Sarasota City Tour
- State:Florida
- Tour type:Museums, Sightseeing
- Departure:Miami Beach
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Sarasota City Tour
What makes Sarasota so attractive?
Postcard Beaches — Sarasota
Postcard Beaches — Sarasota
- Sarasota is known for its island beaches, architectural monuments and rich cultural life. This sister city of Vladimir begins its history in the 16th century, when the Spanish conquistador Hernando de Soto christened the lands of the southern part of the Gulf of Mexico "Zara Soto", or "radiance of Soto".
- The territory passed from the Spaniards to the British, then back to the Spaniards, and finally was finally assigned to the young American state in 1819. Indian reservations were replaced by European populations by 1840.
- At the beginning of the twentieth century, Florida led an administrative redistribution, and in 1921 the young city of Sarasota became the county seat. Dealers and land magnates constantly change the boundaries of the city, but in 1925 the urbanist John Nolen streamlines the cadastral confusion with the help of a new master plan, and the city develops evenly.
The city bay is separated from the Gulf of Mexico by a chain of islands, which are called "keys" here. The territory of Sarasota includes 6 islands: St. Armand, Otter, Coon, Bird, Siesta and Lido. All of them are known for their turquoise white sand beaches, high-class hotels and restaurants with a variety of cuisine from the freshest dishes. The islands are a favorite place for weddings, photos from which can compete in attractiveness with postcards.
Each of the islands has its own personality: Lido is more "chamber" and relaxed, Sant'Arman is known for its "ring": a roundabout with a park in the center and shopping arcades with cafes, restaurants, tobacconists and kiosks of homemade ice cream and chocolate. Bird is decorated with exotic birds and luxurious villas, while Siesta Island is decorated with art and craft galleries.
Music in stone
Music in stone
- The emblem of the city is Michelangelo's David. This choice reflects the city's reverent attitude towards the arts, among which music and architecture occupy a special place.
- Sarasota is known for the performances of its symphony orchestra, opera and ballet, the repertoires of the Asolo Theater and Florida Studio Theatre, as well as numerous theater companies. Acting is held in high esteem and taught at the department of the University of Florida and the Aloso Conservatory. The theater stage is complemented by film festivals, street art and contemporary art.
Two dissimilar styles coexist in the architecture of buildings in Sarasota: the Venetian Renaissance and modern structuralism. Fashion for exquisite facades in the Venetian style began with the construction of the Villa Ca d'Zan — the winter residence of the famous businessman John Ringling. Today, the villa hosts thematic exhibitions, theatrical and musical performances and club meetings.
In the second half of the 20th century, Sarasota architects developed a distinct style: an adaptation of constructivism to the humid tropical climate. This symbiosis gives rise to elegant and eye-catching ensembles that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. In 1966, innovative architects create their own school and successfully combine private practice with government orders.
Outdoors and in the City of Sarasota
Outdoors and in the City of Sarasota
- Hot mineral springs attract lovers of spa and healing mineral waters. You can enjoy wild nature in Crawley, Miakka, Urfer and Bayon parks, admire tropical flowers in the Marie Selby Botanical Garden, and go sailing and kayaking in Wamo Park. The Moat Aquarium and Research Center offers educational lectures and off-site boat tours.
- The city is bustling with life. Palm Avenue is the center of art galleries, antique and souvenir shops. Main Street is home to numerous art festivals and is also known for its farm produce market.
For those who want to start creating with their hands, there are many courses in Sarasota: School of Glass, Cove Studio, Renaissance School, dance lovers can take classes at the Empire Ballroom and Sarah Dance studios, and American Butler will make you the best vacation program of all. this city.
American Butler can help you with everything you do in Sarasota, from signing up for a painting studio to finding an architect for a trendy Constructivist villa project.
Terms and cost
Terms and cost
- Tour cost from $699 ($60 / hour);
- the minimum cost of the tour is calculated for a group of up to 3 people, the surcharge for each additional passenger is $60;
- the duration of the tour is from 10 to 14 hours;
- travel time is calculated taking into account the road and traffic jams on a given route, but not less than the specified time. The cost of each additional hour is $60;
- tickets to museums and a hotel room for the guide are paid additionally;
- for a comfortable trip, we recommend a maximum of 5 people in the car;
- tipping the guide is always welcome, but not required and can be left by you if you wish;
- the cost of the tour may vary depending on the season.
- during the tour, you can additionally visit the Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg.