The mermaid shows, cave-diving, underwater museums, mangrove-kayaking, and wildlife-watching opportunities presented here still only scratch the surface and the depths - of the myriad activities possible along this wondrous coastline. Related:Fly Drive Florida: A Two Week Itinerary & Adventure. Beyond the white sand, though, youll find lifeguard huts in candy-popping colours at regular intervals and sea an ice- blue cool. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. But on this nearby guided dolphin and manatee tour, a local guide takes you through Sarastoas waters and mangroves by kayak or stand-up paddle board. The Ringling. Then, reserve a romantic sunset cruise with your beau. 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. The Bishop Museum is the largest museum of natural history on Floridas Gulf Coast. The company was originally based in an 18th-century Italian theatre, reconstructed near the Ringling Museum of Art. Contents hide. 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. Next, join a historic walking tour to learn more about downtown Sarasotas impressive architecture and hidden gems. The superb acoustics are its crowning jewel, making the audience feel like they are not just witnessing a performance but are enveloped by the sound. Fun Places to Stay in Sarasota The latest Sarasota hotel we stayed (February 2023) and absolutely adored is Art Ovation Hotel. And now, we can share more unique things to do in Sarasota with you. The test_cookie is set by doubleclick.net and is used to determine if the user's browser supports cookies. Take your pick of fresh produce, local art, fantastic art, baked goods, and other delightful treats. South Lido Park, and the conjoined Ted Sperling Park, offer a peaceful respite from the more bustling parts of the city. They are farmers growing their own vegetables and fruits and selling them in the market. If this town is on your list of travel destinations this year, here are 15 things to do in Sarasota! You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Expect burger stands and pizza podiums as well as arts and crafts markets and the young, the old and the beautiful (sometimes all at the same time, right? Oscar Sherer is the smaller of the two parks. Its still a beautiful place to visit and an excellent place for freshwater fishing, swimming and other kayaking. Known as Molly the Mollusk, the vast cephalopod was inadvertently caught off the coast of New Zealand in 1999 and was soon donated to the Sarasota facility for permanent display, where it quickly became one of its centrepiece attractions among visitors. Here are some the best events which is happening on this weekend in Sarasota. This impressive European-style structure is also home to contemporary works and regular exhibitions. If you love to fish, youre going to love Sarasota. One of the major cultural institutions on the Gulf Coast, the Florida Studio Theatre specializes in contemporary theatre. For more sightseeing ideas, read our list of the top things to do in Sarasota. So get in on the fun and discover the fun things to do in Sarasota with kids. Whether your interest is shopping, dining or culture you can find it all here. Ca dZan means Johns House in Venetian dialect, and the Ringlings adored it. With lots of music, entertainment, and an overall joie de vivre, the list of things to do in Saratoga Springs feels endless. Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy. Less crowded but equally stunning is Lido Key Beach, which focuses in eco-tourism and its famous for its cruises. Head to Manatee Public Beach on Anna Maria Island if youre after a day of picnicking and grilling or try Cortez Beach for a more underdeveloped feel and tall trees lining up the long stretch of sand. Experience a free live encounter with these massive cats. 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. Learn the grisly history of the city with a fun and ghostly tour. 1. More than 120 birds call the living museum home. How would you like to pet a baby alligator? This is the second most important antique car museum in the United States and one of the best Sarasota attractions to visit with kids. Lovers of beautiful automobiles from bygone eras are in for a treat in Sarasota, which is home to its own Classic Car Museum. The butterfly garden is one of the main attractions, so make sure not to miss it for wonderful photos and a great experience. Happily, many of the artistic endeavors from the age have been preserved and at the Ringling Museum in Sarasota visitors can enjoy a fabulous collection of some 80+ pieces created between the years of 1100 and 1500. Built by the famous New York architect Dwight James Baum, the Ca dZan was the Ringlings winter residence, a spectacular building overflowing with luxury both on the outside and on the inside. Sarasota has some of the most beautiful white sandy beaches and turquoise sea in the country. Its big and in some opinions tacky, but its certainly a conversation starter. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. 1. After the Circus Museum, the Museum of Art and whimsy has to be the most cheerful place in Sarasota. Through our stories and images we promote exciting off-the-beaten-path destinations and fascinating cultures as we go. One interesting development has been the easing off of Amish rules around clothing, with the idyllic beaches persuading many that more revealing attire should be tolerated. Its far better than the one you get at the store. Opened only recently in 2014, The Mall has luxury department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Dillards and Macys among a host of other popular brands. Exploring more of the Sunshine State? The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". There are also cabins to rent if camping is not your thing. Push your limits with this exhilarating forest adventure. Founded in 1962 with the aim of supporting the local arts community, its success has led to several million dollars in grants and scholarships down the years, and it continues to play a crucial role in the Sarasota area, as well as providing visitors with a quirky retail experience. 30 Best Fun things to do in Sarasota Florida You Must Do! Visiting this museum is one of the many fun things to do in Sarasota, and it wont even take you a lot of time. There are also well-known food and beverage outlets and even a store selling arcade games, pinball machines, and memorabilia. Feel underwhelmed at the suggestion of a botanical garden? Port Charlotte. Try traditional foods in an Amish kitchen restaurant and learn about the craft of quilting and what it symbolizes. The final resting place of 21,121 veterans as of 2019, the cemetery will continue to serve veterans needs. The Dynasty Club holds social evenings with ballroom dancing. This is one of the top Sarasota attractions for active travelers! At first glance, this is a shopping and dining area. Gaze in awe upon the 135,000-gallon shark habitat as these toothy predators prowl its waters. The sculpture has been at the center of numerous controversies in its short life in Sarasota and has been vandalized and even hit by a car on one occasion. It is run by a non-profit organisation, so all the money they collect from tickets and fees goes to expanding the sanctuary and improving the living conditions for the residents. The Best Hiking Trails Near Myrtle Beach South Carolina July 30, 2020. The United States National Cemetery, the Sarasota National Cemetery, is the sixth of seven national cemeteries established in Florida. There are 42 different types of things to do inside in or near Sarasota, Florida. Expect to see turtles and of course the watchful eye of an alligator. It means that legislation preserves and protects the 34 mile portion of the river that runs through Sarasota County and the result is a serene scene of green. But its the Sea Life Encounters cruise that brings the under and overwater world to life. It is primarily a rescue center for animals in need but also offers the chance to do yoga with some of the parks residents. 1. Siesta Key Beach is an excellent family-friendly destination with nearby ice cream shops to end a perfect day at the beach. But they welcome everyone and you can, quite literally, get a taste of this intriguing culture through their food. 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. And realise just how much we all still need to be the change for social justice. The gentle tides of Ted Sperling Park are a great place for beginners to learn the ropes. Experience Sarasota nightlife with a guided tour of some of the best local eateries. Thanks for your support, kind friend! Non-Amish visitors are welcome to explore the neighbourhood but are advised to do so with cultural and religious sensitivity. Web Visit website. An eclectic treasure trove of maritime marvels. 1. Held over a weekend in July at the venerable Florida Studio Theatre, the festival brings together some of Americas most talented exponents in the art of improvised theatre. Located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, the opera house is conveniently settled near boutique shops and fine dining restaurants to extend your adventures in Sarasota. Sarasota is all about show business, and at any moment of the year, you will find a show or a performance to attend in the city. All you can see from here used to be their land. With many parks, nature reserves, and gardens nearby, you wont struggle to find fun things to do in Sarasota. Inhabited since 300 A.D., this area in Osprey seduced its inhabitants with a beautiful waterfront and lush vegetation. Among the regular visitors is a large Amish and Mennonite community who have vacationed here since the mid-1920s, offering a chance to relax and unwind from the rigors of daily Amish life. Things to Do in Sarasota Map Popular things to do Kayaking Tours Private and Luxury Parks Historical Tours Top Picks Nature & Wildlife Areas Likely to Sell Out Cruises, Sailing & Water Tours Art Galleries Walking & Biking Tours Airport & Hotel Transfers Points of Interest & Landmarks Private Sightseeing Tours Food, Wine & Nightlife TreeUmph! Marie Selby Botanical Gardens 1534 Mound St, Sarasota, FL 34236, map Tickets: $15 for adults, $10 for kids We've always loved checking out botanical gardens and even more now that I'm obsessed with plants. Moreover, our partners, such as Google Adsense, will collect data and use cookies for ad personalization and measurement. The collection of 80+ pieces created between the years 1100 and 1500 is intended to be seen, heard, smelled, touched, and tasted. Housed within the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is a colossal 27-foot long corpse of a giant squid that grabs the attention of everyone who sees it. Meet shadowy characters and enjoy a theatrically spooky experience. This little tropical paradise of Florida seduces visitors from all over to bask in the sun, dip their feet in the sand, collect sea shells, and cool off in the refreshing ocean waters. Start time 03:30 PM End point Gelato-go Sarasota Check out beautiful cars of yesteryear at a Classic Car Museum. Keep your eyes open for the bald eagle hovering over these waters and looking for prey. Here goes! There are lots of family fun things to do when visiting the Sarasota, Florida area. The Ringling Museum was built to house the collection and serve as a cultural center for the state of Florida. Inside the Travel Lab is described by National Geographic Traveler as Essential Reading and Lonely Planet as one of the best travel blogs in the world.. This place has been hosting regatta competitions since 2009, so if you are lucky, you may stumble into a main event with big crowds cheering for their favourite and setting up stall on picnic tables. Its been said that to truly get to know a place you must eat its food. Ten Cool Outdoor Things To Do In Orange Beach and Gulf Shores Alabama It was the private home of circus-mogul John Ringling and his wife Mable. This blocked the manatees route up the river, so it is Lake Manatee in name only. Sarasota Farmers Market. 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. Choose from a variety of themed tours that stop at local tiki bars or take a historical tour to bring you up-to-speed on the city. Its a must for nature lovers. For a peek inside the lives of Sarasotas most wealthy couple, the Ca dZan is well worth a visit. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". For the best in local foods and ingredients dont miss the Sarasota Farmers Market. Skydiving in Sarasota is a truly unforgettable experience. 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. Annual passes are available. This is a great place to unwind. Key spots are Yoders and Der Dutchman where you can stop for a comforting, homemade meal or made-from-scratch cooking as they call it. Google DoubleClick IDE cookies are used to store information about how the user uses the website to present them with relevant ads and according to the user profile. Go kayaking among the mangroves, play a round of golf, or explore an adventure course high among the trees. An upscale, beautiful one with more than 130 locations in a well organised wheel thats close to the beach and with ample parking. Things to Do in Sarasota 1. Know Before You Go: The Ringling Museums are located at 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL 34243. And its a curious place to visit. Sarasota Art Museum 7. Plus, the freshwater lake, Lake Osprey, is open for swimming! Escape Countdown Sarasota 15. To get the most from Sarasotas Lido Key, its best to explore it slowly. Here, visitors will find around 100 rare and vintage cars of every type, some of which were once under the ownership of distinguished figures from the worlds of sport, culture and entertainment. Publix Aprons Cooking School at University Walk Sarasota, FL. The __gads cookie, set by Google, is stored under DoubleClick domain and tracks the number of times users see an advert, measures the success of the campaign and calculates its revenue. 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. There are fun activities such as Lemur and Fox Yoga, a Bird Show and the Variety Animal Demonstration. Adult tickets are $18, with options for children and seniors. Museums for kids in Sarasota Crowley Museum and Nature Center Hike the trails at Crowley Museum and Nature Center because it is such a fun place to visit. 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. The service is friendly and really adds to the atmosphere. Medieval Art Exhibit at the Ringling Museum. For live bands and DJs, its worth checking out the Beach Club at Siesta Key. Others wishing to remain on the dry land stick to the biking and hiking trails winding through the park. You May Also Like. Baseball lovers will undoubtedly have the time of their lives at the Ed Smith Stadium! Myakka River State Park is one of Floridas largest parks and covers 37,000 acres. A trolley tour will show you what should not be missed when in Sarasota.