New London to Sarasota bus

New London is a seaport in Connecticut, located at the mouth of the Thames River. Since the city's growth was fueled by shipping and whaling in the 19th century, landmarks in New London commemorate its maritime history, like the Custom House Maritime Museum. Fort Trumbull State Park and Museum reflects the military presence in New London throughout its history, from the earthwork fort in the Revolutionary War to the home of the first Coast Guard Academy in 1915.

After brushing up on your history, kick back with a day at Ocean Beach. Swim in the Long Island Sound, grab some ice cream, play mini-golf, or attend one of the many summertime events and concerts at the beach.

Most flights to the area arrive at Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, which is over an hour from New London. Luckily, Amtrak train service is abundant, and many scheduled Northeast Regional and Acela trains stop in New London. Intercity buses connect New London to other Northeast cities, including New York, Providence, Atlantic City, and New Haven.

A culturally-rich alternative to the nearby theme parks of Orlando, Sarasota's Gulf Coast location is hard to resist. It became the winter base for many well-to-do families in the early twentieth century, during which time much of the town developed a subtle Italian feel.

Not only is the climate similar to what you might experience in southern Italy, but many of Sarasota's buildings were constructed to resemble the country's renaissance masterworks too. A good example is the Ringling family's Ca' d'Zan Venetian-style mansion.

The Ringlings made their money from circuses before giving their name to the much-celebrated John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. It contains 21 galleries of European paintings, archaeological artifacts, and American art totaling 10,000 objects.

With weather so fine, you'll probably be looking with more than half an eye at Sarasota's numerous excellent resorts and beaches, many of which lie on a group of keys within the city limits. Bonus: our research ranked Sarasota as the #3 cheapest Spring Break destination, so you can soak up the sun on the cheap.

Arriving in Sarasota is equally easy thanks to its Cattleman Transfer Centre and Fruitville Road bus stations. Between them, travelers can connect by bus everywhere from Tampa to Tucson. Amtrak also operates a Thruway bus service from the defunct Sarasota rail station to Tampa for onward connections by train on the Silver Service. This service runs between Miami and New York City via Washington, D.C.