Studies show RV owners want to visit national and state parks and historic sites. All this and more beckons RV drivers to Sarasota, Florida. Take a closer look at some of the key reasons to consider Sarasota for your next RV vacation.
Scenic RV Parks
Sarasota is home to some of America’s most beautiful RV parks. Myakka River State Park (13208 State Road 72), one of America’s oldest and largest state parks, is built around the Myakka River. This waterway is complemented by two lakes, which provide opportunities for boating and freshwater fishing. If you’d prefer fun on land, try hiking its prairie trails.
Myakka River State Park is nine miles from the city center. If you’d prefer vacationing closer to the action, check out Sarasota Lakes Resort (1674 University Parkway, Sarasota). While it doesn’t have the rugged beauty of the Myakka River State Park, native birds and reptiles live around its lake.
Interesting Historic Sites
Historic sites are always a drawcard for RV drivers. Sarasota doesn’t have as many historic sites as some American cities, but the quality of its attractions should lure travelers. Sarasota is home to Ca’ d’Zan (5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota), commonly known as the John and Mable Ringling Estate because this sprawling Venetian mansion was once owned by the great circus mogul. A museum celebrating his career sits on the grounds.
Gamble Plantation State Park (3708 Patten Ave, Ellenton) is another luxurious home just outside Sarasota, and the only plantation house left in Florida. The State Park system’s guided tours run several times a day.
Historic Spanish Point (337 North Tamiami Trail, Osprey) reminds visitors of Sarasota’s early history. The museum’s exhibitions tell stories about the Seminoles, early pioneers, and other key figures in the city’s history. Its site also features a preserved shell midden from the Archaic period.
Fantastic Fresh Food Markets
Cooking beautiful meals in your camper rather than relying on restaurants is one of the great joys of an RV vacation. Everyone knows the key to a gourmet meal is finding the best produce, and Sarasota has you covered here. Every Saturday vendors sell their wares at the Sarasota Farmers Markets (1420 State Street, Sarasota). You can buy fresh fruits and vegetables, breads, homemade pasta, meats, seafood, and heaps more. If you want gourmet food through the week, try Morton’s Gourmet Market (1924 South Osprey Avenue, Sarasota).
Great RV Dealerships and Service Centers
None of us expect our RV to fail apart during our vacation, but visiting a place like Sarasota where dealerships and service centers are plentiful should give you extra peace of mind. Should the worst happen, the folks at Lube on Wheels (7669 15th Street East, Sarasota), Adventure RV (6310 Camphor Ave, Sarasota), or Kim’s Auto, Truck, & Collision Repairs (4249 Clark Road, Sarasota) should get you moving again. And if your RV is too far gone, you can look to dealers like Adventure RV or Campbell RV (617 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota) for a vehicle to get you home.
Head for warmer weather and check out all Sarasota has to offer on your next RV adventure.
