Things to do in Sarasota

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Sarasota Travel Guide

Venice showing tropical scenes, general coastal views and a sandy beach

Ca’ d’Zan showing heritage architecture and a garden

Central Sarasota showing outdoor art and street scenes as well as a couple

John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art featuring art and interior views

Central Sarasota which includes interior views as well as an individual male

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What to do in Sarasota

Discover the most popular places to visit in Sarasota

Lido Beach

4.5/5(1,225 reviews)

Nothing says vacation like spending a lazy day at Lido Beach, a popular beach in Sarasota. Wander the picturesque gardens or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.

St. Armands Circle

4.5/5(1,234 reviews)

Consider this area as a circular outdoor mall. Like any mall, you can shop, dine, browse or just people-watch. Unlike most malls, this one never closes to walkers.

Mall at University Town Center

4.5/5(363 reviews)

You can search for that perfect souvenir at Mall at University Town Center during your visit to Sarasota. Attend a sporting event or discover the beautiful sunsets in this family-friendly area.

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

4.5/5(297 reviews)

See hungry sharks and delicate seahorses at this research aquarium that specializes in the sea life that flourishes on Florida’s central west coastline.

John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

You can spend time studying the exhibits at John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art during your trip to Sarasota. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.

Ed Smith Stadium

4/5(8 reviews)

Catch an event at Ed Smith Stadium during your trip to Sarasota. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

4.5/5(169 reviews)

See a world-class collection of orchids and tropical bromeliads and walk through peaceful mangrove and palm gardens in this botanical park.

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

4/5(3 reviews)

See a diverse range of exciting musical, dance and comedy shows at this architectural landmark inspired by the jagged shape of seashells.

Nice pathway in front of Goldstein Hall. This IS an art school so you will always see a continuously changing landscape of public art displayed around campus.
#localgem

Ringling College of Art and Design

5/5(21 reviews)

Walk around the campus at Ringling College of Art and Design as part of your travels around Sarasota. In the area, take in the fascinating museums and beautiful sunsets.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Sarasota

Beautiful Bruny... home to amazing cheese, oysters, wine... all the good stuff.

South Sarasota

While visiting South Sarasota, you might make a stop by sights like The Landings and Coconuts Family Entertainment Center.

Causeway Park featuring general coastal views

Central Sarasota

4/5(911 area reviews)

Gardens, art galleries, and theaters are some highlights of Central Sarasota. Make a stop by Sarasota Opera House or Marina Jack while you're exploring.

Palmer Ranch

When in Palmer Ranch, you can plan a visit to Stoneybrook Golf & Country Club and Sarasota Square, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Sarasota which includes a sandy beach as well as children

Downtown Sarasota

If you're spending some time in Downtown Sarasota, Sarasota Opera House and Regal Hollywood - Sarasota are top sights worth seeing.

Southgate

4/5(2 area reviews)

When in Southgate, you can plan a visit to Sarasota Art Museum and Lido Beach, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Cheese Blintzes - Grilled crepes with cottage and ricotta cheeses, flavored with orange zest and served with homemade blueberry sour cream sauce and a side of cheesy potato casserole from the Broken Egg in Sarasota.

Bee Ridge

4.5/5(69 area reviews)

Bee Ridge is well-liked for many features, particularly its beaches, restaurants, and shopping. Though there might not be top sights in Bee Ridge, consider a stop by Siesta Key Beach or Siesta Key Marina, located nearby.

Popular day trips from Sarasota

Bradenton

Siesta Key

Longboat Key

Venice

Lakewood Ranch

Frequently asked questions

Is Sarasota worth visiting?

Offering a mix of fishing and walking trails, there are many things to do in Sarasota. While you're here, check out Siesta Key Beach, a top attraction in the area.

How do I spend a day in Sarasota?

After you've checked off top attractions like Siesta Key Beach and Lido Beach, spend the rest of your day exploring Sarasota's shopping and food scene.

What is the top tourist attraction in Sarasota?

Siesta Key Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Sarasota and deserves a place on every sightseeing list of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Sarasota?

You can easily tick off popular attractions like Siesta Key Beach, Lido Beach and Crescent Beach with a three-day stay in Sarasota. On average, many travelers book three days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stay a little longer and venture to St. Pete Beach.

Is Sarasota a walkable city?

With popular neighborhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city center, Sarasota is a great destination to experience on foot. Wander between Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium and Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Then take a stroll through Central Sarasota, located 2 kilometers from the center, and Bayou Oaks, which is about 5 kilometers away.

What are some activities to do in Sarasota with kids?

Deciding what to do in Sarasota with kids has never been so easy. Whether you have toddlers or teenagers, there are plenty of family-friendly tours and activities to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Sarasota for adults?

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or outdoor adventurer, there are loads of things to do in Sarasota for adults including McCurdy's Comedy Theatre and John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art.

Are there free things to do in Sarasota?

From checking out parks to wandering around exciting neighborhoods, it's easy to find free things to do in Sarasota. If you're stuck for ideas, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Siesta Key Beach is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their traveling adventures.