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Sarasota Architecture Tour

5 (22)
Sarasota, US
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Sarasota Architecture Tour

5 (22)
Sarasota, US
Share
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Discover the incredible architectural legacy of Sarasota on this captivating 105-minute tour. Board our high-top van and explore the city's most distinctive architectural styles, including Art Deco, Mediterranean Revival, and the renowned Mid-Century Modern Sarasota School of architecture. Marvel at iconic landmarks like the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium and the Chidsey Library, showcasing the elegance of Art Deco design. Journey through the picturesque Burns Court Historic District and immerse yourself in the history and beauty of the Mediterranean Revival buildings. Don't miss the Sarasota Art Center and the Blue Pagoda, an enchanting Mid-Century Modern structure designed by renowned architect Victor Lundy. You'll also visit the Center for Architecture, a stunning example of Mid-Century Modern architecture. Embark on this 90-minute adventure and unlock the secrets of Sarasota's architectural wonders.

About this experience

  • Non Refundable There is no return, refund or cancellation possible with this product
  • 1 hours 30 minutes
  • Suitable for 1-4 Participants
  • Private Tour, Small Group Tour
  • Guided Experience
  • Explore the Art Deco style in Sarasota
  • Discover the Mediterranean Revival architecture of Burns Court
  • Witness the unique Sarasota School of Architecture
  • Marvel at the stunning Blue Pagoda building
  • Learn about Mid-Century Modern architecture at the Center for Architecture in Sarasota
  • Bottled water
  • Air-conditioned vehicle

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More about this experience

Introduction

Discover the captivating architectural legacy of Sarasota on the Sarasota Architecture Tour. This 105-minute tour takes you on a journey through the city's most distinctive architectural styles, including Art Deco, Mediterranean Revival, and Mid-Century Modern. Immerse yourself in the rich history and unique designs that have shaped Sarasota's urban landscape.

What to Expect

Embark on a guided exploration of Sarasota's architectural gems and gain insight into the city's vibrant design scene. Marvel at the artistry and craftsmanship displayed in each building as you learn about the different architectural styles and their significance. Experience the beauty of Art Deco, the elegance of Mediterranean Revival, and the sleekness of Mid-Century Modern architecture.

Who is This For?

The Sarasota Architecture Tour is perfect for architecture enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone with an appreciation for design. Whether you're a local looking to uncover hidden gems in your own city or a visitor eager to discover Sarasota's architectural treasures, this tour offers something for everyone. It's a great activity for friends, families, and couples seeking a unique and educational experience.

Why Book This?

Immerse yourself in the world of architecture and explore Sarasota's rich design heritage. This tour takes you beyond the surface, providing in-depth knowledge and insights into the city's architectural styles. With an air-conditioned high-top van, you'll be able to navigate narrow streets and get up close to the stunning buildings. Discover the Sarasota School of Architecture, a regional adaptation of 20th-century International Style modernism that flourished in Florida from the 1940s to the 1960s. This tour offers a rare opportunity to appreciate and learn from the masters of architectural design.

Good to Know

During the tour, you'll be provided with bottled water to stay refreshed. The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring your comfort throughout the journey. The itinerary includes various stops, allowing you to explore and capture the beauty of each architectural masterpiece. The tour ends conveniently behind the Breakfast House, just off Fruitville. Come prepared to be amazed by the stunning architecture that Sarasota has to offer.

Reviews

Past participants have praised the Sarasota Architecture Tour for its knowledgeable guides and unique perspective on the city's architectural history. Guests have raved about the opportunity to see firsthand the iconic buildings that define Sarasota's architectural legacy. They have expressed their satisfaction with the tour's comprehensive coverage of different architectural styles and their historical significance. Overall, guests have found the tour to be a captivating and enlightening experience, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for the beauty of architecture in Sarasota.

How long before the event do I need to book?

