Travel Tips

St Armands Key Florida Vacation And Travel Tips.  Enjoy refreshing afternoon on St. Armands Key! 

If you are looking for somewhere to spend an afternoon or evening in an upscale setting, away from the usual sights of Venice or Sarasota, I recommend heading over to St. Armands Circle on St. Armands Key. Once a tiny fishing island without a bridge to the mainland of Sarasota, the famous founder of the Ringling Circus, John Ringling helped create a bridge to this tropical paradise during the 1920s.

Although St. Armands Key did not immediately flourish with businesses and patrons, St. Armands Circle, established in the 1990s has brought this beautiful island getaway back to life. The Circle, surrounded by the Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, is reminiscent of a European city where guests can stroll along the brick lined paths and courtyards to enjoy more than 130 fine shops and gourmet restaurants. If you aren’t interested in walking through the abundance of stores, consider sitting down at one of the European style café restaurants like Café l’Europe or Hemingway’s Bar and Grill. Both of these locations offer outdoor seating, as do many of the restaurants throughout St. Armands Circle.

Once you are finished with an unforgettable meal, consider indulging in one of the four ice cream parlors in the circle, like Ben and Jerry’s. Enjoy this treat while you catch a relaxing ride around the island on the charming horse and buggy carriage. This is a fabulous way to amuse the kids or to enjoy a romantic afternoon alone surrounded by the lush tropical landscape.

Even if you are not an avid shopper, there are so many interesting shops, galleries, and specialty stores, everyone will find something to enjoy. Cigar lovers can purchase a souvenir cigar at one of the fine tobacco stores and wine loves can enjoy a taste of Florida’s best at one of the many wine and cheese shops. There are also plenty of clothing stores with chic, tropical garments to get you in the spirit of St. Armands Circle. Try Tommy Bahama or Island Pursuits.

Of course you can’t miss stopping by the amazing art galleries that are sprinkled through the four corners of the square. One of the most famous is the Wyland galleries, world-renowned painter best known for ocean scenery murals found throughout coastal towns.

To find St. Armands Circle take Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) to SR 780 W to St. Armands Key. Travel over the Ringling Causeway and Sarasota Bay and you will run right into St. Armands Circle.