Category: Americas

Blessed with incredible nature reserves, white sand beaches and abundant wildlife, Belize should definitely be on your bucket list. Here are the best things to do in Belize, which will make your trip even more enjoyable.

The only Central American country whose first language is English, Belize is formerly known as British Honduras. There are several other recognized languages including Garifuna, Kriol and Mayan.

Fun Things to Do in Belize

The population density in Belize is one of the lowest in the world. However there are lots of attractions within the country, meaning that you can enjoy them without the crowds.

Belize is also an important eco tourism destination, for the diversity of its eco systems. Spot red-eyed tree frogs, tapirs, scarlet macaws and toucans in the dense jungle.

The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to sea turtles, whale sharks and many species of fish.

The country is bordered by Guatemala to the South and West, the Caribbean Sea to the East and Mexico to the Northwest.

Belize is a great family destination, with lots of activities suitable for kids, friendly locals and year-round sunshine.

1.Cave Tubing in Nohoch Che’en Caves

Belize is blessed with the largest cave system in Central America. Nohoch Che’en is part of this extensive network of limestone caves at Caves Branch.

Located 30 minutes from Belmopan, the capital of Belize, the archaeological reserve of Nohoch Cheʼen is popular for kayaking and spelunking. Tubing is a great way to see the caves, as you drift along with no exertion and can focus on the cave sights.

There are nine caves in all, with five caves forming an underground tunnel. Most of the tubing tours are through the last three caves and leave from Jaguar Paw Park Outpost, including ours with Chukka Tours which is popular as a cruise shore excursion.

After a safety briefing at the information centre, you’ll be given a life jacket, helmet with headlamp and a rubber ring to carry down to the cave. The ring is lightweight but a bit cumbersome. There’s a casual restaurant and gift shop on site, as well as changing rooms and restrooms.

Along the 20 minute walk, your guide will point out ants carrying leaves and other wildlife. When you arrive at the cave entrance, you can take a quick dip in Caves Branch River.

The guides will attach your ring to several others and you then float along while they point out stalactites, stalagmites and other interesting sights. The Maya believed that caves were a portal to the underworld and they conducted ceremonial rituals there.

2.Chilling out in Hopkins

There are some great beaches in Belize, and you’ll find one of the best in Hopkins. This laid back village is situated on the East coast of Belize.

Hopkins is known for its Garifuna culture, and also has an award winning hotel, The Lodge at Jaguar Reef. Guests can enjoy two swimming pools, lots of watersports activities and the Big Dock bar with its rope swing.

Some of the rooms have private plunge pools where you can admire the sunrise.

3.Cool Down at Mayan King Waterfalls

Belize has a subtropical climate, with an average annual temperature of 80o F. If you want to cool down, head to the coast for the sea breezes or to a waterfall such as Mayan King.

This Belize waterfall is less than half an hour from Placencia and close to orange trees and a bamboo canopy. If you stop for photos there, make sure to apply plenty of bug spray beforehand.

As this waterfall is located on private property, it doesn’t get too busy. For a small fee, you can enter and enjoy two cascading pools with ice cold water.

The water isn’t too deep but it’s a good idea to wear water shoes as the stones can be a bit slippy. There are restrooms and changing rooms as well as a covered eating area by the bottom pool.

4.Crystal Kayaking in Caye Caulker

Islands in Belize are known as cayes, and there are around 450 of them. They’re among the best islands to visit in the Caribbean.

One of the most popular Belizean islands, Caye Caulker has a laid back vibe. It has some great casual beach bars and restaurants such as Parrot Cove.

Cars are not allowed and people get around on golf carts or bicycles. There are many colorful houses lining the unpaved roads of Main Street, giving Caye Caulker a vibrant atmosphere.

It’s a great place to try crystal kayaking, as the sea is calm and there’s plenty of wildlife to admire. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced kayaker, this is a great way to see the mangroves and coast.

5.Drinks at The Split in Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker was split in two by Hurricane Hattie in 1961. The channel was then widened by locals to allow small boats to pass through.

These days, the area is popular with visitors and residents who gather on the sandy beach and in the beach bars. You can also take a two minute boat ride to Koko King, a fun beach resort with a restaurant, rubber rings and swings. The boat is free if you spend over 10$ Belizean in the bar per person.

Why not try a passion fruit rum daiquiri, made with Belizean rum. It’s a perfect Summer cocktail.

6.Experience a Belizean Sunset

At Black Orchid Resort in Burrell Boom Village, you can enjoy beautiful Belizean sunsets and hear the famous Belize howler monkeys. The Black Howler Monkeys are one of the 10 loudest animals in the world! The sounds is more like a grunt than a howl and very atmospheric.

Black Orchid Resort is only 15 minutes away from Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City. This eco friendly hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and is located on the banks of the Belize river. Guests can borrow kayaks to explore the river.

7.Feeding the Pelicans in Caye Caulker

If you’re on Caye Caulker in late afternoon, you can watch the pelicans being fed in front of the Iguana Reef Inn. These friendly birds love to eat sardines and will happily pose for photos ;-).

Iguana Reef Inn is actually a great place to stay on Caye Caulker. A laid back hotel, it’s right on the beach and has a nice swimming pool.

8.Flying Over The Great Blue Hole

Popularized by famous diver Jacques Cousteau in his television series in 1971, the Great Blue Hole got its name from the British diver and author Ned Middleton.

This natural wonder is the largest sea hole in the world, measuring 300 meters wide and 125 meters deep. Inside the Great Blue Hole there are giant stalactites, some which are more than 40 feet long.

The Great Blue Hole is a popular destination for expert deep sea divers. At certain times of the year you can swim amongst reef sharks.

If you visit the Great Blue Hole by plane, you’ll have a panoramic view of this natural phenomenon. The surrounding atoll of Lighthouse Reef is stunning too.

9.Garifuna Cooking Class

In Belize, the Garifuna people are famous for their unique culture. In fact, UNESCO declared Garifuna dance, language and music to be a “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity” in 2001.

The Garifuna are descendants of West African exiles and the indigenous Arawak and Carib people. Garifuna cooking uses fresh spices and key ingredients such as cassava, coconut milk and plantains.

You can learn how to make some of the most popular Garifuna dishes at a cooking class in Hopkins village. Hudut is a tasty coconut milk and fish soup, which participants can taste during the class.

10.Garifuna Dancing and Drumming

Experience the magic of traditional Garifuna dancing and join in the drumming with the Lebeha Drummers in Hopkins. Located towards the northern end of the village, the Lebeha Drumming Center is the brainchild of Jabbar Lambey and Dorothy Pettersen.

The drums are made by Austin Rodriguez, from deerskin hides and mahogany and mayflower wood. In Garifuna drumming, there’s a Primero drum, also known as the male drum.

There are also rattles known as shakas containing fruit seedsinside a calabash gourd. Visitors are encouraged to have a go at either the dancing or drumming, which is a lot of fun.

11.Get up for a Belizean Sunrise

As we’ve seen, the sunsets in Belize are spectacular. Belize sunrises give them a run for their money though.

You can see some amazing sunrises in Hopkins village, at Ambergris Caye and in Placencia. Locals consider October to be the best month to experience truly awe inspiring sky displays.

12.Horseback Riding in Cayo District

One of the most well established riding stables in Belize, Hanna Stables is a family business run by Santiago Juan. We were fortunate to meet Santiago, who spent several years in England.

Hanna Stables also own an organic farm, where guests can enjoy a delicious lunch. They organize daily horse riding excursions, to Xunantunich Mayan ruins and around their farm. Hanna Stables also have an exclusive access tour to Actun Kan Mayan Ruins, an unexcavated Mayan temple.

They have 15 horses and will match you with an appropriate one for your height and riding ability. Riding helmets are provided and no previous riding experience is necessary.

On your riding tour to Xunantunich Mayan ruins, you will pass through scenic countryside and even cross the river with the horse on a pedestrian ferry.

13.Manatee Watching

Belize has the highest concentration of Antillean manatees in the world. This endangered species, also known as sea cows, can be observed from a boat in Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary.

It is not permitted to touch manatees or swim with them. If one approaches while you are snorkelling in Belize, it is best to keep a distance so as not to disturb it.

14.Maya Temples

Belize has around 900 Mayan sites, including:

• Xunantunich
• Caracol
• Cahal Pech
• Lamanai
• Altun Ha

In fact, the tallest building in Belize is an ancient Maya temple. The Maya people were the first to inhabit Belize, in approximately 1500 BC.

Xunantunich is one of the most impressive Mayan temples in Belize. The name means Stone Woman in Mayan and comes from a local legend.

There’s an entry fee to this archaeological site, which is very well excavated and maintained. It’s possible to climb to the top of El Castillo, the second tallest pyramid in Belize at 135 feet.

It’s thought that the site was built over 2,000 years, from approximately 1200 BC to 900 AD. At one time there were around 10,000 Mayans living here.

As for the purpose of the site, archaeologists believe that it was a major burial ground.

15.See Rare Green Iguanas in San Ignacio

The green iguana is an endangered species in Belize, and protected under the Belize Wildlife Protection Act. The Green Iguana Conservation Project is the most popular TripAdvisor rated attraction in San Ignacio.

An initiative of the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, this educational exhibit allows you to take a closer look at these fascinating reptiles. The expert on site guide will teach you about their incubation, hatching, rearing, and the releasing process.

We recommend staying at San Ignacio Resort Hotel, which is conveniently located for Xunantunich and Cahal Pech. Observe the parakeets and toucans as you swim in the pool or dine on their delicious local cuisine on the restaurant terrace.

16.Snorkelling at Laughing Bird Caye

Blessed with the second largest barrier reef in the world, Belize has a huge variety of fish. There are over 400 species to be found along the 185 mile Belize Barrier Reef.

