The Guide

ATTRACTIONS

Sharks, orchids, clowns, tigers, Conquistadors, world-class art and more await your discovery.

THE SEA, THE SCENERY, SCIENCE AND THE CIRCUS ALL shine in Sarasota’s world-famous attractions, which highlight natural wonders and local history while ushering in the artists and  innovators of tomorrow.

The area’s history spans prehistoric Native Americans and pioneer settlers, whose stories are highlighted at the South Florida Museum and can be experienced firsthand at Historic Spanish Point. Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto’s conquests shine at the De Soto National Memorial, while plantation life takes the spotlight at the Gamble Plantation and Memorial.

When it comes to the 20th century, nothing stands out more than John Ringling’s contributions to the area: His circus, his massive Baroque art collection, and even his fondness for intricate Italian architecture are all on display at the Ringling Museum. There, you can take in the largest collection of paintings by Flemish master Peter Paul Rubens outside of Paris, then experience an 18th-century opera house in the Historic Asolo Theater and a stroll through the largest miniature circus in the world before taking in the jaw-dropping wonder that is John Ringling’s 1920s, bayfront Ca d’Zan mansion. It’s a 66-acre tribute to the golden age of Sarasota.

As for future ages, look no further than the scientific breakthroughs and enduring tropical beauty at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, with its internationally recognized orchid and epiphyte research, as well as Mote Marine Laboratory and its adjoining aquarium. Plus, G.WIZ the Hands-On Science Museum and the Bishop Planetarium at South Florida Museum are teaching the next generation of Sarasota scientists to explore their world and reach for the stars.

Many of these attractions offer discount web coupons; be sure to check each organization’s site before you go.

BRADENTON
De Soto National Memorial, 3000 75th St. NW, Bradenton. (941) 792-0458. In May 1539, explorer Hernando de Soto set foot on “La Florida” close to the mouth of the Manatee River in Bradenton. This historical hot spot is a great destination for all ages. Its 25 acres of natural beauty are home to several exhibits dedicated to the Spanish and Native American history of the area, and “living history” re-enactments performed by Conquistadors at select times during the winter and spring give insight to life in the formative years of our region. Free. nps.gov/deso

South Florida Museum/Bishop Planetarium/Parker Manatee Aquarium, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. (941) 746-4131. The home of a number of unique attractions, including Snooty, the 63-year-old manatee, this downtown Bradenton landmark includes the South Florida Museum, with exhibits detailing the region’s history and native peoples, and the Bishop Planetarium, with its state-of-the-art digital projection system that lets visitors explore the cosmos and stargaze at any time of day. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Adults $15.95, seniors 65 and up $13.95, children four-12 $11, free for children under four (with a paying adult). southfloridamuseum.org.

ELLENTON
Gamble Plantation and Mansion, 3708 Patten Ave., Ellenton. (941) 723-4536. Once a fully functioning sugar plantation, this is the only surviving plantation in South Florida. This former home of Major Robert Gamble is believed to have been the hiding place of Confederate Secretary of State Judah P. Benjamin until he could escape to England after the fall of the Confederacy. Guided tours ($6, children $4) are offered six times a day, Thursday through Monday. The gorgeous grounds feature extensive grassy areas and picnic tables shaded under live oaks. Free. floridastateparks.org/gambleplantation