Sarasota Neighborhoods, Locations and Districts

(Sarasota, Florida - FL, USA)

Located on Sarasota Bay in the Gulf of Mexico, Sarasota contains a number of exciting districts and neighborhoods, with something for everyone. From world-class beaches, shopping and restaurants to amazing museums, art galleries and exciting festivals, the Sarasota coastline and sunny weather make this an appealing part of Florida.

The city of Sarasota tries to follow the ubiquitous grid pattern, although the lay of the land does not always let it, while passing right through the city is the famed Tamiami Trail roadway on its way from Tampa to Miami. Sarasota's most obvious characteristic is the string of glorious keys that act as a buffer between the city and the Gulf, while they also provide prime real estate districts for the affluent and some of the Sarasota's best attractions. Here are Sarasota's main neighborhoods and districts.

Downtown Sarasota

Downtown Sarasota is an exciting part of the city, with plentiful attractions and lots of shopping and restaurants as well as a happening arts scene including opera, ballet and many fine art galleries. The downtown district is also a cosmopolitan area, featuring numerous ethnic and international eateries and a blend of old and new buildings.

Lido Key District

Lido Key is the closest major key to Sarasota, lying just southwest of downtown, and it features some quality beaches and real estate. Bustling St. Armands Circle is found here, with quaint North Lido Beach close by, while Lido Public Beach has all the facilities of a top public beach including good parking, a playground, pavilion and picnic tables. South again from here is Lido's main attraction, South Lido Park, a serene environment right in the thick of nature yet only a stone's throw from the big city.

North Sarasota District

North Sarasota is known for its expensive mansions and classy neighborhoods, particularly in the Indian Beach and Sapphire Shores area, while the ever popular Ringling Museum of Art is in this locale.

Longboat Key District

As its name suggests, Longboat Key is a long island to the north of Lido Key. Like Lido Key, Longboat Key also has wonderful beaches and Greer Island Park can be found at its northern tip.

Oyster Bay District

South Sarasota is another up-and-coming area in Sarasota, home to the gorgeous Oyster Bay. The well-known Field Club resides in Oyster Bay, which is just west of the famed Tamiami Trail. Oyster Bay also has its fair share of mansions and some top quality restaurants and shops.