Heading north of Naples on I 75, it is almost exactly 100 miles to another lovely beach and arts community - Sarasota. You might enjoy a day trip to explore the museums, beaches, and dining options that await on an enjoyable day trip.

What's to do in Sarasota?

Sarasota is home to the Ringling Museums (yes, as in Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey). The Ringling is the State Art Museum of Florida and is administered by Florida State University. It features an art museum, historic mansion, circus museum, historic theater, conservation laboratory, and research library, situated on sixty-six acres of spectacular bayfront property. In fact, if you have read the book or seen the movie Water for Elephants, much of the research was conducted at the Ringling Museum.

Learn about the Gulf of Mexico habitat at the Mote Marine Aquarium. Explore touch pools and meet amazing sea creatures with a marine biologist as your guide. If you have time, take the sea safari to visit a sand bar and wade through sea grass to "trawl" for sea creatures. Aquarium interpreters observe strict environmental and conservation guidelines to assure that no damage is done to native species.

Enjoy the outdoors by hiking or biking one of Sarasota's trails. The Legacy Trail runs eleven miles south from Sarasota. If that seems a little ambitious, opt for a leisurely stroll through the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.

The Burns Court area is home to the Burns Court Cinema, where you can catch an Independent film, as well as unique galleries and cafes. Just two blocks long, Burns Court caters to those who have an artsy flair.

Toss your beach gear into the car and stroll the famed Siesta Key Beach. Consistently rated one of the top beaches in the US, Siesta Key is known for its incredibly soft sand.

What's a day trip without trying the cuisine? A personal favorite in Sarasota in Columbia Restaurant in St. Armand's Circle. The original Columbia Restaurant in Tampa is Florida's oldest restaurant. Th Sarasota location retains the high quality and varied menu selections of the original. Try the classic 1905 salad or sample the tapas - whatever your choice, you won't go wrong at Columbia.

I know you'll enjoy a day in Sarasota - a great place to visit from your new home in Naples!