Travel South Magazine Travel South low (kasey daleo's conflicted copy 20 | Page 20

Sarasota , FL

Located between Fort Myers and Tampa on Florida ’ s Gulf Coast , Sarasota County is a rising destination in the Southwest United States . Featuring 35 miles of pristine beaches , arts and culture , nature retreats and fabulous dining options , this area is a darling destination for tours and is easy to access from Interstate 75 .
See The Ringling . This State Art Museum of Florida is located on 66 acres of beautiful bay-front property . Or , head downtown to Selby Gardens , a botanical oasis of thousands of plants and trees . Head over Ringling Causeway and meet our sealife at Mote Aquarium , or visit Save Our Seabirds next door for an educational experience of the different birds that call
Florida home . Be sure to visit Sarasota Jungle Gardens , home to a flock of free roaming flamingos , and Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary , a large-animal rescue and permanent home for dozens of exotic animals .
Large groups are easily accommodated at several of our restaurants . Dine lunch at Der Dutchman , a popular restaurant known for its pan-fried chicken , mashed potatoes and delicious pies , located in the heart of Pinecraft , Sarasota ’ s Amish community . Savor supper with tapas , sangria and fabulous Cuban cuisine at Columbia Restaurant on St . Armands Circle . There are more than 12 restaurants in the destination for large groups amid Sarasota County ’ s robust dining scene .
The Visit Sarasota County Motorcoach Incentive program provides groups new to the area with resources to enhance their experience . Benefits to the program include $ 10 room rebates per room for the first night , up to $ 500 in value and $ 15 room rebates per room for the second night , up to $ 750 in value . We will also personally meet and greet , provide a 24 / 7 customer liaison , secure hotel room blocks and provide welcome bags . Contact Kelli Funkhouser to learn more at kfunkhouser @ visitsarasota . org , or 941.955.0991 ext . 122 .
“ Savor supper with tapas , sangria and fabulous Cuban cuisine at Columbia Restaurant on St . Armands Circle .”