• Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Noshing With the Nolands

  • Home
  • Recipes
  • Contact
  • Work With Me
  • How-To
  • About
  • eBooks

Home » Dining Out » Sarasota Florida

Sarasota Florida

May 8, 2016 by Tara Noland 52 Comments

0shares
  • Share
  • Tweet

Sarasota Florida

Sarasota Florida is our final leg of our Florida trip that we just recently enjoyed. Our first stop was Fort Myers and then we moved onto Siesta Key. We were thrilled with our vacation in this wonderful state and would love to show you more of what this area has to offer. Sarasota is a short 1 1/2 hour drive from Fort Myers, which was our flight destination. It is an easy and pretty drive and was enjoyable to see more of the state.

Sarasota Florida

There is lots to see in Sarasota Florida under blue skies and warm temperatures. For most of the time in the spring and summer Florida is hot and humid with thunderstorms rolling through to cut through the humidity. We had very pleasant weather for the end of March beginning of April. This picture is taken at the gorgeous Ringling Mansion named Ca’ d’Zan (meaning house of John), which is situated on the Sarasota Bay. Later I will show you a boat tour we took of this stunning area.

Sarasota Florida

The Venetian Gothic Palace was owned by John and Mabel (pictured here) Ringling of the famous Ringling Brothers Circus. The home was completed in the mid 1920’s and was their winter home. The home with its’ 20 acres, lovely gardens and gorgeous Italian statuary was bequeathed to the state of Florida by John Ringling. It serves as a wonderful day of exploring in gorgeous Florida weather as there are also museums to poke around in showcasing many of the artifacts from the circus including a portion of the train they travelled on.

Sarasota Florida

The gardens were stunning with huge Banyan trees and so much more to see. These gorgeous trees give you some shelter from the heat of the day.

Sarasota Florida

Our lodging for our time in Sarasota was the very accommodating Comfort Suites. It is located just a short 6 miles from Siesta Key. After a long day of lounging on the beach or seeing local attractions the Comfort Suites are perfect place to unwind and regroup. A full self-serve breakfast is included with your stay making mornings easy and relaxing. The hotel also includes a pool, hot tub, fire pits, free wifi and a fitness room.

Sarasota Florida

Our room was palatial and the perfectly relaxing destination after searching out the area.

Sarasota Florida

The room was spit spot clean, the staff nothing but helpful, the food was good, the facilities perfect. The hotel is rated 4.7 out of 5 and I see why, it is a great accommodation and the perfect affordable place to stay. You can visit all the hectic crazy fun of Siesta Beach and then come to a nice quiet area. For me a great spot and I highly recommend it.

Sarasota Florida

We discovered this great little cruise line down at the marina in Sarasota Florida called LeBarge Cruises. They offer many different cruises but we chose the afternoon cruise called Sightseeing and Nature cruise. The cruise featured not only wildlife information but also heritage and celebrity homes. Call ahead to book and arrive early to line up to get the best seats.

Sarasota Florida

Pulling out of the harbour was much fun, seeing yacht after yacht. Very hard to choose my favorite. This area is a very wealthy area as lots of Florida is.

Sarasota Florida

On board the ship, we settled in nicely. Ken got me this big bucket of a cocktail so I was more than happy for the 2 1/2 hours cruise. They also served some food on board and we shared some Tropical Nachos and a very good Shrimp, Crab and Parmesan Cheese Dip.

Sarasota Florida

The homes along the waterway were stunning, one after the other of jaw dropping gorgeousness!!

Sarasota Florida

This one had us completely gobsmacked as we drove past and then away from it, as it stuck out in its own little peninsula. The drive down the road on the opposite side doesn’t do these homes justice as they are all showcasing their glory on the water side.

Sarasota Florida

Many people were out on the water in canoes and kayaks. There are lots of sandbars in the bay and the entire area is very shallow. You must maintain a very slow speed going through these waters as it is home to lots of manatees, dolphins, birds and other aquatic life. I did see a couple of dolphins pop out of the water on our journey.

