesta Key Farmers Market is located right near Siesta Key’s dazzling white sand beaches. The pottery and art found at this market is unlike any other!

Venice Farmers Market

Looking for the perfect way to start of your day of family fun? Head over to Venice Farmers Market, open Saturdays (8 a.m.-12 p.m.) year-round. With plenty of activities for the kids and chef demonstrations, this market is sure to keep the whole family engaged and having fun!

Enjoy Florida’s Fresh Fruits

Sunny Sarasota’s attractions are endless, their farmers markets being just one of their hidden gems. Whether you’re gearing up for some family fun or looking forward to a serene vacation in solitude, you’ll want to check out some of these markets! With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to fully explore Sunny Sarasota’s local art and fresh food.

Original Article Here

Historical Vacation Destinations Part 2: Matlacha, Florida

Historical Vacation Destinations Part 2: Matlacha, Florida

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Historical Vacation Destinations Part 2: Matlacha, Florida

By Hannah M.

Island Living in Historic Matlacha, Florida

A historic gem with an abundance of Seminole culture, Matlacha (Mat-la-SHAY) is a prismatic and peaceful paradise. The legacy left by the Seminole tribe is scattered throughout the tiny town, making Matlacha a historical hotspot full of fun adventures. This matured fishing village, nestled on a small island between Cape Coral and Pine Island, brings a charismatic charm unlike anywhere in the world and promises a serene stay.

What to do in Matlacha

  • Bridge at Matlacha Pass

Not only is this historic utopia full of fascinating culture, it is a fisherman’s dream! The bridge over Matlacha Pass (nicknamed the “World’s Fishing-est Bridge”) is famed for the abundance of aquatic life. The currents sweeping under the bridge brings an array of fish that draw in locals and visitors alike. Take in Matlacha’s aesthetic with a peaceful stroll down the bridge lined with local anglers casting their lines in “Matlacha Reeboks”; these tall white rubber boots are an essential part of the coastal lifestyle here.

  • Shopping and More

This vibrant and cheerful island gives you a sunny welcome to their tasteful art community. Matlacha is scattered with vintage Floridian style homes, fishing boats moored just outside the doors, art galleries, shops, and a tranquil atmosphere throughout. The serene seaside experience is reminiscent of Florida Keys without the hustle and bustle. If you were searching for the perfect peaceful getaway, Matlacha is the place to be!

Matlacha home to a variety of creatives and artists, including international artist Leoma Lovegrove. You can observe her dazzling and unique paintings in Lovegrove Gallery and Gardens; her vibrant Impressionist-Expressionist style paintings are just the start of the artwork you must see while in Matlacha!

A Historic Slice of Heaven

This historic, colorful town is a tropical slice of heaven and a must-see when visiting Florida. Matlacha Cottages has a variety of places you can stay, most located directly on the water. An artist’s paradise, Matlacha’s tranquil and exquisite landscapes draw you in the second you step foot on this island; you won’t want to leave this historical heaven-on-earth!

Original Article Here

Sarasota: An Artist’s Dream!

Sarasota: An Artist’s Dream!

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Sarasota: An Artist’s Dream!

Hannah M.

 

An Itinerary to Sarasota’s Art Community

Sarasota, Florida is renowned for the art found there, as it is home to a plethora of artists and creatives. An artistic utopia, Sarasota is known all over the world by artists and aspiring alike. To be expected; this enticing city situated right on Sarasota Bay has top-tier art colleges and an array of alluring galleries. Need some ideas on how to get creative and fully experience Sarasota’s local art? Below are some highlights on where to start your complete artist’s retreat!

The Ringling Art Legacy

The heart of the creative culture found in Sarasota started with John and Mable Ringling. Avid supporters of the art community at the turn of the twentieth century and imperative to the eventual evolution of Sarasota’s creative atmosphere, you will find their original collection of unique art in The Ringling, the State Art Museum of Florida. As well as the Ringlings’ personal collection, the museum holds a variety of other galleries, including a spectacular Modern Art gallery.

