Heritage Highlights

Cross the magnificent Sunshine Skyway Bridge and head south on I-75 to the Gamble Plantation Historic State Park, on U.S. 301 East in Ellenton for a taste of southern heritage no longer found this far south in Florida. Built in 1844, the Gamble Plantation was one of the most successful sugar mill plantations in the state. The old sugar mill ruins are located on the grounds and living history tours are offered. Hours: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Thur. - Mon. Call (941) 723-4536.

It's easy to see why this area of the state is often proclaimed as Florida's Cultural Coast. The choices are spectacular: world-class theatre, opera, symphony, visual arts and dance.

Nature Trek

To frolic like the dolphins or be lulled to serene bliss on any one of the beautiful beaches, goes without saying while you are here. Sunset strolls are magical! For more inland exploration, head to downtown Bradenton, to The South Florida Museum, 201 Tenth St. West. This riverfront facility explores Florida from "Astronomy to Zoology" with exhibits delving into the area's cultural and natural history. Be sure to greet Snooty, the friendly manatee, the oldest "born and raised" in captivity. Hours: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Tue. - Sat., Noon - 5 p.m., Sun.; call (941) 746-4131.

The Mote Marine Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy., on Longboat Key is a great place for kids, both young and old. Get a close-up look at some of the creatures that inhabit local waters, such as sea turtles, stingrays, sharks and manatees. And for a real-life scientific research experience, check out the viewable laboratory projects in progress. Hours: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., daily; call (941) 388-4441.


Culture Quest

It's easy to see why this area of the state is often proclaimed as Florida's Cultural Coast. The choices are spectacular: world-class theatre, opera, symphony, visual arts and dance. In Sarasota, the "crown jewel" is the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., with an extensive collection of internationally recognized works by Italian and Northern European Artists, in addition to French, Dutch, Flemish, and Spanish works over the past five centuries. Also in the Ringling museum complex is Ca'd'Zan, the lavish home of John and Mable Ringling and the Museum of the Circus. Hours: 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., daily; call (941) 351-1660 for special events.