Sarasota Florida

We heard that Yodder’s was a must stop. It is a funny to see in all of this opulence that there is an Amish community right in downtown Sarasota.

Sarasota Florida

There is a restaurant and market at Yodder’s, the restaurant was packed so we opted for their little takeout window for a gorgeous piece of pie. Amber got apple, Ken shoefly and myself this scrumptious pecan pie. We also took with us some banana bread, it was the best I had ever had.

Sarasota Florida

After enjoying and hearing about the wildlife of the area, we decided on another day in Sarasota to take in the Mote Aquarium to learn even more.

Sarasota Florida

Life under the sea is fascinating for us and we all enjoyed our adventure at this marine laboratory and aquarium.

Sarasota Florida

The wonders of the ocean are astoundingly showcased in tank after tank of gorgeous aquatic life.

Sarasota Florida

Kids love hands on and there were many opportunities for touching and exploring like in this sting ray tank.

Sarasota Florida

The otters could have been an hour long amusement on their own. The pair of them were extremely active, playing, jumping, swimming and more. There are also giant sea turtles to see and loads more. A great day for kids and adults.

Sarasota Florida

When the clouds open up in Florida it is usually short lived and give a reprieve from the humidity but is sure does come down. I love the rain, always have!!

Sarasota Florida (20) (Custom)

With it raining outside it gives you the opportunity to go inside and do some shopping. Amber was goofing around with a squid hat. This souvenir shop was fun to poke around in with great t-shirts, Ken liked the Salt Life line of clothing. Amber liked the alligator heads.

Sarasota Florida

If you know me you know my love of Trader Joe’s runs deep. This chain of grocery stores in mainly out in the west of the US. We don’t have them up here in Canada. They have the best products and I had to sneak into the store for a bottle of their “two buck chuck” wine otherwise called Charles Shaw. This is the only store location they have in Sarasota.

Sarasota Florida (10) (Custom)

On our last night in Florida we decided to check out the local Sarasota chain restaurant called Gecko’s, there are six location in the area to choose from. The one we chose was conveniently located very close to the Comfort Suites. Gecko’s features all day long happy hour, so when you order one drink you get two. I ordered a gin and tonic. Okay, they are small right?

Sarasota Florida

I ordered the delicious Margherita flatbread and a half salad that was larger than any full sized salad I have ever ordered. Their portions are very generous. The service was excellent and we really enjoyed our banter with our waitress Brie.

Sarasota Florida

Ken’s Panini Sandwich was stacked high with turkey, ham and salami and he loved it. Amber dove into her Chicken Parmesan which was a fried chicken breast smothered in marinara & mozzarella cheese on a bed of pasta.

Come and enjoy some Sarasota Florida your way. Relax, explore, dine and play! You can follow along with Visit Florida on Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, Pinterest  and G+. Use the hashtag #LoveFL to follow along too!

 

0shares
  • Share
  • Tweet

Filed Under: Dining Out, Travel Tagged With: dining out, Florida, Sarasota, travel

« Simple BBQ Potato Sausage Appetizer
MWM Coconut Ice Cream »

Comments

  1. Jill says

    May 8, 2016 at 2:47 pm

    Looks like you had a wonderful stay in Sarasota!

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 8, 2016 at 2:53 pm

      Thanks Jill, you would so love it in Sarasota!

      Reply
  2. Robin Masshole Mommy says

    May 9, 2016 at 2:43 pm

    I had no idea there was so much to do in Sarasota. Now i want to go!

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 19, 2016 at 12:51 pm

      And you need to, it is a fantastic area Robin!!

      Reply
  3. Melissa Lawler says

    May 9, 2016 at 2:49 pm

    I’m addicted to Trader Joe’s too! I also love the Comfort Inn. I’ve stayed in them all over the country.

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 9, 2016 at 2:57 pm

      Thanks Melissa, I am totally a fan of both too!!

      Reply
  4. Roxanne Morrison says

    May 9, 2016 at 3:42 pm

    Sarasota is someplace that is clearly underrated! You never hear about all of these great attractions! Can’t wait to see for myself ?

