The city has some great clubs and caters to all tastes of music and dancing. 1. Away from the beach, you can enjoy the cool sea breeze and most stunning sunsets Florida has to offer. Sarasota, Florida Molly the Mollusk The giant squid's. 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. The downtown campus is 15 acres off Sarasota Bay, with stunning display gardens, a bayfront mangrove walkway, and a host of native, desert, and rainforest plant species. This is a must-see for all car enthusiasts. Search for free among 1,500,000 tours in every destination around the world! And realise just how much we all still need to be the change for social justice. Know Before You Go: The Ringling Museums are located at 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL 34243. Sarasotas history is interlinked with its love of art. This park has a huge artificial lake that is ideal for rowing and is often used for regattas and triathlon events. 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. A place for business, socialisation, and entertainment this is probably the best way to describe the most important fresh produce market in Sarasota county. Definitely unique through its oddness, Mariettas Museum doesnt have the sobriety of a world-class arts venue but is more of a place for relaxation. Definitely one of the best free things to do in Sarasota. Stretching three miles down Lake Manatee, its namesake, Lake Manatee State Park is a quaint getaway perfect for fishing, picnicking, and de-stressing. Youll save yourself the hassle of finding a taxi and received personalized attention the entire time. It has some of the softest sand I have ever walked on. Lets have a look in more detail. Find unique souvenirs to bring home and gift loved ones. Non-Amish visitors are welcome to explore the neighbourhood but are advised to do so with cultural and religious sensitivity. AddThis sets this cookie to ensure that the updated count is seen when one shares a page and returns to it, before the share count cache is updated. This 25-foot sculpture on Sarasotas bay-front is based on an iconic photograph taken in New Yorks Times Square on V-J day, 1945. This is easily one of the most unique things to do in Sarasota at night. This ten-stop itinerary is by no means exhaustive. Dolphins, manatees, rays and exotic birds are just some of the natural treasures to be witnessed in this part of Florida. Tampa Bay theme parks is just minutes away too if you're looking to get your heart pumping. The Fish Hole 3. 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 A lone gunner's station is all that remains of a replica Spanish Fort in Florida. two week Florida West coast road trip itinerary here. LOCATION Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 North Palm Avenue DATES 5-6 July 2019, A performer in full flow during the Sarasota Improv Festival (Photo: Sarasota Improv Festival), Indulge in some retail therapy at The Womens Exchange. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze how you use this website. The African safari-themed Busch Gardens has thrilling white knuckle roller coasters as well as rides for younger children and a zoo. Siesta Key Beach This beautiful beach is located just west of downtown Sarasota on Siesta Key. Ten acres of botanical plants are the home of exotic animals and birds, reptiles, pink flamingos, and even farm animals like goats and pigs. The most popular viewing areas are Marina Jack Restaurant, Bay front Park and City Island. Think giant inflatable playground with climbing walls, zip lines, wrecking balls and enough silly fun to leave you totally exhausted. This Big Cat Sanctuary is home to all kinds of wild and exotic creatures including tigers and lions (as well as ligers and tigons), bears, primates, birds and wallabies. Daily shows welcome visitors to experience and learn more about these fascinating creatures with the chance to have one-on-one interactions with them after the show. And thats not just folklore. Half poignant reminder of struggle and relief at the end of war. Or for some fresh air, have a picnic or a walk in Bayfront Park. As the largest subscription theatre in Florida, plus one of the largest in the nation, the Florida Studio Theatre presents a wide variety of programs, from improv and mainstage to cabaret and childrens theatre. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Rent out boogie boards and surfboards to hit the waves. Opened in 1926 as a multi-use cultural space it has hosted performances from some of the biggest stars of yesteryear, including a young Elvis Presley in 1956. The Legacy trail follows the route of the old Seaboard Air Line railroad and runs from downtown Venice up to Sarasota. The venues website has an up-to-date guide on what is showing throughout the year. So get in on the fun and discover the fun things to do in Sarasota with kids. 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. One of the most unique ways to explore Sarasota is by joining a Historic Trolley Tour. This article explores the best things to do in Sarasota during your trip so you dont miss out on top attractions that draw in millions of visitors to this tropical oasis each year! The citys diverse culinary scene offers a variety of unique local flavors with a particular emphasis on seafood. