Check out the view from Sarasota's majestic Ringling Bridge.
Sarasota, that concentration of culture and activity with an undercurrent of urban vibe nestled on bayside at the foot of the majestic Ringling Bridge, is the type of city one can enjoy for years or sample to one’s delight in a few days. Main Street is home to numerous boutiques, award-winning independent restaurants and cafes, many with sidewalk seating just daring you to enjoy the people watching and a relaxing coffee or nosh. This is best done during busy weekends with First Friday gallery walks, opening nights at the opera or theater and the ever-popular Saturday morning Farmers' Market.
It’s a pet-friendly city and a dog lover’s paradise if you walk the market or cross over the Bayfront Park, where you can enjoy waterside dining at Marina Jack or the native-friendly O’Leary’s and its Tiki Bar. Check out public sculptures bayside, courtesy of Sarasota Season of Sculpture, cruise the bay at sunset on LeBarge or walk on over to world-famous Selby Gardens to feast your eyes on a horticultural buffet.
Don’t forget to catch a show in the evening at one of many downtown venues offering opera, ballet, Broadway shows, classical music (from orchestras to chamber ensembles) local live theater and improv comedy as well as cinemas featuring Hollywood blockbusters, independent or foreign films. After the show there are clubs for live music, dancing or a fine martini on upper Main and nearby in Southside Village.
