4 Recommended Tourist Spots in Sarasota, Florida’s Resort Area!

Sarasota is located on the southwestern coast of the U.S. state of Florida. The town is home to numerous museums, theaters, concert halls, and research facilities, and hosts many cultural events such as a large annual music festival, attracting countless tourists. This time, we will introduce recommended tourist spots in Sarasota, which is also highly popular as a resort destination with its mild and pleasant winter climate.

1. Sarasota National Cemetery

Sarasota National Cemetery was established in 2008 as the sixth national cemetery in Florida. On its vast 119-hectare grounds, many soldiers from World War II and other conflicts are buried. Memorial monuments have been erected, and an amphitheater used for ceremonies was completed in 2014. Guided tours are held in the amphitheater every Tuesday at 10 a.m.

2. Myakka River State Park

Myakka River State Park is the largest state park in Florida and protects one of the most diverse natural areas in the state. Visitors can enjoy wildlife observation from boardwalks extending over the lake, stroll along walking trails while admiring the trees, and enjoy boating, freshwater fishing, canoeing, and kayaking in the park’s river and two lakes.
The on-site restaurant is conveniently located near the sightseeing boat dock. The menu is extensive, prices are reasonable, and all the dishes are delicious. You can also try rare dishes not commonly seen in Japan, such as fried alligator. In addition, the park features a suspension bridge with views over the entire area, six campgrounds, and certain trails where you can enjoy cycling or horseback riding. Come and immerse yourself in the great outdoors to refresh both body and mind.

3. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art was once the residence of the world-famous circus family, the Ringlings, and is now open to the public as an art museum. In the early 20th century, John Ringling and his brothers ran a circus. At a time when television and movies did not exist, the circus was the greatest form of entertainment. Leading the world’s largest circus troupe, the brothers amassed great wealth, and John became one of America’s most famous millionaires.
John was a regular at art auctions in New York and London, and he built an art museum in a prime location overlooking the Caribbean Sea to display his collection. The building’s structure was modeled after the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy, with a replica statue of David in the center of the courtyard and statues from ancient Greece and Rome adorning the surroundings and roof.
After John’s death in 1936, the land and museum were bequeathed to the state of Florida. Restoration was carried out using $56 million in donations from citizens and the state, with a total of $76 million spent, and completed in 2007. Today, it is the 16th largest art museum in the United States, boasting over 10,000 works including paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, photographs, and decorative art. The grounds also house John’s mansion, a theater, and a circus museum that children will enjoy.

4. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, established in 1973, is the only botanical garden in the world dedicated to the display and research of epiphytic plants. The garden is famous for its collection of over 6,000 orchids and is home to approximately 106,000 species of tropical plants. Its research library contains about 124,000 volumes, mainly focused on tropical plants, particularly epiphytes, offering abundant materials and books on plants and horticulture.

◎ Summary

Sarasota is a cultural hub in Florida. While it offers many cultural facilities, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art stands out as a place where you can glimpse the luxurious lifestyle of a wealthy magnate, sure to leave you in awe. Myakka River State Park is also recommended for families thanks to its abundance of nature and activities. Along Sarasota’s beautiful white sandy beaches, you will find stylish cafés and restaurants, and dining with a view of the stunning beach is exceptional. If you visit, be sure to try it at least once!