About Downtown Sarasota, Florida Real Estate
A vibrant paradise rich in cultural opportunities and lively nightlife.
With a quaint population of 53, Sarasota was incorporated in 1902. The following century saw the city grow due to the tremendous legacy left behind by its former developer and entrepreneur John Ringling. Its name comes from the Spanish term for “a place for dancing”, and appropriately so, Sarasota is a cultural hub with various galleries and live theaters. Sarasota also has a wide variety of fine dining options and local pubs and is known for posh cars and quaint old-fashioned trolly rides. While recognized as an intellectual town, it is also celebrated for being a family-friendly area.
Sarasota was the birthplace of Florida’s unique regional architecture –– Sarasota Modern. The clean and tropical feel of the style makes for a pleasant environment. While Sarasota is beloved by its residents and visitors, its proximity to an international airport allows for seamless travel in and out of this paradise. Sarasota also has many upscale boutique hotels.
What to Love
- Colorful and lively
- Endless arts opportunities
- Refined way of life
- Quaint shops and restaurants
- Warm Florida temperatures
Local Lifestyle
The Sarasota community is known for its appreciation of the arts. Locals will seldom pass up an opportunity to view a gallery or performance and likewise appreciate a good meal. They are also known for being both people-friendly and dog friendly. Sarasota is regarded as highly walkable and abundant in outdoor opportunities.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
Downtown Sarasota has world-class dining and diverse restaurants. Mattison’s City Grille serves New American fare and tasty cocktails in a tropical, tiki setting. Locals also enjoy Mattison’s for their full calendar of live music.
Boca Sarasota has a rotating menu of mouthwatering farm-to-table meals made with locally sourced ingredients. The general ambiance encourages conversation among friends and strangers alike. Their tables are small enough for an intimate meal and large enough for a group meeting. For fresh fish in a relaxed space, Owen’s Fish Camp is the perfect spot.
The Gator Club is home to Sarasota’s largest spirits collection with over 500 products. This 1900’s commercial building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places but has been revamped into a trendy venue featuring various bands and DJs five days a week. The club also hosts an assortment of weekly events including Bingo and Karaoke.
McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre is another great way to spend the evening. This comedy club features a varied catalog of comedians and performers. It also provides rentable space equipped for seminars, conferences, presentations, and team training. The club serves bar food, wine, beer, and “comedy concoctions.”
There are also many shopping opportunities in the area. For mainstream retailers, such as Bath & Body Works, Sarasota Square is a good option with the additional benefit of its proximity to Sarasota’s beaches. St. Armand’s Circle is a charming shopping center with unique shops, restaurants, and shops to satisfy your sweet tooth. Crossings at Siesta Key is home to high-end retailers, gyms, and restaurants.
Things to Do
Sarasota has ample opportunity for lovers of the arts as well as the outdoors. The area has an abundance of art galleries, such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Art Center Sarasota, and Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy. For a taste of art and history, many locals enjoy Ca’ d’Zan –– the beautiful and historic Ringling estate. Sarasota is also home to one of the Gulf Coast’s most notable art institutions, the professional non-profit Florida Studio Theatre.
Every year, the juried exhibit entitled “Embracing Our Differences” takes place in Island Park, featuring over 50 large pieces of art. For a wide variety of artisanal accessories, decorations, and statement pieces, the annual Downtown Sarasota Arts & Crafts Festival is another great option for families and art purveyors. Come winter, holiday shoppers enjoy perusing local stores over light refreshments and wine at the Holiday Sip and Shop.
Locals also enjoy Sarasota’s beautiful surrounding nature and environment. Bayfront Park is a family-friendly waterfront with a promenade and playground. Every year, locals gather around Marina Jack for the annual Suncoast Boat Show. Throughout the year, community members visit the award-winning Sarasota Farmers Market.
Schools
Sarasota is conveniently located near several esteemed schools and colleges, including:
