The theater is reputed for hosting one of the largest Shakespeare festivals in the nation. With many parks, nature reserves, and gardens nearby, you wont struggle to find fun things to do in Sarasota. Lets have a look in more detail. For the ultimate in privacy, book a room at the Lido Beach Resort, which offers a stretch of private beach, a poolside bar, and elegant rooms with fully equipped kitchenettes. The Asolo Repertory Theatre is another cultural staple of Sarasotas artistic community. As the gateway to the ocean, the Mote Aquarium presents hundreds of marine species, including sea turtles, coral reefs, and sea jellies. Despite what you might expect, there are no manatees in Lake Manatee. The mermaid shows, cave-diving, underwater museums, mangrove-kayaking, and wildlife-watching opportunities presented here still only scratch the surface and the depths - of the myriad activities possible along this wondrous coastline. It offers a permanent home to 120 birds who could not be returned to the wild due to their injuries. The beautiful building constructed in the Mediterranean Revival style and guarded by mighty palm trees has hosted exceptional performances over the years. See the West Florida coastline from above, from St Petersburg down to Port Charlotte. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". And realise just how much we all still need to be the change for social justice. Will you take the challenge? More than 200 species of native and exotic animals call the Sarasota Jungle Gardens home, including pink flamingos, alligators, iguanas, parrots, and crocodiles. With 15 miles of hiking and biking trails, it's a quick stop off from the Legacy Trail. Web Visit website. A qualified marine biologist scoops animals out of the bay and into glass tanks so that you can watch and learn right in the environment itself. YOGA NIDRA and SOUND CONCERT is hosted at "Casa Cia 5844 Sandy Pointe Dr, Sarasota, FL 34233-3514, United States". Floridas overlooked Gulf Coast sweeps from live oaks and manatees to white sand and art routes. Guests toast the occasion during a Sarasota food tour (Photo: Key Culinary Tours), Watch an armada of boats at the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. Its bright, colorful and devoted to its message that art should be a positive force in peoples lives. The 1950s. After the fact, it was super fun to laugh about the squirrels at CCoquinaBeach. Mixon Fruit Farms is a great place to take the kids for a day of fun. We hope you enjoy our carefully-made selection. Children under 5 are free, and children 5-17 are only $5. The result is as cool as a cucumber. It also has an animal hospital, virtual reality diving experience and fossils, including a replica of prehistoric sharks jaws. It was constructed in the 1920s, drawing inspiration from the couples love of Italian architecture and design, and took only two years to complete. This little tropical paradise of Florida seduces visitors from all over to bask in the sun, dip their feet in the sand, collect sea shells, and cool off in the refreshing ocean waters. Top Things To Do In Sarasota, Florida 1. John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, has been to From its historical museums, sprawling parks, exceptional art galleries, scenic beaches, and appealing tropical weather, a trip to Sarasota can cater to all types of likes and interests. Go kayaking among the mangroves, play a round of golf, or explore an adventure course high among the trees. The Ringling. A great place for bird-spotting, the Celery Fields is home to breeding bird populations with species of owls, sandpipers, meadowlarks, bitterns and sparrows. The Historic Spanish Point campus is less than ten miles from the downtown Sarasota campus. The Marie Selby Gardens are the best of a botanical garden: an art gallery, adventure centre, cool caf and meditative retreat all in one. It offers units with a living area, their own kitchen, and a spa bath. by Paul Joseph|Published December 17, 2018, A Comparison of Bus Services from Dallas to Houston, 10 Exhibitions to Visit in Indianapolis and Indiana this Spring, 7 of the Best Patagonia Down Jackets for Women. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. A historic theatre turned opera house, the Sarasota Opera House has been renovated to exude refinery and class as visitors come upon its stunning Mediterranean Revival-style architecture. Myakka River State Park is one of Floridas largest parks and covers 37,000 acres. You can listen to live music performed by local artists right in the middle of the market. The seaside city is a must-visit destination for travelers roaming through the Southeast. Plus, the freshwater lake, Lake Osprey, is open for swimming! The United States National Cemetery, the Sarasota National Cemetery, is the sixth of seven national cemeteries established in Florida. The Dynasty Club holds social evenings with ballroom dancing. Explore the John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art 5401 Bay Shore Road Sarasota The detailed circus miniatures at the Ringling Museum in Sarasota Florida. As well as the many varieties of tropical plants and flowers you will also find species of parrots, primates, lizards and alligators as well as the star attraction, the native Florida flamingos. 