Belize is also making a big effort to regrow coral reefs via a conservation program. While you’re snorkelling there, you may even notice conservation workers taking notes about the coral underwater!

Laughing Bird Caye National Park takes its name from the laughing bird gull that breeds on the island. It covers only 1.8 acres, teeming with marine life and wild birds.

There’s a small fee to dock at Laughing Bird Caye which contributes to the conservation work. This caye is generally less crowded than others nearby, making it one of the best places to snorkel in Belize.

There are restrooms as well as a shady area with benches. Boat tours can be booked via Splash Dive Center tours and usually include lunch on the island.

All equipment is provided and no prior snorkelling experience is required, as long as you’re reasonably fit. The water is quite clear, and it’s possible to spot a lot of different fish as well as purple colored coral.

17.Spot Jaguars in a Wildlife Reserve

Belize takes the protection of its wildlife very seriously. The country was forward thinking enough to set up the first jaguar reserve in the world, Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary.

CBWS for short, the reserve covers 150 square miles and boasts spectacular nature trails, lush waterfalls and vegetation. The reserve isn’t just designed to protect jaguars in their natural habitat but also to encourage biodiversity of other wild species.

Jaguars themselves are quite rare to spot here, however you may well see howler monkeys, coatamundi, peccaries and jaguarundi, small wild cats.

18.Stargazing Sunset Cruise in Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker is one of the most charming Belize islands. The atmosphere is similar to Key West, Florida, before it became so popular.

For a romantic and fun way to see the island and shoreline, take a sunset and star gazing sailboat cruise. It’s organized by E-Z Boy Tours, a fifth generation family owned business.

There’s a restroom and plenty of seating space. Taste fresh seafood ceviche and rum cocktails while the captain tells you all about the history of the island.

If you’re lucky, you may see an unusual phenomenon in the sky, a perfect diagonal line. No one knows the causes of these perfect geometric lines but according to a local they’ve started appearing quite recently.

One thing is for sure, you’ll see a lot of stars! Belize is known for its star gazing, as there is hardly any light pollution.

19.Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Nicknamed Shark Ray Alley, Hol Chan Marine Reserve spans 18 square kilometers. Located between Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye, this is the most visited diving and snorkeling area in Belize.

The marine reserve is split into 4 zones, teeming with over 160 species of fish and forty types of corals. There are often nurse sharks in zone D, which are generally harmless to humans. You can also spot sea turtles, sting rays, West Indian manatees and two species of dolphins.

How to Get to Belize

• By Air – There are regular flights from Cancun, Houston and Miami to Belize City. The airport is currently being expanded.
• By Road – Drive from Melchor de Mencos in Guatemala or Chetumal, Mexico to Belize.
• By Sea – Belize is a popular cruise destination and there are also daily boats to Punta Gorda from Puerto Barrios in Guatemala and Puerto Cortes in Honduras.

How to Get Around Belize

There’s a good network of flights by operators such as Tropic Air. Even tiny islands have their own airstrip with regular flights from Belize City. Dangriga Town is a handy internal airport if you’re heading to Caye Caulker.

Final Thoughts on Fun Things to Do in Belize

Belize is a unique destination with plenty to offer tourists. From cave-tubing and zip-lining to exploring ancient ruins, there is something for everyone in Belize.

If you are looking for an exciting and exotic vacation destination, be sure to add Belize to your list. And while you’re planning your trip, be sure to check out our other travel articles for more great ideas on where to go and what to see around the world.

Rio de Janeiro is one of the most vibrant cities on earth and unlike any other, with an urban rain forest, abundant wildlife and some fantastic beaches. Here are the top 10 must see Rio de Janeiro attractions that you shouldn’t miss during your time in this amazing Brazilian city.

Top Rio de Janeiro Attractions

Rio de Janeiro isn’t the capital of Brazil, which is actually Brasilia. However, there are lots of things to do in this iconic Latin city. From incredible beaches to world class museums and natural wonders, let’s check out the best Rio de Janeiro sights.

1.Rio de Janeiro Beaches

Rio’s beaches are legendary. In health conscious Rio, there are plenty of places to work out on the beach. Here are the best Rio beaches to visit:

• Copacabana – close to Sugar Loaf Mountain, is world renowned and stretches for four kilometers. The Copacabana Palace Hotel is a great place to sit and watch the sunset here.
• Ipanema – famous thanks to the Girl from Ipanema song, and attracts a trendy, good looking crowd.
• Leblon – adjacent to Ipanema, this upmarket area tends to appeal to families.
• Praia da Barra da Tijuca – in the Barra area, this lesser known Rio beach stretches over 12 glorious kilometers.
• Arpoador is a surfers paradise and another great place to catch the sunset over Ipanema and Leblon from the rocks.

2.Corcovado

You won’t want to miss a trip on the cog train up to Christ the Redeemer or Corcovado. This Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ was created by Paul Landowski and stands 30 metres tall. That is the height without including the 8 metre pedestal. The arms alone stretch 28 metres wide.

Christo Redentor really is an impressive sight and the symbol of Brazil worldwide. The views of the city and Lagoa, Rio’s natural lagoon are fantastic.

You’re never far away from this famous landmark in Rio de Janeiro and it’s lit up at night. The statue was struck by lightning in 2008, suffering damage to the fingers and head, but has been restored since.

A good way to see Corcovado in style is with a private tour. Rio Cultural Secrets offer private tours since 2012 in Rio de Janeiro. This expert Rio tour guide has great reviews on Tripadvisor and are recommended by Fodors and Lufthansa Magazine. Rio Cultural Secrets also have partnerships with many luxury hotels in Rio.

You’ll travel in a comfortable air conditioned vehicle and get lots of insider tips. Before your trip, you can also ask them for advice on things such as what to pack for Rio.

They have many tours in addition to Corcovado, such as a private Pedra Bonita Rio de Janeiro hike, a visit to Santa Teresa Rio de Janeiro, the Selaron Stairs and the Ruins Park or a Botanical Garden and Tijuca Forest Tour.

If you have several days in Brazil, why not try a day trip from Rio de Janeiro to Arraial do Cabo, Buzios, Ilha Grande or Serra dos Orgãos National Park.

3.Sugar Loaf Mountain

Another must-see, Sugar Loaf Mountain is particularly impressive at sunset so make sure to time your trip for a little before then. It’s a picturesque trip up in the two glass-walled cable cars to the top of this peak, 396 metres above the harbour.

The name comes from the 16th century when blocks of sugar were placed in conical moulds of clay to be transported on ships. As these resembled the peak, so the mountain became known as Sugar Loaf.

The panoramic views from here are incredible. See the little white dot slightly to the right of the picture on top of one of the peaks? That’s Christ the Redeemer, still visible from afar.

It’s very easy to spot marmoset monkeys at the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain. They originally lived on the Northeastern coast of Brazil but soon spread to Southeast Brazil and are now considered an invasive species there – cute though. You may also come across an anteater if you’re lucky.

4.Tijuca Forest

Rio is quite unique in that it has an urban rain forest, right in the centre. The Tijuca Forest may well be the world’s largest urban forest, covering 32 square kilometres.

The rainforest is located in the mountainous area known as the Tijuca Massif and is actually a man-made reclamation of land on which coffee and sugar had previously been planted. Created by Major Manuel Gomes Archer in the 19th century to protect Rio’s water supply, it’s now home to hundreds of species of wildlife and plants. It was declared a National Park in 1961.

5.World’s Largest Street Mural

Created by Brazilian graffiti artist Eduardo Kobra for the Rio Olympic Games in 2016, Las Etnias measures 30.ooo square feet. This colorful mural is 15 feet tall and took 2 months to complete.

The Guiness Book of Records confirmed that it is the world’s largest mural completed by a single person. You can find this amazing street art in the port area of Rio. It features 5 faces from the 5 continents, also representing the 5 Olympic gold rings.

6.Rio Lagoa

This stunning lagoon is encircled by a 7.5 kilometre path, popular with cyclists and runners. Lagoa itself is also the name of the neighbourhood, one of the most affluent in Rio and the third most expensive in South America. Nearby there are hiking trails where you can get a far-reaching view over the lagoon.

Or if feeling less sporty, take a duck or swan boat out for a bit of fun.

7.Rio Museums

Rio has many interesting museums that are well worth a visit. These include:

• Museu de Arte do Rio which hosts regular exhibitions in a renovated space.
• Copacabana Fort Museum – still an active military base, it hosted the marathon swimming and triathlon events in the 2016 Summer Olympics.
• The Museum of Tomorrow, or Museu do Amanha in Portugese. This striking building was designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava and houses a museum of science.

8.Rio Historical Center

Mainly a commercial area, there are some stunning examples of Belle Epoque architecture to be seen here and several museums are close by.

• The Royal Portuguese Reading Room – a Rio de Janeiro hidden gem housing the largest collection of Portugese texts outside of Portugal. More than 350,000 books and manuscripts can be found inside this building, considered to be one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.
• The Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel – beautiful gold carvings and a Roccoco style interior.
• Travessa do Comercio – a street lined with striking old colonial townhouses, many restaurants and bars, making it popular with locals after work.

9.Lapa

Rio is renowned for its nightlife and Lapa is the place to come if you want to experience Brazilian samba dancing. It can be hard to find a non-touristy place but Carioca da Gema is very authentic and has some excellent musicians performing. Whether a beginner or an expert, don’t hesitate to take to the dance floor.

Lapa is also well known for the Selaron Steps, or Escadaria Selaron in Portugese. This colorful tiled staircase leads from Lapa to Santa Teresa. The famous 125 meter high stairway was created by Chilean born artist Jorge Selaron as a tribute to the Brazilian people.

Carioca Aqueduct is another well known Lapa landmark. Constructed in 1723 to bring fresh water to the inhabitants of Rio de Janeiro, the Arcos da Lapa connects the city centre to Santa Teresa.

