Looking for things to do in Sarasota?? Here’s the list.
Sarasota, a city on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is definitely of the top tourist attractions in the USA state of Florida. It is home to beautiful beaches, attractive gardens, fascinating museums, excellent performing arts companies, premier malls, romantic restaurants, and many more entertaining attractions.
Some of the top things to do in Sarasota include visiting The Ringling, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Siesta Key Public Beach, Ca d’Zan Mansion, Myakka River State Park, and Florida Studio Theater.
This list of the best and fun things to do in Sarasota will help you to prepare for your ultimate getaway.
Things to Do in Sarasota
1. Things to Do in Sarasota: The Ringling
The Ringling or The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is Florida’s official state art museum. Opened in 1927, this museum is established with the excellent artwork donated by John Ringling, an American entrepreneur, and his wife, Mable Burton Ringling, a famous art collector.
Being the most popular tourist attraction in Sarasota, The Ringling contains impressive 21 galleries with over 10,000 objects representing Asian art, American art, European paintings, ancient artifacts from Cyprus, and contemporary art.
You can see these artworks in the forms of drawings, decorative arts, prints, paintings, sculptures, and photographs. Especially, it contains artworks done by world-famous artists.
For example, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Eugène Louis Boudin, Gainsborough, Duchamp, Velaquez, and Poussin. Also, its collection of Rubens paintings is more attractive and famous among art lovers.
On the other hand, it has a wonderful courtyard with an impressive mansion called Ca’ d’Zan. This impressive Mediterranean revival-style mansion was the winter residence of John Ringling and Mable. You can see its architectural beauty, ornate furnishings, Venetian rooms, and other exciting things.
Aside from sightseeing and enjoying artworks, you can join art workshops and art lectures and watch breathtaking live performances.
The Ringling is located in the city’s Bay Shore Road. So, you can get there in just 15 minutes from downtown Sarasota. Start your journey from here.
Address: 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243, United States Phone: +1 941-359-5700
Things to Do in Sarasota
2. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Are you looking for a scenic place to have a relaxing time with your family? Here’s the best place in Sarasota.
Spreading for 15 acres of land, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is situated on the grounds of the former home of Marie and William Selby. Actually, it is a beautiful and relaxing location surrounded by Sarasota Bay.
You can walk along the wooden boardwalk through mangrove forests while seeing breathtaking views of Sarasota Bay, diverse fauna, and flora.
Also, your kids will love to see spectacular displays of orchids, bromeliads, magnificent 100 years old banyan trees, cycads, bamboo, and ferns.
On the other hand, children’s rainforest garden, butterfly garden, and koi pond are also kids’ favorites areas in Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Obviously, these areas are beautiful as they feature hanging bridges, an Amazon village, a waterfall, an adventure treetop trail with magnificent views.
After experiencing all the botanical beauties, you can visit the garden’s souvenir shop to buy a souvenir too.
Address: 1534 Mound St, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
Things to Do in Sarasota
3. Things to Do in Sarasota: Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is a natural history museum located in Bradenton, FL. That means you have to drive for around 30 minutes to get there. But, it is totally worth visiting there. Here’re the reasons.
Since this museum is specialized in the history of Florida’s gulf coast, you can see impressive exhibits that highlight Florida’s history from prehistoric to the present.
For example, the skeletons of animals that roamed Florida millions of years ago, artifacts of people who followed those animals, modern decorative arts, and exhibits that highlight maritime culture.
Also, the “Manatee Habitat” area offers you a chance to take an intimate look at endangered “sea cows,” the lovely manatees. And, you can see a special manatee called Snooty, the oldest known manatee in the world.
Next, the other popular area in the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is the Planetarium. Yeah, it takes you to heaven. If your kids love space missions, surely visit this place.
Now it’s clear that the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature covers the three areas, land, ocean, and space, through its amazing exhibits.
Address: 201 10th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205, United States
Things to Do in Sarasota
4. Things to Do in Sarasota: Siesta Key Beach
Looking for a perfect family beach getaway?? Here’s the best beach in Sarasota.
Siesta Key Beach is a public beach located on Siesta Key, Florida. The unique feature of this beach is its 99% is made with quartz, which comes from the Appalachian Mountains.
That means you can see a sugary white and fine sand on this shoreline. So, you may feel a cool touch when you walk along this beach.
