| upgraded suites have separate living rooms; some come with 2 bedrooms. parking is free. down-to-earth rooms offer complimentary wi-fi, tvs and microwaves, plus tea and coffeemakers. suites add living areas and kitchens. a bar and grill is across the street and offers regular live music. set among shops on anna maria island and 1 block from bradenton beach on the gulf of mexico, this quaint hotel with a laid-back vibe is 17 miles from i-75, and 4 miles from bird-watching at perico preserve
Tampa International Airport 1 hr 7
Tibbals Learning Center at The Ringling (24 min)
Ringling Circus archives, with historical documents, costume drawings & art (by appointment). Ca' d'Zan (26 min)
Once home to the Ringlings, this circa-1924 mansion draws inspiration from the palazzos of Venice. Sunshine Skyway Bridge (36 min) The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art (23 min)
State art museum founded by the circus magnate with 31 galleries in a pink Renaissance-style palace. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature (22 min)
A planetarium, aquarium & history museum under 1 roof with dioramas & films. Manatee Public Beach (8 min)
Park featuring a beach, a playground, picnic tables, grills, bike racks, restrooms, showers & more. DeSoto National Memorial Park (17 min)
Nod to the famed explorer's landing site with living-history camp, exhibits, shore & nature trails. Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge (1 hr 2)
Former military base is now an endangered wildlife preserve accessible only by water. Sarasota Jungle Gardens (26 min)
Historic attraction featuring more than 150 animals & shows in a tropical setting. Bean Point Beach (18 min)
Peaceful locale known for its wide sandy beach, tranquil waters & stunning sunset views. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium (20 min)
Aquarium with a stingray touch tank & shark tank plus manatees in the nearby mammal center. Sarasota Bay (22 min)
Named an estuary of national significance, this subtropical, coastal lagoon is popular for kayaking. Bean Point (18 min) Robinson Preserve (18 min)
Nature preserve with hiking & biking trails, picnic areas, a boat launch & observation platforms. Coquina Beach (4 min)
Long public swimming beach featuring picnic tables, cabanas & play areas, plus a casual cafe. | 
