North Port, located halfway between Sarasota and Fort Myers in western Florida, is a perfect location to explore both forests and the seashore. Besides the world-famous "Fountain of Youth" sought by Ponce de Leon in 1513, the area is home to a thriving arts and theater community, museums, botanical gardens and historic sites. Although North Port is landlocked, it is just a short drive away from Charlotte Harbor and many of the sandy beaches Florida is famous for.
Warm Mineral Springs, also known as the "fountain of youth," is located just five miles from North Port on state highway 41. Admission to the facility includes access to the springs and all classes. Food and spa services are available on site for an additional fee.
Horseback riding is available at several area parks, including the Carlton Preserve, Deer Prairie Creek Preserve and Myakka River State Park.
Fishing, boating and kayaking are popular area activities. Bayfront Park and Marina, Bird Key Park, Blind Pass Beach and Carlton preserve support a variety of water sports. Equipment rental is readily available throughout North Port and near the parks.
The North Port area is home to many circus performers in the off season, and this is reflected in the local culture. Billing itself as "America's favorite traditional circus," the Clyde Beatty Circus brings Olympic quality athleticism and top-flight performers from around the world to the Charlotte County fairgrounds every November.
The Ringling Museum features a special display of circus art and memorabilia. The Tibbals Learning Center hosts a year round exhibit of the world's largest miniature circus, "The Howard Brothers Circus Model," a replica of Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus from 1919 to 1938.
Besides circus exhibits, Ringling Museum is also features a museum of art and hosts live music, dance and film performances throughout the year. The facility has special gardens originally planted by Mable Ringling that are perfect for strolling, resting or picnicking.
The gallery at the North Port Art Center brings the community a variety of exhibitions through the year that cover everything from quilting to fine art. The exhibits change every few months; check the Art Center's website for the current schedule.
North Port and Sarasota support a thriving art community. The North Port Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of chorale and dance performances year round.
The Sarasota Ballet performs classic and modern dance programs from November through May, with periodic special gala events.
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall brings touring musicals and popular performers to the area. Past performers include Kathy Griffin, Michal Bolton, the Moscow Ballet and Canadian Brass.