Also, it features turquoise water and many onsite amenities. Therefore, Siesta Key Beach considers one of the best beaches in the United States. Actually, some travel magazines name it as the most beautiful beach in the world as well.
As the shallow waters extend far from the shore, it is perfect for families with kids. And excellent picnic areas are available with playgrounds too. For youngsters, there are beach volleyball and tennis courts.
If you like water activities, there are no boundaries on Siesta Key Beach. It is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and tons of other water activities. Don’t worry; lifeguards are always watching you.
Address: 948 Beach Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242, United States Phone: +1 941-861-5000
Things to Do in Sarasota
5. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, FL
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is a research facility and an aquarium in Sarasota FL. It focuses on caring for, and nursing injured marine life, researching marine diseases, and studying various ocean ecosystems.
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium has a group of world-class scientists who researches protecting coral reefs, sharks, manatees, sea turtles, dolphins, and many other creatures. And impressively, some of these research works help for curing human diseases too.
Aside from that, the aquarium offers some exciting exhibits of marine creatures, including interactive exhibits.
Ex: Watch sharks swimming (including the largest shark known to man, the megalodon), touch all sorts of rays, brilliantly colored fish, delicate seahorses, alligators, otters, and other fish species.
And the aquarium’s touch pools and swimming experiences with sea creatures are the most attractive things for sure.
So, come along with your kids. They’ll love this place.
Address: 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States Phone: +1 941-388-4441
Things to Do in Sarasota
6. Myakka River State Park, Sarasota
Spreading 37,000 acres of land, Myakka River State Park is one of the largest state parks in Florida. And it offers you a chance to spend a relaxing time in an untouched natural environment.
The Myakka River and its surrounding are exactly as same as a million years ago. That unchanged nature will show you how peaceful life was at that time.
And Myakka River State Park offers you scenic views of the river, a diverse array of wildlife, birds, two scenic lakes, and most importantly, the silence and fresh air.
The river and lakes in this park are suitable for fishing, boating, kayaking, and canoeing. Also, Myakka River State Park features the two largest airboats in the world and a Safari Tram Tour as well.
Aside from that, there’s an excellent, fully equipped campground with cabin rentals, clean restrooms, spacious parking, and a gift shop for camp lovers.
In addition, you can hike numerous hiking trails across the park while camping.
Address: 13208 State Rd 72, Sarasota, FL 34241, United States Phone: +1 941-361-6511
Planning to visit Tampa?? Check this list of the best things to do in Tampa, FL.
7. Things to Do in Sarasota: Florida Studio Theatre
Florida Studio Theatre or FST is a famous theater located in downtown Sarasota. Being one of the major cultural resources in the Gulf Coast region, FST was opened in 1973.
And also, this LORT-D contemporary regional theatre is the third-largest subscription theatre in the United States.
Why should you visit Florida Studio Theatre?
Because it hosts excellent theatrical plays, musical shows, concerts, comedy shows, and many other entertaining shows throughout the year, since it has comfortable seating, high-quality equipment, and talented actors/musicians/dancers, FST ensures an entertaining time for every visitor.
If you like to interact more, just join with workshops and classes on the theater performance.
Address: 1241 N Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States Phone: +1 941-366-9000
Things to Do in Sarasota
8. Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary
Do you like to get close to wild cats?
Big Cat Habitat Gulf Coast Sanctuary in Sarasota is home to big cats & other wild species. It ranges from magnificent lions to cute domestic critters like donkeys, sheep, and goats.
And also, this animal sanctuary contains huge tortoises, monkeys, apes, beautiful birds, ligers (half-tiger, half-lion), bears, camels, and tigers. And the important feature of this place is most of the animals here have been rescued and nursed back to health.
Aside from that, Big Cat Habitat Gulf Coast Sanctuary includes dozens of rare and exotic species. And surely many of them you may haven’t seen before.
The sanctuary also hosts two daily shows named “Big Cat Encounter” and “Parrots In Paradise.” Please watch these exciting shows as all admission fees are used to care for the animals in this sanctuary.
Address: 7101 Palmer Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34240, United States Phone: +1 941-371-6377
Things to Do in Sarasota
9. Pinecraft Amish Community, Sarasota FL
Pinecraft Amish Community is a unique community garden in Sarasota FL. There are 3,000 Amish and Mennonite residents in this community, and they live the way their ancestors did. What does it mean?
That means they produce everything they need—for example, bakery items, housewares, and crafts.
