4 Local Landmarks You Should Visit While in Las Vegas

Ethel M Chocolate Factory

Ethel M Chocolate Factory

There are at least 2,000 individuals in a day who visit this chocolate production facility to see how cherry cordials, creams, peanut brittle and truffles, among other sweet treats, are prepared. Lucky guests will be able to view the creation of confectionary delights and can even get a free sample or else dip an ice cream cone.

There are free self-guided tours and it will be very tempting to make a purchase after seeing how the sweets were made. It is also free to visit the cactus garden, which is considered the Southwest's biggest cactus garden with more than 300 plant species across 3 acres.

Flamingo Wildlife Habitat

In the center of the bustling Strip is a small burst of greenery that visitors may be surprised to see. No one would ever guess that there would be a hidden, lush escape next to Las Vegas Boulevard's huge neon signs as well as sidewalk performers.

The Flamingo Habitat is where natural flamingos live though there are also koi, ducks, swans, turtles plus 2 pelicans that have been rescued. It would be nice to take pictures in the midst of the lush landscaping, which includes the palm trees, waterfalls and lots of places to sit. It is free and great for families. There are walking paths that let visitors wander around and it is a nice place to take along kids far from the Vegas noise and night life.

 

Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

Most people in Las Vegas only came to know the way a conservatory looked like after Bellagio was built. Thereafter, they discovered that "conservatory" meant a "fascinating indoor garden display," and since then Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens have been charming guests.

Whenever holidays and seasons change, the Conservatory staff steps in and includes rare flowers and gigantic Christmas trees, to name a few. Straight off the front desk where the Bellagio area is, visitors swarm to take pictures from all angles, especially during holidays. It is among the few areas of Bellagio that allow children to visit. It is best to visit at the earliest time possible, when there are fewest guests so it would be easier to take pictures. It is open 24 hours a day.

The Venetian Grand Canal Shoppes' Streetmosphere

The Venetian Grand Canal Shoppes' Streetmosphere

The Venetian Grand Canal Shoppes did not settle with miniature Venetian canals, a St. Mark's square recreation or first class restaurants and shops. They added street performers or "Streetmosphere" as they call them. These included performers, singers and living statues to entertain people, who are especially caught unaware by the living statues.

Parents should be warned beforehand that they will most likely bring their unsuspecting kids to see the statues that will move when the kid least expects it. So, they should prepare their cameras. There are performers in costumes that wander around. Performances of jugglers and singers, among other entertainers at St. Mark's Square take place several times a day.

For those ready to party, we can help you get on the Encore Beach Club guest list! Of course, we can also help you get on the Wet Republic guest list as well!

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Top 10 Reasons to Visit Sarasota Florida

 

 

An abundance of visitors from around the world visit Sarasota each year to enjoy all of the amenities this small city on the Gulf Coast of Florida has to offer. Each year, Sarasota's warm climate attracts "snowbirds" down to the Sunshine State for its high season from January through March. Visitors and residents alike enjoy the city's internationally recognized cultural amenities matching those of the nation's largest cities. A world-class destination, Sarasota, Florida has many reasons to live, work and play in this gorgeous coastal setting.

1. Sarasota's Barrier Islands and Beaches

Sarasota is home to four tropical barrier islands, each with its own unique personality. Siesta, Key, Longboat Key and Lido Key contain miles of beautiful beaches lined with luxury resort-style condominiums, quaint cottages and inns, numerous hotels, and extravagant estates. There are no high-rise condos on the ultra-exclusive Casey Key. This barrier island is comprised almost entirely of single family homes. Private and public beaches are available on all of the keys for residents and visitors who love the water.

2. Sarasota's Cultural and Entertainment Venues

The downtown Sarasota area known as the cultural district offers a busier, cosmopolitan atmosphere for residents and visitors. The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall provides outstanding entertainment each year with its full-calendar of performances. Active adults or young families often attend the world- renown Ringling Museum, the resplendent Selby Gardens, Sarasota Jungle Gardens, Mote Marine, G-Wiz (hands-on Science museum for kids), as well as the historic Asolo Theater. Sarasota even has its own Ballet, Opera and Symphony. It is no wonder Sarasota is often referred to as the "Cultural Coast of Florida."

