There’s nothing cookie-cutter about Sapphire Shores and Indian Beach, perhaps Sarasota’s most eclectic neighborhoods. Steeped in history thanks to the world-class John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art that stands as its centerpiece, the area boasts a broad mix of architectural styles and price points. Lots are generous and full of mature tropical landscaping.

Location: From Indian Beach Drive near the Ringling College of Art and Design north to The Ringling museums and New College of Florida; bordered on the east by Tamiami Trail and on the west by a wide stretch of Sarasota Bay.

Range of Home Prices: Starting at $150,000 for an older two-bedroom, one-bath ranch to $14.9 million for an 11,000-square-foot Sapphire Shores mansion.

Type of Inventory: Almost exclusively single-family residences.

Architectural Styles: Everything from beautifully preserved 1920s Mediterranean manses built during the Ringling era to modest wooden bungalows and stucco ranches, with a sprinkling of Sarasota School of Architecture-inspired modern homes.

Things to Do: The cultural heart of Sarasota, with the 66-acre Ringling museums complex and its ever-changing exhibits and programs; the FSU Center for the Performing Arts, home to the Asolo Repertory Theatre, Sarasota Ballet and Banyan Theater Company; and Ringling College of Art and Design as well as New College host many public cultural events. Families flock to Sarasota Jungle Gardens, and neighbors gather for bayfront sunsets at the western end of Indian Beach drive and Sapphire Shores Park.

Why the Museum District: "This neighborhood appeals to my clients who seek an enclave with personality," says Louis Wery. "Shady trees and period architecture add to its allure. Also, the airport and downtown lie nearby."

Photos: Louis Wery