Sarasota, which sits roughly 100 miles north of Southwest Florida, has a variety of charms that recommend it as a rewarding place to visit: unique hotels, surprising restaurants and one of Florida’s most notable art destinations. Like much of the state, Sarasota rose in stature on the wave of the land boom in the early 1900s. The town was discovered by the famed Ringling brothers—of the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus—and it became the winter headquarters for the circus in 1927. Today, Sarasota offers an easily drivable getaway.
What to do
Stunning white sand beaches and exclusive shopping districts offer plenty of ways to while away the hours of a weekend escape to Sarasota. Try South Lido Beach on Lido Key (2201 Benjamin Franklin Drive, Sarasota; 941.861.5000), a county park with 100 acres of coastal habitats for sunning, swimming, hiking and picnicking. For shopping and dining, historic St. Armands Circle (St. Armands Circle, Sarasota; starmandscircleassoc.com) offers upscale boutiques and pleasant places to nosh.
For a dose of culture, visit the Ringling Museum of Art (5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota; 941.359.5700; ringling.org). Set on the winter estate of John and Mable Ringling, the museum houses an impressive collection of European works that the couple collected during their trips abroad to find new talent for the circus. Don’t miss the Dutch masters that made the museum famous, especially the Rubens Galleries, as well as its many fine examples of Baroque art.
Where to stay
For classic luxury, we love the beautifully appointed Ritz-Carlton Sarasota (1111 Ritz Carlton Drive, Sarasota; 941.309.2000; ritzcarlton.com), which features several in-hotel dining venues, a luxury spa and access to an exclusive beach club located three miles away on Lido Key. Book a suite for jaw-dropping views of Sarasota Bay from the large soaking tub.
For a fresh take on the overnight experience, try the Sarasota Modern, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel from Marriott (1290 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota; 941.906.1290; thesarasotamodern.com). The hotel draws its cues from the best of mid-century design, and the outdoor pool deck has an uber-cool aura of tropical chic.
Where to eat
Lila (1576 Main St., Sarasota; 941.296.1042; lilasrq.com) in downtown Sarasota offers the kind of inspired, inclusive menu that would feel at home in a bigger city. The restaurant bills itself as “health-focused and environmentally friendly” with a special nod to vegan diners. But despite its focus on plant-based fare, there’s plenty here for the omnivore, including grass-fed filet mignon, wild-caught sockeye salmon and pink Gulf shrimp. Don’t miss the evening’s specials, which include in-season produce brought in from local farms.
For breakfast, grab a table at our favorite Sarasota institution, the Toasted Mango Cafe (430 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; 941.388.7728; toastedmangocafe.com). This fast, friendly cafe offers the usual breakfast staples plus its famous toasted mango waffle. It’s the perfect way to start any adventure in this fun weekend spot.
