Tiffany & Jonny
Things To Do
Anna Maria Public Beach
Slow down and soak up some sun on the beautiful gulf beaches of Anna Maria Island. There are several lovely cafes, shops, and beachfront restaurants to enjoy as well. Jonny and I love to take Zoe (our fur baby) to the Causeway beach for some splashing in the surf.
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
The bride may be a little partial to this recommendation since she is a curator here ;) The Bishop is a natural history museum, planetarium, and manatee rehabilitation center. Wander through fascinating exhibits, be blown away by amazing planearium shows, and get up close with adorable manatees. The Backyard Universe is a great place for the little ones to explore too.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota campus
This tropical oasis, located in neighboring Sarasota, is full of lush gardens and an award winning orchid conservatory. Spending a few hours here enjoying the beautiful grounds, and having lunch or a latte at the Selby House Cafe is always a good idea.
Saint Armands Circle
Like the idea of finding unique treasures at locally owned boutiques, or having delicious authentic Cuban food in a cool eclectic restaurant? Then St. Armands Circle is your place! Located minutes from the world famous Siesta Key beach, this pedestrian friendly shopping area is a great place to hang out. We recommend grabbing a bite at Columbia restaurant or a sweet treat from Big Olaf's as you peruse the shops.
Tarpon Springs
Up for a day trip? Drive an hour and a half north and feel like you've been transported to a coastal greek town. Visit the historic St. Nicholas Cathedral, walk along the promenade of Dodecanese avenue where the sponge diving boats are docked, and have a great meal at one of the authentic greek restaurants (we recommend Mykonos). Don't forget to pick up some pastries and greek coffee from the famous Hellas Bakery too!
IMG Academy Golf Club
Okay, golfers (Steve) this one is for you ! We have several great golf courses in our area and one just so happens to be on the same property as our reception and recommended hotel. The scenic 18-hole championship golf course is a true test for low handicap players, and also eminently playable for higher handicappers. Members and guests alike consider it an extremely fair, yet challenging golf course.
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
The Ringling is a cultural gem of our area. The property was originally owned by John and Mable Ringling (yes, like the circus). Tour their Italian style estate, the Ca' D' Zan, marvel at the huge Ruebens paintings and other fine art in the museum, and have fun in the circus museum. Tiffany loves it and Jonny tolerates it like a champ :p
DeSoto National Memorial Park
Wanna see where Jonny popped the question? Enjoy being in nature? Then head over to De Soto National Memorial, the nation's smallest national park. Located on the south side of Tampa Bay, enjoy walking the nature trails through the mangroves, visiting its secluded beach spots, or book a kayak tour with a park ranger. This place is special to us for obvious reasons, and we think you'll love it too!
Old Main Street
Whether you're looking for a bite to eat or going for drinks Main Street is a fun place to explore. We recommend having pizza and a beer or cocktail at the Oak and Stone rooftop bar overlooking the Manatee River, then making your way to O'Bricks Irish Pub and Martini Bar to watch your favorite team play. Riverwalk Park and The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature are also within walking distance of Main Street.
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
Founded by fellow Greek, Eugenie Clark, aka the "Shark Lady" Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is an awesome place to learn about Florida's amazing sea life, and animals from other habitats like alligators and river otters. After your visit with the sea turtle and stingrays we recommend grabbing something to eat across the street at the Old Salty Dog. If you want to challenge your eating skills order the Fully Loaded Salty Dog.