3. Sarasota's Weather

There are so many reasons to visit Sarasota Florida. The near-perfect Sarasota weather is at the top of many people's list. Sarasota's average year round temperature is usually around 74 degrees F. Visitors have plenty of sunshine and warm weather throughout the year. Although summers can be quite hot, cool breezes from the Gulf of Mexico are a refreshing relief from the summer heat.

4. Water, Water, Water

So many people come to Sarasota to enjoy the water. With 35 miles of pristine beaches, the Intercoastal waterway and many miles of boatable canals, Sarasota has waterfront options for everyone. Siesta Key Florida Beach was just named the 2nd best beach in the United States for 2009 by Dr Beach. Boating enthusiast enjoy everything from fishing to leisure rides in the Gulf and Bay. If you love the water, Sarasota has it all waiting for you.

5. Sarasota's Perfect Location

Sarasota is perfectly located 60 miles south of Tampa. Direct flights from major cities around the world arrive at Tampa International Airport. Sarasota International Airport has direct flights from select major cities as well. Disney World is only about 2 hours from Sarasota and often visited by adults and children. Major sporting events, entertainment venues and Busch Gardens are all within and hour.

6. Outdoor Activities

Residents and visitors of Sarasota enjoy championship golf, sailing, boating, tennis, swimming, nature trails, canoeing and kayaking as well as beachcombing, shell collecting. Outdoor activities are endless in this coastal city. Downtown Sarasota's Farmers Market is a popular attraction each Sunday.

7. Shopping

You can shop till you drop! Sarasota has it all. Famous St. Armands Circle, similar to Wirth Avenue in Palm Beach, is the place to see and be seen. Specialty shops provide high-end arts, gifts, jewelry, clothes and sea shells. Visit a café or eat at a fine dining restaurant. You can find it on the Circle! Sarasota also has three major shopping malls. From simple to extravagant, Sarasota has shopping options to suite every lifestyle and budget.

8. Sarasota's Lifestyles

Lifestyles choices are numerous in Sarasota. There are gorgeous luxury homes in boating communities of the barrier islands. Many homes are on canals flow through the island and lead to open waters of Sarasota Bay. Many waterfront opportunities for homes having "no bridges to the Bay" are available as well as less expensive inland homes. If you're not into boating, maybe a luxury a country club community offering tennis, golf and swimming would work best for you. If you're searching for a second home, a high-rise condo on the Gulf of Mexico could be the answer. You can lock up, take the keys and enjoy state-of-the-art amenities the next time you arrive. The Sarasota Florida Lifestyle is a local community blog that is a good local resource for information on dining, shopping and events as well as other categories that can be enjoyed by all visitors.

9. Residential Real Estate Opportunities

It's no surprise that Travel Magazine previously named Sarasota one of the best places to live in the United States. Sarasota is unique and special. Sarasota has a variety of housing options to suit every budget. From a modest one bedroom condominium to a gated estate on the Gulf of Mexico, you can find your dream home, vacation home or investment property here in Sarasota. US News and World Reports just named Sarasota to the Top 5 in its 2009 America's Best Undervalued Places to Live list.

10. Unforgettable Sunsets

And don't forget Sarasota's signature sunsets. Each day Sarasota's setting sun provides a spectacular light show enjoyed by thousands. Many visitors and residents enjoy watching the sun melt into the Gulf of Mexico at dusk each day. It is truly and unforgettable experience.

Ideal weather, accessible locations, wonderful real estate opportunities, endless outdoor activities, fabulous resort-style lifestyles, white sandy beaches and incredible sunsets: Sarasota Florida has it all waiting for you.