10.Rio de Janeiro Carnival

We’ve saved one of the most famous Rio attractions until last. Rio Carnival takes place every year before Lent and is the biggest carnival in the world. Over 2 million people attend each year!

Visitors flock to the Sambadrome to see the Samba Parade and the colorful floats during Carnaval de Rio de Janeiro. It’s best to book your accommodation well in advance as it gets booked far ahead.

Food in Rio de Janeiro

If you’re a foodie then you’ve come to the right place. Rio is famous for the high quality of its meats and churrascarias or barbecue restaurants such as Porcao. Here you pay a set rate and they then bring you round meat until you place your red token on the top to say “no”!

Don’t forget to sample a bowl of acai ice cream, made from wild berries and utterly delicious. You can try acai in one of the many sucos or juice bars, on virtually every street corner and with lots of interesting flavours on offer.

A visit to Confeitaria Colombo is a must if you have a sweet tooth. This grand cafe dates from the late 1800s and is a great place to sample a pastel de nata or custard tart whilst admiring the decor of stained glass windows and high ceilings.

All in all, Rio de Janeiro attractions are definitely worth seeing Have you ever visited Brazil? What would you most like to see there?

Florida is famous for its theme parks but there’s lots more to do in this photogenic region. For example, there are some fantastic Sarasota museums that you really shouldn’t miss.

It’s no surprise that the county is known as Florida’s Cultural Coast®. We’ve rounded up our favourite tourist attractions in Sarasota County for young and old.

The Best Sarasota Museums

From vintage car museums to nature centers and artworks, there are some great cultural attractions in the area. These include museums in Downtown Sarasota, Lido Shores, Osprey and Venice Beach.

1.The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

The Ringling is the State Art Museum of Florida and an exceptional cultural and educational centre. This famous American museum is the legacy of John and Mable Ringling and located within the 66 acre grounds of their Winter estate.

John Ringling was the founder of the Ringling Bros. circus and later became the co-owner of the Barnum & Bailey Circus. The Ringling Circus Museum has a miniature 44,000 piece Howard Bros. circus model and other interesting circus memorabilia.

There’s also a pink Renaissance style Museum of Art, commissioned by John Ringling. It has an impressive permanent collection of European paintings and Asian art, as well as temporary outdoor sculptures by famous artists such as Ai Wei Wei.

Visitors should not miss Ca’ d’ Zan, the former home of John and Mable Ringling. The name means House of John in the Venetian dialect and the decor was inspired by their frequent trips to Italy.

Next to this famous American historic home, you’ll find Mable Ringling’s pride and joy, her Rose Garden. It’s the oldest rose garden in continual use in Florida and dates from 1913.

The Ringling has many other treasures including the 18th century Asolo Theater from Italy and the Kotler-Coville Glass Pavilion. There is free admission to The Ringling grounds, including the Bayfront Gardens and Bolger Playspace on Mondays.

Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm daily, until 8 pm on Thursdays. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota

2.Sarasota Classic Car Museum

There’s a wonderful selection of cars at the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, representing 100 years of automobile history. It’s the second oldest continually operating antique car museum in the United States.

The collection features well known vintage cars belonging to stars including John Lennon’s 1965 Mercedes Benz and Paul McCartney’s Mini Cooper. You can also see the Rolls Royce cars that belonged to John and Mable Ringling as well as many rotating exhibits.

Opening hours: 9 am to 6 pm, Monday to Sunday. Closed on Christmas Day.

5500 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

3.Art Center Sarasota

With four galleries, Art Center Sarasota provides creative opportunities to the whole community. They run youth educational programs including Creative Kids Saturday Classes and the Creative Kids Summer Art Camp. The exhibitions focus on local and regional art, showcasing many emerging and established talents.

Opening hours: 10 am to 4 pm, Monday to Saturday

707 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

4.Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

This iconic Sarasota museum plays an important role in wildlife conservation. Mote Marine has helped to rehabilitate many injured sea creatures such as manatees and turtles.

In fact, they hold regular turtle spotting walks at a nearby beach in season. The Washed Ashore art exhibit features sharks and turtles made from plastic and other debris, in order to educate visitors on how to keep rubbish out of the ocean.

Mote scientists are leading 25 research programs including finding new ways to restore coral reefs. They’re also training local diver and snorkeler volunteers as part of their BleachWatch program to detect bleaching on coral, an early warning sign of damage.

There are over 100 species of fish and marine animals at Mote, as well as a 135,000 gallon shark habitat. Visitors can see inside some of the working labs such as the Seahorse Conservation Laboratory, through glass walls. Staff and volunteers are also on hand to answer your questions.

Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm daily

1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota

5.Crowley Museum & Nature Center

A great place to discover more about pioneer history, Crowley Museum & Nature Center is fun for all the family. There’s a half-mile boardwalk which leads visitors through 5 different Florida habitats and a two story observation tower overlooking the Myakka river.

The Children’s Discovery Path has five interactive stations with fun activities to get involved in. The museum itself houses some interesting pioneer artefacts and there’s also a sugar cane mill and a birding trail.

Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm in fair weather, from Saturday to Sunday

9192, 16405 Myakka Rd, Sarasota

6.Historic Spanish Point

Spread over 30 acres, Historic Spanish Point is a fascinating insight into Floridian pre-history. Its one of the largest intact archaeological sites on the Gulf Coast from the prehistoric period. The Window to the Past exhibition is the only place in the United States where you can go inside a prehistoric shell midden or mound.

There’s also one of the largest butterfly gardens in Florida and many different natural habitats, with over 50% of the county’s native plants being represented here. Chicago socialite Bertha Palmer established a homestead here in 1910 and you can visit three of her beautiful gardens.

Opening hours: 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Saturday and 12 – 5 pm on Sundays

337 N Tamiami Trail, Osprey

7.Save Our Seabirds

Housing over 120 birds in their 3 acre site, Save our Seabirds aims to rehabilitate injured birds and to educate the public on how to minimize environmental risks to them. Their Birdwalk shows visitors how each species has adapted to its natural environment.

The Wild Bird Learning Center has some interesting educational displays.

Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm daily

1708 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota

8.Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy

One of the most colorful museums in Sarasota, it features quirky paintings and sculptures galore, as well as a tranquil garden. The Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy is the passion project of local artist Marietta Lee. Some of her works are exhibited here as well as those of many other unique artists.

What makes this Sarasota art museum near Siesta Key so special is the warm welcome that the volunteers give to visitors. They’ll provide you with as much or as little information as you want on the artworks.

Marietta herself is often at the museum to lend a hand. Even the restrooms here are works of art.

There’s no café or gift shop but there is a kitchen manned by volunteers which gives you complimentary cookies and soft drinks. As entrance to this contemporary art museum is free, donations are greatly appreciated.

Opening hours: 1 – 4 pm Thursdays to Saturdays and from November to May

2121 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

9.The Ringling College of Art + Design

With over 50 exhibitions each year, all of which are free, the Ringling College of Art + Design is a key fixture on the Sarasota arts scene. Since opening more than 85 years ago, it’s helped students to develop their creative skills. These days, this Sarasota college is renowned for its computer animation programs.

Opening hours: 10 am to 4 pm, Monday to Friday

2700 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

10.Venice Museum & Archives

Housed in Triangle Inn which dates from 1927 the Venice Museum & Archives has a vast collection of over 30,000 objects and photographs. There are some interesting exhibits including a giant Megalodon shark and one on auto racing in Venice from 1953 to 1960.

Opening hours: 10 am to 4 pm from Monday to Wednesday, and 11 am to 3 pm on the 1st and 3rd Saturday from October to April

351 Nassau St S, Venice

11.The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

The largest natural and cultural history museum on Florida’s Gulf Coast, The Bishop is known for its state of the art planetarium theater. The Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat has above and underwater viewing, and educates guests on the life history of these aquatic mammals.

Opening hours: 10am to 4pm from Wednesday to Saturday | Noon to 5pm on Sunday | Closed on Monday and Tuesday | Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day

201 10th St W, Bradenton

Sarasota Tourist Attractions

As well as a wide range of museums in Sarasota, there are some other great things to see.

12.The Children’s Garden

One of the most popular things to do in Sarasota with kids is to visit The Children’s Garden. There are fun storybook readings and many other activities like weekly art and gardening classes. A maze, pirate ship, secret garden, tree fort and three little pigs’ house are just some of the attractions.

Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm daily

1670 10th Way, Sarasota

13.Unconditional Surrender

This huge statue by Seward Johnson commemorates the end of the Second World War and is said to be inspired by a photograph by Victor Jorgensen. The original bronze statue was created in 2005 with the help of computer technology and damaged by a car in 2012. It was replaced by the current statue in 2013.

Island Park Drive, Sarasota

14.Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

With a magnificent setting on the shores of Sarasota Bay, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is one of the most popular Sarasota attractions. Voted among the top places to visit in Sarasota by TripAdvisor, this living museum is the only botanical garden in the world specialized in the study and display of epiphytes.

If you’re wondering what epiphytes are, they’re plants that grow on other plants. Orchids, moss and many ferns are some of the best known examples. There’s a charming tea room and a gift shop as well as 15 acres of exotic flowers and plants to admire.

The children’s rainforest garden has a rope bridge, outdoor musical instruments and play area. The museum itself has some interesting temporary exhibitions, including Warhol: Flowers in the Factory, celebrating the role of nature in Andy Warhol’s art.

Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm daily. Closed on Christmas Day

900 S. Palm Ave, Sarasota

15.Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Feeding flamingos by hand and talking to the resident parrots are just two of the fun things to do at Sarasota Jungle Gardens. There’s an interesting shell museum, a gift shop and café in their 10 acre grounds.

Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm daily. Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day

3701 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota

16.Saraosota Opera House

Sarasota Opera one of the foremost opera companies in the United States, celebrating its 58th season. The building dates from the 1920s and was formerly the Edwards Theatre, once playing host to Elvis Presley. It’s since been extensively renovated and is open to the public for tours – a fascinating behind the scenes experience.

Tour opening hours: Mondays when the opera is in season, at 10.30 am

61 N Pineapple Ave, Sarasota

In addition to visiting these amazing Sarasota museums and tourist attractions, take time to explore the other sights on Florida’s gulf coast. There are some incredible Sarasota beaches – one of them was even voted best beach in the USA by TripAdvisor and Dr Beach.

You’ll also want to check out the wide range of Sarasota restaurants, from farm to table to gourmet dining. Fans of culture will love the art galleries on Palm Avenue in downtown Sarasota, while antique lovers will enjoy the colourful Burns Court area. You may find our guide to other Sarasota attractions helpful.

Final Thoughts on The Top Sarasota Museums

Sarasota is home to many incredible museums that celebrate the arts, history, and culture of Florida. If you’re planning a trip to Sarasota, be sure to add these museums to your itinerary.

lorida is home to some of the best beaches in the United States, beloved by locals and holidaymakers alike. Many of them are in Sarasota County, with over 40 miles of coastline. There are five islands known as keys as well as the mainland beachhead in Venice Beach. From Siesta Key to Caspersen Beach, we reveal the best beaches in Sarasota County.

Best Beaches in Sarasota, Florida

Here’s a tour of some of our favorite beaches, as well as other great things to do in Sarasota. Read on for our full guide of the top Sarasota beaches.

1.Siesta Beach

While most beaches are composed of pulverised coral, Siesta Beach is 99% pure quartz. This means that it’s incredibly fine and white and it stays cool under foot.

The sand is thought to be millions of years old, having originally flowed from the Appalachian mountains. It’s estimated that the sand on Siesta Beach and Crescent Beach on Siesta Key could be millions of years old, having its origin in the Appalachian mountains and flowing down through rivers until finally reaching these shores.

No wonder Siesta Beach scooped the TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Award for Best Beach in the US in 2020, as well as the number 1 Beach in America 2017 by Dr Beach.

There’s the Siesta Key Beach Pavilion cafe with restrooms and a playground, as well as picnic areas. You’ll also find beach wheelchairs that can be borrowed. In fact, Siesta Beach is easily accessible for those with reduced mobility or with pushchairs as it has a special Mobi Mat.

This rollout pathway extends for 450 feet and is something that we’d love to see on more beaches worldwide. It’s also very safe for children here.

The water’s edge is quite shallow and there are 4 colourful lifeguard huts manned daily. Siesta Beach is popular for volleyball matches as well as pickleball, a paddle sport that’s a cross between badminton, table tennis and tennis.

The parking lot at Siesta Public Beach has space for 976 cars. It fills up fairly quickly so try to arrive early.

Whilst Siesta Key has some of the best beaches in Florida, the sunsets are equally impressive. If you’re lucky you might even see a green flash on the sun!

This natural phenomenon occurs just before sunrise and after sunset in Florida and only lasts for a few seconds.

There are some great restaurants in Siesta Key including Ophelia’s on the Bay. This Sarasota County restaurant has been a popular spot since opening in 1988. The views from the bayfront patio are fantastic.

They specialise in seafood, with many delicious seafood dishes such as pan roasted Gulf lane snapper with a ginger soy glaze, white enoki mushrooms, baby bok choy and green tea noodle salad.

2.Venice Beach

The beach in Venice, Florida is a popular tourist attraction. It’s not to be confused with Venice, Italy although the town was named after the Italian city due to its perceived resemblance.

Voted in the top 10 Happiest Seaside Towns by Coastal Living, it was planned as a model city in 1925. The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus established their Winter base here due to the proximity of the railroad.

These days you can cycle or walk along the former rail track, now the Legacy Trail, which links to the Venetian Waterway trail.

There are 14 miles of soft white sand in and around Venice, Florida with free parking, a picnic area and volleyball courts. Many turtles lay their nests here between May and October.

A distinctive pavilion in the form of a sail houses a cafe and restrooms. There’s a very active senior citizen community in Venice and dedicated exercise classes are regularly held on the beach.

Venice is known as the Shark Tooth Capital of the world and if you look closely you may well find some of the tiny black teeth. They are particularly abundant at nearby Caspersen Beach, also in the Venice area.

After relaxing at Venice Beach, it’s well worth making the 15 minute walk into town. Many of the low-level Mediterranean style buildings are of special architectural interest, and there are some great gift shops. Check out our recommendations for places to eat in Venice, Florida and some of the best restaurants in Sarasota.

Fins at Sharky’s is justifiably one of the most popular restaurants in Venice, Florida. You can’t miss it as there’s a giant fin on the roof! With an unbeatable beachfront location next to Venice Pier, it’s a great place to unwind.

Whilst the seafood is superb here, they also do a fine line in steaks. If you want the best of both worlds then the sushi surf and turf is an excellent choice.

Many of the tables overlook the pier, which is popular with fishermen and strollers. There’s a fun gift shop with many shark themed items. Heading onto the beach afterwards, you’ll see pelicans in the sea and sometimes dolphins.

3.Caspersen Beach

One of the most unique beaches in Sarasota County is Caspersen Beach, due to the impressive number of shark teeth. Searching for shark’s teeth is a popular pastime with visitors, and you can buy a wire sifter to help you find them more easily.

Two thirds of the beach were left in their natural state and a dune restoration system is in place to prevent erosion. There’s a county park with a nature trail, outdoor fitness centre, a pavilion and restrooms.

The beach isn’t manned by lifeguards but is uncrowded and has real natural beauty. Notice how the water shimmers in the sunlight here!

We asked a few people if they had found any and one man had indeed discovered a few.

4.Lido Beach

With super soft white sand, Lido Beach is another great choice in Sarasota County. It’s not too crowded despite its proximity to downtown Sarasota.

The surfing is good at Lido Key Beach, particularly when there’s a Northern wind. The beach is manned year-round by lifeguards and has good restrooms.

At the furthest tip of Lido Key you’ll find South Lido Park which has picnic tables. South Lido Beach is a great place to watch the sunset.

North Lido Beach Park is a great spot for bird and nature lovers. There are 49 acres of walking trails and pine wood, as well as 22.5 acres of beach and mangroves.

There’s a fun tiki bar at the Ritz Carlton Residences. Of the many great restaurants in Sarasota County, quite a few are located in St Armands Circle.

We particularly like Il Colonne for Italian specialties and Shore, serving American food in a contemporary setting. The latter is also a beach clothing store so you can browse before your meal.

St Armands Circle has some good boutiques, as well as statues of the Seven Virtues. It was John Ringling, of the famous circus, who purchased the original statues in the 1920s.

He had visited Renaissance cities in Italy and decided to recreate a similar ambiance in his property development here. Several of the statues are on display in the Ringling Museum.

In terms of hotels, Lido Beach Resort is a popular place to stay. It has a large outdoor swimming pool overlooking the beach and newly renovated bedrooms with well equipped kitchenettes.

5.Turtle Beach Park

Named after the many sea turtles who nest here, Turtle Beach Park is spread over 14 acres. There aren’t lifeguards but there’s a volleyball court, picnic pavilion and shelters, outdoor showers, restrooms and parking.

You’ll also find a canoe and kayak launch as well as a boat ramp. It’s a popular destination for fishermen and campers, with 39 RV and tent sites with WiFi and a laundry room.

The sea turtles are protected by law, and for this reason no pets are allowed. Sea turtle nesting season is from May to October in Sarasota County.

The area has the highest density of loggerhead sea turtles on the Gulf Coast, with up to 6,000 turtle nests each year. It’s rare to see the baby turtles as they usually emerge from their shells at night, giving them some protection from marauding birds. If you do happen to encounter them, there are some important rules to follow.

• Don’t approach them, touch the nests, hatchlings or sea turtles, it’s against the law. They are protected by the Florida Marine Protection Act and the Federal Endangered Species Act. The nests are marked with tape and wooden sticks and a sign will display the approximate egg-laying date.
• Don’t make any noise or use flashlights or headlamps
• Don’t use fireworks on the beach
• Dispose of your trash in the appropriate bins
• Don’t walk dogs here or on any other beach in Sarasota County other than at Brohard Paw Park
• The hatchlings can get disoriented in the dark.

There are free guided turtle walks led by a Mote Marine Laboratory volunteer every Saturday at 6.45 am in June and July, leaving from the public beach access point at 4795 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. They’re open to all ages and no reservation is required. You’ll learn a great deal about sea turtles and look for signs of turtle nesting.

6.Manasota Key

Around Manasota Key, there are several beautiful beaches including Manasota Beach, Englewood Beach, Stump Pass Beach and Blind Pass Beach. Manasota Beach is uncrowded yet boasts several amenities such as paved hiking trails and picnic shelters.

There are some nice places to eat and drink in Manasota Key. The White Elephant Pub has live music and a waterside location, while Flounders on the Beach specializes in calamari and tacos.

Final Thoughts on the Best Beaches in Sarasota Florida

As you can see, Sarasota County is blessed with some incredible wildlife and beautiful coastline. These are just some of the most well known beaches in Sarasota.

There are many more to explore, such as Longboat Key, Manasota Beach in Englewood, Nokomis Beach on Casey Key and Brohard Beach and Paw Park.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this tour of the best beaches in Sarasota County. Have you been to any of these places, and in your opinion, what makes a great beach?

Nestled on a secluded and unspoilt part of the coast on the Riviera Maya in Mexico, Andaz Mayakoba is the epitome of cool. Part of the international Hyatt group, this 5 star hotel benefits from their service levels. Yet it has a local feel thanks to its collaborations with Mexican artists and photographers.

Andaz Mayakoba – First Impressions

Arriving at the Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya, you really get the wow factor. This luxurious hotel boasts an airy open-plan reception lobby with a circular lake at its centre.

The friendly staff hand you each a pebble and encourage you to throw it into the water to symbolically leave your cares behind. After a refreshing fruit drink and quick check-in, you’ll be taken by golf buggy to your room.

Staff here are encouraged to interact with guests and to share details of their own hobbies. The ones we chatted with were into wine, food and photography – in fact one of them gave us a few tips for where to get the best shots.

Accommodation at Andaz Mayakoba

The rooms in Hyatt Andaz Mayakoba are spread out around the lagoon and beach areas, in order to minimize any impact on the environment. In fact sustainability is a major focus here and Andaz and the neighbouring 3 resorts at Mayakoba work hard to preserve wildlife.

Our huge suite had a spacious bedroom, separate lounge area and WC.

All the rooms at Andaz have a bathroom that runs the whole length of the room, with two sinks and a rain shower. There are also two balconies, one leading off the bedroom and the other, accessible via the lounge, with a lovely outdoor jacuzzi. We admired the colourful basketwork decoration on the living room wall.

Amenities at Andaz Mayakoba

We particularly like the walk-in closet, well equipped with an ironing board, safe, torch, hairdryer and insect repellent. Bathrobes and flip-flops come in handy, as does the stylish beach bag that you can borrow.

The fruit and sweets were a thoughtful gift and the mini bar also had many complimentary items such as waters and tea and coffee. We loved leafing through the Birds of Mayakoba book – it helped us to work out which ones we had spotted nearby!

Facilities at Andaz Mayakoba

Andaz Mayakoba is blessed with several stunning swimming pools. The beachside one has a funky vibe with a DJ playing and an amazing octopus mural by local artist, Senkoe.

The lagoon side pools have some very cool inflatables. We couldn’t resist this pink flamingo but kept falling off when we tried to climb on top of the white swan ;-).

The drinks at the poolside bar are very tempting.

There’s also a cool feature here that we’ve never come across anywhere else, a sunscreen dispensing machine!

When you’ve finished sunbathing, head to the nearby gym – it’s one of the best equipped that we have seen. For those more interested in relaxing than sweating it out in the gym, there’s a fantastic adjacent spa too.

It’s designed so that you can do a circuit, passing through hot and cold areas. I loved the leafy view from the ladies’ shower! We enjoyed a relaxing couples massage in one of the spa’s pavilions and a herbal tea afterwards.

Another great way to relax is at the uncrowded beaches in Riviera Maya. You can walk along its soft white sand to Mayakoba’s other 3 resorts. There’s also a kids club which lays on a wide range of activities for children of all ages.

Dining at Andaz Mayakoba

There are so many dining options at Andaz Mayakoba that you won’t need to leave. From casual beach side dining at Tinta del Pulpo to gourmet Mexican dishes at Casa Amate, there’s something for everyone.

However if you wish to, you can dine at any of the restaurants in the other 3 luxury resorts in Mayakoba and have it billed to your room. Breakfast at Andaz Mayakoba is a tasty affair with two restaurants to choose from. At Cucina Milagro, there’s a vast array of hot and cold buffet dishes as well as an à la carte menu.

Olla Taco is the other option – it serves à la carte dishes in a casual and cool beach side restaurant.

Casa Amate is the signature restaurant at Andaz Mayakoba. With a stylish yet homely decor, its spread over several small rooms. There’s a large terrace overlooking the lagoon.

The staff here are very knowledgeable and will advise you on the wines as well as the food menu. We loved it so much that we returned a few days later for a photo shoot with Sol Tamargo – a Cultural Insider at Andaz and a very talented photographer.

We also had fun at a tequila tasting held at Olla Ceviche, a casual beach side eatery, decorated with colourful basketwork. Who knew that there were so many different types of tequila, from silver unaged varieties to oak-aged vintages?

The bottles are very impressive, as are the shot glasses. You don’t have to put salt on the rim of your tequila glass but it does add a certain something to the experience.

Riviera Maya Wildlife

As well as getting around by golf buggy or bicycle, you can take the Mayakoba Connection. It’s a ferry service linking Andaz Mayakoba with the three other resorts at Mayakoba and the Mayakoba Residences . Along the way, be sure to look out for Mexican wildlife.

El Pueblito Village

The Mayakoba Connection also drops guests close to El Pueblito, the local square modelled on a traditional Mexican village.

Mayakoba Golf

There’s also the only PGA golf course in Mexico, with some stunning fairways and also a Nature Trail which guests can walk or cycle along. Golf in Riviera Maya is a pleasure as the weather in Mayakoba is always pleasant.

What makes Andaz Mayakoba so special is its sense of fun and vibrancy, together with its focus on the environment. If you’re the sort of person who prefers a relaxed vibe to a stuffy atmosphere, then Andaz Mayakoba and the Riviera Maya are definitely for you – definitely one of the best Riviera Maya resorts.

Getting to Andaz Mayakoba

The nearest airport in Riviera Maya is Cancun International Airport. There are regular international flights and it’s an hour’s drive from Cancun to Riviera Maya along a safe highway.

When considering whether to choose Cancun vs Riviera Maya accommodation, bear in mind that Riviera Maya has a more relaxed vibe with less high-rise buildings.

Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959) revolutionized 20th-century architecture through his pioneering Prairie School style and organic architecture philosophy. His career spanned seven decades, during which he designed over 1,000 structures, championing the idea that buildings should harmonize with their environment.

Wright’s signature elements included horizontal lines, open floor plans, natural materials, and extensive use of glass to blur the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces. Here are the best Frank Lloyd Wright buildings that you can tour.

1.Fallingwater, Pennsylvania

Perhaps Wright’s most famous creation, this stunning home in Mill Run, Pennsylvania, appears to float above a waterfall. Built between 1936-1939, Fallingwater exemplifies Wright’s organic architecture philosophy, incorporating the natural surroundings into its design through cantilevers and local sandstone.

This iconic American house was commissioned by Edgar Kaufmann Sr., a prominent Pittsburgh businessman, and cost $155,000 to build – equivalent to about $2.9 million today. Visitors can take both regular and in-depth tours of the property, which include the guest house and spectacular grounds.

2.Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York State

This iconic New York City landmark revolutionized museum design with its spiral ramp gallery and distinctive white exterior. Completed in 1959, the Guggenheim represents Wright’s interpretation of modernist architecture and his belief in organic forms.

The unique spiral design of this American museum allows visitors to view artwork while descending along a continuous ramp, creating a revolutionary approach to art exhibition. The building took 16 years to complete and opened just months after Wright’s death, standing as one of his final masterpieces.

3.Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, Illinois

Located in Oak Park, Illinois, this complex served as Wright’s primary residence and studio from 1889 to 1909. Here, he developed his Prairie School style and designed many of his famous early works.

The playroom he designed for his children features a dramatic barrel-vaulted ceiling and showcases his early experiments with built-in furniture and light screens. The studio wing, added in 1898, includes a dramatic two-story drafting room where Wright and his apprentices created some of the most innovative designs of the early 20th century.

4.Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site, Illinois

This Springfield, Illinois home represents one of the most complete examples of Wright’s Prairie style. Built in 1902, it features over 100 pieces of original Wright-designed furniture and more than 250 art glass windows.

The 12,000-square-foot house was commissioned by Susan Lawrence Dana, a forward-thinking socialite and philanthropist who gave Wright complete creative control over the project. The home’s entertainment wing includes a gallery and dining room that could accommodate up to 100 guests for Dana’s legendary social gatherings.

5.Frederick C. Robie House, Illinois

Considered the finest example of Prairie School architecture, this Chicago residence features dramatic horizontal lines and extensive use of art glass. Its innovative open floor plans would influence modern architecture for decades to come.

The house’s cantilevered roofs were so daring for 1910 that building inspectors initially refused to believe they would hold up without support. Wright himself fought twice to save the building from demolition in the 1940s and 1950s, leading to its recognition as a crucial landmark of modern architecture.

6.ASU Gammage, Arizona

One of Wright’s last major works, this performing arts center in Tempe, Arizona, showcases his later style with its dramatic circular forms and desert-inspired design. Originally conceived for Baghdad, Iraq, the building was adapted for Arizona State University.

The auditorium’s acoustics are so precisely designed that a whisper on stage can be heard in the last row of the balcony. The building’s unique circular ramps and geometric patterns were inspired by the Baghdad opera house design, giving the desert campus a touch of Middle Eastern influence.

7.Taliesin, Wisconsin

Wright’s personal estate in Spring Green, Wisconsin, served as both his home and architectural laboratory. Built in 1911 and rebuilt after two fires, Taliesin exemplifies his organic architecture principles and connection to the landscape.

The name “Taliesin” means “shining brow” in Welsh. This refers to the building’s position on the brow of a hill rather than its summit. The estate encompasses 800 acres and includes a working farm, demonstrating Wright’s belief in sustainable living and agricultural preservation.

8.Taliesin West, Arizona

Wright’s winter home and school in Scottsdale, Arizona, demonstrates his ability to integrate architecture with the desert environment. Built in 1937, it continues to house the School of Architecture at Taliesin.

Wright and his apprentices gathered rocks from the desert floor to construct the buildings, integrating local materials and indigenous design patterns. The complex was built entirely by Wright and his apprentices, who lived in canvas tents during the initial construction phase.

9.The Rookery Lobby, Illinois

While not designing the entire building, Wright’s 1905 renovation of this Chicago landmark’s lobby transformed the Victorian interior into a masterpiece of light and modern design. His innovative use of white marble, glass, and gilded ironwork created a stunning contrast with the building’s original red marble and ironwork.

Wright’s redesign cleverly preserved the original iron columns while wrapping them in white marble and bronze, creating an elegant transition between old and new styles.

10.SC Johnson Administration Building, Wisconsin

This corporate headquarters in Racine, Wisconsin, features innovative dendriform columns and extensive use of glass tubing. The unique workspace still feels modern today.

The “lily pad” columns were load-tested with 60 tons of weight to prove their structural integrity to skeptical building inspectors. The building’s 43 miles of Pyrex glass tubing allow natural light to flood the workspace while providing insulation, an innovative solution for the time.

11.Hollyhock House, California

Wright’s first Los Angeles project incorporates pre-Columbian influences and California’s indoor-outdoor lifestyle. The design includes stylized hollyhock flowers, the client Aline Barnsdall’s favorite plant.

The house was recently restored to its 1920s glory with a $4.3 million project that recovered original colors and decorative elements. The house was Los Angeles’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its influence on modern architecture.

12.Unity Temple, Illinois

This Oak Park, Illinois church demonstrates Wright’s innovative use of reinforced concrete and his ability to create inspiring sacred spaces through geometric forms and natural light. The structure was one of the first public buildings in America to use exposed concrete, a radical departure from traditional church architecture.

The recent $25 million restoration revealed Wright’s original color palette and restored the building’s 16 layered art glass skylights.

13.Monona Terrace, Wisconsin

Though not completed until 1997, Wright’s original 1938 design for this Madison, Wisconsin civic center showcases his vision for public architecture that connects to both city and nature. Wright submitted five different designs over 21 years before the project was finally approved.

This impressive structure was only built after his death, by his apprentice Anthony Puttnam. The rooftop garden and cafe offer spectacular views of Lake Monona and host community events year-round, fulfilling Wright’s vision of public space.

14.First Unitarian Society of Madison, Wisconsin

This Madison, Wisconsin church was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and constructed by Marshall Erdman. The U.S. National Landmark shows Wright’s ability to create spiritual spaces that combine geometric forms with natural materials and light.

The triangular roof form was inspired by hands clasped in prayer, creating a powerful symbolic element. The congregation still actively uses the building today, which has undergone careful restoration to preserve Wright’s original vision while adapting to modern needs.

15.The Rosenbaum House, Alabama

Located in Florence, Alabama, this Usonian home represents Wright’s vision for beautiful, affordable middle-class housing. Built in 1939, it features his characteristic use of natural materials and integration with the landscape.

The house was saved from deterioration in the 1990s through a $600,000 city-funded restoration project, making it one of the few Wright homes owned by a municipality. The original owners lived in the house for 50 years, and much of their Wright-designed furniture remains in place.

Mexico is one of the most popular holiday destinations with beautiful beaches, spectacular Mayan temples and delicious food. Tourism initially grew at such a fast rate that some areas became a little over-commercialized.

So it’s heartening to discover an area of the coast that is totally unspoiled. Step forward Mayakoba, a collection of four eco-friendly luxury Riviera Maya resorts.

Biologists and geologists were consulted during the design to ensure that the resort meets the highest standards of conservation. We recently visited this innovative luxury retreat to see for ourselves how it works in practice.

Here are the best things to do and places to eat in this corner of paradise. Mayakoba is less than 40 minutes from Cancun International Airport yet close to Tulum, so an ideal location.

Mayakoba – Luxury Riviera Maya Resorts

Mayakoba has successfully integrated its four luxurious hotels into the landscape whilst enhancing the area’s natural charm. The mangroves have been preserved and guests can admire them when using the Mayakoba Connection Ferry Service, which links the hotels by electric boat.

There are also regular complimentary guided boat trips around the extensive grounds. A four and a half kilometer nature trail connects the hotels, golf course and El Pueblito village square and is a peaceful place to walk, run or cycle.

You’ll hopefully spot many birds as well as coati, which are members of the racoon family. See more photos of the abundant Riviera Maya wildlife in our separate article.

With four 5 star hotels, the only difficulty is choosing which one to stay in! There’s the Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya, Banyan Tree, Fairmont and Rosewood Mayakoba. Each one has a luxurious spa, gourmet restaurants and its own striking architecture.

We love the quirky murals created by internationally renowned Playa del Carmen artist, Senkoe. They really reflect the vibrancy of Mexican culture, don’t you think?

Oh, and did we mention the fantastic swimming pools?

Beautiful Riviera Maya Beaches

The soft white sand beach is uncrowded and the sea was a lovely temperature on our visit.

You can access each hotel by the beach and there’s a picturesque board walk at the far end near the Hotel Banyan Tree Mayakoba.

You could also opt to get around by bike as each hotel has its own set of bicycles that are available for guests to borrow. We loved the cool cruiser bikes at Andaz – you just need to remember to pedal backwards to brake 😉

Delicious Mexican Cooking at Mayakoba

All four hotels have a wide range of dining options and it’s easy to try them all out as each hotel will simply charge your room. There are a variety of fun ways to get from one property to another – by bike, electric boat, golf cart or a walk along the beach.

Mexico is famous for its cuisine and we loved the colourful food presentation. It’s also a lot healthier than we had anticipated.

You can enjoy tapas style Mexican specialties at Punta Bonita at Rosewood or fresh seafood at Sands at Banyan Tree. Dining at Mayakoba is a treat for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

Unique Mexican Vacation Experiences

Whether you prefer a relaxing spa treatment at one of the four hotels or a more energetic activity, there’s something for everyone at Mayakoba. We love Naum Wellness & Spa at Andaz, which has six treatment rooms and two hydrotherapy spaces.

Our couples’ massage took place in an individual pavilion with its own private outdoor space to unwind and enjoy the scenery.

Golfing at Mayakoba

If you’re a golf fan, you will love El Camaleón Golf Course. It hosts the only official PGA TOUR event in Mexico, the OHL Classic.

The 18 hole course was designed by legendary golfer Greg Norman to be a real challenge yet pleasurable for all levels. There’s also the Jim McLean Golf School, the only site in Mexico of the number one golf school in America.

As for the golf carts that transport guests to and from their rooms, they’re adorned with quotes by famous artists such as Frida Kahlo and Salvador Dali.

No trip to Mayakoba and the Riviera Maya would be complete without a visit El Pueblito, the Mexican Plaza at the heart of the resort. There are some lovely shops as well as cafés and restaurants, a cookery school and a weekly farmer’s market.

Over-The-Water Bungalows at Mayakoba

There are some lovely overwater bungalows at Rosewood Mayakoba. Banyan Tree Mayakoba has several overwater villas under construction, which should be open soon. Spread over two floors, they’ll be some of the best overwater bungalows in the Caribbean.

Final Thoughts on Mayakoba Luxury Riviera Maya Resorts

With its lush vegetation, expansive beaches, and luxury resorts, Mayakoba is the perfect Riviera Maya destination for a romantic getaway or luxurious family vacation.

From traditional beach activities to historic ruins, there’s something for everyone close by — so whether you’re a thrill-seeker or R&R aficionado, your Caribbean vacation destination could be Mayakoba.

And with an incredible range of entertainment and activities at each resort as well as nearby attractions in places like Xcaret Park, your experience promises to be a unique one. So if you’re looking for some unforgettable Caribbean adventure combined with luxury-level amenities, then make sure that this ecotourism destination is part of the equation!

What would your favorite activity be? Have you ever visited a luxury Riviera Maya resort or Mexico?

Blessed with a fantastic climate and some of the best beaches in the States, Sarasota County is popular with families and luxury lovers. In addition to its famous beaches, there are many other Sarasota attractions such as farmer’s markets, world-class museums and gourmet restaurants to enjoy.

The Best Sarasota Attractions

Located on Florida’s temperate Gulf Coast, Sarasota and its neighbouring municipalities Longboat Key, North Port and Venice have much to offer the visitor.

Siesta Key Beach was voted the best beach in America in 2020 by Dr. Beach and placed second in TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award for Best Beach in North America in 2023.

Sarasota County has over 67,000 acres of nature to explore, from Myakka River State Park to Celery Fields, a popular bird-watching location and Oscar Scherer State Park. Whether you’re keen on fishing, kayaking, hiking or camping in the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone.

What is Sarasota Known For?

As a true gem of Florida’s Gulf Coast, Sarasota has long been a hub for those seeking refined relaxation, arts and culture, and scenic coastal beauty. The city boasts a prestigious reputation as a mecca for art enthusiasts, offering an array of galleries that feature world-class art collections. The Sarasota Opera House and Ringling Museum of Art are two top tourist attractions, which are visited by admirers from all over the world.

In addition to the arts, Sarasota offers a myriad of water-based activities, such as kayaking or paddleboarding – displaying a perfect combination of laid-back leisure and cultural sophistication. Visitors will be transported to a world of glamor and refinement, immersed in one of Florida’s most stunning destinations.

1.Sarasota Farmer’s Markets

Sarasota County is known for its delicious fresh produce, and it has some great farmer’s markets that you should visit. Phillippi Farmhouse Market takes place every Wednesday from October to April, from 9 am to 2 pm.

Located at 5500 S. Tamiami Trail, south of Downtown Sarasota, it gathers together over 50 vendors. All the food vendors here are growers, such as Homestead Hydrophonics which produces pesticide-free food using a tenth of the water required by traditional farming. There’s live music, a tourist information stall and even a mobile dog wash!

In Downtown Sarasota on Lemon and Main Street, Sarasota Farmer’s Market is held every Saturday between 7 am and 1 pm. There’s a wide selection on display including freshly baked bread, orchids, gardening products, seafood and more.

2.Sarasota Legacy Trail

This is a scenic biking trail that links Sarasota to Venice. Built on the former rail tracks of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, the Sarasota Legacy Trail connects with the Venetian Waterway Park Trail.

The route is prohibited to motor vehicles and used by walkers and rollerbladers as well as cyclists.

3.Historic Spanish Point

A 30 acre outdoor museum on Little Sarasota Bay in Osprey, Historic Spanish Point is one of the best museums in Florida. This unique space has one of the largest butterfly gardens on the Gulf Coast.

4.Nathan Benderson Park

This 600 acre park includes a 400 acre artificial lake. Nathan Benderson Park has previously played host to the World Rowing Masters Regatta. This popular sporting event is the only International Rowing Federation-approved course in North America.

5.Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

These are the only botanical gardens in the world focused on the study and display of epiphytes. If you’re wondering what those are, they are organisms that grow on another plant, such as orchids, bromeliads and ferns.

Contrary to popular belief, they are not parasitic and derive their nutrients from the air, rain and compost rather than the tree itself. There are some superb specimens of epiphytes as well as centuries old banyan trees planted by the Selby family.

Kids will love the Children’s Rainforest Garden, whilst all ages will enjoy the bay-front setting. There are often interesting exhibition focusing on the natural world too.

6.Sarasota Beaches

The amazing beaches in Sarasota are one of the county’s biggest draws for locals and visitors alike. With 35 miles of beaches, there’s a huge choice and they’re easily accessible to all.

Beach wheelchairs are available at no cost at Lido, Manasota, Nokomis, Siesta and Venice beaches and there’s also a roll-out mat at Siesta Beach. The latter has won many awards for its quartz sand, considered by many to be the finest and softest in the world.

7.Sarasota Opera

No wonder Sarasota County is known as Florida’s Cultural Coast®! With over ten theatres, a State Art Museum and a professional ballet, opera and orchestra, there’s a wealth of choice.

Sarasota Opera organizes the only Winter opera festival in North America. This is the only place in the US in Winter apart from the Metropolitan Opera to present four different operas in one weekend.

Since forming in 1960, they’ve established themselves as a world-class company and are one of only 9 opera companies in the United States that own their performing facility.

The building was built as the A.B. Edwards Theater and since undergoing restoration its become a glamorous destination venue.

8.The Ringling Estate

One of the top Sarasota attractions, with a world-renowned Circus Museum, historic Asolo Theatre, beautiful bayfront gardens and the fascinating John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art.

Recent additions to this exceptional collection are the Kotler and Coville Glass Collection and the Basche Glass Collection at Ringling College of Art and Design. The Ca d’Zan mansion is one of the best historic homes in America.

Explore 66 acres of grounds and beautiful gardens, 4,500 years of international art, the former home of the Ringling family and the world’s largest circus model at the Circus Museum.

9.Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Another fascinating Sarasota museum for kids and adults is Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. This working aquarium has a strong focus on research and rehabilitation of injured marine animals.

With over 100 species, two touch tanks and a 135,000 gallon shark habitat, it’s a compelling reminder of the importance of our sea life. Manatees are frequently injured by watercraft and there are over 6,000 in Florida.

In a single day’s aerial survey, the staff at Mote sometimes see over half of them. Discarding litter inappropriately is very harmful to manatees and other marine creatures.

10.The Sarasota Classic Car Museum

This is also an interesting place to visit, with over 100 vintage cars on display. The Sarasota Classic Car Museum is spread over 60,000 square feet. It is the second oldest continually operating antique car museum in the U.S.

The Timeline Room showcases the evolution of the automobile over the years, with a range of interesting motor memorabilia.

11.Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy

This colorful museum aims to inspire and lift your spirits with a quirky collection and friendly volunteers. There’s a charming garden filled with eccentric artworks where you can sit and relax.

12.Unconditional Surrender

One of the most iconic sights in Downtown Sarasota is the Unconditional Surrender sculpture. Created by the artist Seward Johnson in 2005, it occupies a prime position on Sarasota Bayfront.

This famous Sarasota landmark is inspired by a photo by Victor Jorgensen, commemorating the end of World War II. The statue was exhibited in Florida before being moved to California.

A copy was installed in Sarasota in 2009 before being damaged by a car in 2012. The new weather-resistant bronze statue is a popular selfie spot.

13.Sarasota Restaurants

There are some fantastic dining options in the area, from seafood to steakhouses. The Amish community in Pinecraft have some great places to eat such as Yoder’s Fresh Market. Some of the best restaurants in Sarasota are to be found downtown, including Jack Dusty and Boca.

14.Sarasota County Shopping

As for shopping in Sarasota County, we particularly like the picturesque area of St. Armands Circle. It’s home to a number of independent boutiques including The Met Fashion House and Day Spa, as well as Shore boutique and restaurant.

Circus entrepreneur John Ringling purchased St Armands Key in 1917 and visitors can still admire his personal collection of Italian statues.

15.Sarasota Nightlife

There are plenty of cool things to do in Sarasota at night including watching the sunset from the Lido Key Tiki Bar at the Ritz-Carlton Residences.

How to Get to Sarasota County

Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport flies to a range of cities in the United States as well as Toronto, Canada. Other international cities such as London are easily reached from Tampa International Airport. It’s then a 1 and a half hour drive from Tampa to Sarasota.

Getting Around Sarasota

There’s a free eco-friendly shuttle service in Downtown Sarasota, i-Ride.

We recommend hiring a car for travelling around the county, and we rented ours from Hertz. It’s worth signing up to their complimentary Hertz Gold Plus Rewards programme as you’ll get priority pick-up and drop-off.

Where to Stay in Sarasota

There are some great hotels in Sarasota County, including the luxurious Ritz-Carlton in downtown Sarasota. Service here is second to none and the views over the bay are stunning.

The hotel has been recently renovated and the rooms are contemporary and spacious. We particularly liked the amenity of chocolates in the form of seashells and starfish. When you’re not chilling out at the pool and spa, head to Jack Dusty, their vibrant waterfront restaurant.

The Lido Beach Resort has an outstanding location overlooking a private white sand beach near Siesta Key. It’s also close to the restaurants, nightlife and shops of St. Armands Circle.

There are two heated pools, a 24 hour fitness centre and a tiki bar. The large bedrooms have kitchenettes equipped with refrigerators, microwaves and dishwashers.

Other popular hotels in Sarasota are Art Ovation, a Marriott Autograph property and The Sarasota Modern boutique hotel.

Final Thoughts on The Best Sarasota Attractions

If you’re looking for some fun in the sun, Sarasota County is the place to be. With exquisite beaches, world-renowned museums and art galleries, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant region.

If ever a place merited its name, then Florida’s Paradise Coast certainly does. This beautiful area in Southwest Florida contains a multitude of attractions and 30 miles of white sand beaches.

Guide to the Paradise Coast, Florida

Summer calls for days spent outdoors and there’s no better place to experience sunshine, serenity and adventure than the Paradise Coast of Florida. Here, travelers will have a chance to explore charming towns, stroll sugar-sand beaches or one of the many nature trails unique to this coastal paradise.

Whether you’re looking for exciting water activities like paddleboarding or kayaking amongst mangrove forests, opportunities to get up close with local wildlife in a botanical garden or park, fishing off a private charter boat, or simply seeking an escape from your everyday life – shelling along the shores of our secluded barrier islands – there are plenty of options available on the Paradise Coast that guarantee unforgettable memories!

We’ve rounded up some of our favourite things to see and do on the Paradise Coast, to help you to make the most of your time here.

1.Outdoor Activities on the Paradise Coast

Take your pick from a huge range of outdoor activities, including kayaking in Florida, shelling in Marco Island or exploring Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park. You might well see some racoons as we did.

For a less energetic option, who could resist sunbathing on one of the many white sand beaches such as Barefoot Beach. At sunset, a catamaran cruise is the perfect way to enjoy the scenery and potentially spot some dolphins too.

2.Shopping in Naples, Florida

The region is one of the most affluent in the United States and the upmarket shops are a joy to browse. We met the lovely Marilyn at her spacious store, Marilyn’s, on Fifth Avenue.

Her store specializes in European fashion and has extremely luxurious changing rooms. In her shop, there are lots of drawers to open containing jewelry by independent fashion designers.

She showed me how to style up a variety of outfits with hats, designer belts and jewelry. Marilyn really knows how to make women look their best.

On her website there’s lots of useful advice including a hat guide for your face shape. We particularly like her selection of Philip Treacy hats but there are many to choose from.

This is another photogenic store on Third Street South – Island Company specializes in luxury resort wear.

Also on Third Street, admire the pink facade and huge selection of designer clothing at Marissa Collections. The store was launched 38 years ago by Marissa and her husband Burt and today they and their son Jay run it together.

You will find in-store boutiques such as Bruno Cucinelli Michael Kors and Oscar de la Renta. They stock one of our favourite jewelry brands, Alexis Bittar.

Marissa Collections also specialize in personal styling services and there’s a good range of make-up and skincare in store.

3.Restaurants in Naples and the Paradise Coast

Whether you’re a fan of seafood, steak or gluten free dining, there are some fantastic restaurants near Naples Florida. Lovers of Italian cuisine will appreciate Osteria Tulia and D’Amico’s The Continental.

Maya is a good choice for Mexican and Bleu Provence is a lovely French restaurant. For seafront cocktails or dining, check out BALEEN at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort or the Kane Tiki Bar at the JW Marriott Marco Island.

In the Everglades, make sure to try the sustainable stone crab, which is really fresh and tasty.

Getting Around the Paradise Coast

We chose a hire car from Hertz for ease and speed of collection. You can walk to quite a few of the top attractions.

However, it’s handy to have a car to explore the whole area including the Everglades and Marco Island.

Where to Stay on the Paradise Coast

Two of our favourite hotels are conveniently located in Naples – firstly, Inn on Fifth. It has a fabulous roof top pool in the main hotel and an equally charming rooftop terrace at the luxurious Club Level Suites directly opposite.

