Like most beaches in Sarasota, Coquina Beach has free parking. Go Treasure Hunting at The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime 7. Mixon Fruit Farms is a great place to take the kids for a day of fun. The Historic Spanish Point campus is less than ten miles from the downtown Sarasota campus. Enjoy a two-course meal at lunch for $16 or a three-course meal at dinner, including dessert for $32. Founded by billionaires William and Marie Selby, a constellation of different gardens overlook Sarasota Bay: banyan groves, clumping bamboo, staghorn ferns and local Floridian mangroves. It is one of a series of computer-generated sculptures created by American artist Seward Johnson. Saratoga Springs, New York, is simply adorable. I love this city and you loved this article about it. 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. With miles of beaches, coves and inlets theres an almost endless variety of places to fish. This is one of the top Sarasota attractions for active travelers! Day or night, Sarasota is filled with unexpected thrills. FREE OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT is hosted at "240 S Tuttle Ave, Sarasota, FL 34237-6334, United States". Tickets are $25 for an adult day pass, or yearly memberships can be purchased. 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. For live bands and DJs, its worth checking out the Beach Club at Siesta Key. 6. The Dynasty Club holds social evenings with ballroom dancing. A lot. The Middle Ages was in many ways a dark and gruesome period in our history, but few would also deny that it also gave rise to some truly stunning art. For more sightseeing ideas, read our list of the top things to do in Sarasota. 12 unique things to do in Sarasota, FL - TravelMag Meat, cheese, honey they are all from reliable sources. The Sarasota Childrens Garden offers a multi-sensory experience where kids can pretend to be fairies, become Pirate kings or queens, climb into forts, or hide under giant magical mushrooms. What can I say? Contained within its own small island there is always something going on at the Circle. Plus, the freshwater lake, Lake Osprey, is open for swimming! It is a preservation area for the Florida scrub-jay habitat and protects other invaluable species, such as bald eagles nesting in the winter. This Sarasota art museum features European pieces and iconic sculptures meant to inspire and engage visitors wishing to learn more about the arts and culture. TripBuzz found 36 things to do indoors in the Sarasota area. The Ringling Museum was built to house the collection and serve as a cultural center for the state of Florida. While you ride, learn about the vibrant history and culture of the city from your . The Selby Botanical Gardens are an oasis of peace right in the heart of the city. Experience a free live encounter with these massive cats. Today, the venue is well-known for its outstanding acoustics and entertaining live opera performances. 1. Will you take the challenge? People flock to Myakka River State Park to hit the river, from kayaking and fishing to canoeing and boating. 14 Fun Things To Do In Siesta Key You Can't Miss!!! - Florida Trippers Purchase seats to enjoy popcorn, hotdogs, soda, and other tasty snacks while watching a training game as the Baltimore Orioles knock balls out of the park. Finding Unique Things To Do In Sarasota - My Cornacopia St. Armands has high fashion stores, independent boutiques, restaurants, cafes and museums all nestled within its shaded patios and walkways. Hosted by the Historical Society of Sarasota County, guests will board a traditional tram (known in the US as a 'trolley') before embarking on a fascinating tour of downtown Sarasota. All you can see from here used to be their land. There are fun activities such as Lemur and Fox Yoga, a Bird Show and the Variety Animal Demonstration. 30 Best Fun things to do in Sarasota Florida You Must Do! Forget regular mini golf. Fun Family Things To Do In Sarasota With Kids. 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. Ed Smith Stadium is the spring training ground for the Baltimore Orioles and former training ground for the Chicago White Sox and Cincinnati Reds. 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. With many parks, nature reserves, and gardens nearby, you wont struggle to find fun things to do in Sarasota. Push your limits with this exhilarating forest adventure. And its a curious place to visit. But they welcome everyone and you can, quite literally, get a taste of this intriguing culture through their food. