Sarasota to Baton Rouge bus

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.

The humbler and more genial cousin of New Orleans, Baton Rouge is an attractive city with a rich history and remarkable cultural landmarks. The top destination in Baton Rouge is Louisiana's Old State Capitol. Boasting a Gothic Revival architectural style and awe-inspiring towers, the building is now a museum with numerous exhibits about the state's history. Next, visit the USS Kidd, considered one of the world's most authentically restored marine vessels. For those interested in rural American life, check out the LSU Rural Museum, whose exhibitions focus on the working classes of the 18th and 19th centuries.

Baton Rouge's food scene is just as vibrant as New Orleans', with a wide range of options to choose from. Those who love fine dining should not miss out on St Francisville Inn & Restaurant, which offers Southern specialties and amazing pub dishes. For a more unique taste, check out Cocha, which offers seasonal local dishes.

Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport is the main airport in the city, located just 10 miles north of downtown. The city's bus terminal on Florida Blvd serves Amtrak trains as well as intercity Greyhound and Jefferson Lines buses.