St. Armand's Circle - Sarasota
 

I got a PM asking about one of my past posts talking about St. Armand's Circle in Sarasota, and how it provided an outlet for my love of shopping, especially shoes; and she was asking for info about it; so for others who don't know about this very wonderful go-to place, I thought I'd post here the info I gave her.

St. Armand's Circle is west of Sarasota near the ocean; and would probably take about 2 1/2 hours to get to if you drove straight from here on the I-75to the Sarasota exit. (I'm guessing because we always go a different way, as explained below). It is a wonderful shopping area; and has several great shoe stores plus lots of clothes, dining, art galleries, and home/other shopping. I love to go there. If you do a web search I'm sure there are websites about St. Armand's Circle.

The way we always go to St. Armand's Circle is the more scenic route, where we first go along the ocean down Gulf Blvd through Clearwater/St. Pete and then go across Skyway Bridge (I-275 S) and then at/near Bradenton go west to get back on the Gulf Road/Blvd, which takes you right along the ocean, through beautiful Long Boat Key, etc, and then eventually you end up at St. Armand's Circle. It takes longer, maybe at least 3 hours total (but along that route you would probably stop to look at other things, as well) that way, but we often do this when we're spending the night somewhere on the trip.

One of my favorite shoe stores is Jolie's Goody Two Shoes; but there are others, also. Be sure to eat at the Columbia Restaurant if you go.

You'll love it.

I love St. Armand's Circle. Makes me feel like I'm in Europe. Wonderful boutiques and restaurants. And great ice cream shops. You are also within walking distance of the Gulf beach.

I too love St Armand's Circle for it's uniquely beautiful ambiance of a European flair. Wonderful sidewalk restaurants, novelty shops, clothing botiques, etc. If you're shopping for bargains, then SA is not for you; strictly top-of-the-line everything. Love it.

Can't resist a plug
 

Hey, St. Armand's fans:

My father lived for 44 years in Sarasota and died in February. As executor of his estate (OK, for you Florida purists, I'm the Personal Representative), I've got a home for sale just off Fruitville Road (exit 210 off I-75), on the way to St. Armand's.

Need a second home down there? And, for you snow birds: Need a third home down there?

Parking spaces at St. Armand's can be tough to scout out during busy times! Bring your walking shoes, just in case.....

Bill :)

Day trip
 

Anyone up for a day trip this week. I've never been there so if someone wants to ride along and show me the way, I'll drive?????

Sounds good, bxmt54! Just swing through central OH to pick Sandy up on your way - she'd would absolutely LOVE to go. :jester: (She can't wait to get back down to TV again! Unfortunately, that's not happening for a few more months......sniffle......)

Hope you can find a taker on your offer - very generous of you.

Bill :)

I hope so too. This is my last week down here this time around. It sounds like a fun way to spend the day but I'm sure it'd be more fun with someone to ride with. Tell Sandy I'll get her on the next trip!

Will do!!! We'll be back in Oct. :wave:

Bill