Lido Beach Casino

In 1940, as America pulled itself out of The Depression, an oasis appeared on the shores of Lido Beach. Built with the financial aid of the Works Progress Administration Program (WPA) started by then President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the Lido Beach Casino served the citizens and tourists of Sarasota until 1969.

Designed by architect Ralph Twitchell, the Casino was a multi-purpose facility including; a junior olympic-sized pool (which remains today), a ballroom, several restaurants and bars, cabanas, shops and locker rooms. It played host to famous bands, Hollywood celebrities, athletic events, and even beauty pageants.