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Sarasota, Florida, is a large city just south of Tampa Bay. It sits on the Gulf of Mexico and is noted for award-winning beaches such as Lido Beach. The subtropical climate is celebrated with outdoor attractions such as Sarasota Jungle Gardens. The city also boasts the Ringling Museum, a world-class artistic institution situated in the former mansion of circus impresario John Ringling. Sarasota is one hour from Tampa and only a short drive from Orlando.

Key facts

Sarasota may be reached by Interstate 75 or by the full-service Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ). Visitors may enjoy staying near the beach at one of the many establishments on Siesta Key or Longboat Key. Transportation around the city may be obtained through the Sarasota County Area Transit buses.

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Sarasota has a beautiful and temperate climate, especially in the colder months. The summer can be humid and hot, and rain is common from spring to fall. John Ringling spent much of his fortune on the development of the city and the endowment of the Ringling School, one of the premier artistic institutions in the United States. Sarasota is noted for its playful public sculptures, including the famous Unconditional Surrender and a wide variety of selections from Ringling's personal collection on the streets of St. Armand's Key.