
Between January and March of this year, Florida set a quarterly record with nearly 38 million visitors. Why let tourists have all the fun? Our real estate agents are eagerly planning staycations, including these wonderful attractions in Bradenton and Sarasota.
- The Ringling Museum of Art - 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota, FL 34243
The name may be more associated with clowns and tightrope walkers, but the Ringling Museum of Art offers entertainment of a cultural kind. As a well-known collector of art, John Ringling established the museum as a tribute to himself and his wife and a gift to the community around Sarasota homes for sale. Museum hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. Tickets are $5-$25 and they include entry to the Circus Museum, Bayfront Gardens, and Kotler-Coville Glass Pavilion. Each Monday, admission is free to the Museum of Art and Bayfront Gardens.
- Sarasota Children's Garden - 1670 10th Way, Sarasota, FL 34236
No matter what age you are, a visit to Sarasota Children's Garden will get your imagination running. The two-acre grounds are like a whimsical fairy tale come to life. Follow the yellow brick road to the Monster Garden, home of a giant green dragon named Snuffy, and see if the three little pigs can protect their homes in the Butterfly Garden. Weekly nature, gardening, and art classes allow kids to develop their own creative spirit. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, and admission is $6-$10, with no charge for ages 2 and under.
- TreeUmph! Adventure Course - 21805 E. State Rd. 70, Bradenton, FL 34202
Florida's scenic land is surrounded by water, but lots of fun can be found up in the air. TreeUmph! Adventure Course, just minutes from Bradenton homes for sale, spans the equivalent of 10 football fields. Start your journey by viewing a brief instructional video, followed by a hands-on demonstration from experienced guides. Move through any or all of the courses featuring zip lines, rope walls, and other challenging obstacles. Minimum age is 5, and all guests under the age of 18 must have their waiver signed by a parent. TreeUmph! is open seven days a week, with start times every half-hour from 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Admission is $28-$59.
- Village of the Arts - 1017 12th Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34205
Even a full day is hardly enough time to explore the delights of Village of the Arts. In 1999, the Artists Guild of Manatee set a goal to develop a vibrant community where artists could live and work. More than 100 homes, many dating back to the 1920s and 1930, have been renovated and stand as charming works of art in their own right. In addition to nearly 20 galleries and studios, VOTA has a number of specialty shops and diverse restaurants. Head over on the first Friday evening or Saturday afternoon each month for VOTA's popular art walks.
- Robinson Preserve - 9800 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34209
With over 480 acres of nature to explore, the Robinson Preserve is one of the most popular attractions around the Bradenton area. With a recent expansion completed, there are now even more ways to enjoy this nature retreat. Stop by this summer to see this expansion for yourself.
- Lake Manatee State Park - 20007 State Rd. 64 E., Bradenton, FL 34212
Enjoy the full range of Florida's spectacular natural beauty at Lake Manatee State Park. The namesake lake features a swimming beach and freshwater fishing. Tour the lake by kayak or canoe for some great wildlife-spotting opportunities. Explore the 549-acre pet-friendly park along the hiking and biking trails. A 60-site RV and tent camping area is located right by the beach. Park hours are 8 a.m. until sundown year-round. Day-use fees are $2-$5.
For a staycation with all the comforts of home, contact us at Wagner Realty for information about our diverse selection of vacation rentals to accommodate any wish list of size, location, and amenities.