Sarasota's Art Ovation Hotel: Your Dream Getaway Awaits!
Sarasota's Art Ovation Hotel: Your Dream Getaway…If You're Ready for a Whirlwind! (A Brutally Honest Review)
Okay, listen up, fellow wanderlusters! I just got back from a jaunt to Sarasota and, let me tell you, the Art Ovation Hotel? It's… an experience. Not just a stay. An experience. And I'm going to spill the tea, the whole darn cup, about this place, warts and all. So buckle up, buttercups. This ain't your grandma's boring hotel review.
First Impressions: The "Wow!" Factor (and a Little Bit of "Huh?")
Right off the bat, Art Ovation screams "ART!" The lobby is a kaleidoscope of color, with installations that… well, some I loved, others left me scratching my head. (A giant, slightly creepy metal spider? Still not sure. But hey, art, right?) The staff? Super friendly, super helpful, and definitely trained in the art of hospitality. Accessibility looked pretty good, with elevators and ramps readily available. A big win for anyone with mobility needs!
The Room: Luxury, But…
My room? Gorgeous! Think sleek, modern design with all the bells and whistles. Wi-Fi? Free in all rooms! Thank goodness, because, you know, gotta document that poolside cocktail for the 'gram. Air conditioning in all rooms, alarm clock, bathrobes, coffee/tea maker, free bottled water, hair dryer, in-room safe box, satellite/cable channels, seating area, separate shower/bathtub, and a window that opens? CHECK! Very comfortable, and a solid foundation for a good stay. I appreciated the blackout curtains too -- invaluable for sleep-ins.
Now, a little confession. One morning, I was enjoying my breakfast in room (a fantastic option, by the way – more on that later!). The alarm clock went off right at 7 AM, and a little bit early (6:30/6:45 would've been better as I was expecting my food to arrive around 7), and I was able to turn it off quite quickly. However, it was set to a bizarre, upbeat pop tune, and I was still half-asleep! I thought it was going to be some sort of art piece to wake me up, since I was in an "art" hotel, and I got a good laugh out of it! It made me turn on the TV to see if there was a performance on, but there wasn't.
The Art & Ambiance: A Double-Edged Palette
Okay, let's talk about the "Art" part. Every corner is filled with it. From the curated gallery spaces to the artwork in the hallways, it's a visual feast. But, and this is a BIG but, it can feel a little overwhelming. Sometimes you just want a quiet corner, away from the creative explosion. If that's you, be prepared to hunt it down.
Dining: A Symphony of Flavors…and a Few Stumbles
The Art Ovation boasts some pretty swanky restaurants and bars. There's a poolside bar, which is a MUST, especially during happy hour. Restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, with a good selection of Asian cuisine which is a nice touch. The bar is lively and fun, the food is better than average, there's coffee/tea in restaurant, and even a coffee shop. The desserts in restaurant were divine.
Breakfast? Breakfast [buffet] was decent, but nothing earth-shattering. They did offer Asian breakfast, and Western breakfast, so you can definitely mix and match! I opted for breakfast takeaway service one morning, planning on enjoying the beach, and it was easy to grab my to-go plate. The coffee shop also had some delectable pastries.
The "Ways to Relax" Department: Heaven, But…
- Pool with view? Absolutely stunning. Sunsets are epic.
- Swimming pool [outdoor]? Yep, and it's gorgeous. Always a plus.
- Spa? YES! I indulged in a massage. Pure bliss. Seriously, it was like a week's worth of stress melted away. They also have a sauna, a steamroom, and a gym/fitness center. Plus, they have body scrub, foot bath, and body wrap if you're into that sort of thing.
Now, here's the messy bit. The spa was phenomenal. But booking? A CLUSTER. The website was weird, the phone lines got busy. It took me like, three tries to snag a spot. Worth it? YES. But… could they streamline the process? ABSOLUTELY.
Cleanliness and Safety in the COVID Era: Mostly Reassuring
The Art Ovation takes cleanliness seriously, and that's commendable. Hand sanitizer stations everywhere. Daily disinfection in common areas. Rooms sanitized between stays. They offer room sanitization opt-out available, which is a nice touch. Staff trained in safety protocol, and I saw them diligently wiping down surfaces constantly. Cashless payment service is available. They're clearly trying hard. The only thing? The sheer amount of sanitizing left me feeling a little… sterile at times. But hey, better safe than sorry, right?
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
Concierge? Super helpful. Dry cleaning, laundry service, luggage storage, daily housekeeping,, all on point. Elevator? Essential. Car park [free of charge]? A bonus!
