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Sarasota and Manatee Counties 2 Days - 168 miles
City: Sarasota
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Map: Sarasota
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Sarasota and its adjoining counties were originated with fine culture and arts. Circus magnate John Ringling brought his wonderful collection to this area and along with these areas natural beauty; people have been flocking to this wonderful coastline to enjoy the finest things in life.
Starting out at the Sarasota Convention and Visitors Bureau, 655 N Tamiami Trail or US 41, drive north for 3 miles. The first attraction is The Ringling Museums. This masterpiece houses the largest collection of European Art. As you tour you will capture the beauty of Italian Renaissance throughout, the fountains, ceilings and columns are extraordinary. Visit the Asolo Theater, Ca’d’Zan Mansion, circus museum and the Bellm’s Cars and Music of Yesterday. Next, when you continue one mile south of Bellm’s and two blocks west, you will come to the Sarasota Jungle Gardens. This is a nice spot to visit exhibits, shows and a petting zoo. Heading back south on US 41, turn right onto John Ringling Boulevard. Driving over the Ringling Causeway will lead you to St. Armands Circle, a high traffic, and fashion area with many quaint shops, restaurants and galleries. Park your car, for you will want to get out and stretch to view this lovely area. When you walk straight west about two short blocks you will be at one of the prettiest beaches. This is Lido Beach. Arriving back to St. Armands Circle, turn left to City Island and the Mote Marine Aquarium, where you can experience the exhibits and touch-tanks to many of their amazing inhabitants. Don’t forget to take the cruise, which will give you a tour around Sarasota.
Now return on City Island Road and turn right onto SR 789. You will be driving north up through Longboat Key and Anna Maria Key about 4 1/2 miles. When you come to the junction SR 64, follow it through for 12 miles. Pass through downtown Bradenton. At 10th Street West you will visit the South Florida Museum and Bishop Planetarium. This is where you can experience history of the Civil War Era, view the manatees and enjoy laser shows and music.
Continuing on 10th Street West, go north across the river and right on US 301 for 3 miles. Next, take a guided tour of The Gamble Plantation State Historical Site. It was built in the late 1840’s to be the sugar refinery. After you leave here, keep driving along US 301 until you get to I-75, then go south to exit 37, then east on SR 72 for 9 miles. Here is where you will find The Myakka River State Park. This sanctuary has many nature trails to enjoy along with the wildlife, which lives here. Return back to I-75 and drive south to exit 34. Next, take SR 777 to US 41 and go east for about 21 miles. Now you will visit The Warm Mineral Springs. One of the State’s most famous, it has claimed to have more minerals than some of the well-known spas.
Now return to US 41 and drive east for one mile, then turn left on SR 777 heading to Englewood. Drive south on SR 775, which will run into SR 776 and SR 771. You are now at Gasparilla Island. This barrier island was used as a hideout by a pirate named Jose Gaspar. In the 1920’s, it was used as a retreat by Henry Du Pont, John Jacob Astor and other important businessmen. In 1912, an Inn was built and it soon became a lovely resort.
Return to US 41 going to Sarasota. The last stop is the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, which is known to have the finest collection of orchids. Conclude this tour by staying on US 41 to Sarasota.
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