3 Awesome Reasons To Do Sand Castle University In Gulf Shores April 10, 2022. Hidden within the mangrove tunnels you can often see manatees, dolphins, clams, crabs and osprey. 29. When the weather forces you to step indoors for a while, visit the the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium or the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, step under the protective tarps of the Sarasota Farmers Market, or jump on a trolley for a haunted tour of the city. A sanctuary to big cats and other exotic animal species, the Big Cat Habitat Gulf Coast Sanctuary is dedicated to the animals that call it home. If youre a lover of white cotton-soft beaches, youre in luck some of the best beaches in the country are in the Sarasota area. Contained within its own small island there is always something going on at the Circle. In addition to trails, there's also camping, picnic grounds and several . Through our stories and images we promote exciting off-the-beaten-path destinations and fascinating cultures as we go. These sweet, rescued creatures are part of the "Animals in Action" adventure at Big Cat Habitat. Navigate through the obstacles, enjoy the tropical setting, and walk around the well-kept grounds. The Jungle Garden is a Sarasota institution. Things to Do in Sarasota Map Popular things to do Kayaking Tours Private and Luxury Parks Historical Tours Top Picks Nature & Wildlife Areas Likely to Sell Out Cruises, Sailing & Water Tours Art Galleries Walking & Biking Tours Airport & Hotel Transfers Points of Interest & Landmarks Private Sightseeing Tours Food, Wine & Nightlife This one is fun for all the family. Go face-to-face with a lion, tiger, liger, bear, camel, lemur or monkey. The Sarasota National Cemetery is expected to reach total capacity in 2065 as the final resting place for more than 150,000 veterans. A knowledgeable community guide will lead you through the history of Amish and Mennonite groups in the area. South Lido Park, and the conjoined Ted Sperling Park, offer a peaceful respite from the more bustling parts of the city. The sand is still white, the water clear. 28. This cookie is used by Facebook to control its functionalities, collect language settings and share pages. Things To Do While nothing beats a day at the beach, go beyond the miles of award-winning coastline to discover everything Sarasota County offers. There are fun activities such as Lemur and Fox Yoga, a Bird Show and the Variety Animal Demonstration. Then, reserve a romantic sunset cruise with your beau. Whatever you reason for choosing to visit Sarasota, therell be something to keep you entertained. With or without children, youll need at least a day here. Marvel at a medieval art exhibit at the Ringling Museum of Art. Once in the tunnels, its an awe-inspiring sight, where fish and fiddler crabs swim inches away from you in waters so clear you can see the grass resting on the waterbed below. Housed within the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is a colossal 27-foot long corpse of a giant squid that grabs the attention of everyone who sees it. The space is one of seven national cemeteries in Florida at the service of veterans. A two-hour Segway tour is a great way to explore the area. Or learn about local history and hidden gems with an engaging, informative walking tour. Key Culinary Tours are a company that hosts a diverse range of food tours that invite visitors to sample some of the culinary delights that the area has to offer. Im only recommending them because I think theyre interesting. Find things to do with kids in Sarasota and Bradenton on Fun 4 Sarasota Kids! Experience a truly laid-back taste of Florida life. Whimsy art exhibits are exposed inside the museum and through the garden, where you may also find the artists posing next to their pink dragon piglets or fish plants. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens 1534 Mound St, Sarasota, FL 34236, map Tickets: $15 for adults, $10 for kids We've always loved checking out botanical gardens and even more now that I'm obsessed with plants. This protected park is a great place for a quiet picnic, a bit of kayaking or a place to quietly spot wildlife. A Circus legend leaves an unexpected endowment. 