The Bay Through the Eyes of…

By: Sarasota Magazine

This article was originally published in Sarasota Magazine. View the full article by clicking here.

Philanthropy touches lives across all corners of our community, uplifting people from all walks of life. Investing in the creation of The Bay Park is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform our city. Together, Gulf Coast Community Foundation (Gulf Coast), our donors, local government, nonprofit organizations, and others believed in the dream to transform nearly 53 acres of parking lot into a signature public park. More than 570,000 people have visited The Bay Park since Phase One opened in October 2022. Families and individuals have made cherished memories there, while appreciating and activating the public green space.

As October marks the second anniversary of the park, Two Terrific Years at The Bay, a community celebration with nearly 70 free events, we captured how the park inspires all kinds of people to engage, connect, and contribute to this community gem. Join us for a journey of The Bay Through the Eyes of…

The Bay Through the Eyes of a Filmmaker:
“Growing up in Sarasota in the ’90s was like stepping into a different world. Downtown had an edgy, rough-around-the-edges vibe, with hotspots like The Depot, Club Kenega, The Granary health food store, and Bressler’s Ice Cream tucked inside the iconic Kress Building.

Fast forward to today, and downtown Sarasota has transformed. The Bay has become the crown jewel, a park that wouldn’t feel out of place in Europe with its sleek white trestles, expansive green spaces, modern playgrounds, and a beach perfect for a lazy afternoon.

One of my favorite moments at The Bay? ‘May the 4th,’ watching The Empire Strikes Back under the stars, surrounded by kids swinging lightsabers and parents reliving their Star Wars nostalgia. What can I say? I’m a movie guy.” – Shaun Greenspan

The Bay Through the Eyes of a Young Professional:
“Spending time at The Bay makes me feel alive and deeply connected to nature. As a young professional in Sarasota with a tight budget, I truly appreciate the free wellness classes and activities The Bay offers. It’s been a lifesaver, helping me stay balanced and sane with all the hustle and bustle of adulting. I especially enjoy the yoga classes, which I’ve dubbed my ‘De-stress Thursdays’—the perfect way to unwind with sunset yoga after a long day. 

Nature is essential for my mental well-being, and I love that The Bay provides a welcoming space for everyone from all walks of life. It’s hard to pick a favorite feature because I love everything—the beautiful scenery, the bike rides, and the peaceful atmosphere. But if I had to choose, the Sunset Deck, the Nest, and Common Ground are my go-to spots. 

From fitness classes to arts and entertainment, The Bay offers something for every part of life. It’s a place that helps me feel more connected, alive, and at peace.” –Jodel Velarde

The Bay Through the Eyes of a Pup Parent:
“Initially I must make clear that I speak not only for myself but for my highly judgmental Japanese Chin. Peach and I love The Bay Park. We admire all the participants in the exercise sessions performing their yoga poses and stretches, as well as the grace of the slow-motion Tai Chi movers. But Peach and I are far too lazy to do more than admire from afar. We cross the bridge and limit our fitness to fifteen flights on the stairs leading to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. We used to refer to the span as ‘the Rickety Rackety’ bridge, but The Bay has so improved it that no Troll would dare to hide beneath it! And the route to the bridge! So lush in its greenery, so well-tended and tidy! Peach and I thank The Bay.” – Barbara Pekow

The Bay Through the Eyes of a Yogi:
“Whenever I’m at The Bay, I’m reminded we are part of an awesome community! Where else can you join a yoga class, dance it out, listen to live music, kick around a soccer ball with your kids, and enjoy a sunset all in one day? When I’m there with my family, we are always running into old friends and making new ones.

As a yogi, I strive to take my practice off the mat and into the world. The word ‘yoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘Yuj,’ meaning ‘to join’ or ‘to unite.’ What better place to do just that!? As one of the yoga teachers at The Bay, I always leave class feeling like my cup is overflowing. I believe people are grateful to be in a beautiful setting- moving, breathing, and connecting with others. It’s a gift to be a witness and participant of the love and kindness that is shared at our favorite park.” – Jessica DiLorenzo McHugh

The Bay Through the Eyes of A Family with Young Children: 
“Spending time at The Bay brings a sense of calm for our family. The wide-open green spaces, fun playground, and beach – all within clear sightlines – give our kids the freedom to run, explore, and just be little, while we feel at ease knowing they’re safe.

Our favorite feature is the ‘birdie playground,’ as our kids call it. Every time we visit, our girls race across the field as fast as they can to get there. We also love the beach area, where even our littlest can explore the sand while mom and dad can sit and relax.

One of my favorite memories at The Bay is taking a long walk around the park as a family trying to encourage labor for our third child. We took all the walking trails and were lucky to be able to walk through mangroves and by the beautiful Sarasota Bay with our girls – and our son arrived a couple days later!” – Angelica Hull

It’s clear to see The Bay enriches lives and makes Sarasota a better place for all. It has been said that individually we are one drop, but together we are an ocean. You can leave an enduring mark on The Bay by supporting this transformational project. All donations through the end of the year will be doubled; join us in sparking inspiration and igniting a wave of community engagement.