Leading Ladies of Sarasota

Overview

Actress and tour guide Kathryn Chesley specializes in donning period costumes and portraying Sarasota's most influential women -- Mable Ringling, Marie Selby, and Bertha Palmer -- and telling the story of the Sarasota and how each of these women and their unique contributions helped to make the city what it is today.

The past comes to life in an informative and entertaining way on this historical 90-minute city trolley tour led by costumed guide, Kathryn Chesley, as she plays the parts of Mable Ringling (wife of John Ringling), Marie Selby (wife of William Selby and Philanthropist), or Bertha Palmer (Rancher and Developer) on alternating tours.

Find out what Sarasota was like 100 years ago through the eyes of each of these impactful women during the time they lived here. See the historical places in Sarasota and learn about its key development.

Each week’s air-conditioned tour features a different leading lady founder and focuses on her unique contributions to Sarasota.

City: Sarasota

Sat 21 Jun

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $85.61

Make a reservation

Sat 21 Jun

Starting at $85.61

Make a reservation

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What's Included

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

Additional Info

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Guests must be 12+; no children under 12 allowed except on our family tours designed for children 3-11. No children under 3. Every guest must have a paid ticket in order to board.
PLEASE NOTE: Video, audio and film recording of any performance by patrons is strictly prohibited.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (7)

Karen_S

Nov 2024

Bertha Palmer was outstanding in her deliverance of the story of the leading ladies of Sarasota. The trolley driver did a great job. The scenery was terrific. I have recommended it as a 10+ to a lot of my friends.

W9414LHdianeb

Apr 2024

There were 5 ladies who went on the Rose Wilson Leading Ladies of Sarasota Tour. We are all locals who have lived here for over 20 years. We all agreed that this was such a wonderful tour. The guide portraying Rose was so animated, engaging, and was a wealth of knowledge, not only about Rose & the history of Sarasota, but also took us to areas where we have never been before. It was a thoroughly enjoyable tour & all of us would go again to learn about the other historical ladies, but also to learn more, & see more of our home city. It was a great experience!!

Response from Host

Apr 2024

I am so glad to hear this. I created all my tours for locals and visitors to show you hidden parts of Sarasota and inform you of things you might not know. Please consider our Circus Secrets tour- Bob also does a wonderful job of showcasing the history of the circus here. All tours are led by expert guides. Thank you for your enthusiastic review!

V6007BUjoelf

Apr 2024

Totally engaging & worthwhile. Our Family enjoyed every minute. We can’t wait to schedule another Trolley experience. May do the Amish tour next.