1. This experience offers opportunities to see dolphins jumping through the waters and manatees munching on seagrass while learning about Sarasotas impactful history. The zoo also organises animal shows, where you can learn a lot about the sanctuarys conservation efforts. And, how breathtaking the view is from here! People flock to Myakka River State Park to hit the river, from kayaking and fishing to canoeing and boating. Committed to the rescue and rehabilitation of birds, the Wild Bird Learning Centers mission is to recuperate these avian species to return to their natural habitats. Here are the 30 best and fun things to do in Sarasota, Florida. It was the private home of circus-mogul John Ringling and his wife Mable. Challenge your group to use critical thinking skills and escape from your room by the time limitor else! St. Armands has high fashion stores, independent boutiques, restaurants, cafes and museums all nestled within its shaded patios and walkways. Lovers of beautiful automobiles from bygone eras are in for a treat in Sarasota, which is home to its own Classic Car Museum. Hiring a boat is the easiest thing to do, and boating is one of the best ways to spend the day. 5. The most popular viewing areas are Marina Jack Restaurant, Bay front Park and City Island. Ive stood on said sand, rummaged and scrummaged and buried my toes in it and I have to agree. Sarasota Opera prides itself on being the only company in the world to have staged all of Verdis operas. This restaurant specializes in local seafood but also offers a variety of other dishes including pasta, pizzas, snacks, and a childrens menu. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Set by addthis.com to determine the usage of addthis.com service. There are lots of family fun things to do when visiting the Sarasota, Florida area. Skydiving in Sarasota is a truly unforgettable experience. Visitors can enter the public information center complex and use the electronic gravesite locator to learn more about the facility. With lots of music, entertainment, and an overall joie de vivre, the list of things to do in Saratoga Springs feels endless. The structure first opened in 2000 and was the first public treetop trail in North America. For a more easy-going night out, why not try the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Discover an enticing range of flavored rums including spiced rum, toasted coconut, coffee and beer barrel-aged spirits. With so much to see and do, the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages. Experience Sarasota nightlife with a guided tour of some of the best local eateries. The Selby Botanical Gardens are an oasis of peace right in the heart of the city. Theres also a flag assembly area, a memorial walkway, a donations area, committal shelters, and a ceremonial amphitheater. Youll save yourself the hassle of finding a taxi and received personalized attention the entire time. Daily shows welcome visitors to experience and learn more about these fascinating creatures with the chance to have one-on-one interactions with them after the show. The thrill and excitement of horse racing is unlike anything you've probably seen before, and this local tradition is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture. Dolphins, manatees, rays and exotic birds are just some of the natural treasures to be witnessed in this part of Florida. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products, and regularly review these. Below are 14 things to do in and around Sarasota, Florida that shouldn't be passed up when you're in the area. Here's the skinny on the Sarasota Farmers Market. You can find McCurdys at the intersection of Ringling Boulevard and Washington Avenue in downtown Sarasota. It's been around since 1979. See a Horse Race at the Saratoga Race Course. A boat tour has to be one of the most fun things to do in Sarasota. Imagine that! Try traditional foods in an Amish kitchen restaurant and learn about the craft of quilting and what it symbolizes. 1. Located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, the opera house is conveniently settled near boutique shops and fine dining restaurants to extend your adventures in Sarasota. These cookies will be stored in your browser. Sarasota Sky has great views and plays a broad selection of modern music. The museum is $25 a person, but admission is free on Mondays. This is a really fun thing to do while in Sarasota. And its a curious place to visit. Keep your eyes open for the bald eagle hovering over these waters and looking for prey. As the curtain lifts and Bizet or Puccini begins, you will think only What a great place to spend the night! The acoustics are phenomenal. Many anglers flock to Lake Manatee State Park for great opportunities for freshwater fishing off its shores, off the parks fishing docks, or on a boat. Details: Lakewood Ranch Cinemas, 10715 Rodeo Drive 8, Sarasota and Burns Court Cinemas, 506 Burns Lane, Sarasota. So what does this mean? The gentle tides of Ted Sperling Park are a great place for beginners to learn the ropes. Online streaming available any time. The Marie Selby Gardens are the best of a botanical garden: we all still need to be the change for social justice. For more sightseeing ideas, read our list of the top things to do in Sarasota. 