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. We have been travelling the world together since 2008, with a passion for adventure travel and sustainable tourism. Moreover, our partners, such as Google Adsense, will collect data and use cookies for ad personalization and measurement. Siesta beach runs long and straight, with plenty of shaded (free) parking beneath the scent of pine. The Park has a couple of restaurants, including a tiki bar and grill, and also offers an outstanding view of the bay. Its a must for nature lovers. Theres also a gift shop where you can pick up rare collectibles, unique memorabilia and hard-to-find automotive books. Nathan Benderson Park has gone far and beyond to upgrade its facilities to the best, including grandstands, coaching lanes, straight shorelines, a multi-function boathouse, and more! We have guides to the best activities in Miami, Orlando, and Key West! An eclectic treasure trove of maritime marvels. Originally conceived as a botanical garden it has since come to be home to a variety of domestic and exotic creatures also. Kayaking is one of the most environmentally friendly and tranquil ways to explore Lido Key. But otherwise, the park is peaceful, with paved walking trails and spaces where yoga enthusiasts gather for their courses. The living room on the first floor, along with all the dining areas, was the heart of the house, and here is where you will start your visit. Sarasota Art Museum 1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; 941-309-4300;. The most popular viewing areas are Marina Jack Restaurant, Bay front Park and City Island. 21 Unusual and Unique Things To Do in Sarasota Florida Meet shadowy characters and enjoy a theatrically spooky experience. For years, it was the winter residents of John Ringling and his wife, Mable. 25 Best Things To Do In Northern California (2023 Guide), 21 Best Things To Do In Kauai, Hawaii (2023 Guide), 21 Best Things To Do In Destin, Florida (2023 Guide). 21 Things To Do In Sarasota With Kids (Fun Family Activities) 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. Experience the thrill and freedom of parasailing around the local Siesta Key and Anna Maria islands. It does not store any personal data. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Start time 03:30 PM End point Gelato-go Sarasota Ca dZan means Johns House in Venetian dialect, and the Ringlings adored it. 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". Or for some fresh air, have a picnic or a walk in Bayfront Park. Taking place on Main Street at Orange Avenue and running east to Links Avenue, the two-day festival features more than 250 gifted artists from Florida and far beyond. Keep going down the coast and youll get to Cape Coral, where youll find water parks, great golf courses, and giant manatees. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Hidden within the mangrove tunnels you can often see manatees, dolphins, clams, crabs and osprey. This historic Spanish town also offers incredible restaurants, beach hotels, and beautiful scenery. 21 Best Things To Do In Sarasota, Florida (2023 Guide) In addition to trails, there's also camping, picnic grounds and several . After a busy week of sightseeing, why not unwind at The Ritz-Carlton Resort? Go kayaking among the mangroves, play a round of golf, or explore an adventure course high among the trees. 10 Best Things to Do in Sarasota, Florida - Trips To Discover Here's the skinny on the Sarasota Farmers Market. There is a flag assembly area and memorial walkway to visit. This charming city is filled with fabulous parks, amazing food, and natural springs that you can relax in and drink from at spas and fountains around town. 1. People flock to the park to go kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on the waters. The Best Hiking Trails Near Myrtle Beach South Carolina July 30, 2020. A natural marvel of lakes and land, of birds and human engineering. The first 2 hours is complementary parking, $3 for hours 2 and 3 and $1 additional per hour after. Theres also an awards ceremony, with prizes handed out to the boats with the most impressive decorations. Visit Sarasotas most important landmarks and cultural sites on these whistle-stop trips. In the mood for something completely different? Sunset Celebration - John Ringling Causeway Bridge John Ringling Causeway Sarasota, FL 34236 Celebrate Sarasota's famously beautiful sunsets on the John Ringling Causeway Bridge, a 1-km bridge going over Sarasota Bay and connecting the city to other Florida Keys. In the unique Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf 18-hole course, youll get a chance to practice your shots among pirate ships, waterfalls, and very real alligators in the courses educational alligator exhibit. As a separate area to the beach, Sarasota Bayfront combines marinas, splash pads, palm trees and an unmistakable statue. 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. The Farmers Market is a great place to meet up with friends and even has weekly live music at either end of the market. Intrepid types can choose from kayaks or paddleboards as your mode of transport for this magical adventure that will take you into the heart of a unique ecosystem. 