888 Boulevard of the Arts was Sarasota’s first super condo, dating back to 1982. It, like the new Vue, was controversial at the time but now it’s become an accepted part of the landscape and home to a cross section of affluent townspeople. Its residents over the years sound like a roll call of Sarasota’s social history, including, among many others, Marge and Ted Van Antwerp, Christine Jennings and Roy and Susan Palmer.

The apartments themselves tend to be on the small side by today’s downtown standards, but there are some elaborate penthouses, like this one that just came on the market for the first time since its original owner converted three apartments into an expansive 5,158-square-foot unit with five bedrooms and six bathrooms.

Since it’s located on the top floor (19) it has extra high ceilings (10 feet) and even a fireplace. There are five terraces, some screened and some glass enclosed, and needless to say the views are spectacular—over the bay, out to the key and the gulf. It also comes with an extra kitchen and three parking places down in the garage.

The apartment itself is in more or less its original condition, which means some updating will have to be done. But if you’re looking for something enormous with unbeatable views, this may be the one. And it’s perfect for fireworks viewing on the Fourth...

888 Boulevard of the Arts is priced at $3.2 million. For more information call Martie Lieberman of Premier Sotheby’s at (941) 724-1118.