OFF THE BEATEN PATH

If you're looking for more offbeat things to do in the Sarasota area, here are two spectacular suggestions.

A tour of Mixon Farm is more than a tram ride through the orange trees. The citrus growers, located 20 minutes from downtown Sarasota, have partnered with Wildlife Inc., a rehabilitation and rescue organization. Visitors have a chance to learn about local wildlife and hold and interact with alligators, pythons and turtles, among other unique rescues. 2525 27th St. E., Bradenton, Fla. 800-608-2525, mixon.com

Solomon's Castle is an hour's drive away and well worth the trip on the back roads of inland Florida. The palace is the creation of author, sculptor and junk collector Howard Solomon, who built his home, then covered it in old silver typesetters' plates, news-side in. Inside is a host of curiosities, sculptures and terrible puns, and outside is a full-sized Boat in a Moat restaurant. 4533 Solomon Rd., Ona, Fla. 863-494-6077, solomonscastle.com