![Boat parking at The Crow’s Nest in Venice [Photo: Lauren Jackson]](/sites/default/files/styles/popular_stories_teaser/public/2023-import/The-Crow%2527s-Nest-cropped__OPT.jpg.webp?itok=ycs37M-O)
There's something special about public art you stumble upon during a drive or walk instead of inside the walls of a museum.
Unlike the art you view in a gallery, there's a fun element of surprise to public art. It may spark an unexpected discussion or prove to be an exciting opportunity for a Kodak moment. It brings a new kind of beauty and originality to the area. It enhances our local culture. At times it may spark controversy. Above all else, it reminds us that there is art all around us.
Sharks. The mere mention of these carnivorous creatures makes some people cringe. In Venice, however, it's actually cause for celebration. The Sharks Tooth Festival, which first began in 1992, returns every year to Venice, FL—aka "The Sharks Tooth Capital of the World".
Looking for fresh produce, artisan baked goods, the finest flowers and unique art? Then look no further than one of the many farmers markets found right here in Sarasota County. At any time of year, the area’s commitment to supporting local food and craft vendors is evident at these vibrant markets.
The farmers market offerings in Sarasota continue to expand over time. Here’s the skinny on some of the area’s most popular farmers markets.
There are many good reasons Venice is named one of Coastal Living's Happiest Seaside Towns. This island town in southern Sarasota is where seaside vistas and charmed living meet. The town's Venice Avenue offers the chance for boutique shopping and dining before meandering through stately 1920's homes that lead straight to the Gulf of Mexico.
Serving as the country's oldest continuously running BMX track, Sarasota has been a favorite spot for racers to return year after year.
Established in 1974, Sarasota BMX is the oldest continuously running BMX track in America. Over those many years it has hosted countless state, regional and national races. A cornerstone of Florida BMX racing it has worked with the former National Bicycle League, the current Sunshine State Association and USA BMX. In 2016, the track was upgraded.
Love to read on vacation? Then check out our catalogue of bookstores, poetry readings and places for young readers.
Word on the street is that Sarasota is the place to be for bookworms of all ages, spoken word poets, and other literary-minded folks.
Whether your love of the written word has you seeking out the perfect local book nook, a reading club filled with lively book discussions, story time for the whole family, or the perfect setting to enjoy a poetry reading or even perform your own work—we have 'the read' on Sarasota's literary scene.
There's far more to Sarasota than white sandy beaches. Stroll through an art museum where the Venetian-style architecture is as much an art form as the masterpieces within. Gaze upon exotic orchids. Find the perfect gift in one of the most renowned shopping areas in the world. Paddle through lush tropical forests. Listen to a full orchestra ensemble.
Dream of blue skies greeting an orange and yellow setting sun. Dream of powdery white sand and a cool beverage in your hand. Dream of getting a nice tan... year-round.
It's that time of year again—time for family vacations, reunions and weddings. And there's no better place to host a family getaway than the beach. It has something for everyone: natural playgrounds of water and sand, miles of seashells, seafood restaurants galore, surf shops and souvenirs, tiki bars and live music. Thing is, which beach is best?
