Rachel & Leigh
Things To Do
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
The Ringling is located in Sarasota, Florida and preserves the legacy of John and Mable Ringling. It is home to the State Art Museum of Florida, the historic Ca' d'Zan Mansion, Bayfront Gardens, an Art Library, the Circus Museums and the Historic Asolo Theater. The grounds and gardens are free to visit, and the Museum of Art offers free admission on Mondays.
Myakka River State Park
One of the original Civilian Conservation Corps parks: awesome for seeing wildlife (gators, birds, etc.)!
Saint Armands Circle
St. Armands Circle is the main city center of Sarasota where you'll find restaurants, bars and shops nestled between the the sparkling waters of Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
Siesta Beach
The site of the popularly bad MTV show "Siesta Key" AND our welcome beach party, Siesta beach is frequently listed as #1 of US beaches. Known for its sugar-white, nearly pure quartz crystal sand that doesn't really get hot on your feet, you can now find the best of MTV trash frolicking about (though thankfully not filming right now). Despite that, it really is gorgeous.
Big Cat Habitat & Gulf Coast Sanctuary
Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary provides a sanctuary for life for the exotic animals currently calling the sanctuary home. As animal lovers, we can't recommend this one more.
Robinson Preserve
Leigh and I have spent many peaceful walks in this preserve. The mangroves are lovely and there are many opportunities for photos of the diverse Florida wildlife.
Shakespeare's Craft Beer and Gastro Pub
A good place for a burger and beer, and as Leigh says "the only decent English pub in the area".
Selva
For a little more upscale dining, this place has great food and atmosphere and is right on the strip downtown.
Indigenous Restaurant
A cozy little restaurant, perfect for happy hour and appetizers.
Pangea Alchemy Lab
A fun little speakeasy with excellent cocktails.