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Guided nature walks and guided paddling adventures are also available. Ever fancy yourself as a ninja warrior contestant? Since its founding in 1973, the Florida Studio Theatre has expanded to five small theatres spread across downtown Sarasota to promote a one-of-a-kind, professional experience. There are many things you should do while visiting Sarasota, but if you only do one thing from this list, let it be a trip to the Circus Arts Conservatory. This expansive area of wetlands, prairies and forests is the real unspoiled and wild Florida. Trying a bit of Andy Warhol on my own image. The museums are large and spread out, so we'd recommend bringing a stroller or carrier if you're visiting with younger kids. The Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy. It is part zoo part garden with so much to see. When the weather forces you to step indoors for a while, visit the the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium or the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, step under the protective tarps of the Sarasota Farmers Market, or jump on a trolley for a haunted tour of the city. 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. Back in the day, the opera house was founded as the Edwards Theater and later named the Florida Theater before becoming an opera house. If you love the circus, you must visit the Ringling Museum of Art! Beyond the white sand, though, youll find lifeguard huts in candy-popping colours at regular intervals and sea an ice- blue cool. The brave can then go fishing, canoeing and kayaking, Kiss beneath Unconditional Surrender on Bayfront Park, Surround yourself with flowers at the Marie Selby Gardens, Snuggle up in a romantic beachfront hotel, Check out fellow luxury travel blogger Mrs Os guide to. Theres an air of intimacy as you step inside the 1119-seat theatre, together with opera lovers from around the world. With a stay at this mid-range hotel, guests are given appealing accommodations, including complimentary continental breakfast, access to the palm-tree-lined outdoor pool, and free WiFi. Tomorrow at 6:00 PM. The works in the collection include paintings, sculptures, jewellery, chalices, tapestries, and stained glass sourced from across the globe, with some borrowed from notable museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Louvre. This experience offers opportunities to see dolphins jumping through the waters and manatees munching on seagrass while learning about Sarasotas impactful history. Its a must for nature lovers. It offers exhibits and educational experiences for young and old alike. In the mood for something completely different? Or simply settle down on the fine sand of Lido Beach and simmer in the sun for a nice suntan! The property even has an 82-foot-high tower. It sounds like a scavenger game is right up your street. The park started hosting regatta competitions in 2009, with only a few sites in the nation standing up to the task. It offers in-house art installations, an outdoor pool, and a great restaurant that doubles as an art gallery. Also about an hour away along the coast is Tampa, home to thrills and screams at Busch Gardens, plenty of culinary delights, a chance to zipline over a natural preserve, and lots of parks to explore. This blocked the manatees route up the river, so it is Lake Manatee in name only. Unusual Attractions in Sarasota Sarasota, Florida John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art A Circus legend leaves an unexpected endowment. Located in Sarasota, Florida, the farm offers a variety of activities for kids of all ages. 2 The Ringling Circus Museum. If youre looking for fun things to do in Sarasota, FL, the Florida Studio Theatre should be high up on your list. A high-flying course of tree-top zip-lines, platforms, climbing walls, ladders and bridges, this place has fun in spades. On the Birdwalk, visitors can see the intriguing differences between each species and how to minimize environmental risks that harm these valuable animals. Featuring two campus locations, the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens totals 45 acres of stunning native Florida ecosystems. The market is open every Saturday from 7 am to 1 pm. The United States National Cemetery, the Sarasota National Cemetery, is the sixth of seven national cemeteries established in Florida. Home to an exceptional collection of vintage cars, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum is renowned for its displays of cars, some of which are rare or have been owned by prominent celebrities. St. Armands has high fashion stores, independent boutiques, restaurants, cafes and museums all nestled within its shaded patios and walkways. Perhaps one of the best things to do with teens in Sarasota might be dining through Savor Sarasota . The resort also has an 18-hole championship golf course, spa, gym, and numerous restaurants to sample the highest quality food and drinks around. 3. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. They then throw them back in to the water to keep these studies sustainable. 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. And its a curious place to visit. The theater is reputed for hosting one of the largest Shakespeare festivals in the nation. Expect to be well fed and well educated in equal measure with your experienced guides regaling you with anecdotes relating to Sarasotas rich heritage and food tastings. It offers units with a living area, their own kitchen, and a spa bath. The two parks couldn't be more different and definitely offer something unique to do in Sarasota for those who love the outdoors. Tampa Bay theme parks is just minutes away too if youre looking to get your heart pumping. The structure first opened in 2000 and was the first public treetop trail in North America. Among the famous car brands represented here are Alfa Romeo, Bentley, Cadillac and Ferrari. The zoo also organises animal shows, where you can learn a lot about the sanctuarys conservation efforts. Or a giant tortoise? 