Sarasota Homes Are A Feast For The Eyes

By: Valarie D'Elia

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We all know of Florida's sunshine, but Sarasota also offers some impressive architecture. NY1's Valarie D'Elia filed the following report.

Sarasota, Fla. is getting a lot of attention these days as one of best places to purchase distressed real estate in the United States. But you don't have to buy into the leisurely lifestyle to enjoy the architectural beauty of this semi-tropical gem.

Located on southwest Florida's Gulf Coast, Sarasota is a low-key mix of beachy beauty and cultural appeal that is home to a body of design known as the Sarasota School of Architecture that spanned between 1940 and 1970.

Now tourists can take a two-hour self-guided driving tour to many of these homes are built with a generous use of glass, flowing floor plans and outdoor lounging space to capitalize on the sunny climate. The tour also showcases two pre-1940 houses, the ornate Ca d'Zan, the mansion of circus mogul John Ringling and his wife Mable, and the Italianate John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art.

Since 1970, Sarasota has featured the the work of contemporary architects, such as the Van Wezel Performing Arts Center, lovingly called the "Purple Cow," seen right.

All of the homes in the booklet are visible from the public right-of-way, while some of the public buildings charge admission. For more information on the tour, visit
www.toursarasota.com.

The "Explore Sarasota" package at Downtown Sarasota's Hotel Indigo offers the fourth night free when booking three nights. It includes two tickets to either the Mote aquarium, Ringling Museum, or the Selby Botanical Garden. Also included is a half-day bike rental for two and a copy of the Tour Sarasota architecture book. Visit www.hotelindigo.com or call 1-941-487-3800 for more information.

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As is common practice in the travel industry, Travel With Val often receives complimentary travel or reduced "media" rates at hotels, resorts and attractions, including those that may be featured in these reports. Such consideration is not taken in exchange for any express or implied promise or understanding of any nature, particularly regarding the content of these reports. These reports only feature travel providers personally recommended by Valarie D’Elia in the exercise of her independent editorial judgment, and do not represent the endorsement of Time Warner Cable or any third party.