Sarasota: Flowers, Farmers Markets, and Famous Italian Food

Snowbirds returning to Sarasota, Florida for the winter will find many amazing activities to occupy their time. Sarasota is a place of fun and sun all year long. With daytime temperatures in the mid-70’s all winter, Sarasota offers a veritable host things to do for those fleeing the cold winter climates of other parts of the country.

 

A visit to the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is an exercise in beauty. Located on 10 acres along South Palm Avenue, this stunning collection of nearly 20,000 different varieties of plants and flowers offers hours of tranquil enjoyment. Famous for their orchid collection, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a popular way to spend an afternoon. Koi ponds and a butterfly garden only enhance the enjoyment of the many visitors who flock to the garden every year. The Christy Payne mansion, also on the property, houses many photographs and exhibits in a museum-like atmosphere.

 

Sarasota’s Main Street offers an incredible shopping experience. Visit the Pineapple Square shopping complex, browse the many antique shops, or visit on the first Friday of every month, when Main Street shops stay open late for the First Friday Walk. A block away, several art galleries invite browsers in to see what Sarasota artists have to offer. Saturday mornings offer a local Farmer’s Market, and the entire area has a small-town feel. Strolling the streets under the beautiful, mature trees and exploring Downtown’s specialty shops is a relaxing way to spend a sunny Sarasota day.

 

Sarasota offers many restaurants and eateries. Caragiulos, the premiere Italian-American restaurant located on Palm Avenue, invites guests in for a cozy dining experience. The family-owned restaurant offers amazing food including pizza, pasta and steak. Everything is hand-tossed, handmade, and absolutely delicious. A visit to Caragiulos is the perfect way to celebrate a return to Sarasota.