For The Kids: More for the Parents, Honestly
They advertise babysitting service and are family/child friendly, but honestly, this feels like a place geared more towards adults. There aren't a ton of "kids facilities" or "kids meal" options. Maybe this is fine for your family, but if you need to entertain children this may make more sense.
(Quick note: I saw no pets, and that's a shame. I want to pet dogs. There were no indications of pet policies though, so I can't be sure about that.
My One HUGE, Stream-of-Consciousness Story
I want to tell a quick story about my experience with the pool. My first afternoon there, I was just desperate to unwind. I got a poolside chair (yes, there were a couple of people already there but I found a nice spot), ordered a ridiculously overpriced cocktail (worth every penny!), and settled in. The sun was blazing, the music was chill, and I was finally starting to relax. Then, disaster struck. A rogue gust of wind blew my enormous sunhat straight into the pool. I mean, SPLASH!
I was mortified. But, here's where Art Ovation really shined. A lifeguard, without me even saying a word, dove in, retrieved my hat, and even shook the water out for me! He then offered me a fresh towel. They didn't have to do any of that. It was an extraordinary testament of hospitality and kindness. (Also, my hat survived!)
The Minor Categories (Because I'm thorough, dammit)
- Getting Around: They have airport transfer, taxi service. Good options if you don't have a car. Car park [on-site] and Car power charging station, for the techy folks!
- Additional Perks: Meeting/banquet facilities, business facilities, meeting stationery.
- More Accessibility options
The Verdict: Should You Book It?
Okay, so here's the deal. The Art Ovation Hotel is not perfect. It's a little quirky, sometimes a bit overwhelming, and the booking process can be…frustrating. But is it worth it? Absolutely, ESPECIALLY if you're after a luxurious experience. It's stylish, comfortable, and the staff are genuinely fantastic. The location is great, with plenty of things to do, and the spa is pure magic.
My Honest Recommendation
Go! Just be prepared for a bit of a whirlwind. Lower your expectations for perfect perfection, and instead, embrace the art, the energy, and the overall experience. I'd go back in a heartbeat, for the art, the pool (and the hat retrieval!), and the chance to be pampered.
Here's My Compelling Offer (Because I Know You're Thinking About Booking!)
Escape to Sarasota's Artistic Heart: Indulge & Create at Art Ovation Hotel!
Tired of the same old boring getaways? Craving a dose of creativity, luxury, and vibrant energy?
Then get ready to be wowed at the Art Ovation Hotel, a Sarasota gem where art and hospitality collide!
Here's what awaits:
- Immerse yourself in a world of art: Surround yourself with stunning installations, curated gallery spaces, and a creative vibe that will ignite your senses.
- Unwind in style: Luxurious rooms, a spectacular outdoor pool with a view, a rejuvenating spa (with heavenly massages!), and a fitness center to keep you feeling your best.
- Savor the flavors: Dine at our swanky restaurants and bars with both Asian and Western cuisine, savor delicious breakfasts.
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because this is not your average pristine, perfectly-timed itinerary. This is me, wrestling with the Art Ovation Hotel in Sarasota, and trust me, it's a ride.
The Art Ovation Hotel, Sarasota: My Chaotic Love Letter (aka Itinerary)
Day 1: Arrival & Artistic Overwhelm (with a Side of Mild Panic)
1:00 PM - Arrival & First Impressions: Okay, the valet parking was a freaking breeze. I mean, seriously smooth. A good omen? Maybe. The lobby? Instagram-ready, obviously. Think: modern art meets… well, more modern art. My brain already feels a little…sculptured. The check-in? Fine. Perfectly polite. But I'm already looking for the fire escape route, just in case the art gets… sentient.
1:30 PM - The Room Reveal (and a Tiny Freak-Out): Opened the door to my room. Nice. Clean. White walls. Standard hotel fair. Except… the view? Ugh, chefs kiss! The Gulf of Mexico. Gorgeous. Which immediately made me feel incredibly inadequate. Like, I'm clearly not worthy of this. I need to start meditating. Or maybe just order a margarita.
2:00 PM - Lunch at the Restaurant, Gallery Grill: I was hungry, so I waltzed in. The food was alright. A salmon salad. It felt healthy. A little too healthy. And the ambiance was… artsy. Like, the waitstaff was clearly trying to channel their inner thespians, and I was just trying to find the salt. I overheard a couple talking about "deconstructed avocado toast" and I nearly choked.
3:00 PM - Swimming Pool time! Ah this is the main reason to spend some time here. the architecture is just wonderful and the water is so clean. One of the best pools I have ever seen.
