Florida Art

New Art Exhibit Showcases Jim Crow-Era Paintings by The Florida Highwaymen

A new exhibit of historically significant artwork at City Hall in downtown Sarasota kicks off today. It's open to the public and free.

01/08/2024 By Kim Doleatto

Once Upon a Time in Florida

A Journey Through Old Florida With the State’s Last Cowboys

The seven-day, six-night reenactment offered 350 people on horseback the chance to push 500 head of cattle through 80 contiguous miles of Florida that few people ever get to see. 

08/31/2023 By Isaac Eger

A 1925 Treasure

This Almost Century-Old Home Is a Slice of Vintage Florida

Built in 1925, this cozy, two-bedroom, one-bathroom home in the historic Maine Colony neighborhood stands strong—and it’s on the market for $345,000.

02/24/2023 By Kim Doleatto

Into the Wild

Join Us on a Wild Raccoon Release

We recently released raccoons that were orphaned by Hurricane Ian back into the wild.

01/23/2023 By Isaac Eger

time capsules

These Historic Local Buildings Were Nominated as Landmarks Worth Saving

The Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation highlighted these historic buildings as part of its third annual "Six to Save" initiative.

04/06/2022 By Kim Doleatto

Home Tour

An Original Longboat Key Cottage Modernizes and Holds Onto Its History

Take a peek inside this respectful redo.

12/14/2021 By Kim Doleatto

Long Live Longbeach

Historic Longbeach Is a Sweet Reminder of Vanishing Old Florida

This is what coastal Southwest Florida looked like before master-planned communities, Gulf-front condos and growth took hold.

12/14/2021 By Kim Doleatto

Authentic Florida

Martin County is a Sparkling Gem on Florida's Treasure Coast

Martin County combines Florida's past with enchanting small towns, uncrowded beaches and open prairies

07/27/2016 By Robin Draper

Authentic Florida

10 Awesome Things to Do in Sarasota This Summer

Sarasota offers plenty of outdoor family fun.

06/24/2016 By Robin Draper

Authentic Florida

Springtime at Bok Tower Gardens

Bok Tower Gardens is in full bloom--it's time to stop and smell the flowers.

03/10/2016 By Robin Draper

Article

Authentic Florida: Pasco County's Iconic Stilt Houses

Thirty miles northwest of Tampa, Pasco County's wooden fishing camps, known as stilt houses, are reminders of Florida's past.

09/23/2015 By Robin Draper

Article

Charlotte Harbor and Its Islands

Charlotte Harbor has many hidden treasures among its nine coastal and four island communities, making it one of Florida’s top eco-tourism destinations.

08/31/2015 By Robin Draper

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A Visit to Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Sarasota’s Jungle Gardens is an old-timey tourist attraction that has withstood the test of time and continues to deliver pure charm for the entire family.

08/08/2015 By Robin Draper

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Your Guide to Florida Road Trips

Our Authentic Florida blogger Robin Draper highlights her favorite destinations.

07/01/2015 By Robin Draper

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Authentic Florida Scalloping

Authentic Florida shares some tips for a scalloping trip including where to go and what to expect.

06/02/2015 By Robin Draper

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My Florida Mom

Authentic Florida Robin Draper shares her stories of her mom, Beth Arthur, a local artist and woman for all seasons.

05/06/2015 By Robin Draper

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What's Blooming in the Ringling Gardens?

Learn what's in bloom for spring with Authentic Florida while we tour Sarasota's Ringling Museum Gardens.

03/25/2015 By Robin Draper

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Strawberry Kumquat Salad, Oh My!

Robin Draper of Authentic Florida dishes out a delicious Strawberry Kumquat Salad recipe featuring fresh Florida seasonal produce.

03/01/2015 By Robin Draper

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Authentic Florida Valentine's Day Cookies

Just in time for Valentine's Day: Festive Authentic Florida cookies.

02/11/2015 By Robin Draper