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 9, 2016 at 4:57 pm

      You will love it, such a gorgeous area!

      Reply
  5. Jeni Hawkins says

    May 9, 2016 at 4:39 pm

    Oh my gosh – how pretty! I’ve never even been to Florida, but would definitely check out Sarasota when I can get away for vacation!

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 9, 2016 at 4:58 pm

      Make Florida number one on your bucket list, you will love it!!

      Reply
  6. Jeanette says

    May 9, 2016 at 4:55 pm

    Looks like it is a fun place to go! I love to explore places I have never been before! I will have to add Sarasota to the list of places to visit.

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 9, 2016 at 4:58 pm

      It is a must visit, such a pretty area.

      Reply
  7. Mandi Welbaum says

    May 9, 2016 at 5:30 pm

    What a great trip! That cocktail though, in a bucket? That’s my kind of vacation!

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 10, 2016 at 8:21 am

      LOL, I sure did enjoy that cocktail while cruising around!!

      Reply
  8. Amy Desrosiers says

    May 9, 2016 at 6:12 pm

    I have never had the pleasure of visiting Florida. I really hope to cross it off my to-do bucket list though.

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 10, 2016 at 9:31 am

      It is must area to travel too, I have been many times but not to Sarasota, would love to go back!!

      Reply
  9. Kristen Hewitt says

    May 9, 2016 at 6:47 pm

    Wow what a GREAT trip! I live in South Florida and have never visited there! I love Malibu and Pecan Pie too! Looks like a great hotel and trip!

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 10, 2016 at 8:20 am

      Thanks so much Kristen, you have to venture up to this neck of the woods you would love it!

      Reply
  10. Kathy says

    May 9, 2016 at 7:21 pm

    Sounds like an amazing time! My husband and I were actually talking about maybe going to Florida this Winter with our daughters. I think this sounds like a great place to look in to. I need to check more in to this for sure. All that food looks amazing too!

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 11, 2016 at 10:13 am

      Sarasota and Siesta Key are a gorgeous destination, check out my other Florida posts. You will be booking your flight for sure!!

      Reply
  11. Ann Bacciaglia says

    May 9, 2016 at 9:04 pm

    I would love to go explore Sarasota Florida. The Aquarium would be so much fun.

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 10, 2016 at 8:19 am

      The Aquarium was a great day, so glad we did that. We all so enjoyed ourselves. You walk outside from building to building so you don’t feel like you are missing out on the gorgeous weather either.

      Reply
  12. Tammi Roy says

    May 9, 2016 at 9:06 pm

    I have never been to Sarasota Florida before. It looks like a great place to visit. The kids would love it.

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 10, 2016 at 8:18 am

      The kids would really love it, it is a wonderful area!

      Reply
  13. Autumn R Reo says

    May 10, 2016 at 2:05 am

    We’ve never been to Sarasota, but it looks like a great time. We’re planniong to come to Florida this summer so maybe this is the right trip!

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 10, 2016 at 8:08 am

      You will adore this area, so much to do and see!

      Reply
  14. Shauna says

    May 10, 2016 at 9:26 am

    OH I love places that have a true history. So much fun! And those trees and garden? I would love to visit. It sounds like this is the place to go for it all. Thanks so much for sharing.

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 10, 2016 at 9:32 am

      I loved learning all about the area, it was a really fascinating city so much more than just beach life, which is always wonderful!

      Reply
  15. Dawn gibson-thigpen says

    May 10, 2016 at 10:25 am

    i have heard great things are sarasota. a friend of mine has family there and she visits often. i love your photos and the food looks amazing.

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 11, 2016 at 10:15 am

      Thank you so much Dawn, I hope you get a chance to visit this area!

      Reply
  16. Liz Mays says

    May 10, 2016 at 1:03 pm

    Sarasota, here I come! That looks incredibly fun and the boat ride is a must do. Oh, the cocktail bucket too. lol

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 10, 2016 at 1:06 pm

      Yup, the cocktail bucket is a must, what a great afternoon it was!!