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. A great place for bird-spotting, the Celery Fields is home to breeding bird populations with species of owls, sandpipers, meadowlarks, bitterns and sparrows. Its such a fascinating country to drive through with so many different landscapes, stories, peoples and cultures. As well as fantastic food the Dry Dock also offers a beautiful location. Located just off the bustling South Palm Avenue, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is definitely one of the best things to do in Sarasota county! But I promise, there is still so much more to do in this idyllic southwest Florida town. Or visit the nearby Siesta Key Rum Distillery for a guided tour of the tasting room. 5. 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. More than 80 antique cars are preserved inside the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, many of which are from the worlds top automobile manufacturers, including Edsel, Alfa Romeo, and Ferrari. Sarasota sits just south of Tampa on Floridas sparkling Gulf Coast, a place well known as a coastal getaway for all ages. It reaches 74-feet at its highest point and offers a panoramic view of the wetland, prairie, and palm and oak hammocks below. The top tourist attractions in Sarasota, FL, include Siesta Key Beach, The Ringling, Marie Selby Gardens, and Lido Key. On the Birdwalk, visitors can see the intriguing differences between each species and how to minimize environmental risks that harm these valuable animals. The 15 miles of trails draw in anyone desiring to bask in Floridas nature, attracting bikers and walkers to be active. The theater is reputed for hosting one of the largest Shakespeare festivals in the nation. 3. Theres plenty to see and do nearby when youre ready to keep exploring beyond Sarasota. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. 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. For the best in local foods and ingredients dont miss the Sarasota Farmers Market. Featuring its own stretch of private beach and stunning views over turquoise waters, the Hyatt Residence Club Sarasota tops the list for luxurious stays in Sarasota. This time about marine life at the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. Then, enjoy a private interaction with wallabies, lemurs, foxes, and more with a reservation through Big Cat Habitat Gulf Coast Sanctuary. A brightly decorated boat seen during the Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights (Photo: Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights), Enjoy free-form theatre at the Sarasota Improv Festival. It comes from pure quartz, filtered from the Appalachian mountains, and it winds up looking bright white, peppy and pretty on Siesta Beach on Siesta Key. 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. Escape rooms. The Best Things to Do in Sarasota, Florida. The company was originally based in an 18th-century Italian theatre, reconstructed near the Ringling Museum of Art. 1. The United States National Cemetery, the Sarasota National Cemetery, is the sixth of seven national cemeteries established in Florida. Look at Sarasota as the Ringlings used to do in the old times. Selby Gardens - Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Immerse yourself in a world of orchids For any budding botanists out there (pun fully intended),. Fun Places to Stay in Sarasota The latest Sarasota hotel we stayed (February 2023) and absolutely adored is Art Ovation Hotel. Choose from a number of private transfer options, all with your very own driver who will meet you and greet you at the gate and bring you straight to your hotel. The citys diverse culinary scene offers a variety of unique local flavors with a particular emphasis on seafood. 27. As one of the world's leading travel journalists, our content and adventures have been featured by National Geographic, Lonely Planet, CNN, BBC, Forbes, Business Insider, Washington Post, Yahoo!, BuzzFeed, Channel 7, Channel 10, ABC, The Guardian, and plenty other publications. The intimate ballpark offers an up-close, in-the-action experience for baseball lovers to get into the competitive spirit of the game. Its bright, colorful and devoted to its message that art should be a positive force in peoples lives. Hike in the Myakka River State Park. Fun and Free Things To Do in Sarasota - Corporate Quarters USA Top Things To Do In Sarasota, Florida 1. Guides are on-site at all times to help navigate the tougher parts of the trails. For a more easy-going night out, why not try the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. This cookie is installed by Google Universal Analytics to restrain request rate and thus limit the collection of data on high traffic sites. Throughout the trail are signs marking fun highlights of local history. A boat sitting in the Bayfront Park Marina in downtown Sarasota, southwest Florida (Photo: Gregory Urbano via Flickr). YOGA NIDRA and SOUND CONCERT is hosted at "Casa Cia 5844 Sandy Pointe Dr, Sarasota, FL 34233-3514, United States". Unconditional Surrender reflects the iconic photograph taken at the end of the Second World War with a sailor and nurse locked in an embrace. Beyond the white sand, though, youll find lifeguard huts in candy-popping colours at regular intervals and sea an ice- blue cool. Then, adventure the water by kayak or go fishing for freshwater catches. 