History FAQ
Sarasota is home to The Ringling which is the state art museum of Florida as well as the new Sarasota Art Museum. We also have an array of other art, history and wildlife museums.
The downtown Sarasota historical area is located near our Visitor Center located at 1945 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota, FL 34236. It is the area east of U.S. 41 and west of U.S. 301 along Main Street.
Our Visitor Center in Sarasota has a brochure for a self-guided historical walking tour in downtown Sarasota. If you prefer a guided walking tour, check out our website for a list of tour companies or follow our recommendation on our website.
This area is within walking distance to Lido Key Beach and the beautiful waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Featuring distinct European flair and an eclectic variety of elegant dining and shopping options. You can explore the Circle with a self-guided history tour of its statutes or simply shop, eat and enjoy a drink in a beautiful setting.
We have several vendors offering different trolley tours, including historical, culinary and architectural tours.
Sarasota has a big Amish and Mennonite community called Pinecraft with a variety of restaurants offering hearty breakfast, lunch, and dinner options as well as a variety of homemade baked goods (pies, ice cream etc.). Olaf’s Ice Cream, Yoder’s Restaurant and Amish Village and Der Dutchman Restaurant & Bakery are some! Der Dutchman and Yoder’s each have a gift shop (Carlisle Gifts and Yoder’s Gift Shop) featuring handmade items from clothes and jewelry to toys and home goods. The Carlisle Inn & Conference Center opened in 2018 and is located next to Der Dutchman.