4:00 PM - Wandering and Wondering (and Possibly Getting Lost): This is where the day took a turn. I tried to find the gym (apparently a necessity, based on the amount of food I've consumed). I ended up wandering through some art exhibitions. I'm not an art critic, let's be clear. I'm a person who likes pretty things. Some things? I got it. Others? Completely lost. I did, however, find a really comfy-looking couch and may or may not have sat on it for approximately an hour, staring at a painting of… something.
6:00 PM - Happy Hour at the Bar (and Existential Dread): The bar is cool. The cocktails are… expensive. I ordered a martini. One. Slowly sipped the thing, contemplating the impermanence of life and why I wear the same five t-shirts all the time. The bartender looked at my existential angst, gave me another free one. Bless her heart.
7:30 PM - Dinner at Restaurant (Attempted Elegance, Failed Slightly): I have to go back at the Restaurant. I tried to go again. Got my fancy pants on. I ordered the scallops. They were… fine. The lighting was dim, which, I suppose, is supposed to be romantic or artistic or something. I just wanted to be able to see my plate. Spilled a bit of red wine on my white shirt. The waiter offered me a napkin. I wanted to cry.
9:00 PM - In-Room Debrief & Bedtime: My thoughts: I'm not sure I "get" this hotel. I love the art, I think? I guess? I'm jet-lagged, a little overwhelmed, and my bank account is crying. Bedtime. Please let tomorrow be less confusing.
Day 2: Embracing the Inner Weirdo & Sarasota Exploration (and Maybe More Wine)
9:00 AM - Breakfast in bed (A Victory): Room service! Bagel. Coffee. Victory. I didn’t even know if I’m going to make it by that time.
10:00 AM - Exploring Sarasota (Because You Literally Cannot Stay Inside All Day): This is where things got slightly better. Used the hotel’s complimentary bikes and rode to the Sarasota Bayfront Park. The breeze was divine. The sun was warm. I almost ran over a pelican. Close call.
12:00 PM - Brunch at a Local Cafe: Found a killer little cafe – I don’t care about the artsy name, just bring me food! Found something good on the menu at last!
2:00 PM - Art Museum Stroll (Attempt 2 - Less Panic, More Curiosity): Decided to revisit the art scene. This time, slightly less overwhelmed. More like, "Okay, I'm here. Let's see what happens." Actually saw some things that made me think. Maybe I'm evolving? Or maybe it was the coffee.
4:00 PM - Poolside Bliss (Round 2): Back to the sacred pool. This time, with a book, sunglasses, and a smug sense of “I made it through Day 1.” The water is just, so clean and perfectly tempered. Pure bliss.
6:00 PM - Pre-Dinner Drinks and People-Watching (A Fine Art in Itself): Back at that same bar. This time, I knew the bartender (or at least, she pretended to know me). I struck up a conversation with a couple who seemed to live a life of pure fabulousness. They were fascinating. And made me feel even more inadequate.
7:30 PM - Dinner at a Restaurant (Embracing the Chaos): This time I actually enjoyed dinner. More food, and for some reason, this time it was tasty.
Day 3: Departure & Newfound Appreciation (or Maybe Stockholm Syndrome?)
9:00 AM - Final Breakfast & Sighs: Last breakfast. Contemplating whether I’ll actually leave. Am I addicted? Is it the art? The pool? The martinis? The hotel, the city, and the whole vibe.
10:00 AM - Checkout & Valet Farewell: The Valet guy remembered me! High five to him. It's the little things, you know?
11:00 AM - Departure: As I pulled away, I looked back at the Art Ovation. Honestly? I think I’ll miss the place. Maybe it’s the art. Maybe it’s the chaos. Maybe it’s just the fact that I made it through, slightly battered but definitely alive. Sarasota, thanks for the weird experience. I’ll be back.
Okay, so that's the messy, imperfect story of my adventure at the Art Ovation Hotel. It wasn't perfect. It was, however, real. And sometimes, that's all you need. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need a nap. And possibly another martini.
Indulge in Luxury: Delhi NCR's Hotel Mahal Awaits!
Art Ovation Hotel: Your Dream Getaway? Oh Honey, Let's Find Out! (The Unofficial FAQ)
Okay, Okay, So What *IS* This Art Ovation Hotel Thing? Is It Just Another Fancy Hotel?