Especially, people visit little, interesting markets in Pinecraft Amish Community to buy homemade jams, bakery items, homemade quilts, old-fashioned utilitarian crafts, hand-crafted furniture, and many other unique things.
And importantly, this equipment is durable. So, it is totally worth visiting this market and buy home items.
While you are in Pinecraft Amish Community, do not forget to eat a delicious pie from Yoder’s Amish Restaurant.
Actually, your kid will be impressed by seeing the people and the way of living in Pinecraft Amish Community, Sarasota FL.
Address: Pinecraft Park, Sarasota, FL 34239, United States
10. Things to Do in Sarasota: Siesta Key Rum
Looking for a cool place to spend time with your friends? Here’s the perfect place.
Siesta Key Rum is a distillery located in North Sarasota. It offers some of the tastiest rum in the country. So, you can taste various delicious and award-winning rum recipes with your friends.
And also, Siesta Key Rum serves you excellent combinations of rum and unique desserts. For example, key lime pie, chocolate, banana split, and many others.
After tasting plenty of rum and desserts, you can take a guided tour inside the distillery to discover tasting rooms, the history, and more secret recipes.
Address: 2212 Industrial Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34234, United States Phone: +1 941-702-8143
Things to Do in Sarasota
11. Ed Smith Stadium, Sarasota
Are you a baseball fan?
Ed Smith Stadium is one of the best baseball stadiums in Florida. Opened in 1989, this stadium has the capacity to seat over 8000 visitors at once. So, this massive stadium is perfect for a family baseball game visit.
Here’re some special facts about Ed Smith Stadium.
It was the spring training home for many American professional baseball teams. For example, the Chicago White Sox from 1989 to 1997, Cincinnati Reds from 1998 to 2008, and Baltimore Orioles from 2010 to the present.
Do not forget to check the updated game schedule before the visit. Since it features games throughout the year, you may surely catch a game on your Sarasota tour. Have fun.
Address: 2700 12th St, Sarasota, FL 34237, United States Phone: +1 941-893-6300
Things to Do in Sarasota
12. Almost Heaven Kayak Adventures, Sarasota FL
Do you like kayak through mangroves?? Almost Heaven Kayak Adventures will help you with that.
We know that mangroves grow in marshy, subtropical wetlands. Well, Sarasota is such a place that contains green tunnels of mangroves.
Almost Heaven Kayak Adventures know exactly the safe paths and the best areas to explore. And also, they provide kayaks, safety jackets, and all the other guidelines.
Along the waterways, you will experience extremely peaceful surroundings, diverse wildlife, and birds. For example, little blue herons, osprey, pelicans, bald eagles, wood storks, and swamp-inhabiting smaller animals. And no alligators. So, don’t worry.
After kayaking through mangrove tunnels, Almost Heaven Kayak Adventures also take you into Sarasota Bay to see plenty of manatees and dolphins too.
Are you ready to explore them all with Almost Heaven Kayak Adventures? Then, just book your eco-tour now.
Phone: +1 941-504-6296
Things to Do in Sarasota
13. Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy
A cheerful gallery. Yes, it is the best definition for Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy because its exhibits will surely put a smile on your face. So, if you are looking for a cute, cheerful, and charming place to change your mind, here’s the best place for sure.
Marietta Lee, a talented artist, is the owner of this fun and eclectic collection of art. Her museum has many whimsical galleries with creative art displays representing different art forms.
For example, a giant flamingo sculpture, excellent paintings, stained glass creations, and also a beautiful garden. Even the bathroom in the Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy has cheerful, artistic features.
The lesson Marietta Lee wants to tell us through this creative and cheerful place is “try to discover your own creativity and not take yourselves so seriously.” Definitely, it is a great lesson for anyone.
Address: 2121 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34234, United States Phone: +1 941-364-3399
Things to Do in Sarasota
14. Manatee Village Historical Park, Florida
Manatee Village Historical Park is an interesting open-air museum located near Sarasota. Opened in 1976, this museum was designated as a National Historic Site as well.
This museum offers you a chance to step back to the historical era through its 14 impressive landmarks.
For example, it contains a 1913 locomotive called “Old Cabbage Head,” a courthouse from pre-Civil War days (1860), a one-room schoolhouse, a church from 1887, the Sugar Cane Mill and Smokehouse (when sugarcane was the main crop in the country), a wooden house from Old Florida times, etc.
