05 Dec 2023    Sarasota

Situated in Florida's Gulf Coast, Sarasota is a temple of culture, natural beauty, and endless recreation. This guide unveils 30 must-do activities, ensuring your Sarasota visit is a rich tapestry of experiences. From pristine beaches to cultural landmarks, let Sarasota captivate you.

Siesta Key Beach Bliss:

Sink your toes into the world-renowned powdery sand of Siesta Key Beach, a tropical haven where turquoise waters meet sugary shores.

Ringling Museum Marvels:

Immerse yourself in art and history at the John and Mable Ringling Museum, home to stunning exhibits and the iconic Ca' d'Zan mansion.

Myakka River State Park Adventures:

Explore Florida's diverse ecosystems through airboat rides, wildlife viewing, and canopy walks in the expansive Myakka River State Park.

St. Armands Circle Shopping Extravaganza:

Indulge in retail therapy and gourmet delights at St. Armands Circle, a charming shopping district nestled between Sarasota and Lido Key.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens:

Unwind in the serenity of the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, a lush oasis showcasing rare flora against the backdrop of Sarasota Bay, Learn More About it.

Circus Arts at Sailor Circus:

Witness the talents of young performers at the Sailor Circus, a renowned youth circus school preserving Sarasota's rich circus heritage.

Lido Key Mangrove Tunnels:

Kayak through the enchanting mangrove tunnels of Lido Key, where nature's wonders and tranquility converge in a mesmerizing aquatic landscape.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens:

If you seek outdoorsy adventure in the wild, so get up close with exotic wildlife at Sarasota Jungle Gardens, home to vibrant flora, interactive exhibits, and entertaining animal shows.

Artistry at Art Ovation Hotel:

Immerse yourself in the artistic ambiance of Art Ovation Hotel, where creativity takes center stage with live performances and rotating exhibits.

Historic Spanish Point Exploration:

Step back in time at Historic Spanish Point, an archaeological and historic site offering a glimpse into Sarasota's rich past. And this is going to be best things ever to do in Sarasota.

Gourmet Delights at the Rosemary:

If you are food lover fed up with home-cooked meals, and you want to change your tastebuds, this place is your new best friend. Savor culinary masterpieces at The Rosemary, a vibrant food district where local chefs showcase their talents in a variety of gastronomic delights.

Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix Festival:

Have you ever experienced Boat racing? No? Don’t worry. Because we know exactly what to put next on your itinerary. Feel the rush of adrenaline at the Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix Festival, an annual boat race that turns Sarasota's coastline into a thrilling spectacle.

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium:

Dive into marine wonders at the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, featuring interactive exhibits and a chance to meet resident sea creatures.

Sunset at Bayfront Park:

Witness breathtaking sunsets at Bayfront Park, a picturesque spot where the sun bids adieu over Sarasota Bay, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.

Oscar Scherer State Park Adventures:

Embrace nature at Oscar Scherer State Park, offering hiking trails, bird-watching, and the opportunity to spot the elusive Florida scrub-jay.

Downtown Sarasota Art Walk:

Stroll through the vibrant art scene of downtown Sarasota during the monthly First Friday Art Walk, where galleries open their doors to art enthusiasts.

Ed Smith Stadium Baseball Fun:

Catch a spring training game or event at Ed Smith Stadium, home to the Baltimore Orioles' spring training and various community events.

Sarasota Opera House Performances:

Immerse yourself in cultural performances at the historic Sarasota Opera House, showcasing a diverse array of musical and theatrical productions.

Caspersen Beach Shark Tooth Hunt:

Embark on a treasure hunt for fossilized shark teeth at Caspersen Beach, a unique and rewarding activity for beachcombers.

Legacy Trail Biking Adventure:

Cycle along the Legacy Trail, a scenic route connecting Sarasota and Venice, offering breathtaking views and a chance to explore Florida's natural beauty.

Daiquiri Deck Delights:

Indulge in refreshing daiquiris and seafood delights at Daiquiri Deck, a local favorite known for its laid-back atmosphere and tropical flavors.

Ca' d'Zan Mansion Exploration:

Step into the opulent world of the Ca' d'Zan Mansion, the historic residence of John and Mable Ringling, featuring architectural marvels and stunning bay views.

Sarasota Classic Car Museum:

Travel through automotive history at the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, showcasing a remarkable collection of vintage cars and memorabilia.

Sarasota Film Festival Magic:

Immerse yourself in the cinematic arts at the annual Sarasota Film Festival, featuring an array of independent films and engaging events.

Sarasota Bayfront Swing Dancing:

Put on your dancing shoes and join the swing dance community at Sarasota Bayfront, where lively music and friendly faces make for unforgettable evenings.

