SARASOTA's
striking beauty has always been its chief asset with
brilliant sunrises and sunsets that fire the sky into a
canvas of intense pinks, reds, purples and oranges. An unspoiled
paradise of palm trees, moss covered oaks, cedars, mangroves
and sea grapes. The vivid azure hues of Gulf and Bay waters
are plentiful with fish, sea horses, sand dollars and dolphin.
Add the tropical climate, whitest sand beaches in the world,
and you've discovered "The Land of Enchantment".
Back
in the 1920's John Ringling and his wife Mable made this
unique area the winter home for their world famous circus
and eventually a trove for their legacy of art and architectural
treasures. Their love for the arts and their many investments
in the area led to the development of galleries, theatres
and concert halls. Sarasota evolved into a virtual haven
for artists, sculptors, performers, musicians and actors.
The
Asolo Theatre is home to one of the area's leading regional
theatrical companies. Performing November through June on
a turn-of-the-century stage, professionals from around the
United States gather to present a unique repertory ranging
from classics to new works. They provide audio described
performances for the visually impaired, wireless headsets
for those with hearing loss, and wheelchair access on the
ground level.
The
Sarasota Ballet of Florida shares the stage with the Asolo
Theatre Company. If you recall the sophisticated apparel
worn by Joan Collins featured on the weekly series Dynasty,
then you will be astonished by the striking costumes worn
by these dancers (same designer).
Over
60 Golf Courses and numerous tennis courts, including the
famed Leddbetter/ Bollitierri Sports Facilities await your
arrival. Baseball enjoys a rich tradition at Ed Smith's
Stadium where the minor league Sarasota Red Sox play all
summer long. In February and March , the facility is utilized
by the major league's Cincinnati Reds for their spring training.
Each July, the Gulf of Mexico explodes with rooster tail
plumes of the Sun Coast Offshore Grand Prix Races. This
nationally sanctioned American Power Boat Association Race
is the highlight of a 10 day festival.
In
season you may well be tempted, like everyone else, to save
shopping and sightseeing for rainy, chilly, off-beach days.
Don't. You'll lose your diligently attained good beach attitude
by the time you've found your parking spot. Go in the morning
for best results and gain a more relaxing experience. Otherwise
you may find that the wear and tear outweighs the pleasure
of window-shopping or the joys associated with the discovery
of the perfect one of a kind gift or souvenir.
When
you've come in from the beaches, a day of golf, or shopping,
it's time to do the town. Sarasota and its islands offer
intriguing choices for Food and fun. Evenings come to life
with an assortment of clubs, lounges and entertainment.
Dance to the sounds of Big Band music, Jazz, or Fifties
Oldies but Goodies.
Mote
Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, located at the south end
of Longboat Key is a world-renowned marine research center.
The aquarium offers a fascinating array of sea life for
viewing. The 30-foot Touch Tank and 135,000-gallon Shark
Tank bring visitors face to face with a variety of shark
species, fish and marine life.
The
Pelican Man's Bird Sanctuary located near Mote Marine in
Ken Thompson Park, is a sanctuary that cares for injured
shorebirds on two waterfront acres. A meandering boardwalk
brings visitors through lush vegetation surrounding pens
and pools filled with a variety of native and migratory
birds. Admission: $4.00 donation (Children are Free)
Sarasota
is home to the world's most spectacular beaches, inviting
climate, glamorous cultural happenings, world class sporting
events, fine restaurants and shops, a renowned art museum,
a nationally recognized college and art school and exceptional
community living.
Come
and enjoy the best creations of both mankind and nature.
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