And also, Manatee Village Historical Park features a blacksmith shop and an old store named Wiggins General Store built-in 1903. So, you can buy unique housewares, gifts, and delicious treats from that store.
However, Manatee Village Historical Park offers you a chance to reveal a glimpse into a long-gone time of Florida for free of charge. So, come along with your family.
Address: 1404 Manatee Ave E, Bradenton, FL 34208, United States Phone: +1 941-749-7165
Things to Do in Sarasota
15. Sarasota Classic Car Museum
As mentioned in the introduction, Sarasota is filled with world-class museums. For example, Sarasota Classic Car Museum.
Are you a car collector or car lover? Then surely visit Sarasota Classic Car Museum. Being one of the largest antique car museums in the world, it houses over 100 vintage cars of all types that are owned by celebrities.
For example, muscle cars of the 50s to 70s, Paul McCartney’s cherished little Mini Cooper, John and Mabel Ringling’s big Rolls-Royces, John Lennon’s 1965 Mercedes Benz, and more.
On the other hand, its impressive Italian car collection includes Rivolta, Alfa Romeo, and Ferrari.
You can take a guided tour of the Sarasota Classic Car Museum to learn more about these vintage cars. Aside from that, it has a cabaret-style theater that hosts live jazz shows, small concerts, wonderful performances of local bands, and many other entertaining events.
Address: 5500 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243, United States Phone: +1 941-355-6228
Things to Do in Sarasota
16. Sarasota Jungle Gardens, Florida
Spreading over 10 acres of land, Sarasota Jungle Gardens is one of the top tourist attractions in the city. It was opened in 1939 and features animal shows and a gorgeous botanical garden.
If you are looking for things to do in Sarasota with kids, visit this garden because it contains various reptile species, farm animals, birds, flamingos, an alligator, a parrot, snakes, and many more.
So, you and your kids can feed, take photos, and touch these animals.
On the other hand, Sarasota Jungle Gardens offers you a wonderful playground and a petting zoo. The petting zoo is interesting as it contains baby goats and pigs like friendly farm animals.
Address: 3701 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34234, United States Phone: +1 941-355-5305
Things to Do in Sarasota
17. Things to Do in Sarasota: Segs By The Sea
Segs By The Sea is a top-rated segway tour operator in Florida. They have the latest versions of self-balancing Segways. So, you can easily tour around the city within an affordable budget. Also, Segs By The Sea is ready to offer guided and customized tours to your need.
One of the most popular Segways tour destinations near Sarasota is Anna Maria Island. It is a tiny, picturesque beach town that contains sandy beaches, blue ocean views, and stunning islands.
Once you get there, this seven-mile-long barrier island offers you plenty of fun things to do. It contains scenic rentals, funky eateries, incredible views of Tampa Bay, novelty gift shops, and two piers that attract dolphins and other marine creatures.
So, join Segs By The Sea and explore the unique beauty of Anna Maria Island in Florida.
Address: 103 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217, United States Phone: +1 941-592-3866
Things to Do in Sarasota
18. The Mall at University Town Center
Looking for a place to enjoy a shopping spree in Sarasota?
The Mall at University Town Center has two stories featuring over 100 stores and restaurants. Starting from high-end stores to budget boutiques, this mall covers them all.
Whether you are looking for jewelry, shoes, fashionable clothes, books, or whatever, The Mall at University Town Center offers you everything.
And also, this premier shopping mall has delicious restaurants too.
On the other hand, it features fashion shows, fitness programs, competitions, sales events, and many other entertaining events for the visitors. Just check their website to catch events.
Address: 140 University Town Center Dr, Sarasota, FL 34243, United States Phone: +1 941-552-7000
Things to Do in Sarasota
19. Things to Do in Sarasota: Celery Fields
Celery Fields is a scenic park in Sarasota that offers plenty of recreational possibilities for you and your family. Also, this is one of the best places in the city to breathe fresh air.
This wetlands site contains scenic hiking trails, wetlands, an observation mound, ponds, and many other exciting landscapes. So, obviously, visitors can enjoy fun activities like walking tours, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, nature photography, birdwatching, and so much more.
Therefore, surely add Celery Fields to your Sarasota bucket list.
Address: 6893 Palmer Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34240, United States Phone: +1 941-861-5000
Things to Do in Sarasota
20. Sarasota Farmers Market, FL
Here’s the best place to experience the local lifestyle of Sarasota.