Beer Tasting at Big Top Brewing:

Explore the craft beer scene at Big Top Brewing Company, a local brewery offering a diverse selection of handcrafted beers in a vibrant atmosphere.

Selby Gardens' Orchid Show:

Admire the beauty of orchids at Selby Gardens' annual Orchid Show, a dazzling display of rare and exotic blooms.

Sarasota Architectural Tour:

Discover the architectural gems of Sarasota on a guided tour, highlighting mid-century modern masterpieces and contemporary designs.

Jazz Club of Sarasota Grooves:

Tap your feet to the rhythms of jazz at the Jazz Club of Sarasota, featuring live performances and an eclectic mix of musical styles.

Historic Cottage at Spanish Point:

Explore the historic White Cottage at Spanish Point, a charming structure that encapsulates the pioneer spirit of early Sarasota settlers.

Things to Do in Sarasota with Kids:

 

Mote Marine Aquarium Interactive Fun:

Engage young minds with interactive exhibits and marine wonders at Mote Marine Aquarium, an educational and entertaining experience for kids.

Bayfront Park Playground Excitement:

Let kids unleash their energy at the playground in Bayfront Park, featuring swings, slides, and scenic views for parents.

LeBarge Tropical Cruises:

Treat the family to a LeBarge Tropical Cruise, offering dolphin sightings and captivating stories from the Gulf of Mexico.

Children's Garden Exploration:

Embark on a whimsical journey through the Children's Garden at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, where playful landscapes and discovery await.

Big Cat Habitat Animal Encounters:

Delight in animal encounters at the Big Cat Habitat, where lions, tigers, and exotic wildlife captivate young hearts.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens Kid-Friendly Shows:

Enjoy entertaining and educational shows at Sarasota Jungle Gardens, where kids can interact with animals and learn about nature.

Sarasota Children's Garden Splash Pad:

Cool off at the splash pad in Sarasota Children's Garden, a colorful oasis for kids to enjoy water play and outdoor fun.

Ringling Museum Family Days:

Attend family days at the Ringling Museum, featuring special activities and events designed for kids to explore art and history.

Siesta Beach Sandcastle Building:

Unleash creativity with sandcastle building on Siesta Beach, where soft sands and endless imagination make for memorable family moments.

Sarasota Classic Car Museum Scavenger Hunt:

Turn a visit to the Sarasota Classic Car Museum into a fun scavenger hunt for kids, searching for vintage cars and intriguing details.

Things to Do in Sarasota for Adults:

 

Sarasota Craft Beer Tour:

Embark on a craft beer tour, exploring Sarasota's vibrant beer scene and sampling local brews at various breweries.

Lido Key Happy Hour Cruise:

Sail into the sunset on a Lido Key Happy Hour Cruise, enjoying scenic views and refreshing beverages on the Gulf of Mexico.

Sarasota Helicopter Tour Thrills:

Elevate your adventure with a helicopter tour over Sarasota, providing breathtaking aerial views of the coastline and landmarks.

Circus Themed Nightlife at The Reserve:

Immerse yourself in circus-themed nightlife at The Reserve, a trendy spot with live music, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere.

Artful Sips at Painting with a Twist:

Unleash your artistic side while enjoying wine at Painting with a Twist, a fun and social art studio for adults.

Sarasota Food Tour Delights:

Embark on a culinary journey with a Sarasota food tour, exploring the city's diverse and delectable gastronomic scene.

Sarasota Opera House Cultural Performances:

Attend cultural performances at the Sarasota Opera House, featuring opera, concerts, and theatrical productions for an elegant night out.

Lido Key Beachfront Dining:

Indulge in beachfront dining on Lido Key, where upscale restaurants offer gourmet cuisine against a backdrop of sunset hues.

Sarasota Bayfront Sunset Sail:

Experience romance on a Sarasota Bayfront Sunset Sail, where the tranquil waters and golden sunsets create a magical atmosphere.

Selby Gardens' Moonlight Garden Stroll:

Enjoy a Moonlight Garden Stroll at Selby Gardens, a romantic experience surrounded by lush foliage and the serenity of moonlit landscapes.

Conclusion:

Sarasota is a multifaceted gem, offering a plethora of experiences for every traveler. Whether you're exploring cultural landmarks, enjoying family-friendly activities, or savoring the vibrant nightlife, Sarasota's charm is bound to leave an indelible mark on your heart. Let this guide be your passport to the diverse wonders of this coastal paradise, where each moment is an invitation to discover, enjoy, and cherish the beauty that is Sarasota.