Things you should do

I don't live there anymore, but I do miss it sometimes. Sarasota is a place of old people. Has been since people started getting old and decided what they needed was a beach and "the arts" to be put in one place. It's no Greece, but it gets the job done.
I thought I would take some time to talk about the things I miss, and the things I think locals of that area should take advantage of.
For one, a person in the town should take some time to visit the Ringling Museum and Ca d'zan. This would also include the very special circus museum and rose garden.

If, in fact, you're not the artsy type... I think you'll still love this place. To avoid it when you have the chance to see it is a sacrilege. Within you will find a FANTASTIC selection of art, wonderful architecture and just a really neat and laid back place to chill. I urge you to check it out.

When you're done there you should go get lunch at Shakespeare's Pub. This is a little place with lots and lots of beer and amazing food. Seriously...

You should also try the beer cheese dip. To die for.

If you get the chance, and have some money, you neeeeeeed to stop by Lan on Main Street. Asian Fusion food that will make you cry with happiness. This is accompanied with excellent people and sake martini creations.

If you're out late, and crave a bit to eat that will knock your socks off with its simplistic ingredients... Stop by Street Meat. It's best when you're a little drunk, but its superb.

They're pretty awesome there and they tend to play old school music... and its right there on the street. Just near some great bars. Just go.

While you're there... go to the damn beach. It's the best beach in the world as far as I care, and its lovely. The sand is like powdered sugar, the sun is glorious and the people aren't worth looking at. So don't. Just enjoy the beach.

In case you're still lacking entertainment... which is difficult given the entirety of Main Street to visit... Try Ceviche. It's got roof-top samba music during the weekend evenings, and non-stop amazing food. Great for a group to munch on.
My all time favorite place to eat is Ham Heaven & Devil Dogs in Southgate. Rocky is the most amazing guy, the food is mind-blowing and I could listen to Rocky talk about his awesome kid all day. I have a few times...
Sometimes I crave nothing else like I do his amazing Chicago dog and homemade gravy covered tater tots. Don't tell me that doesn't sound amazing.

Ok, so after having lived there for quite some time I'm pretty impressed I like so much about it. As much as the driving often sucks ass, the pollen is annoying, the goddamn ants can be plague-like and there's no goddamn money... It's a pretty entertaining place. Lots to do, lots to see and sooooo much good food!!!