Immerse Yourself in Sarasota
As a top family vacation destination in the US, Sarasota is renowned for its cultural and environmental amenities. Not only are we the home to the #2 beach in the US (per TripAdvisor), but Sarasota is also a mecca for patrons of the arts and has the highest concentration of Zagat® rated restaurants in Florida.
Sarasota offers a truly impressive blend of shopping, cuisine, and attractions. So sail into a breathtaking sunset, golf on lush green fairways, explore St. Armands Circle, or just relax and sink your toes into some of the finest sand in the world. If you’re not grabbing your sunblock already, keep reading for all Sarasota has to offer!
Things to Do
Beaches
The most notable beach in the area is Siesta Key Beach, with its stunning white sand. For those who prefer to go shelling, try out Lido Key. Or take a short drive to Venice Beach for fossilized sharks’ teeth.
Dining
Whether you prefer fine dining, beachfront eateries, or lighter fare, Sarasota has the highest concentration of Zagat® rated restaurants in Florida. Here, we enjoy outdoor dining year round with everything from ocean to skyline views!
Attractions
From aquariums and spring training to botanical gardens and airboat tours, there is something for everyone in Sarasota. You may even catch our very own Chalk Festival or the Siesta Key Classic Crystal, a sand sculpting festival during your visit.
Arts & Culture
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art houses a world-renowned collection, the Circus Museum, Ca’ d’Zan, and Bayfront Gardens. You will also find the Historic Asolo Theater on the premises. In fact, Sarasota’s performing arts scene rivals those of much larger cities.
Sports & Outdoor Activities
Sarasota has world-class aquatics and rowing facilities, as well as one of the largest polo clubs in the country. Whether paddle boarding in Sarasota Bay or running the Legacy Trail, you’re sure to find something to get your heart racing.
Golf Courses
Sarasota and the surrounding area is home to dozens of golf courses, both public and private. Historic designs and natural terrain welcome golfers to Southwest Florida, where white sand bunkers, sparkling water, and palm trees dot every course.
Shopping
Whatever your shopping preferences, Sarasota has something to suit your needs. Spend the afternoon in historic St. Armand’s Circle, visit the Ellenton Outlet Mall just 20 minutes north, or enjoy the high-end open-air shops of University Town Center.
Tours
Discover Sarasota Tours
Travel into the past aboard air-conditioned trolleys to hear stories of fascinating people, enchanting places, and intriguing events that shaped Sarasota’s culture.
Sarasota Suncoast Tours
These fun-filled adventures offer unique, intimate peeks into the rich history of Sarasota and the surrounding area with everything from walking ghost tours to private trolley tours.
The Bay Runner
The Bay Runner is a fun, convenient, and accessible free trolley service that connects Sarasota’s Keys and Downtown for the ultimate Southwest Florida experience.