Sarasota Visitors Guide 2008 - (Page 4) By Su Byron Congratulations! You’ve arrived. Your Sarasota vacation is finally beginning. What kind of vacation? The choices are up to you. From Longboat Key in the north to Englewood in the south, Sarasota and Her Islands is a creative mix of beachside villages, sophisticated urban centers, lush wildlife habitats, miles of white, sugary sand beaches, and an abundance of cultural treasures. Outdoor lovers can sail, scuba dive, fish, golf and play tennis year ‘round. Two celebrated state parks offer hiking, kayaking, and canoeing and close encounters with nature. Families flock to Mote Aquarium, an interactive exploration of everything under the sea. And the young (and young at heart) can discover the wonders of nature and science at G.WIZ, a hands-on science center. Get to Know Sarasota and Her Islands You might want to start your Sarasota sojourn at Bayfront Park with its panoramic views of the city and the sailboat-dotted marina. Picnickers sprawl on lush lawns while kids splash in the outdoor fountain. Hungry? The grouper sandwiches at O’Leary’s Deck & Grill (or oysters on the half shell at Marina Jack’s al fresco raw bar) will hit the spot. Everything’s within walking distance, so wear comfortable shoes and explore the galleries and boutiques of Main Street and Palm Avenue. Stroll to picturesque Burns Court — an antique hunter’s haven. Towles Court, a colorful collective of artists’ studios and galleries, offers original works by Florida artists. Sip something cool on the outside deck at Canvas Café. You’ll catch stunning glimpses of the Gulf of Mexico along the drive to Longboat Key where old-Florida bungalows bump shoulders with posh resorts and fourstar restaurants. Tennis fans can get Courtesy of Mote Aquarium Top: Bayfront Park, Sarasota Bottom: Touch tank at Mote Aquarium Right: Sunset at the beach 4 THE OFFICIAL SARASOTA VISITORS GUIDE® 2008
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