Sarasota FloridaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Sarasota, Florida.
1. The Ringling
CIRCUS HISTORY & ART
The Ringling is a renowned cultural complex featuring a circus museum, a major art museum, beautiful gardens, and the opulent Ca' d'Zan mansion. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits that highlight circus history, intricate model displays, and a comprehensive collection of European art. The estate is set on lush grounds, making it a must-visit for culture lovers and families alike.
2. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
MARINE LIFE DISCOVERY
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is a leading marine research institution with a family-friendly public aquarium. Guests can view sea turtles, sharks, manatees, and other native Florida marine creatures while learning about conservation efforts. Interactive exhibits and touch tanks make this an engaging educational stop for all ages.
3. St. Armands Circle
SHOPPING & DINING HUB
St. Armands Circle is a vibrant shopping and dining district known for its European-style layout, charming boutiques, and eclectic restaurants. Visitors can stroll among public sculptures and enjoy excellent gelato and people-watching in the park at the center. The atmosphere blends casual elegance with tropical flair.
4. Siesta Key Beach
FAMED WHITE SANDS
Siesta Key Beach is celebrated for its powdery quartz sand and clear, shallow waters, earning national acclaim as one of the best beaches in the United States. The beach offers excellent amenities, scenic views, and opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and shell collecting. Its laid-back vibe and vibrant sunsets attract both locals and visitors year-round.
5. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
TROPICAL PLANT HAVEN
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens captivates visitors with its extensive collection of tropical plants, including prized orchids, Bonsai, and Banyan trees. The gardens are beautifully situated on Sarasota Bay, offering scenic walking paths and seasonal exhibits. A dedicated children's play area and immersive habitats make this a delightful destination for all ages.
6. Ca' d'Zan Mansion
RINGLING FAMILY ESTATE
Ca' d'Zan Mansion is the dazzling former home of circus mogul John Ringling, reflecting Venetian Gothic architectural grandeur. The mansion's lavish interiors and waterfront setting are open to guided tours, displaying the glamour and eccentricity of the Roaring Twenties. Visitors can admire the opulent furnishings, intricate artwork, and serene bay views.
7. Myakka River State Park
NATURE TRAILS & WILDLIFE
Myakka River State Park is one of Florida's largest and most diverse state parks, offering hiking and biking trails, birdwatching, and airboat tours. The park is home to unique wildlife, including alligators, and features the famous Myakka Canopy Walkway for treetop views. It's an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts wanting to experience Florida's natural beauty.
8. Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary
EXOTIC ANIMAL RESCUE
Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary provides a safe haven for rescued big cats, bears, and other exotic animals. Visitors can observe these majestic creatures up close, attend educational presentations, and explore the petting zoo. The sanctuary emphasizes animal welfare and conservation through interactive learning experiences.
9. Sarasota Jungle Gardens
HISTORIC FAMILY ATTRACTION
Sarasota Jungle Gardens has delighted visitors since 1939 with its lush landscape, free-roaming flamingos, and hands-on animal encounters. Guests can feed tropical birds, watch animal shows, and explore winding garden paths. It remains a classic Old Florida experience perfect for family outings.
10. Siesta Key Village
BEACHSIDE SHOPPING SCENE
Siesta Key Village is a lively downtown district on the northwest side of Siesta Key, offering an array of unique shops, bars, restaurants, and inviting accommodations. Visitors can browse for handmade gifts, enjoy live music, and experience the relaxed, coastal atmosphere. It's a prime destination for dining and entertainment just steps from the beach.
11. Unconditional Surrender Sculpture
ICONIC V-J DAY STATUE
The Unconditional Surrender Sculpture is a towering 26-foot-tall monument commemorating the famous World War II V-J Day kiss photograph. Located in Bayfront Park, the statue draws visitors who stop for memorable photos and waterfront views. The surrounding area features walking trails, playgrounds, and access to dining in downtown Sarasota.
12. Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy
ECLECTIC ART GALLERY
The Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy showcases a playful and vibrant collection of contemporary art, both indoors and in a whimsical outdoor sculpture garden. Visitors of all ages are delighted by the colorful paintings, unconventional sculptures, and joyful atmosphere. The museum celebrates underrepresented artists and welcomes creativity and imagination.
13. South Lido County Park
BAYFRONT RECREATION ESCAPE
South Lido County Park offers a blend of sandy beaches, mangrove trails, and picnic areas at the southern tip of Lido Key. This park is popular for kayaking, birdwatching, and relaxing amid natural beauty. Visitors enjoy swimming, hiking, and breathtaking views of the Gulf and Sarasota Bay.
14. Ed Smith Stadium
SPRING TRAINING BASEBALL
Ed Smith Stadium is the home of the Baltimore Orioles for Major League Baseball spring training each year. The stadium welcomes fans with modern amenities, classic ballpark food, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Baseball enthusiasts can watch preseason games and enjoy Florida's sunny weather during the Grapefruit League season.
15. Historic Spanish Point
ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE SITE
Historic Spanish Point preserves over 5,000 years of Florida history through archaeological sites, preserved pioneer buildings, and manicured gardens. Guests can explore ancient shell mounds, walk shaded trails, and learn about early settlers in Sarasota County. Located in nearby Osprey, it offers a scenic and educational journey through the region's past.