2075 Bahia Vista St, Sarasota, FL 34239, USA. Climb aboard your air-conditioned vehicle and see several points of interest including the Ringling Museum and College, Selby Library, and the Sarasota Opera House. Save Our Seabirds is a rescue center for sick and injured birds. More than 120 birds call the living museum home. Fun Places to Stay in Sarasota The latest Sarasota hotel we stayed (February 2023) and absolutely adored is Art Ovation Hotel. Look out for the Sarasota County Historical Commission signs on segregation in the 1950s. Here goes! In the center of the cemetery is the Patriot Plaza amphitheater where visitors can receive guided tours of the artworks every Tuesday at 10 am. If this town is on your list of travel destinations this year, here are 15 things to do in Sarasota! Discover Sarasota Tours offers daily tours in an air-conditioned trolley featuring intriguing events from Sarasota's rich past including tiki trivia, circus tours and an "infamous Sarasota". Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium Paulleon / Shutterstock The Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is situated on City Island, in a little spot called Ken Thompson Parkway in Sarasota, Florida. Key spots are Yoders and Der Dutchman where you can stop for a comforting, homemade meal or made-from-scratch cooking as they call it. Savor Sarasota is an annual event in June (and in some restaurants longer) that offers prix fixe menus at the area's restaurants. One of the most unique ways to explore Sarasota is by joining a Historic Trolley Tour. With all its tidal pools, mangrove islands, and estuaries, Floridas Gulf Coast shoreline is one of the most dynamic in the country. But the biggest attraction by far is the feeding of the pink flamingos. Oscar Sherer is the smaller of the two parks. Like most beaches in Sarasota, Coquina Beach has free parking. Tampa Bay is not far from Sarasota! Run Away to the Circus at the Ringling Museum. A place for business, socialisation, and entertainment this is probably the best way to describe the most important fresh produce market in Sarasota county. Of course, you have! Address. Its home to a collection of playful and fun paintings, sculptures and crafts, generously collected by the museums founder, Marietta Lee. Another high-end option is the Resort at Longboat Key Club, which features its own golf course, a full-service spa, and modern luxurious rooms overlooking the Gulf Coast. Promoting a relaxing and welcoming environment for your stay, the Sleep Inn Sarasota North is only ten minutes from downtown to easily access the best Sarasota activities. In the Tampa Bay area, you can also find the Florida aquarium which covers a huge 200,000 sq ft. You can see many species of fish and aquatic mammals and learn about the aquariums coral, shark and sea turtle conservation efforts. Clown cars, cannons, ornate parade wagons, posters, a huge 44,000 piece model circus and a life-size replica of a tiger. You May Also Like. Facebook sets this cookie to show relevant advertisements to users by tracking user behaviour across the web, on sites that have Facebook pixel or Facebook social plugin. The European section involves room after room after room of well-loved Italian and Flemish Baroque paintings. YSC cookie is set by Youtube and is used to track the views of embedded videos on Youtube pages. Publix Aprons Cooking School at University Walk Sarasota, FL. Port Charlotte. You can expect to catch redfish, flounder and mackerel throughout the summer months. The citys diverse culinary scene offers a variety of unique local flavors with a particular emphasis on seafood. Sarasota County has a variety of attractions for everyone's enjoyment, from art museums to natural science aquariums and other local must-sees. For two full hours youll traverse the streets as local historian Sue Blue narrates your journey and points out historical facts and landmarks, ensuring you depart with a new-found knowledge and appreciation of the city. Passengers pose for a photo during a trolley tour (Photo: Historical Society of Sarasota County), Come and admire a replica military installation. The Myakka Canopy Walkway offers a unique opportunity to witness life up in the tree canopy. Aside from the freshest