Well, technically, yes. It's a hotel. But, like, a DIFFERENT kind of hotel. They *really* lean into the art thing. Imagine, you're wandering around, maybe a bit jet-lagged, and BAM! A gigantic, slightly intimidating sculpture stares you down in the lobby. Or, you're sipping that overpriced latte (we'll get to THAT later, don't worry) and suddenly there's a live painter doing their thing. It's Sarasota, so naturally it's all… *artistic*. Think, "Upscale Bohemian Rhapsody meets Coastal Chic." Whether that’s *good* or not depends on your tolerance for art you may or may not understand. (Spoiler alert: I still don't get half of it, but I secretly love it.)
Is It Expensive? Be Honest. My Bank Account is Still Recovering From That Last Vacation…
Alright, let's rip off the band-aid. Yes. It's not a budget-friendly stay. Think… "treat yourself" kind of money. I mean, you're in downtown Sarasota, darling! Expect to shell out. I swear, the price for *one* night there could buy me a month's worth of groceries. And that's not even including that ridiculous…*ahem* …restaurant bill! But, the rooms? Surprisingly comfy, and the view of the city? *chef's kiss*. Just… pace yourself on the credit card, okay? Maybe skip that extra margarita at the pool? Or, you know, not. YOLO.
Tell Me About the Rooms! What's the Vibe?
Oh, the rooms are *nice*. Like, REALLY nice. They're designed to be all sleek and stylish; a sort of cool, minimalist vibe. They're spacious, well-appointed, and they have, you know, a bathroom that will make you feel like you’re starring in a fancy shampoo commercial. Think big windows (city views!), a comfy bed you'll want to live in, and some art pieces that make you feel fancy but probably won't understand. I recall the one time I went, I spent approximately 20 minutes just staring at the view from the window. Worth it, entirely. They even have these lovely little balconies. And if you’re lucky, you can hear the faint strains of the live music from below. (Although, sometimes that gets a little…much, at 3 AM. Let's just say that was a *long* night).
The Pool! Is the Pool Good? (This Is a Make-Or-Break Question for Me)
Okay, the pool. I have such mixed feelings about the pool. The pool *looks* AMAZING. It's an infinity pool, overlooking the city, and it's all very Instagrammable. Gorgeous, truly; at least, on paper. In reality? It can get a little… crowded. And sun-worshiping tourists in speedos everywhere. And if you're like me, you spend half your time worrying about whether the person next to you is judging your choice of sunblock. It's a scene. But the cocktails are delicious. So… pros and cons. Basically, brace yourself for a bit of a scene, but embrace the potential for fantastic people-watching. And the cocktails. Did I mention the cocktails?
Let's Talk Food! Is the Restaurant Worth It? (Or Should I Just Uber Eats?)
Oof. Okay. The restaurant... It's pretty. REALLY pretty. The ambiance is fantastic. And the presentation of the food *is* art. But the prices... Sweet baby Jesus. I’m not saying it's not delicious, because it *is*. But for what you pay, I almost expected my food to be served by a unicorn. Consider this my official warning: be prepared to open your wallet. Uber Eats isn’t a BAD option, especially if you are on a budget. Unless you want to splurge for a special occasion or just want to *feel* fancy, and you're willing to take a second mortgage to do it. This is a decision you might need to ponder. I spent a week researching the menu online, before I even decided to go, and that was not enough.
What About the Staff? Are They Friendly?
The staff? Generally, very lovely. They're usually professional, helpful, and genuinely seem to want to make your stay enjoyable. (I once had a small drama involving a lost phone charger. They were incredibly accommodating and went above and beyond to help me find a replacement. Saved my sanity, honestly!) They’re usually on top of it, which is a relief after a few cocktails by the pool. So, yes, friendly. But also, you know, *professional*. Don’t expect them to be your best friends. But they WILL make sure you have a good time.
Is It Kid-Friendly?
Hmm. Kid-friendly… it depends. They *allow* kids. And they are generally accommodating. But it's not necessarily designed with kids actively in mind. It’s more… sophisticated. If your kids can appreciate art, appreciate quiet, and won't throw a tantrum about the price of ice cream, then you're probably good to go. Otherwise, you might want to consider a slightly less… *refined* establishment. And be prepared for judgmental stares from the other guests, especially if your toddler decides to use their own artwork as a canvas on the lobby walls.
What's the Best Thing About the Hotel?
For me? (And this is pure, unfiltered opinion, mind you) It's the location. Being right in the heart of downtown Sarasota is amazing. You can walk everywhere! The beaches are a short drive away. The restaurants, the shops, the theater… all at your fingertips. It’s really a perfect home base for exploring the city. I guess it is an easy “yes” for the right kind of person!
What's the Worst Thing About the Hotel?
That darn restaurant bill! (Still recovering from it!). Otherwise, and this is a minor gripe, it can feel… a little pretentious, sometimes. And ISmart Traveller Inns
