Sarasota & Her Islands on the west coast of Florida is often viewed as a luxury vacation destination but the local convention bureau is trying to counter that image with its “Free & Cheap Dozen” list.
“We realize that so many families still want to take a vacation, but may need to scale back their spending while enjoying some much deserved R and R,” said SCVB President Virginia Haley.
The Free& Cheap Dozen include:
• Miles of free, white sand beaches voted winners in Dr. Beach’s various contests.
• A free Circus Heritage Guide (the circus has a half-century history here).
• Admission is sometimes free to the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art honoring the circus king. There’s a historic Asolo Theater and 66 acres of grounds and gardens.
• There’s a two-hour driving tour that shows off some of Sarasota’s much-acclaimed architecture.
• The free Downtown Farmer’s Market every Saturday offers fresh produce, food, flowers and plants.
• There are various summer festivals for crafts and other events.
• Beginning Yoga is offered free on Siesta Key Beach every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
by David Wilkening