Sarasota Farmers Market features countless sellers that sell all sorts of fresh and affordable produces. So, it is a perfect place to buy anything if you are planning to stay for a few days in Sarasota.
Sarasota Farmers Market offers you the freshest produces, pastries, fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh flowers, plants, homemade food, local handicrafts, impressive local artwork, all meat types, cooking ingredients, bath items, and tons of other things.
Also, you can chat with these local farmers, bakers, artisans, and musicians while buying things.
In addition, it hosts special entertainment events, live musical shows, and community events on special occasions too.
So, definitely visit Sarasota Farmers Market on a warm Saturday morning when you are in Sarasota.
Address: 1 N Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL 34230, United States Phone: +1 941-225-9256
Things to Do in Sarasota
21. Things to Do in Sarasota: Legacy Trail
Opened in 2008, Legacy Trail is a 12.5 miles long paved trail that stretches from Sarasota south to Venice, Florida. And it considers one of the best biking trails in the United States.
Legacy Trail stretches along a historic rail corridor built in 1911 and used until the early 2000s.
If biking is your passion, here’s the best trail in Florida. It features picturesque views throughout the trail. So, pack your necessities and water bottles to spend an unforgettable biking day with your travel buddies.
You may pass various water bodies, towering trees, train tracks, massive bridges, and much more.
Address: Central Sarasota Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34238, United States Phone: (941) 861-5000
Things to Do in Sarasota
22. Nathan Benderson Park, Sarasota
Nathan Benderson Park is a 600-acre park that contains a 400-acre artificial lake in Sarasota, Florida.
So, it is ideal for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, pontooning, boating, jogging, hiking, walking, and any other fun outdoor activity since Nathan Benderson Park features rental facilities, no need to bring bulky equipment yourself.
Come along with your kids to kayak through the lake.
Address: 5851 Nathan Benderson Cir, Sarasota, FL 34235, United States Phone: +1 941-358-7275
Things to Do in Sarasota
23. South Lido Nature Park, Florida
South Lido Nature Park is a tourist hot spot in Sarasota, Florida.
It offers you diamond-white sand beaches with crystal clear waters and wooded areas. So, beach lovers and nature lovers attract here to spend a fun-filled time with families.
You can enjoy warm sunbathing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, fishing, boating, and making sandcastles with your kids. And also, there’s a playground for kids and beach volleyball players.
For those who like hiking, there are several hiking trails in South Lido Nature Park. So, plan for a fun Lido Beach day with your family.
Address: 2201 Benjamin Franklin Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236 Phone: (941) 861-7275
24. Things to Do in Sarasota: Livingston’s Amusements
Livingston’s Amusements is a popular amusement center in Sarasota. It features countless games and fun activities to do for all ages.
For example, you can enjoy arcade classics, bumper cars, billiards, go-karts, and many other fun activities. After playing those games, you can enjoy delicious nachos, pizzas, and a wide array of alcoholic beverages with your travel buddies.
So, let’s bump cars.
Address: 5947 Clark Center Ave, Sarasota, FL 34238, United States Phone: +1 941-925-7665
Things to Do in Sarasota
25. Things to Do in Sarasota: Crowley Museum and Nature Center
The Crowley Museum and Nature Center is a well-known historic site and cultural center in Sarasota. It offers you a chance to visit back in time to the 1800s.
It contains a historic cabin, a museum with exhibits representing Pioneer life in the 18th century, and many other live historical exhibits.
So, just join for a historical tour of the area or take a guided nature walk with your family in the Crowley Museum and Nature Center.
Address: 16405 Myakka Rd, Sarasota, FL 34240, United States Phone: +1 941-322-1000
Things to Do in Sarasota
- The Ringling
- Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
- Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
- Siesta Key Beach
- Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
- Myakka River State Park
- Florida Studio Theatre
- Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary
- Pinecraft Amish Community
- Siesta Key Rum
- Ed Smith Stadium
- Almost Heaven Kayak Adventures
- The Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy
- Manatee Village Historical Park
- Sarasota Classic Car Museum
- Sarasota Jungle Gardens
- Segs By The Sea
- The Mall at University Town Center
- Celery Fields
- Sarasota Farmers Market
- Legacy Trail
- Nathan Benderson Park
- South Lido Nature Park
- Livingston’s Amusements
- Crowley Museum and Nature Center
Things to Do in Sarasota
