Beaches: Siesta Key
Get ready to feel the powder white quartz sand between your toes as you walk along the beach. The iconic Siesta Key public beach is definitely a must-see for visitors and locals alike. With tennis courts, grilling stations, picnic tables, playground and volleyball courts there is a lot to do for a day at this beach.
Access: There are wheelchair ramps up to the Sun Deck Concessions where there is a beautiful view of the beach. Wheelchairs can get stuck in the sand easily, so be careful.
Shade: While there is shade by the main pavilion and various picnic shelters, there is no shade on the beach. Be sure to bring umbrellas and sunscreen to enjoy out on the beach.
St. Armands Circle
This is a beautiful island shopping center right along Lido Key. Enjoy the variety of stores including salons, jewelers, clothing, travel, art galleries, and more. If you need a bite to eat, there are plenty of restaurants with beach views. Visit their website for a store map and more.
Access: This is a paved shopping playground easily accessible to wheelchairs, walkers and canes.
Shade: While many restaurants have covered outdoor seating, the walkways are open to sunshine. Make sure to bring a wide-brimmed hat to keep the sun out of your eyes while you shop.
The Circus Arts Conservatory
With circus history dating back to the 1920s when John Ringling moved his summer circus to our city, the local area is rich in circus culture. Founded in 1977, the Circus Arts Conservatory celebrates wild-class artistry and entertainment while giving back approximately 80% of ticket revenue to their community outreach programs. The CAC offers year-round performances, so be sure to check out one of their shows this summer.
Access: The CAC performs in various venues, so be sure to check out the accessibility for the location you are going to visit.
Shade: Most of the performances are covered, be sure to research the venue if you have any questions.
Jungle Gardens
This local zoo is home to over 200 animals including birds of prey, flamingos, various reptiles and even more. About 95% of these animals are rescued and you can see some of them in their daily shows. Jungle Gardens is also home to more than 3,00 different varieties of trees and shrubs. Take a walk along rustic bridges, and bubbling streams to enjoy the gorgeous vegetation. Senior tickets (ages 65+) are just $16.99.
Access: There are 1.2 miles of paved trails with animal interactions and shows. Manual wheelchairs are also available to rent at the gift shop.
Shade: With many beautiful plants, you are sure to find some shady spots, but there are areas where you’ll get some sun.
See our other article Local Lookouts for more places to visit in surrounding areas. Secure Aging wants you and your visitors to enjoy the area and explore the best sights possible. We can help make life easier by tracking monthly income and expenses, as well as fully advocating for our clients’ well-being and safety. We are here to help make your life easier and keep your loved ones safe.
Reba Rogers, CPA, is the founder of Secure Aging, a group of care managers who preserve the independence and protect the assets of seniors by helping them with financial management. She is also a Director Consultant for BNI (Business Network International), a referral marketing organization which gives her access to many trusted business professionals in the community.
