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All things Siesta Key. Stories, news, and event information about Sarasota, Florida's beautiful beach.
Beyond the Beach in Sarasota: Plan a Unique Day You’ll Remember
One of the best aspects of vacationing is finding something to do that is unique to the area, something you’d be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. It ties your memory to the entire vacation and allows you to truly experience something only found in that specific spot. In Siesta Key and the surrounding Sarasota area, there’s always plenty to do. But when you’re ready to go beyond the beach and seafood restaurants, the local experts at The Best Western Siesta Key have a few unusual options you might love. Here are some of our favorite unique activities that will keep the memory of this vacation alive for you for years to come.
Kayak the Mangrove Tunnels
You simply can’t find mangroves anywhere in the world. They’re specific to certain regions and Florida’s Gulf Coast is one of them! Rent a few kayaks and get close up to some of our most illustrious natural habitats.
Explore our Working Mote Marine Laboratory
Unlike a traditional aquarium, Mote Marine Lab is a fully operational marine biology lab and rehabilitation center for marine life. From convalescent dolphins who love to show off to glow-in-the-dark jellyfish, from hungry sharks to the corpse of a legendary giant squid, there’s much to learn and discover at Mote Marine.
Visit the Classic Car Museum
If you’re into classic cars, this museum has it all. Billed as the second-oldest classic car museum in the nation, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum walks you through the history and evolution of car manufacturing, showcases the big names in the automotive industry and of course, features some of the most elite and noteworthy vehicles ever created.
Enjoy Stand-up Comedy
Take in a night of top-notch quality comedy at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre. Renowned for featuring major headliners and local amateurs alike, McCurdy’s has been part of the Sarasota community for over 20 years. Check out one of your favorite stand-up comedians, or sign up for an evening of improv classes and discover your inner comedian for yourself!
Discover Pinecraft Amish Community
Visit our local Amish and Mennonite community of Pinecraft to discover a simpler way of life along with some excellent pie. This working community is just outside of Sarasota and is a winter destination for many Amish families who live up north. Enjoy an Amish family dinner, check out the beautiful furniture and home decor, or simply rent a bicycle to explore this quaint village.
Sometimes stepping outside of the norm can be refreshing, or even exhilarating. When you visit Florida, you’ll discover the many different entities that comprise this area. Beach culture, the performing and visual arts, and amazing cuisine are really just a few facets of what make up this unique region. Discover new aspects of Sarasota and Siesta Key when you explore beyond the obvious. To discover more unique gems in the Siesta Key and Sarasota area, talk to your friendly experts at The Best Western Siesta Key. We’re happy to point you in the right direction towards the less-traveled path.