John Allen is the broker and owner of Allen Real Estate Services, Inc., a 30 year old boutique Sarasota real estate firm. He specializes in representing buyers and sellers of fine residential real estate including condos, waterfront homes and golf course communities in Sarasota, Siesta Key and Longboat Key. For more information, visit http://www.buysarasota.com/ where there is detailed information on hundreds of neighborhoods and condos.

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Sunshine Sarasota - Travel Experiences

 

 

 

From its small town charm to its amazing beaches, Sarasota is one of those cities that you can't help but call involve with. Whether you are coming here to relax or for an adventure, Sarasota has something for everyone!

If you like white sand beaches and gorgeous blue water, chances are your travels are eventually going to bring you to Siesta Key right here in Sarasota, Florida. If that's where you are heading right now then this little guide is for you. Being a local I decided to create a weekend vacation and make a list of the must-do things for you!

Once arrived in this sunshine city I highly recommend getting a car. Sarasota may have its small town charm but getting around can be a bit tricky. With a car, you are free to explore on your own time and you won't rack up a hefty Uber bill.

Lodging

Being a popular getaway spot, Sarasota is filled beautiful hotels and resorts. Art Ovation Hotel is the perfect hidden gem. Located in the heart of downtown Sarasota this hotel puts you right in the center of all the shops and restaurants. It also has gorgeous rooftop pool and bar where you can spend your days lounging around with the perfect view of Sarasota.

Sun & Fun

Visiting Siesta Key Beach is a must. Whether you have heard of it from MTV's Siesta Key or you happen to know that it has been rated as the #1 Beach in the US numerous times now, Siesta Key Beach certainly attracts everyone. Spend a day at the beach and then hop on a Free Beach Ride to head to The Siesta Key Village to grab a bite to eat.

Although Sarasota is best known for Siesta Beach, sometimes we want to escape the crowds. Turtle Beach, on the south end of Siesta key is the perfect spot to unwind and watch the sunset!

Being right on the ocean, water sports are very popular in Sarasota. Paddle boarding, canoeing and kayaking are some of the activities visitors can enjoy. IKayak is a SUP and kayak rental company who will provide you with the equipment you need and take you on a journey through the famous mangrove tunnels.

An unforgettable experience is the view of Sarasota from above. Release your inner adventurer and let Heli Aviation show you these gorgeous beaches from a new point of view.

Sarasota Flavors & Nightlife

Head to Buttermilk for breakfast. Try the handmade biscuit breakfast sandwiches, they are to die for. But get there early, they run out and once they are out, they are out!

Green Zebra on St. Armand's Circle is one of the best places to grab a quick and refreshing snack. Little tip, get a Brazilian bowl and ask for a scoop of peanut butter!

A great place to pop into for an Acai bowl is Clean Juice. Added bonus, all snacks are made from USDA-organic ingredients. Get the Nutty bowl, you won't regret it!

If you are looking to kick your day into high gear with a clean meal, I recommend heading to Lila downtown. This primarily vegan restaurant cooks with locally sourced ingredients and the results are amazing!

Boca is another farm-to-table restaurant in downtown Sarasota. They get all of their food from different local farms and even have their produce growing inside the restaurant. Enjoy your meal with the basil plant growing right next to you. I definitely recommend trying their nightly special, the staff meal!

Enjoy an Aperol Spritz and an amazing wood fired pizza at Napule which features a big screen showing old Italian black and white movies.

For Happy Hour grab a signature martini at Mattison's City Grille downtown. Or go to Shore on St Armand's Circle and get the P. C. Shrubbery cocktail. Another great spot for happy hour, or social hour as they call it, is Social Eatery and Bar.

Beer lovers need to make a stop at Calusa Brewery and get a flight of beer. They will pour all of their specialties for you to taste. Bonus, they have different food trucks that come daily to give you a quick bite.

For cocktails check out Pangea Alchemy Lab. If you are looking for something truly unique, this speakeasy is going to be your spot. They make some crazy fun drinks and the whole place has a very cool vibe.


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