2021

Check out some special holiday deals and discounts for travelers who want to visit Sarasota County this winter season.

By Compass Rose History Experiences

Nearly four decades before Sarasota became a county, a group of Scottish immigrants landed on our white, sandy shores pursuing the promise of life in a tropical oasis with modern amenities.

But what happens when you move thousands of miles from home, and there’s no home to move into?

By Compass Rose History Experiences

In 1899, Cornelius Van Santvoord (C.V.S.) Wilson, the owner of the Manatee County Advocate, decided to move to the small village of Sarasota to start the area’s first newspaper. The year prior, C.V.S., a widow, had remarried to the young Rose Phillips. 40 years her senior, C.V.S. had a successful career in the newspaper industry and was ready to take on a new challenge.

Here are seven reasons throughout its 100-year history Sarasota County has been a desirable place for visitors to play

Through both dedicated efforts of local leaders and the unique charm of the area, this once sleepy fishing town has become an internationally known destination. Here are seven reasons throughout its 100-year history Sarasota County has been a desirable place for visitors to play:

Sarasota County is home to many sites with serious archeological significance

People have been coming to Florida for a long time. And we’re not just talking about all the tourists who have been traveling to the Sunshine State since the early 20th century, or even the Spanish who first came to Florida in the 1500s.

For over 100 years, Black residents played a major role in the development of Sarasota

Click Here to learn more about the Sarasota County Centennial!

Pamper yourself with services at these unique Sarasota spas for the ultimate relaxation experience

Escape from it all and indulge in a little ‘you time.’ Spas throughout Sarasota offer services to cater to any need, from relaxation to recovery, improved heath to anti-aging. If you’re looking for something traditional or something unique, these spas have got you covered (sometimes in mud).

The Spa at the Resort at Longboat Key Club

Get some fresh air with a purpose and try one of our self-guided walking tours to help you discover some of the food, history and culture around Florida's Gulf Coast®.

Steve Christie's NFL career includes time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and two Super Bowl appearances with the Buffalo Bills before an eventual move to Lakewood Ranch, Florida where he now resides with his wife and kids.

After a 15-year NFL career, Steve Christie chose to move his family to Lakewood Ranch where he now works and even coaches football at the local high school. Christie's accolades as an NFL kicker include: