Tide Tables sits right on the water in the historic fishing village of Cortez. The seafood is as fresh as it gets — the fishing boats are literally right there. Recently named to USA TODAY's 2026 list of best restaurants in America.
Ranked the #1 beach in the US by TripAdvisor, Siesta Beach is famous for its powdery white quartz sand that stays cool underfoot even on the hottest days. Free parking, pavilion, volleyball courts, and concessions.
The pizza has a great crust — lightly charred with the right balance of chew and crunch — and the sauce is smooth and well-seasoned. The meatballs are excellent, which is high praise coming from a Jersey transplant. Everything tastes fresh and well-executed.
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is one of the largest museum complexes in the country, featuring the Museum of Art, Circus Museum, Ca' d'Zan mansion, and 66 acres of bayfront gardens. Managed by Florida State University.
A beloved local project transforming a former golf course into a nature preserve with trails, wildlife viewing, and green space. The city and Big Waters Land Trust are raising $3.5 million to complete the final improvements.
