St. Armand's Circle, Lido Key, Sarasota

Where do we begin? "The Circle's" reputation usually precedes it, with most visitors either having first hand knowledge of this fantastic destination...or being told by a friend "When you are in Sarasota, make sure you go to St. Armand's!"

St. Armand's Circle was a dream of the Ringling family brought to reality - to make Sarasota world class shopping destination. The Circle consists of a main park in the middle, where our Circus heritage is honored with iron plaques around the walkways, portraying various famous cirucs characters. The park area, which is indeed the center of the Circle, is also the location for the classic car shows, concerts and events that often happen here.

But it's the shopping, the food and the atmosphere that makes the Circle so special. Art, boutiques, fabulous restaurants; it's all here and pedestrian friendly. It's easy to spend hours wandering around the Circle's hundreds of merchants, or simply sitting at an outdoor cafe people watching. The unique boutiques and one-of-a-kind stores make this a great way to spend a day in Sarasota.

Had enough shopping? Head down to Lido Beach to take a stroll on the sand, or up to Mote Marine, only about a mile from St. Armand's. This is a special place -don't miss it!