The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Source: ESB Basic / shutterstock Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall For many guests, their time on-site is one of the most memorable experiences of their trip. In addition to its rescue and rehabilitation roles, a big part of what the sanctuary does is provide educational opportunities for visitors. Located on Palmer Boulevard in Sarasota, Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary was founded more than 30 years ago and is dedicated to protecting both big cats and other animals that have been abandoned, injured or orphaned. It comes as a big surprise to many first-time visitors to the Sunshine State that there are still panthers living in the wild. Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary Source: Big Cat Habitat Gulf Coast Sanctuary / Facebook Big Cat Habitat And Gulf Coast Sanctuary Especially during the summer, there are a variety of activities and classes offered aimed at children.ħ. Sharks are also popular inhabitants, and the aquarium’s staff offer regularly scheduled feedings that are big hits with kids and adults alike.
The aquarium portion of the facility is open to the public and includes hundreds of species of local marine animals, including turtles, fish, and sea horses, to name just a few. Located on Ken Thompson Parkway in nearby Sarasota, the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is a unique research facility that’s dedicated to the study and preservation of the area’s natural environments and wildlife. Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium Source: LimpingFrog Productions / Flickr Mote Marine Laboratory And Aquarium For those who are visiting from out of state, there are beach chairs and umbrellas available to rent.ĭuring the winter months when the gulf can get a bit chilly, many visitors opt for the on-site heated pool it costs less than five bucks for an adult to spend an entire day, and even less for children. Lido Beach’s amenities include a playground and an observation platform that’s accessible to strollers and wheelchairs. Lido Beach on Lido Key is just a few minutes from Longboat Key more so than other local beaches, it attracts a decidedly international crowd. Lido Beach Source: Ruth Peterkin / shutterstock Lido Beach Due to their west-facing orientation, they’re great places to catch an amazing Florida sunset or two.ĥ. Though small, the inn’s units feature private beachfront balconies and small kitchenettes that are perfect for couples and small families. Turtle Crawl Inn is a popular destination for those who’d rather forego swanky digs in favor of good value and easy access to a variety of natural amenities. It sports a decidedly chill atmosphere that couldn’t be more different than many of the state’s more commercialized areas.
Like many of the coastal towns in the area, Longboat Key tends to draw beach lovers, anglers, and nature enthusiasts. Turtle Crawl Inn Longboat Key Source: Turtle Crawl Inn Longboat Key
It’s close enough to plenty of big-city attractions to make it a good fit for those interested in cultural and historical activities as well.īelow are 15 things to do in Longboat Key, Florida. The town was incorporated in the mid-‘50s and has always been a favorite destination of sport fishermen and nature lovers. Longboat Key is located in the center of a long barrier island that sits between the Gulf of Mexico to the west and Sarasota Bay and the mainland to the east.Īt the time of the last census, Longboat Key had about 7,500 residents, and it straddles the border between Manatee and Sarasota Counties.
0 kommentar(er)
