Uncover the extraordinary story of Sarasota's boom-era founding, its circus dynasty heritage, and its modernist architectural legacy on an expert-led walking tour through the city's most storied historic neighborhoods.
What to expect
Your expert guide leads a small, curated group through the shaded bungalow streets of Laurel Park, Sarasota's first designated historic neighborhood, with its remarkable collection of 1920s Craftsman and Mission Revival homes. The tour traces the influence of the Ringling family and the Florida land boom on the city's physical character, pausing at key landmarks with archival photographs and stories. You'll walk through Gillespie Park, the city's oldest public space, and explore the modernist Sarasota School of Architecture buildings that placed this city on the global design map in the 1950s. The guide answers every question in unhurried depth.
Good to know
Tours typically depart from downtown Sarasota, 10–15 minutes from port. Comfortable walking shoes essential; tours run approximately 2 hours. Check the Foundation's schedule for upcoming departures or arrange a private group walk.