Things to do in Sarasota

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Sarasota

Types of activities

Where to stay

Sarasota travel guide

Venice showing tropical scenes, general coastal views and a sandy beach

Ca’ d’Zan showing heritage architecture and a garden

Central Sarasota showing outdoor art and street scenes as well as a couple

John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art featuring art and interior views

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What to do in Sarasota

Popular places to visit

Lido Beach

4.5/5(31 reviews)

Nothing says holiday like spending a lazy day at Lido Beach, a popular beach in Sarasota. Wander the picturesque gardens or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.

St. Armands Circle

4.5/5(23 reviews)

Consider this area as a circular outdoor mall. Like any mall, you can shop, dine, browse or just people-watch. Unlike most malls, this one never closes to walkers.

Mall at University Town Center

4.5/5(10 reviews)

You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Mall at University Town Center during your trip to Sarasota. Attend a sporting event or discover the beautiful sunsets in this family-friendly area.

Nathan Benderson Park

Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and explore Nathan Benderson Park, a lovely green space in Sarasota. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event.

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

4.5/5(4 reviews)

See hungry sharks and delicate seahorses at this research aquarium that specializes in the sea life that flourishes on Florida’s central west coastline.

John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

You can spend time exploring the galleries in John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

See a diverse range of exciting musical, dance and comedy shows at this architectural landmark inspired by the jagged shape of seashells.

Marina Jack

4.5/5(12 reviews)

Explore the waterfront of Marina Jack and enjoy other activities such as boating in Sarasota. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

4.5/5(3 reviews)

See a world-class collection of orchids and tropical bromeliads and walk through peaceful mangrove and palm gardens in this botanical park.

Areas of Sarasota

South Sarasota

While visiting South Sarasota, you might make a stop by sights like The Landings and Coconuts Family Entertainment Center.

Causeway Park featuring general coastal views

Central Sarasota

4.5/5(21 area reviews)

Gardens, art galleries and theatres highlight some of the noteworthy features of Central Sarasota. Make a stop by Sarasota Opera House or Marina Jack while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Excellent Men's Conference Iron Sharpens Iron at New Covenant Life Church in Sarasota, Florida. Over 200 men from many churches to praise the Lord Jesus Christ and hear teachings from anointed national speakers.

Palmer Ranch

While there might not be top attractions in Palmer Ranch, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Stoneybrook Golf & Country Club and Sarasota Square.

Downtown Sarasota

While visiting Downtown Sarasota, you might make a stop by sights like Sarasota Opera House and Regal Hollywood - Sarasota.

Southgate

While there might not be top attractions in Southgate, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Siesta Key Beach and Lido Beach.

Ridge Wood Heights

Ridge Wood Heights is well liked for its parks. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Sarasota area, you might plan a trip to The Landings or Gulf Gate Mall.

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Siesta Key

Frequently asked questions

Is Sarasota worth visiting?

Offering a mix of fishing and walking trails, there are many things to do in Sarasota. While you're here, check out Siesta Key Beach, a top attraction in the area.

How do I spend a day in Sarasota?

After you've checked off top attractions like Siesta Key Beach and Lido Beach, spend the rest of your day exploring Sarasota's shopping and food scene.

What is the top tourist attraction in Sarasota?

Siesta Key Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Sarasota and deserves a place on every sightseeing list of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Sarasota?

You can easily tick off popular attractions like Siesta Key Beach, Lido Beach and Crescent Beach with a three-day stay in Sarasota. On average, many travellers book three days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stay a little longer and venture to St. Pete Beach.

Is Sarasota a walkable city?

With popular neighbourhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Sarasota is a great destination to experience on foot. Wander between Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium and Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Then take a stroll through Central Sarasota, located 2 kilometres from the centre, and Bayou Oaks, which is about 5 kilometres away.

What are some activities to do in Sarasota with kids?

Deciding what to do in Sarasota with kids has never been so easy. Whether you have toddlers or teenagers, there are plenty of family-friendly tours and activities to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Sarasota for adults?

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or outdoor adventurer, there are loads of things to do in Sarasota for adults including McCurdy's Comedy Theatre and John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art.

Are there free things to do in Sarasota?

From checking out parks to wandering around exciting neighbourhoods, it's easy to find free things to do in Sarasota. If you're stuck for ideas, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Siesta Key Beach is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their travelling adventures.