  • You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

  • Mobile

Your Itinerary

Sarasota Municipal Auditorium

(Pass by)

Travelers will learn about the Art Deco style, which first appeared in France during the 1910s, and flourished in architecture and fashion, through the 1930s. The Sarasota Municipal Auditorium is a fine example of Art Deco style. Visitors will also learn about the history of the Auditorium, built in 1938. The Art Deco Chidsey Library is also on the itinerary. The Chidsey Library opened in May 1941 as the City of Sarasota's first public library building.

Burns Court Neighborhood

(Pass by)

The Burns Court Historic District includes houses (and some commercial buildings) that are fine examples of Mediterranean Revival architecture. Visitors will learn about the history and design of the Burns Court development in the mid-1920s.

Art Center Sarasota

(Pass by)

The Sarasota Art Center represents the Sarasota School of Architecture, a particular movement in Mid-Century Modern architecture. The Blue Pagoda is another Mid-Century modern building on the tour. Designed by a founding member of Sarasota School of Architecture, Victor Lundy, this 1956 Japanese garden-inspired structure is a sight to behold near the bayfront. Built for the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, the structure features a Japanese blue glazed tile roof. Lundy wanted the blue tiles to reflect the nearby blue waters of Sarasota Bay.

Center For Architecture Sarasota

(Pass by)

Commissioned in 1959, the Center for Architecture in Sarasota is an example of Mid-Century Modern architecture. Visitors will learn about the construction and design of the building.

Reviews

(22)

5 (22)

John_S

Details of the Midcentury Modern school of architecture in Sarasota. Ed, our guide, did a superb job discussing how Sarasota became a hotbed of MidMod design. We knew a little about Paul Rudolph, but Ed filled in the gaps. We also learned a lot about the Ringlings, and their influence on the Mediterranean Revival houses in the 1920s and 1930s.

BoardingPass605372

Really enjoyed the tour! Got to see many types of architecture styles in Sarasota and drive on streets that we would not have found on our own. Tour guide was very knowledgeable.

SIShopper

We have done several tours in and around Sarasota and this one did not disappoint. Our guide was very knowledgeable and personable. The trolley was clean and comfortable. The architecture tour does not leave the trolley so it would be good for those that have ambulatory issues. We certainly learned a lot about the architecture and the great architects that designed the buildings in Sarasota.

660michellel

This tour is packed with fascinating information about the architectural heritage of Sarasota. You'll learn why our city is rich in beautiful buildings, homes and neighborhoods and hear intriguing stories of the people who made it happen. This is the second Discover Sarasota tour I've taken and my appetite is whetted for more!

45kendrac

Oh. My. Word. Discover Sarasota Tours ARCHITECTURE TOUR was fantastic today! Ed, our guide, was personable, knowledgeable, and so passionate about Sarasota’s incredible architecture! We will never look at these amazing structures the same way again! #WeLoveThisCity

Nancy E

Ed, our guide, was very knowledgeable and informative about all the sights we saw. And he even knew about buildings that weren’t on the tour. His enthusiasm for Sarasota architecture showed and was infectious. John the driver got us thru some tight spots. We started and ended on time. I loved it so much I want to go back with my husband.

BillL630

We found guide Ed Simays presented a knowledgeable and enthusiastic tour. His presentation was well organized. He started by identifying 4 architecture styles we would see and then illustrated the styles with the buildings we drove past. As a docent myself with the Chicago Architecture Center, I appreciated the friendly and informative way he illustrated the buildings we saw. We highly recommend this tour.

jksyoung

Sarasota is well-known for its leading role in architectural trends, and this tour provides an introduction to much of it. Our guide, Ed, is a knowledge and enthusiastic student of Sarasota architecture and leads a tour that contains as much information as he can pack into 90+ minutes. I look forward to taking other guests on this tour in the future.

Trip27963664154

Our vuide was knowledgeable and personable. He gave a very good orientation of Sarasota. Highly recommend the tour and the trolley is a fun experience and very comfortable.

C5981GOrebeccaw

Guide was super knowledgeable. The Sarasota architecture is interesting. We liked the venetian influence better than the mid century modern look. Plus the history thrown in was a bonus!
Collected by Evendo, Tripadvisor & Viator
2024-05-06 02:42