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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