If downtown Sarasota is the stage, the Rosemary District is the cool backstage lounge where artists, entrepreneurs, foodies, and locals all hang out. Just a few blocks north of Main Street, this neighborhood has transformed from a historic working-class enclave into one of Sarasota’s most creative and walkable communities.
A Neighborhood with History and Heart
The Rosemary District isn’t just new condos and trendy cafes—it’s rooted in Sarasota’s past. Originally known as Overtown, this was Sarasota’s first African American community, and you can still feel the echoes of history in its streets and preserved landmarks. Fast forward to today, and Rosemary has become a vibrant mix of old and new, where historic character and modern development collide in the best way possible.
Walkability Meets Lifestyle
Here’s the deal: if you live here, you might forget what your car keys look like. Within a few blocks you’ve got:
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The Overton for brunch or coffee.
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Fitness studios, yoga classes, and boutique gyms.
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Sarasota Ballet School, Players Theatre, and Contemporary Dance studios.
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Galleries, artist lofts, and creative workspaces.
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And yes, downtown Sarasota is just a short stroll away.
That’s not just convenience, that’s urban luxury wrapped in Florida sunshine.
Rosemary Park / Overtown Square
One of the newest gems of the neighborhood is Rosemary Park, officially renamed Overtown Square, a pocket park being built right in the heart of the district. Think shady green space, benches for people-watching, and a gathering place that honors the neighborhood’s rich cultural history. In a city where new construction often dominates, this little park is a reminder that community matters as much as condos.
Housing: Townhomes, Condos, and Modern Lofts
Living in Rosemary means options. You’ll find:
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Townhome-style condos (like those on Cohen Way) with shared green courtyards.
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Sleek new mid-rise buildings for those who love modern luxury.
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Renovated historic cottages that nod back to the neighborhood’s roots.
Prices range from approachable starter condos to multi-million dollar penthouses with rooftop pools. No matter your budget, you’re buying into a lifestyle that blends downtown energy with neighborhood charm.
Why People Love It Here
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Culture at your doorstep. Opera, ballet, theaters, and art—all walkable.
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Dining scene. From trendy cafes to upscale dining, it’s foodie heaven.
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Walkability factor. Leave the car, grab your sneakers, and explore.
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Community vibe. Residents here genuinely care about preserving history while shaping the future.
Final Take
The Rosemary District is where Sarasota goes urban without losing its soul. Whether you’re sipping espresso at The Overton, catching a rehearsal at Sarasota Ballet, or unwinding in Rosemary Park, this neighborhood is proof that downtown living in Sarasota can be equal parts stylish, cultural, and connected.
If you’ve been thinking about making a move downtown, the Rosemary District might just be your perfect blend of history, culture, and modern living.
