Sarasota - The Cultural Hub on Florida's West Coast
Sarasota History
Sarasota is a vibrant city in Florida located on the West Coast of Florida. It is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the vivid colors of the sunsets, arts, and culture, and the relaxed lifestyle. Sarasota has a long history as a resort destination. In the early 1900s, wealthy families from the Midwest and Northeast began to build winter homes in Sarasota. The city’s mild climate and beautiful beaches made it an attractive place to escape the cold winters. During the 1920s, Sarasota underwent a significant boom in development. With the construction of new hotels, businesses, and homes, the city became a highly sought-after destination for tourists and snowbirds. It was an exciting time of growth and opportunity for the community.
Sarasota’s cultural scene began to flourish in the 1930s. The Ringling Brothers Circus wintered in Sarasota, and the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art was founded. The museum houses a collection of art worldwide, including works by Rubens, Rembrandt, and Picasso.
Sarasota and the Ringling Bros.
Have you ever heard about “The Greatest Show On Earth?” Sarasota has long had ties to the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, and “The Greatest Show on Earth” was their slogan. They used Sarasota for their winter retreat because the circus animals and performers liked the mild temperatures on the Gulf Coast. Unfortunately, the good times for circuses are long gone; however, the Ringling Museum and the Cà d’ Zan, which was the Ringling’s mansion, are still around and worth visiting. If you are slowly turning red at the beach, you may want to give your skin a break from the intense sun. Get in the shade and enjoy a great museum experience in Sarasota.
Sarasota Culture and Art
Sarasota’s arts and culture scene saw a significant expansion in the years following the war. The establishment of Sarasota Opera, Sarasota Ballet, and Sarasota Philharmonic brought a new wave of artistic expression to the city, attracting many artists and writers to the area. The downtown area of Sarasota is truly captivating, boasting numerous outdoor cafes, restaurants, waterfront bars, and a bustling farmers market. There are plenty of cultural activities to enjoy, such as visiting museums, theaters, art galleries, outdoor concerts, and the Van Vezel performing arts hall, to name a few.
Sarasota Lifestyle
Whatever your preferences, Sarasota has plenty to offer for outdoor enthusiasts! Whether looking for a peaceful stroll through beautiful gardens or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, there’s something here for everyone. Check out the stunning Marie Selby Botanical Gardens for a leisurely walk along Sarasota Bay among the lush tropical greenery, or hit the Legacy Trail for a scenic bike ride. For those seeking more excitement, try parasailing over the Gulf Coast’s crystal-clear waters, or spend a day at the beach soaking up the sun. Sarasota boasts several stunning beaches with white sandy shores, such as Siesta Key Beach, Lido Key Beach, and Longboat Key Beach. And if you want to go all out, consider taking a boat ride to the sand bar.
Sarasota Real Estate and Homes for Sale
Sarasota may be considered a small town by major cities like New York City and Los Angeles, but that would not be entirely accurate. With a population of just over 50,000, Sarasota offers the amenities of a big city while its residents enjoy a greater quality of life. Sarasota is an excellent choice if you’re searching for a vacation home, a place to settle down, or an investment opportunity. With its consistently warm weather throughout the year, you’ll be able to enjoy the outdoors no matter what season it is. Sarasota offers something for everyone, including NEW Condo Construction in Sarasota Downtown, Downtown Sarasota Real Estate.
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