fish dishes this place offers a selection of the best wines and regional craft beers. This is a deep look into the cultural soul of Sarasota. Sunset Tours: 8pm Night Tours: 9:30pm. Sarasota has its own airport, but many travelers arrive at the larger Miami International Airport or the Orlando (MCO) Airport instead. This is a lot of fun but not for the faint of heart. Theres also an awards ceremony, with prizes handed out to the boats with the most impressive decorations. Nobody leaves without a smile on their face! Here are some of the best things to do in Sarasota: art, science, wildlife, beaches and food. Shark's Tooth Festival. Myakka River State Park comprises a collection of unique habitats such as lakes, wetlands, rivers, and prairies. Or for some fresh air, have a picnic or a walk in Bayfront Park. the FST began life in 1973 and has since grown into a small village of five intimate theatre spaces in downtown Sarasota. Drum Circle Siesta Key Beach 2. 1. Sarasota is all about show business, and at any moment of the year, you will find a show or a performance to attend in the city. After a busy week of sightseeing, why not unwind at The Ritz-Carlton Resort? Instead, grab a bite at the numerous upscale bistros, enticing bakeries, and lively pubs. Enjoy a two-course meal at lunch for $16 or a three-course meal at dinner, including dessert for $32. The sprawling 15-acre site is especially devoted to the conservation of air plants and houses 6000 species of orchids. Known as Molly the Mollusk, the vast cephalopod was inadvertently caught off the coast of New Zealand in 1999 and was soon donated to the Sarasota facility for permanent display, where it quickly became one of its centrepiece attractions among visitors. Tickets are $25 for an adult day pass, or yearly memberships can be purchased. Mrs Palmer built a great home at the Historic Spanish Point, surrounded by beautiful gardens. Founded by the head of one of the nations greatest circus empires, John Ringling, this place has it all. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Here is a list of the best places in Sarasota for families. Bwahahahahaha! If you love the circus, you must visit the Ringling Museum of Art! This is located at 16405 Myakka Rd. St. Armands Circle offers a unique continental shopping experience that feels both classic and contemporary at the same time. My Sarasota Events Calendar is your gateway to Sarasota happenings and fun things to do in Sarasota, Florida and throughout the sparkling Sun Coast each year. In fact, there is no better place for a 'playcation' than in Southwest . Whether your interest is shopping, dining or culture you can find it all here. Myakka River State Park opened in 1942 and the Myakka River was designated a Florida Wild and Scenic River by the State legislature in 1985. But it was the variety of unique things to do in Sarasota that made me rethink fly-drive travel in general. Performances during the event range in styles, with everything from long and short form, hip hop musical, genre-based, and more on display. These crumbling foundations are all that remain of the once-stately 1840s manor that gave the town of Bradenton its name. Its part of a series that makes up the two week Florida West coast road trip itinerary here. Here, urban amenities meet small-town living with fantastic beaches, great shopping, and endless dining opportunities. This expansive area of wetlands, prairies and forests is the real unspoiled and wild Florida. Engage your teens with some mind-bending fun at Sarasota's escape rooms, including Escape Room Sarasota, Escape Reality, and Escape Room Countdown. The organization rehabilitates and releases thousands of injured birds each year. Want more than just unusual and unique things to do in Sarasota? Among them, the city of Sarasota stands out as one of the most enchanting, thanks to its mix of distinguished arts institutes and miles of beautiful beaches with fine sand and shallow waters. Then get packing! Cookies containing your personal data may be used for personalized and non-personalized advertising to you. Officially recognized as the second oldest continuously operating antique car museum in the United States, the museum is a leap back to the start of one of the greatest inventions. A cookie set by YouTube to measure bandwidth that determines whether the user gets the new or old player interface. Or fox yoga. While admission is typically $25, you can enjoy FREE . ), Romantic things to do as a couple in Sarasota, The Best Hidden Gems in the US for Your Next Trip, The Secret Behind The Beignets of Cafe du Monde New Orleans, Be The Change: Steps to Take for a Better World, How to Boost Your Writing in 4 Simple Steps. Rather than worrying about organizing how to make it from there