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How to Vacation in Sarasota Like it’s the Roaring ’20s

Posted by Best Western Siesta Key onApril 14, 2021 in Botanical Gardens, Dining, Downtown Sarasota, Historic Sarasota, Sarasota Restaurants, Siesta Key, Things To Do.

Apart from the jewel-toned waters and white sand beaches, Sarasota offers many opportunities to discover and experience the historic roaring ’20s. While hotels were rising and tourists from the North flocked to the up-and-coming vacation hotspot 100 years ago, historic landmarks and culture were also in development, which thousands still enjoy today. Paying homage to this defining decade in Sarasota history, the local experts at Best Western Siesta Key are sharing unique places you can explore during your stay. From speakeasies to architecture, and wonderous gardens to influential works of art, this is your guide for how to vacation in Sarasota like it’s 1920.

 

Ca’ da’Zan & John Ringling Museum

In 1927, Sarasota became the winter headquarters for the Ringling Bros. & Barnum & Bailey Circus, adding another novel tourist attraction to the city. Prior to that time, in 1911, John and Mable Ringling purchased their first winter home on Sarasota Bay, and by the 1920s, the family was heavily active and well-known around the community. Their famous and luxurious 36,000 sq. ft. home, known as the Ca’ da’Zan, was built in 1926 and remains a popular tourist destination. Spend an afternoon touring and admiring both the inside and outside historic architecture inspired by Italy’s Venetian Gothic palaces, while imagining the grand Gatsby-like parties that may have taken place on the grounds. Then, head over to The Ringling museum, which John Ringling first opened in 1931. Marvel at each hand-selected piece intended to inspire further education and art appreciation, especially in the younger generations. 

 

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

The first woman to travel cross-country via automobile was Marie Selby. She was a modest woman who owned seven acres of land between Sarasota Bay and Hudson Bayou with her husband, who loved the Sarasota area due to its fishing and pure beauty. After building their Spanish-style home in the early 1920s, Marie took the utmost pride in her garden, which is now a treasured city landmark. A founding member of Sarasota’s earliest garden club, it was Marie’s mission to preserve the beauty of Sarasota’s natural charm of greens and botanicals. Today, the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is home to a collection of more than 20,000 plants throughout eight greenhouses, including the year-round Tropical Conservatory, and thousands of outdoor gardens. Over the years, Selby Gardens has evolved into a respected center for education, research, and attraction for over 200,000 visitors per year.

 

A Taste of the Prohibition Era 

When it comes to the roaring ’20s, we cannot forget about the speakeasies and “booze cruises” that popped up around Sarasota during this time. As the local sheriff had little authority over Sarasota Bay’s open waters, a loophole in the Prohibition Era presented itself for those living and visiting the area. The Blue Lantern and the Black Cat were said to be “wet boats” and offered a speakeasy-style opportunity to drink and enjoy smuggled rum on board. Today, guests can tour and taste some of Sarasota’s famous rum at the award-winning distillery, Siesta Key Rum. As you sip, you can get a small taste of what locals experienced on the down-low during the 1920’s Prohibition Era.

 

1920’s Historic Dining

After a day of time travel and history, you might be hungry for a little more 1920’s as well as a delicious meal. Downtown Sarasota has no shortage of amazing architecture, including buildings that date back to the 1920s, of course. Sage SRQ is located in the original Sarasota Times Newspaper building, designed in 1925 by Dwight Hames Baum. While preserving the integrity and character of the historic, three-story Mediterranean Revival Style establishment, Sage offers a mouthwatering upscale eatery and rooftop bar. Catty corner to the Sarasota Opera House is a classic gas station built in the 1920s and remodeled into what is now The Bijou Cafe. In addition to their fabulous fine-dining menu, visitors enjoy the cafe’s al fresco dining, intimate bar, and four unique dining rooms.

Whether you are a history buff or simply take pleasure in vacationing like the Great Gatsby, Sarasota is rich in historic nods to the roaring ’20s. Favorite museums, gardens, bars, and restaurants flourished alongside the world-famous beach town, vacation haven, and of course, exceptional accommodations and hotels, like Best Western Siesta Key. Travel back in time and experience Sarasota 1920’s style with influence from some of the city’s historic elite.