Sarasota FL

I visited Sarasota over ten years ago, and I still remember the trip fondly for one unexpected reason: Sarasota had a vibrant, tropical vibe that I wasn’t expecting. And that’s in addition to its gorgeous beaches, year-round warm weather, and the surprising small-town vibe that it has despite its size. Its downtown...

A major Sarasota-Manatee retirement development plans to open its doors to hundreds of new residents by 2027. Emerson Lakes, located on the Manatee County side of the sprawling Lakewood Ranch master-planned community — which also extends into Sarasota County — will bring 433 one- and two-bedroom units across four...

A Bradenton woman who admitted to a long-running identity-and-benefits fraud is headed to federal prison, after a judge said her scheme siphoned off nearly $185,000 in government money. U.S. District Judge Daniel Hovland sentenced 69-year-old Rosario Alaniz to 15 months in federal prison on March 17, 2026, and...

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, with support from the Gold Star Club of Manatee County, has added an extra $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Maurice McCary, age 35, of Bradenton. McCary is wanted in connection with the March 8 fatal shooting of Jamari Murray-Barnes, age 27, and the non-fatal...

A popular Greek restaurant on Sarasota’s St. Armands Circle has expanded to another of the area’s busiest dining and shopping districts. Blu Kouzina is now open at 295 N. Cattlemen Road Unit 4 in University Town Center, adjacent to Ford's Garage in the West District at UTC. It is the second area location for Blu...

There’s something thrilling about feeling the wind in your hair while skimming across glassy water, not quite knowing what’s around the bend. Maybe it’s the splash of something scaly in the reeds or the rustle of wings overhead—but every second out here feels alive. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to explore Florida the wild way, this place has your name written all over it.

Tucked away in the lush heart of Apopka, Florida, there’s a place where glassy spring water winds through ancient cypress trees and wild Florida feels close enough to touch. Welcome to King’s Landing, a hidden gem that’s quickly become a must-do for paddlers, photographers, and nature lovers who want an easy escape into Florida’s wilder side.

Looking for a day out that feels equal parts adventure, relaxation, and surprise? Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens is a not-so-hidden gem where you can wander among towering giraffes, watch playful otters splash around, and stroll through vibrant botanical gardens—all in one sun-soaked visit. It’s a place where nature and imagination intertwine, inviting you to experience wildlife up close while soaking in the beauty of Florida’s landscapes.

There’s a gas station in North Florida where folks line up not for fuel, but for fudge. A place where clean bathrooms are talked about with near-religious reverence. If you're driving along US Highway 129 in Live Oak and spot the bright yellow signs of Busy Bee, do yourself a favor—pull over and explore one of the quirkiest, most lovable roadside stops in the South.

If you’ve ever dreamed of standing eye-to-eye with an elephant or hearing one’s deep rumble echo across a peaceful Florida pasture, Two Tails Ranch near Williston is calling your name. Tucked away in North Central Florida’s quiet countryside, this unique sanctuary isn’t your average roadside attraction—it’s an immersive encounter with some of the most awe-inspiring animals on the planet.