Siesta Key
Siesta Key Beach is central Sarasota's gateway to the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico, an island that combines luxurious amenities with a relaxed vibe that appeals to both visitors and locals.
Arts & Culture Stories
Circus Sarasota... More Than A Circus
By Mary Ellen Mancini
"The circus is the only ageless delight that you can buy for money. It is the only spectacle I know that, while you watch it, gives the quality of a truly happy dream." ~ Ernest Hemingway.It is the history and culture of the circus that sets Sarasota apart from any other place in Florida or almost...
St. Armands Circle "Ring of Fame" Honors Circus Greats
By Mary Ellen Mancini
In 1917 circus legend, John Ringling purchased St. Armands Key in beautiful Sarasota, Florida for his development dreams which included residential lots and a shopping center laid out in a circle, in the style of the famed "Three-Ring Circus." In 1925 he then commissioned work to connect the St....
"The Greatest Show on Earth" Filmed In The Greatest Location on Earth
By Mary Ellen Mancini
"It's a story for all ages, from grandmother to grandchild. It's a motion picture for everyone... With a heart, and a sense of humor. - The title tells it! It's "The Greatest Show on Earth""Those who love the circus are probably familiar with Cecil B. DeMille's 1952 drama film, The Greatest Show on...
The Oldest Youth Circus In America Lives In Sarasota
By Mary Ellen Mancini
For over 85 years, Sarasota has been dubbed Circus City, USA and it seems only fitting that the spectacular "Circus Capitol of the World" would also be home to the oldest youth circus in America too. The Sailor Circus originated as a small Sarasota High School gymnastics class, back in 1949, and...
An Exceptional Ensemble of Meals and Music
By Mary Ellen Mancini
The art of excellent cuisine is the perfect synthesis of flavors and said to be like music for the mouth. Great music is the art of harmonious sound and considered to be food for the soul. And, when they dance together, it is a magical ensemble that, quite simply, should not be missed. This summer,...
Three Districts
By Abby Weingarten
Pockets of shopping and dining districts pepper Sarasota County, and visitors rarely have time to explore them all in one day. So, say you only have nine hours to devote to Sarasota district hopping. What would you do? Here is a sample guide. Spend three hours in Southside Village, Gulf Gate and the...
Rainy Day Fun
As the optimistic old adage goes, "April showers bring May flowers," but in Sarasota, an area celebrated for its year-round sunshine and inviting beaches, those unavoidable rainy days can feel like an exceptional drag. However, even the grayest and drizzliest clouds have a silver lining. On the...
36 Hours of Arts
By Abby Weingarten
Here is a scenario for new-to-Sarasota visitors, or for locals seeking to rediscover the glory of home: Take 36 hours and explore Sarasota County's arts and culture scene. Our Southwest Florida county wasn't dubbed the "cultural coast" for no reason. Learn what makes us live up to our title, and...
The Artsy Side of Venice
By Beth Luberecki
Theres plenty of culture to be found in this city along the Gulf
