Washington Ronald Reagan National (DCA) is located in Arlington, Virginia and services the Baltimore-Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. You can access the airport via the George Washington Memorial Parkway or the Airport Access Road from Jefferson Davis Highway. Flights to Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) generally require one stop, but nonstop flights may be available. Typical flight times are nearly three hours. You can reach both Sarasota and Bradenton, Florida via US 41. Public transit taxis and shuttle services are available at the airport.

Attractions

Both Sarasota and Bradenton offer something for everyone. In Sarasota, visit the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Mote Marine Laboratory, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Siesta Beach, Ed Smith Stadium, the South Florida Museum and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. In Bradenton, you can visit the Manatee Village Historical Park, the Florida Railroad Museum, McKechnie Field, the De Soto National Memorial, Snead Island and Manatee Players Theatre.

Hints and tips

South Florida boasts blue waters and sandy beaches, and the weather is almost always pleasant. In the summer, however, the humidity can be sweltering, drawing out mosquitoes and other insects. The best times to visit are in the spring and fall. Travelers often prefer beachfront hotels or rental properties to enjoy the stunning views.