Naples Bay Resort is another great option with lots of outdoor space and a Tuscan styled decor. It’s fun to watch the boats pass by whilst enjoying a drink on your terrace!

In Conclusion: Guide to the Paradise Coast, Florida

Finally, you can’t leave without enjoying the sunset at Naples Pier. The Paradise Coast is one of the most beautiful places in Florida.

With its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, it’s no wonder that people come from all over to experience this piece of paradise.

What would your perfect trip to Naples, Florida include?

If you’re looking for the best New York wineries, you can’t go wrong with this selection. These wineries are some of the most popular in the state, and for good reason.

Best New York Wineries

There’s no doubt that New York State is a wine lover’s paradise. With countless wineries dotting the state, there’s surely something for everyone.

The characteristics of New York State wines can be attributed to the main grapes, the soil and growing conditions in the region. The best New York wineries produce some outstanding varieties that are worth trying if you get a chance.

From award-winning wines to breathtaking views, here are some of the best New York wineries you need to check out. They are listed in no particular order, as they all have their own merits!

1.Paumanok Vineyards

Paumanok Vineyards is a family-owned and operated winery located on the North Fork of Long Island. The vineyard was first established in 1983, and since then, it has become one of the most respected wineries on the East Coast.

Paumanok produces a wide variety of wines, but it is particularly known for its Cabernet Franc. This particular varietal is grown in clay soils, which give the wine a distinctive minerality.

Cabernet Franc is a favorite among wine lovers for its complex flavor profile, which features notes of blackberry, spice, and oak. Paumanok’s Cabernet Franc has garnered numerous accolades. If you’re looking for an exceptional Cabernet Franc, Paumanok is definitely worth checking out.

2.Ravines Wine Cellars

Ravines Wine Cellars is a family-owned winery located in the Finger Lakes region of New York State. The winery was founded in 2004 by husband-and-wife team Morten and Lisa Hallgren.

Since then, Ravines has become known for producing high-quality white wines from a variety of grape varieties. The winery’s flagship wine is its Dry Riesling, which is made from 100% Riesling grapes grown in the Finger Lakes region.

In addition to its dry white wines, Ravines also produces off-dry and sweet white wines, as well as red wines and sparkling wines. All of Ravines’ wines are produced using sustainable viticultural practices and are part of the New York State Sustainable Winegrowing Certification Program.

The winery also features a beautiful tasting room overlooking Cayuga Lake, where visitors can sample Ravines’ wines and purchase bottles to take home.

3.Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery

Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery is a Keuka Lake winery that produces high-quality, award-winning wines. Founded in 1957 by Dr. Konstantin Frank, a Ukrainian immigrant and viticulturist, it has been a pioneer in the planting of vinifera vines in the United States. From these vines, the finest quality dry Riesling and Gewürztraminer wines were produced.

The winery is still run by the Frank family, and produces a wide variety of red, white, and sparkling wines. The vineyards are planted on the Keuka Lake slopes, providing the ideal conditions for growing grapes.

It is committed to producing exceptional wines that reflect the terroir of the Keuka Lake region. Visitors to the winery can enjoy tastings and tours of the vineyards, as well as take in the stunning views of Keuka Lake.

4.Red Newt Wine Cellars

Founded in 1998, Red Newt has built a reputation for producing high-quality Finger Lakes wines. The winery’s Riesling vineyards are located on the eastern shore of Seneca Lake.

Red Newt Cellars currently produce around 20,000 cases, with a particular focus on white wines including Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer. The “Circle” Riesling is a dry Riesling with hints of citrus and stone fruits. Riesling is a white wine that is beloved by wine enthusiasts around the world.

Red Newt also produce several red varietals including Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

5.Millbrook Vineyards and Winery

Millbrook Vineyards and Winery is a great place to enjoy some of the best wine in the Hudson Valley. The vineyard is family owned and operated, and they offer a variety of different wines for visitors to try.

In addition to great wine, Millbrook Vineyards and Winery also offers an beautiful setting for visitors to enjoy. The vineyard is located on a historic farm, and the grounds are meticulously kept.

Visitors can take a stroll through the vineyards and then relax in the tasting room with a glass of wine. The shaded Taproom Terrace has beautiful views of the vines and the Catskill Mountains.

6.Wölffer Estate Vineyard

Wölffer Estate Vineyard was founded in 1988 by Christian Wölffer, a German-born entrepreneur who had a passion for wine. Wölffer quickly established a reputation for producing high-quality, sustainable wines.

Today the vineyard is one of the most respected in the Hamptons. Atlantic Ocean breezes and the Bridgehampton loam soil give a balance of acidity and ripeness to Wölffer wines.

In addition to its award-winning wines, Wölffer Estate also produce dry ciders and gin. The non-alcoholic Petite Rosé Verjus is also worth trying.

7.Bedell Cellars

Bedell Cellars is a Long Island winery with a rich history. The vineyard was founded in Cutchogue in 1980 by Kip Bedell, and it quickly became one of the region’s most respected wineries.

Today, the winery is owned by Ninah Lynne. It continues to produce high-quality wines, using traditional methods passed down from generation to generation. The vineyard is also committed to sustainable practices, ensuring that its wines are made with minimal impact on the environment.

From its picturesque location to its delicious small-batch wines, Bedell Cellars is a must-see for any wine lover. Their Artist Series labels feature specially commissioned works by contemporary artists.

8.Brotherhood Winery

Brotherhood Winery is the oldest continually operating winery in the United States. Founded in 1839 by John Jacques, it quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality wines.

Located in Washingtonville, Brotherhood Winery is renowned for its elegant sparkling wines and rich red wines. Its picturesque grounds are a popular destination for visitors from all over the world.

They can book a tour of the winery’s extensive cellars, followed by a wine tasting. With its rich history and tradition of excellence, Brotherhood Winery is a truly unique destination for wine lovers.

9.Macari Vineyards

The Macari family has been producing wine on Long Island since 1995. Joseph Macari Sr. started Macari Vineyards with his son Joseph Macari Jr. and daugher in law Alexandra.

Today, Gabriella Macari and Joseph M. Macari are also closely involved with the business. Macari Vineyards has become one of the most celebrated family-owned wineries in the region.

The wines are produced using traditional methods, and the grapes are grown using ecological viticultural practices. The result is a collection of award-winning wines that have earned critical acclaim from around the world. Whether you’re a fan of red wine, white wine, or sparkling wine, there’s something for everyone at Macari Vineyards.

10.Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard

Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard is a pioneer of the New York wine industry, having been founded in 1979. Hermann J. Wiemer was one of the first to plant vines on the East Coast and this vineyard continues to produce some of the finest Riesling in the state.

The vineyard is situated in the Finger Lakes region of New York and benefits from the long growing season and warm summers that this area enjoys. The Wiemer Estate is spread over 90 acres, overlooking Seneca Lake.

The focus at Hermann J. Wiemer is on producing high-quality, handcrafted white, red, dry rosé and sparkling wines that express the uniqueness of the Finger Lakes terroir. The vineyard has won numerous awards over the years, and its wines are sought after by discerning wine lovers around the world. If you’re ever in New York State, be sure to check out Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard – it’s truly a special place.

11.Benmarl Winery

Benmarl Winery is a Hudson River Valley wine producer located on 37 acres in Marlboro, New York. It is one of the oldest vineyards in the United States.

Benmarl produces a variety of red and white wines, as well as sparkling wines and dessert wines. The winery offers tours and tastings, and hosts a number of events throughout the year.

You can also join their wine club for regular wine deliveries and invitations to special events and tastings.

12.Robibero Family Vineyards

Robibero Family Vineyards is a boutique winery founded in 2010 and located in the heart of New York’s Hudson Valley. The 42 acre estate next to Shawangunk Mountain ridge produces a wide variety of wines, including reds, whites, and rosés.

This family-owned winery has earned a reputation for producing high-quality wines that reflect the terroir of the Hudson Valley. The Robiberos take a hands-on approach to winemaking.

The Robibero Family Vineyards tasting room is a great place to enjoy a selection of their hand-crafted wines. The friendly staff are always happy to chat with guests about the wines and provide recommendations for pairings.

13.Hosmer Winery

Founded in 1985, Hosmer Winery is a staple winery in upstate New York. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Cayuga Lake, winemaker Julia Hoyle and her team are dedicated to crafting high-quality wines.

Hosmer offers an impressive selection of over 25 styles of wine, from traditional whites and reds to more specialized blends. There is something for everyone at Hosmer Winery!

The winery is also known for hosting an array events from live music to barrel tastings and winemaker dinners – perfect for a celebration or simply just a fun time with family and friends. If you’re exploring the gorgeous region of the Finger Lakes, take some time to visit Hosmer Winery and taste their unforgettable wines.

14.McCall Wines

Established in 2007, McCall Wines is a family-owned and operated winery and castle ranch nestled in the North Fork of Long Island. They make award-winning, small lot wines that are thoughtfully crafted with love and attention.

Their grapes are sourced from certified sustainable local farms while their delicious wines are a nod to both traditional practices as well as modern techniques. Whether you choose their luscious reds such as their 2014 Pinot Noir Reserve, elegant rose wines like their 2021 Whole Cluster Pinot Noir Rose or vibrant whites like their 2018 Chardonnay Reserve, McCall Wines will guarantee a unique experience and unforgettable memories with every sip.

Final Thoughts: The Best New York Wineries

New York State is home to some of the best wines in the world. The climate and soil are perfect for growing a wide variety of grapes, which results in wines that are both unique and delicious. If you’re looking for a new wine to try, be sure to check out those from New York State – you won’t be disappointed!

No matter what you’re looking for in a winery, you’re sure to find it at one of these amazing New York wineries. If you have a favorite that is not on the list, let us know in the comments!