If one could summarize Lakewood Ranch in Greater Sarasota in one word, it might be the word
“family.” Founded in 1995, the 8,500-acre master-planned community consists of seven villages with attractive, roomy homes. It is also an award-winning green-certified region with unique irrigation and healthy, energy efficient homes.
The recreational opportunities alone make the area family-friendly. The area contains over 150
miles of biking, hiking and dog trails. An athletic center boasts eighteen tennis courts, nine polo and cricket fields and an arena, as well as thirty-five private ranches housing over 600 horses. There are four country clubs, eachwith a notable golf course. One nice feature of the golf courses is that each represents a different ability level, so both veteran and beginner golfers can play a course ideally suited to them.
The outdoor venue of Main Street offers stylish boutiques and international restaurants, the Lakewood Ranch Cinemas, the Fish Hole, and a great miniature golf course. Main Street combines elements of the ideal downtown with easy-to-access stores that make shopping a pleasure all year long. Famous names and specialty shops line the streets. The open-air environment provides a unique plaza for strolling and shopping.
At the Center’s hub, the pavilion hosts farmers markets, cool events, concerts and festivals throughout the year making this the focal point of the community and Lakewood Ranch’s “downtown” section. Annual traditions in Lakewood Ranch include: Music on Main, Evening Under the Stars, Suncoast Wine Festival, and Art at the Ranch. During the Christmas season, Main Street attracts locals by creating a huge tree in the middle of its circle drive, festive decorations, even artificial snow that falls from the store’s rooftops. Christmas musicpiped in through speakers on the street cap off all that’s needed to create Christmas excitement.
Grab a cup of coffee at Starbucks and start exploring. Restaurants include Ed’s Tavern, MacAllisters Grill & Tavern, Paris Bistro, Polo Grill, J-pan, Station 400, El Lago Ranchero and The Main Street Trattoria. You can also sharpen your culinary skills at the Viking Culinary School. Office suites line the second story of the street and loft style condos make this central street the ideal place where you can truly savor both work and play.
Lakewood Ranch is definitely all about families. But sometimes moms and dads need some time without the children. Need someone to care for the children while you are out? Elite Family Care has reliable, safe, and caring nannies so you can enjoy your time with peace of mind! For more information go to www.elitefamilycare.com
