Today Sarasota, Florida is among the state's most cultured cities. Opera, theatre, museums and upscale hotels and restaurants have made it one of the more desirable beach locales in Florida. In years past, however, Sarasota was a cattle town. Parts of the community still bear evidence of that history, including the appropriately named Cattlemen Road. The Saddle Oak community is part of Sarasota's modern ranching lifestyle. Estates feature newer houses, ponds and barns. If you want your stay in Sarasota to include a glimpse of Old Florida there are accommodations nearby.
Country Inn & Suites
Slightly more than a mile from the Saddle Oak community is Country Inn & Suites. It's a comfortable just-off-the-interstate hotel. The rates are reasonable, at under $100 a night in 2009. The hotel features 106 non-smoking rooms and suites. Meeting space is available and there is even a jacuzzi room. High speed Internet is available and there is a free continental breakfast that features a Belgian waffle station.
Country Inn & Suites
5730 Gantt Rd.
Sarasota, Florida 34233
(941) 925-0631
www.countryinns.com
Days Inn
The Days Inn of Sarasota is 2 1/2 miles from Sarasota's ranching community. Friendly staff and excellent service are included in an affordable rate of $55 a night in 2009. Guests will enjoy the well-manicured grounds and overall cleanliness. Breakfast is complimentary and high speed Internet is available. There is a pool and rooms have a mini-fridge, a microwave and a coffee maker.
Days Inn
5774 Clark Road
Sarasota, Florida 34233
(941) 921-7812
www.daysinn.com
Hampton Inn
Just under 3 miles from Saddle Oak is the Hampton Inn. It's within walking distance of several restaurants and is 12 miles from downtown Sarasota. Amenities include child care, fitness equipment and complimentary newspapers. Rooms are equipped with Cloud Nine bedding and bathrooms feature granite counter tops. This is a great place to stay if you want to experience the Old Florida ranching community, but want to be close to Sarasota's fine museums and beaches.
Hampton Inn
5995 Cattleridge Road
Sarasota, Florida 34232
(866)539-0036
www.hamptoninnsarasota.com
