Being in the hospitality industry, I travel a LOT and there is nothing worse than getting to your destination and not knowing where to go or what to do so I am here to solve that for you! Whether you are here to enjoy our Insta-worthy white-sandy beaches, indulge in the diverse dining scene, be captivated by our enriching historical and modern arts and culture, or to browse around the ever growing real estate market, Sarasota is T H E place to be!
Attractions+Tours
The Ringling, the State Art Museum of Florida, is home to one of the preeminent art and cultural collections in the United States.Spend a day or two exploring the 66 acre estate of John and Mable Ringling which also includes the Circus Museum, Ca' d'Zan,The Historic Asolo Theater, Bayfront Gardens and more.
Selby Gardens is a living museum located on the shores of Sarasota Bay. It is the only botanical garden dedicated to the study and conservation of epiphytes - or air plants - like orchids, bromeliads and gesneriads. Activities include a children’s rainforest garden, tropical glass house conservatory and 15 acres of lush grounds with two historic homes, including the Museum of Botany & the Arts. On-site dining, a plant shop and year-round special events offer numerous reasons to return frequently.
An independent, nonprofit marine research institution comprising world-class marine scientists committed to the belief that the conservation and sustainable use of our oceans begins with research and education. Inside, exhibits totaling more than 1 million gallons will feature a stunning array of sharks, Atlantic and Pacific coral reef species, manatees, sea turtles, otters and myriad other wildlife. Visitors’ horizons will expand, with glimpses of the deep sea or other remote habitats, including Mote research sites from around the world.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens has been delighting visitors since 1939. Walk among or hand-feed our flock of free roaming flamingos, Florida's unofficial state bird. Pose with a parrot, hold a snake, see crocodiles, alligators, ring-tailed lemurs and many other rescued animals among our beautiful gardens. Attend our daily interactive and educational animal shows featuring parrots, reptiles and other animals. Admission sales support our animals. Open 363 days a year. We are "Sarasota's Favorite Family Attraction"!
This is the Myakka River, Florida’s first state-designated wild and scenic river, and it flows through a vast expanse of unspoiled wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pinelands that make up Myakka River State Park. Boating, fishing, canoeing and kayaking are popular activities on the water while hikers and bicyclists explore miles of trails and backroads.
The Big Cat Habitat & Gulf Coast Sanctuary is a 501c3 non profit safe haven for all animals in need. Our pledge is love, respect and sanctuary for life for all the 150+ animals here. The mission is to educate the public about current animal issues, foster appreciation and to stress the importance of habitat preservation. Experience a family friendly, up close adventure of the exotic kind!
Hop aboard to experience fun, entertaining and informative 90-minute narrated tours. We offer many different tour themes that run year-round rain or shine including: City Sightseeing Tour, City Beach Day Tour, Art Crawl Trolley, Soulful Sunday's Tour, Amish Experience, Public Art Tour, Circus Secrets of Sarasota, Haunted Sarasota, Boutiques & Bubbles Shopping Tour, Tiki Trivia Trolley, Sunset Happy Hour City Tour and several holiday-themed tours.
Beaches
-Siesta Key
-Turtle Beach
-Lido Key
-Longboat Key
-Coquina Beach
-Holmes Beach
-Anna Maria Island
-Caspersen Beach
Shopping
-University Town Center (UTC)
University Town Center (UTC) is Sarasota’s premier destination for shopping, dining, fitness and entertainment. Conveniently located at I-75 and University Parkway, the district spans over 4 million square feet and features a unique combination of more than 250 retail shops and 80 fast-casual to fine-dining restaurants. Stroll the various centers to discover popular national brands and stand-out locals, such as Nordstrom Rack, Marshalls, HomeGoods, PGA TOUR Superstore, Shake Shack, Pure Barre, Row House, Barnes & Noble, Ford’s Garage, Fresh Kitchen and more.
St Armands Key Circle is an island shopping center separated from the mainland by Sarasota Bay. Unique in concept, history, and beauty, it's unforgettable to visitors world wide. This enchanting circle of fine shops and restaurants is set in a tropical paradise. Renowned for it's continental flavor, the circle is a graceful blend of past and present.
Golfing
Seasonal
-Minor League Baseball! (See, Sarasota is so awesome, even the pros call it there home away from home!)
You can visit the Baltimore Orioles or the Pittsburg Steelers when there are here for spring training.
The Sarasota Fair moves into the 21st Century dedicated to continue showcasing the agricultural industry, commerce, customs and cultures of Sarasota County while sustaining and developing family entertainment and enhancing economic vitality.
Welcome one and all to four weekends of exciting tournaments, scrumptious feasts, & pure family fun at the Sarasota Medieval Fair! Visit us each weekend we are here as each weekend features a full new line-up of different nationally renowned acts! Plus, don't miss our returning favorites such as the Washing Well Wenches, the Human Combat Chess Match, and full-armored full-contact jousting tournaments held twice daily!
These are just a few of the noteworthy things Sarasota has to offer but come visit our beautiful city and find out for yourself!