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. Spend a day strolling through art galleries and museums, hunting for shark teeth, picking up local goods at the farmer's market or perfecting your golf game. 1. Things to Do in Sarasota Today | Eventbrite This is located at 16405 Myakka Rd. Go face-to-face with a lion, tiger, liger, bear, camel, lemur or monkey. 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. The Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Go kayaking among the mangroves, play a round of golf, or explore an adventure course high among the trees. Robin Hood Rentals 12. 17 Unique Things To Do In Sarasota, Florida On Spring Break - Kb in Bloom 14 Engaging Black History Month Social Media Post Ideas You'll Love February 3, 2023 Make Your Own: Mindfulness Jar for Adults Ideas February 1, 2023 15 Coconut Yogurt Benefits That Will Most Likely Surprise You January 31, 2023 40 Positive Affirmations to Start Your Day The Most Fun Things to Do in Sarasota With Family You can visit their Packing House, which showcases how their citrus business worked, and stop at Marys chapel for a quick ring of the bell. Whether you're looking for attractions for kids or fun for teens, there are tons of family things to do in this Florida city. Theres plenty to do here from building mud pies to identified while surrounded by beautiful and colorful nature. A little farther away is Clearwater, best known for its dolphin-watching opportunities and the many chances to enjoy the waterfront. 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. Less crowded but equally stunning is Lido Key Beach, which focuses in eco-tourism and its famous for its cruises. When we were there, Andy Warhol prints came to life in six foot high florals while music pumped out over the sound system. 7+ Fun Things to Do in Sarasota with Kids - Toddling Traveler The centers living museum offers a chance for visitors to learn through educational displays with live birds that were previously patients deemed unfit to return to the wild. Escape Countdown Sarasota 15. Sarasota County has a variety of attractions for everyone's enjoyment, from art museums to natural science aquariums and other local must-sees. Quench the need for quality retail therapy at the various boutiques, galleries, and souvenir shops. Check the website for upcoming shows and events! Considered one of the best bike trails in the Sarasota trail system, bikers head to Legacy Trail to take its paved route over land and bridges while reveling in the scenery. Visit the Ringling Museum One of the most iconic and famous landmarks in Sarasota is the Ringling fine art museum. Finally, go birdwatching for the 155+ species of bird that call the local ecosystem home. The Ringling. Classic Car Museum Sarasota 14. Lovers of beautiful automobiles from bygone eras are in for a treat in Sarasota, which is home to its own Classic Car Museum. This is easily one of the most unique things to do in Sarasota at night. Small tours run on low pontoon boats, and children are allowed to board too as long as they dont fall in (! Barracuda, sea bass, snapper and amberjack are all to be found lurking about the reefs. Showcasing a diverse range of productions, the organization aims to make theatre accessible and affordable to all. Siesta Key Beach This beautiful beach is located just west of downtown Sarasota on Siesta Key. It was ranked the #1 beach in the nation by TripAdvisor in 2020! The campus is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. Annual passes are available. Rent a bike or a pedal-powered Surrey Ride to take on all of Legacy Trail, or, if youre more inclined, take on the trail by foot! Youll save yourself the hassle of finding a taxi and received personalized attention the entire time. The fiery sun dropping into a watery horizon will take your breath away. Our guide to the best things to do in Sarasota is all you need to plan the perfect trip! It was constructed in the 1920s, drawing inspiration from the couples love of Italian architecture and design, and took only two years to complete. The Gator Club is a stylish venue with a good selection of drinks, it plays reggae each Thursday. 1. The building has been tastefully revived by the Sarasota Opera Association which hosts a program of concerts throughout the year. Nathan Benderson also has a couple of gentle cycling trails and paths surrounding the lake which make it a great, scenic place to walk and grab some fresh air.