The Ca’ d’Zan

Are you more interested in a practical application of art? Sunny Sarasota has something for every type of creative! For those more interested in the architectural or historical aspect of Sarasota’s art scene, the Ringlings’ home should be on the must-see list. The Ca’ d’Zan, on The Ringling campus, was constructed per Mable Ringling’s personal design influences. Tours are available to see this exquisite 5-story, 41-room mansion up close. Travel back in time while exploring the unique grandeur of this mid-1920’s mansion!

Before the tour is complete, be sure to stop by Muse at The Ringling for a delicious dinner and impeccable views; located in Mable Ringling’s famous rose garden.

Ringling College of Art and Design

The impact the Ringling’s had can be seen all throughout Sarasota; including The Ringling College of Art and Design, founded in 1931 in honor of Sarasota’s most prominent supporters. From student galleries to experienced artists around the world, the art found at this institute is unlike any other. All galleries on campus are open to the public and offer a wide perspective on the art community not only in Sarasota, but across the world. The new Richard and Barbara Basch Visual Arts center displays an even wider variety of art with a glass art studio consisting of Basch’s personal art collection and an assortment of glass art from ranging artists.

Sarasota’s Most Creative Neighborhoods

Towles Court

Sarasota’s hidden gem, Towles Court’s Old Floridian homes and aged brick streets bring a whimsical charm to this small, serene town of artists. Home to a diverse group of designers, art therapists, jewelry makers, potters, cafes and many more, this vibrant community will be a favorite! Make sure to plan your trip around the third Friday of the month; Towles Court hosts monthly Art Walks with live music, great food, and much more.

Gillespie Park

Are you hoping to improve your skills as an artist during your retreat? Gillespie park is a historic downtown village that also hosts monthly Art Walks and other events. If you were looking to hone your craft, stop by The Artful Giraffe for classes taught by the local artists themselves!

Rosemary Historic District

All aboard for the artist’s dream getaway! Next stop: Rosemary. Another hidden gem, but more modern than Towles Court, Rosemary Historic District is a contemporary community that is home to many different types of designers. For those looking for the architecture hotspots- this is it! Sarasota Architectural Salvage features exclusive furniture and art you don’t want to miss.

Exploring Sarasota’s Art Community

No matter what your ideal vacation is, there’s no end to the adventures in store for you in Sunny Sarasota. Sarasota is full of hidden gems just waiting for art lovers to discover. Following this quick guide to Sarasota’s art community, you’re ready to set off for the quintessential artist’s getaway!

Original Article Here

Family Fun at Coral Cay Adventure Golf

Family Fun at Coral Cay Adventure Golf

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Family Fun at Coral Cay Adventure Golf

By Hannah M.

 

 

Adventure Awaits at Coral Cay!

A popular hot spot of fun for all ages in Naples, Florida is Coral Cay Adventure Golf. No equipment necessary, just bring the whole family and be ready to play the day away! With a variety of holes and challenges, this is sure to be an unforgettable adventure that the whole family will enjoy.

Fun on The Course

No matter the time of year, Coral Cay Adventure Golf offers an entertaining tropical paradise for all.

With two courses to choose from to play at your leisure, the enticing botanical gardens featuring tranquil waterfalls, caves to explore, and other aquatic details promises a delightful day for everyone. There’s no need to rush the fun, Coral Cay allows you to come back on a different day to play the second course if you’d like! With a total of 36 mini golf holes and ranging challenges, this is the perfect way to unwind and have a great time with the whole family!

Beyond The Course

Once you’ve finished the course, the adventure isn’t over! Head over to the concession stand to recharge with a snack or refreshing ice slush. If you’re ready for round two, Coral Cay offers specials and deals that are redeemable at a later day. Take your chances at the crane machine and other fun games! Look no further for the perfect place to plan your party; Coral Cay Adventure Golfs hosts various parties and events with exciting surprises that are sure to bring an exceptional time. This Mini Golfer’s Dream is a delightful adventure you won’t want to miss out on.

Unforgettable Adventure For the Whole Family!

Coral Cay Adventure Golf is open year round; if you’re planning a cozy holiday retreat, make sure to put this mini golf adventure on your must-do list! With discounts and specials available on Coral Cay Adventure Golf website, the whole family is sure to have an unforgettable experience in this tropical mini golfing paradise!

Original Article Here

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