      Reply
  17. Lara Dunning says

    May 10, 2016 at 8:19 pm

    Florida is one of those states I’ve been to, but always want to return. There is so many interesting things to see. Sarasota looks like a great town, and you did all the things I would do, even getting Amish pecan pie!

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 11, 2016 at 7:06 am

      LOL, yup had to try the pie for sure!! And amazing that it is right on the middle of Sarasota.

      Reply
  18. Erin Klema | The Epicurean Traveler says

    May 10, 2016 at 9:21 pm

    I’ve heard wonderful things about Siesta Key and Sarasota. I’d love to vacation there someday to see the Ringling mansion and enjoy the warm Florida temperatures.

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 11, 2016 at 10:16 am

      Such an amazing area with lots and lots to do or nothing at all and just lying on the beach!!

      Reply
  19. Sally from Passport & Plates says

    May 10, 2016 at 11:13 pm

    I hadn’t even heard of Sarasota before this post and now I really want to go! Looks like you had a great time there and there’s so much to see and do!

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 11, 2016 at 7:05 am

      There is lots to do or nothing at all, lounging on the beach. We love a mixture of both!

      Reply
  20. Sally from Passport & Plates says

    May 10, 2016 at 11:39 pm

    I’d never heard of Sarasota before this but it looks like an incredible place to visit! Looks like you had an amazing time there.

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 11, 2016 at 7:04 am

      It really is a gorgeous area of Florida, I would go back in a second!

      Reply
  21. Jennifer says

    May 11, 2016 at 7:01 am

    Your pictures make me want to jet off to Sarasota. I LOVE visiting Florida. It just seems like a place you can relax and unwind.

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 11, 2016 at 7:04 am

      Thank you so much Jennifer you would love it!

      Reply
  22. Paul says

    May 11, 2016 at 7:29 am

    Certainly looks like you had a great time in Sarasota, it does look like a great family place.

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 11, 2016 at 8:26 am

      It is a great family destination but also a hot spot down on Siesta Key for spring breakers!! Fun for all!!

      Reply
  23. Christina says

    May 11, 2016 at 8:19 am

    We have family in Sarasota so I have seen pictures before. It’s looks like a wonderful place. The aquarium is definitely on our list of places to visit.

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 11, 2016 at 8:27 am

      The aquarium as a blast, we loved it!!

      Reply
  24. Vicky and Buddy says

    May 11, 2016 at 6:28 pm

    I’m sad to say that I live only a few hours away from Sarasota and yet I’ve never visited. It looks great though, so I’ll have to make it a priority. There’s more to do there than I thought!

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 11, 2016 at 6:46 pm

      There is lots to do, great day visit even or over night in Sarasota or Siesta Key!!

      Reply
  25. Mags says

    May 12, 2016 at 10:31 pm

    I love Florida! I’ve lived in Orlando for about 10 years and I’ve still never made it to Sarasota. Looks like a beautiful place.

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 13, 2016 at 7:00 am

      You have to make it to this part of Florida, it is so gorgeous!

      Reply
  26. Francesca | The Working Mom's Travels says

    May 16, 2016 at 9:48 am

    I’ve spent a lot of time in Florida but not much of it in Sarasota. I’d love that cruise, and seeing dolphins in the wild really is special!

    Reply
    • Tara Noland says

      May 16, 2016 at 9:50 am

      Sarasota and area has so much to offer, we really loved our time there.

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Hi there! I am Tara and the founder of Noshing With The Nolands. This is our family site where we love to share with you all of our cooking, baking, dining, tips, tricks, and more. Come and meet the whole team behind the scenes.

Subscribe to our emails!

Sign up today for free and be the first to get notified on new updates on delicious recipes, reviews and more.

Get our BEST CANNING RECIPES EBOOK!!

About Us

We are passionate foodies here in Alberta, Canada that also love to travel, dine out and investigate in all that is new!! Read More…

Privacy Policy

Never miss a delicious recipe, subscribe to our emails

  • Facebook
  • Google+
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Copyright © 2021 · Noshing with the Nolands · Unsubscribe

Copyright © 2021 · Foodie Child Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in