Charms of Pineapple Avenue - A Local's Guide

Dear Sarasota guests, this article is mainly for you, but residents might also be interested in recalling their knowledge about one of the most exciting districts in our city.

Indeed, the main attraction of the Sarasota area is the stunning beaches nearby, but consider the beauty of exploring the city, too. 

Living steps away from Pineapple Avenue, I've come to appreciate its unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. With its exotic name and rich past, this street offers a delightful alternative to the beach scene. Pineapple Avenue is a central hub of activity and growth located in the Five Points area, extending from the intersection with Gulfstream Avenue northwards to the Boulevard of the Arts. 

Highlights of Pineapple Avenue:

Sarasota Opera House. One of the most iconic landmarks on Pineapple Avenue is the Sarasota Opera House. This Mediterranean Revival-style building, originally the Edwards Theatre, was built in 1926. It has a storied history, hosting vaudeville acts, silent films, and even a young Elvis Presley in 1956. Renovated in the 1980s, it now stands as a celebrated opera house, maintaining its 1920s elegance and charm. https://www.sarasotaopera.org/

 Burns Square Apartments. Another historic gem is the Burns Square Apartments, a triangular building at the heart of the Burns Square Historic District. Facing both Orange and Pineapple Avenues, this architectural marvel symbolizes Sarasota's rich heritage and creative spirit. The recent renovations have revitalized this landmark, making it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. https://www.bohemiansarasota.com/post/transformation-of-pineapple-apartments-in-burns-square-historic-district.

Avenue of Art. Introduced in 2021 to commemorate Sarasota County's 100th anniversary, the Avenue of Art is a vibrant addition to Pineapple Avenue. Starting at 543 S. Pineapple Ave., this art installation features decorated sidewalk tiles, showcasing everything from baseball players to beach scenes. It's a colorful and joyful stretch that adds a dynamic element to the street. https://chalkfestival.org/

 Antique Shops. For those who love antiquing, Pineapple Avenue boasts several charming shops where you can find rare and unique items. Spend a quiet afternoon browsing through the treasures at:

https://sarasotatrading.com/

https://srqclocks.com/

https://andrewfordantiques.com/

https://sarasotaestateauction.com/

Boutique Fashion Stores.

Fashion enthusiasts will find an array of boutique stores for clothes and accessories. Some of my favorites include:

https://lboutiques.com/

https://www.brooklyn-boutique.com/

https://moteltherapy.com/

https://northstarfinejewelry.com/

https://italianidea.us/

 Home Goods and Souvenirs.

If you're looking for home goods and souvenirs, 

visit https://www.artistic-accents.com/

Book lovers like myself will also enjoy the cozy atmosphere at

https://www.sarasotabooks.com/

Unique Eyewear.

For those searching for unique eyewear designs, https://www.iopticseyewear.com/ offers exclusive designs by appointment only.

Dining and Refreshments.

Exploring Pineapple Avenue can work up an appetite. Here are some of my favorite spots:

Great coffee and healthy bites: https://www.projectcoffee.us/pages/burns-court-location

Juices,  smoothies, tea, light snacks, and a lovely atmosphere: https://www.summertapjuicebar.com/

If you are starving, visit https://www.thefountainkitchenandwinebar.com/.

It is located in the Burns Square building and offers delicious pizzas and other dishes. A charming outdoor seating area is under a tent by a little fountain.

Exploring Pineapple Avenue will immerse you in the local vibe of Sarasota. It is a destination worth discovering.

Photos: iruphotos.com