Sarasota is known as Florida's Cultural Coast and is home to a professional symphony, ballet and opera. In addition, more than 10 theaters and 30 art galleries are located in Sarasota. There are 35 miles of beaches and the beautiful sunsets of the Gulf of Mexico. The nearby beaches of Siesta Key are known for the whitest sand in the world, and nearby Lido Key offers beautiful beaches and great dining and shopping on St. Armands Circle. While some of Florida's most popular attractions may be in the Orlando area, many people come to Sarasota for most of their vacation and plan a side trip to Disney or Universal Studios since Orlando is only a 2 hour drive from Sarasota. In addition, nearby is Tampa and St. Pete Beach, (57 miles), and the hustle and bustle of one of the United State's largest metropolitan areas.