Anna Maria Life Vacation Rentals Blog

Originally opened in 1926, Tampa Bay Downs is one of America’s oldest racetracks and the only Thoroughbred track on the west coast of Florida. Since being purchased by its current owner in 1986, Tampa Bay Downs has been undergoing improvements including a 7/8th miles grass track with a 1/4-mile chute to make it one of the most popular turf courses in North America. The Race Complex also has a golf...

The Armed Forces History Museum is dedicated to preserving the country’s military history and educating current and future generations as to the sacrifices made by so many to preserve its freedom. The museum was founded in 1996 by John J. Piazza, Sr., a local businessman and history buff. Housed in a 35,000 sq. ft. building – with an additional 15,000 sq. ft. outdoor display space – the Armed Forces History...

There is so much to do at Mixon Fruit Farms, you can spend all day there. From sampling freshly-squeezed orange juice to visiting the wine tasting counter to enjoying the famous orange swirl ice cream cones. If that wasn’t enough, you can browse the gift shop for unique Florida gifts and have lunch at the Groveside Cafe. After lunch, take a ride on Mixon’s Orange Blossom Express! It’s affordable family fun...

Located in St. Petersburg, Florida, not too far from Anna Maria Island, the Florida Holocaust Museum honors the memory of millions of people who suffered through or died in the Holocaust. It is dedicated to educating the public about the Holocaust, and the stories of the people affected by it, to teach about the inherent worth of all races and cultures and the dignity of human life in order to...

The only place in the Tampa Bay area where you can experience the thrill of European-Style Indoor Karting! Ride a powerful Italian electric OTL Pro-Kart up to 45mph against your friends, family or coworkers. They also have kiddie karts available that can reach speeds of 20mph. you must be at least 6 years old and 48” to ride the kiddie karts, or 55” to ride the adult karts. The challenging...

Although Egmont Key is primarily a wildlife refuge, it can be a personal refuge — a place to relax and collect shells along secluded, pristine beaches! Located at the mouth of Tampa Bay and accessible only by private boat, Egmont Key has a unique natural and cultural history. Named for John Perceval, the second Earl of Egmont, the Key has had both Spanish conquistadors and nuclear submarines pass its shores. In the...

Located next to Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota, Asolo Repertory Theatre (Asolo Rep)  is Florida’s premier professional theatre and is a major force in Sarasota’s rich arts scene. Asolo Rep stages up to fifteen productions every season with more that 100 artists, technical craftsmen, and administrative staff all coming together with award-winning directors, designers, and guest artists to bring a diverse repertoire of plays and productions. Asolo Rep also has an...

Located just north of the Prime Outlet Mall in Ellenton, Florida, the Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex is a 115,000 square foot “igloo-like” complex offering recreational and entertainment activities for all ages. The complex features two NHL-size ice rinks, a 13,500 square foot indoor soccer/football field, a fitness center, video game room, concessions area, a hockey pro shop and massage therapists. The complex also offers group and private skating lessons...

Located on U.S. 41, two miles south of Osprey and six miles south of Sarasota, Oscar Scherer State Park consists of more than two square miles of natural Florida landscape. A large acreage of scrubby flatwoods makes this park one of the best places to see Florida scrub-jays, a threatened species found only in Florida. The park protects scrubby and pine flatwoods that were once widespread throughout Sarasota County. Fifteen...