5 Great Neighborhoods in Sarasota

Get to know these sought-after communities

By Susan Ladika, FrontDoor.com | Published: 1/15/2009

Laurel Park in downtown Sarasota combines walkability with historic single-family homes, duplexes and small apartment buildings. Laurel Park Neighborhood Association

Looking for history combined with walkability? Check out Laurel Park in downtown Sarasota. In 2008, this neighborhood was designated a National Register of Historic Places District. The neighborhood is filled with single-family homes, duplexes and small apartment buildings, with many dating back to the 1920s, in styles such as bungalow, Mission revival, Colonial revival and Mediterranean revival. If a neighborhood filled with historic homes, brick-lined streets and trees dripping with Spanish moss isn't enough, it's within a stone's throw of downtown shops, restaurants and entertainment. Residents run the spectrum from professionals to artists, and young families to retirees, not to mention plenty of pets.

NORTH
Gillespie Park

While it may not be for everyone, Gillespie Park is a neighborhood on the upswing. Renovated 1920s bungalows, ranch-style homes from the 1950s and 1960s, small apartment buildings and a smattering of new construction make the neighborhood just north of downtown an interesting mix. Named in honor of Sarasota's first mayor, John Gillespie, the neighborhood's centerpiece is a sprawling park of the same name, boasting a lake with a refreshing fountain. The neighborhood has a diverse population base, bringing together renters and property owners. It's also a quick walk to the shops of Main Street.

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