to your hotel, why not have a pre-arranged airport transfer waiting for you? 3. Founded in 1962 with the aim of supporting the local arts community, its success has led to several million dollars in grants and scholarships down the years, and it continues to play a crucial role in the Sarasota area, as well as providing visitors with a quirky retail experience. It sounds like a scavenger game is right up your street. Unusual Attractions in Sarasota Sarasota, Florida John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art A Circus legend leaves an unexpected endowment. A variety of classes can be taken with tigers, lemurs and foxes all while surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. Roll up, roll up! Youll start at Bayfront Park before moving towards downtown Sarasota, where youll visit Ringling Bridge and Lido Beach before stopping by Island Park for panoramic views over the water. This Classic Car Museum is one of the oldest in the country. Before leaving, make sure to stop by the gift shop and get yourself a miniature car souvenir, a work of art on its own. YouTube sets this cookie via embedded youtube-videos and registers anonymous statistical data. Access is included with the Myakka park entry fees. Rent bikes to pedal the Legacy Trail, a more than 10-mile paved pathway that runs along a former railroad corridor, or go for a jog over the picturesque John Ringling Causeway bridge. From burying your toes in white-sandy beaches to adventures that take you deep into mangrove forests, there are plenty of things to do in Sarasota. This museum is jam packed with mementos from when the Ringling circus was at its heyday. 3) Peer At The Vintage Car Collection At The Sarasota Classic Car Museum. Open year-round, the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is mere minutes from downtown! Then, adventure the water by kayak or go fishing for freshwater catches. It has a magnificent downtown Sarasota spot, near the Opera House and Main Street shops and restaurants. The park has extensive areas for kayaking, hiking, cycling and camping grounds located throughout. Need help deciding? Guests can BBQ on the premises, play shuffleboard, and enjoy the outdoor swimming pool. The company was originally based in an 18th-century Italian theatre, reconstructed near the Ringling Museum of Art. You cannot miss the Australian nut tree or the bunya-bunya tree with its large fruits. It offers exhibits and educational experiences for young and old alike. Siesta Key Beach This beautiful beach is located just west of downtown Sarasota on Siesta Key. Meet fantastic dragons, dare to enter the Monster Garden, or skip down the yellow brick road. Originally constructed as a tourist attraction in the late 1940s, the imitation of a lone gunners station began life as part of an arms museum, but since the museum itself was closed, the landmark has eked out a lonely existence, with the occasional visitor for company as it serves its role as the only reminder of the forts bygone days. The resort also has an 18-hole championship golf course, spa, gym, and numerous restaurants to sample the highest quality food and drinks around. For a peek inside the lives of Sarasotas most wealthy couple, the Ca dZan is well worth a visit. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. DestinationsPhotographySustainable TourismAdventure Travel, Adventure ToursStart a BlogTravel TipsSitemap, 2023 NOMADasaurus | Peak Evolution Media, 21 Best Things To Do In Sarasota, Florida (2023 Guide), The Best Things to Do in Sarasota, Florida, 1) See Reptiles Up Close At The Sarasota Jungle Gardens, 2) Go For A Stroll Through The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 3) Peer At The Vintage Car Collection At The Sarasota Classic Car Museum, 4) Watch A Baltimore Orioles Training Match At The Ed Smith Stadium, 5) Observe Sharks Prowling The Waters At Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, 7) Take A Hike At Myakka River State Park, 8) Challenge Yourself With A Bike Ride Through Legacy Trail, 9) Sit Down For A Performance At The Florida Studio Theatre, 11) Visit The Big Cat Habitat Gulf Coast Sanctuary, 12) Bask In The Outstanding Acoustics At The Sarasota Opera House, 13) Buy Fresh Local Goods At The Sarasota Farmers Market, 14) Join A Sunset Cruise At Lido Key Beach, 15) Spend The Day Outdoors At Lake Manatee State Park, 16) Pull Out Your Inner Athlete At Nathan Benderson Park, 17) Escape Into Nature At Oscar Scherer State Park, 18) Pay Your Respects At The Sarasota National Cemetery, 19) Engage Your Curiosity At The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 20) Discover More At The Wild Bird Learning Center, 21) Get Some Retail Therapy At The University Town Center, Best Mid-Range Hotel in Sarasota, Florida.