Welcome to Sarasota
Stunning white sandy beaches, warm weather, and enviable cultural and recreational amenities
Nestled on the Gulf of Mexico, Sarasota is famous for its breathtaking ocean views, vibrant art scene, delectable dining scene, and more. But what truly makes the city special is its duality – strolling in St. Armands Circle or Siesta Key Village lends an intimate, seaside ambiance, while downtown Sarasota offers resorts and fine dining. Once dismissed as a playground for retirees, the reputation is slowly changing as more young professionals and families make it their own.
The history of Sarasota can be traced to 1851 when the first European settler was deeded 144 acres of land in Sarasota Bay. The settlement grew over several years and saw the construction of a syrup manufacturing plant, Baptist church, school, post office, orange plantation, and winter resort.
Sarasota became incorporated in 1902, with John W. Gillespie as its mayor. The 1970s were tough as businesses felt the impact of the recession, but a major economic shift in the 1990s helped revive the town. Today, Sarasota is a prosperous city with a thriving real estate market that offers everything from vintage bungalows to bayfront condominiums with majestic views.
What to Love
- Home to some of the most gorgeous beaches in the region
- Vibrant cultural heritage and arts scene
- A flourishing business center
Local Lifestyle
Whether you are looking for a place to settle down within the city, a holiday home, or a retirement home, Sarasota is the perfect place to call home. There are plenty of neighborhoods to fit any lifestyle, and an abundance of places to relax, shop, and dine.
Residents enjoy beautiful ocean views from the comfort of their homes and take advantage of the dozens of walking trails. And while beaches are the main attraction in Sarasota, golfing comes a close second. The city is also a major cultural and arts destination with many historic sites, music venues, art galleries, museums, and performing arts centers.
Sarasota is a great place to experience coastal Florida living and is widely regarded as a paradise with its year-round sunshine and stunning beaches. It has an abundance of amenities, housing options, quality services, and recreational opportunities to ensure a high quality of life for its residents.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
Sarasota is home to hundreds of restaurants serving everything from delicious catches of the day to delicious desserts that melt in your mouth. Owen's Fish Camp serves up imaginative takes on seafood dishes amid eclectic décor. Order the fresh Soft Shell Crab BLT or Bourbon Pecan Pie.
Head to the Indigenous Restaurant for an unforgettable fine dining experience. The menu features creative American dishes made with locally and regionally sourced ingredients. Try fresh, succulent seafood while enjoying views of the Intracoastal Waterway and the historic Cortez Village at the Tide Tables. Selva Grill offers a more exotic affair with a rich menu that consists of Latin fusion dishes.
For a fun-filled day of shopping, head to St. Armand's Circle. It is a mini-business hub that houses more than 100 shops selling different products.
Things to Do
Beaches line the coast of Florida, so there is no shortage of things to do for residents. Siesta Key Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the area, mainly because it's located just a few miles from the city. It features quartz sand crushed into a white, fine powder that's cool to the touch. It's an excellent place to enjoy a cool dip in the water, relax with the family at a picnic table or playground, and play beach volleyball.
The Ringling is a must-visit for tourists and residents alike. The museum features an extensive collection of modern art and eclectic work from Baroque artists like Peter Paul Rubens. The city has several formal art opportunities, including the Sarasota Opera House, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, and the Asolo Repertory Theatre.
Schools
- Out-of-Door Academy, Grades K-12
- Cardinal Mooney High School, Grades 9-12
- Pine View School, Grades 2-12
- Riverview High School, Grades 9-12
- University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee
- Ringling College of Arts and Design
- New College of Florida
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