Historic Sites in Sarasota

"The Ca’ d’Zan was the former home of John Ringling, world-famous circus owner and art collector, and his wife. Mr. and Mrs. Ringling are both founders of The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art."

"Explore Florida's ecosystems with a day of hiking or bicycling around the nature trails at De Soto National Memorial park or take a 45-minute Trail Walk with one of the Park Rangers from the Visitor Center to learn about the rich history and heritage of the grounds. The De Soto National Memorial is home to the living history Camp Uzita; a ten-table picnic area; several small beaches; and The Cove, an anchorage for small pleasure boats. Admission to the De Soto National Memorial is free to the public, but donations are accepted."

"The De Soto National Memorial was created to commemorate the landing of famed explorer de Soto, who was one of the first Europeans to explore the southern part of the United States and Florida in the mid-1500s. The memorial is 26 acres of beautifully landscaped land, located just 5 miles from the city. The area features 3,000 feet of coastline where the Manatee River flows into the Tampa Bay."

"For history buffs, the perfect place to spend the day is the Manatee Village, Historical Park. The park is home to a collection of historical objects, artifacts, and buildings that help show visitors how life in Florida was during the pioneer years. Some of the historic buildings include a smokehouse and mill, Potter's Barn, Fogarty Boatworks, Curator's Corner, a blacksmith shop, Wiggins General Store, and an 1887 church."

"Learn about the history of Manatee County with a trip to the Manatee Village Historical Park. The venue features dozens of photographs and artifacts of Manatee County through the decades and is managed by the Florida Association of Museums. Head here for the annual Heritage Days for special exhibits, live performances and reenactments that tell the story of life in Manatee County."

"Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ebyabe used under CC BY-SA 3.0. An open-air museum and a park in Florida’s Bradenton, Manatee Village Historical Park is recognized as a National Historic Site. This space comprises 14 replica and preserved structures to honor Manatee County’s founding period from 1840-1918."

"The only surviving plantation house in South Florida as well as the oldest building in Manatee County, The Gamble Plantation Historic State Park features a plantation restored to resemble its original beauty during the mid-1800s."

"La Brisa Tacos y Mariscos is an unassuming taco joint offering (obviously) tacos, burritos, ceviche and other Mexican favorites. Prices are reasonable and the free refills of horchata—a cinnamon-flavored ground rice drink—will keep you coming back for more.Why go?"

"Back Alley is the local's favorite cozy nook for coffee, craft beer and wine. Back Alley also has a delightful blend of local art and unique gifts."

"Absolutely fabulous food, perfectly and authentically spiced, seasoned and prepared. Served hot and quickly. The lunch special is a generous portion and ..."

"This historic artist colony is famous for its galleries, boutiques, studios and dining. Monthly Art Walk is 5-9PM Every 3rd Friday"

"This unique art gallery is a must-see for its unconventional collection. It’s the only gallery in America that displays Italian artist and pianist Massimo Meda’s 3D-fluorescent paintings, concrete Medablocks and stainless-steel furniture. It has its own in-residence Italian artist, Fabio Dal Boni, who paints award-winning fine art photography on aluminium and canvas."

"Located just south of downtown Bradenton, the Village of the Arts features early 20th century bungalows where residents live, work, and play, with homes doubling as art galleries, specialty stores and even a vinyl record shop called Jerk Dog. Art walks take place the first Friday of each month, but you can visit the village on any given day for dinner or lunch at one of the neighborhood’s four charming restaurants. Arte Caffe serves thin-crust pizza, homemade pasta and other authentic Italian classics while Ortygia offers genuine Sicilian, French and Mediterranean-style cuisine."

"The Village of the Arts is an eclectic artists community that includes more than 100 homes, art galleries, studios, workshops, restaurants, and cafes for working artists. The village is over 36 acres and has many artist cottages from the 1920s and 1930s that have been restored to their former glory. Many of the cottages have received an artistic upgrade with bright colors that create a truly artistic feel."

"It consists of individual homes over a four block area that have been rehabed and turned into art studios and unique…. Frequently Asked Questions about Bradenton. The top attractions to visit in Bradenton are:"