1. Der Dutchmans pies and desserts are legendary, involving ripe cherries, pumpkin and cream pies that involve, well, lashings and lashings of fluffed white cream. Many anglers flock to Lake Manatee State Park for great opportunities for freshwater fishing off its shores, off the parks fishing docks, or on a boat. Go Museum Hopping 2. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. Truly a haven for flora and fauna, Sarasota Jungle Gardens is one of the most fun things to do in Sarasota! Ringling Museum of Art. the FST began life in 1973 and has since grown into a small village of five intimate theatre spaces in downtown Sarasota. Sarasota is home to a number of impressive public and private golf courses. And for those not in the green-fingered know (like me) thats orchids, ferns and bromeliads. Guides are on-site at all times to help navigate the tougher parts of the trails. 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. Want to hear something crazy? The Lake was created in the 1960s when the Manatee River was dammed. This was voted in 2020 as the best beach in the United States and should be a must visit when staying here. 1. This is a must for kids and adults who are enthusiastic about science. Look out for the Sarasota County Historical Commission signs on segregation in the 1950s. The museum is in an eye-catching pink Renaissance-style palace, which houses 31 galleries. Meat, cheese, honey they are all from reliable sources. This Florida resort community is where the Amish come to have fun in the sun. The park has extensive areas for kayaking, hiking, cycling and camping grounds located throughout. It also has an animal hospital, virtual reality diving experience and fossils, including a replica of prehistoric sharks jaws. Hidden within the mangrove tunnels you can often see manatees, dolphins, clams, crabs and osprey. CPonies 11. An eclectic treasure trove of maritime marvels. Forget regular mini golf. This restaurant specializes in local seafood but also offers a variety of other dishes including pasta, pizzas, snacks, and a childrens menu. 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. Go kayaking among the mangroves, play a round of golf, or explore an adventure course high among the trees. Others wishing to remain on the dry land stick to the biking and hiking trails winding through the park. 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. Plus, the freshwater lake, Lake Osprey, is open for swimming! Its time to enter into the realm of alligators and still waters. A walk through the often-crowded Sarasota Farmers Market fills the air with smells of freshly baked artisan goods and fragrant flowers. Exploring more of the Sunshine State? Myakka River State Park Myakka River State Park Canopy Walk Sarasota is home to Myakka River State Park, one of Florida's oldest and most scenic parks. An alternative to the Sarasota Jungle Gardens is the Big Cat Habitat & Gulf Coast Sanctuary, home to many lions, tigers, bears, primates, and birds. Experience a free live encounter with these massive cats. The campus is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. The facility runs a wild bird learning center which it describes as a living museum where visitors can meet these fascinating creatures face to face. A two-hour Segway tour is a great way to explore the area. This is one of the top Sarasota attractions for active travelers! The Park has a couple of restaurants, including a tiki bar and grill, and also offers an outstanding view of the bay. 1. ), Related:Things To Do in Daytona Beach, Florida. It offers a permanent home to 120 birds who could not be returned to the wild due to their injuries. The campground at Oscar Scherer State Park is a hit during the winter and an excellent option for an authentic outdoorsy stay in Floridas nature! The beach offers great swimming and its even possible to spend a night at one of the parks campsites. And another lucky highlight of a visit on holiday? For the ultimate in privacy, book a room at the Lido Beach Resort, which offers a stretch of private beach, a poolside bar, and elegant rooms with fully equipped kitchenettes. When: Every Wednesday 6-9pm Where: Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch UTC Night Market The UTC Night Market offers live music, food trucks, local food vendors, outdoor drinking, outdoor dancing, kids games, cornhole, building blocks for kids, handmade goods, jewelry, local art and more. Experience Sarasota nightlife with a guided tour of some of the best local eateries. With many parks, nature reserves, and gardens nearby, you wont struggle to find fun things to do in Sarasota. 1. 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. 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. The beautiful building constructed in the Mediterranean Revival style and guarded by mighty palm trees has hosted exceptional performances over the years. The Marie Selby Gardens are the best of a botanical garden: we all still need to be the change for social justice. In addition, guided tours are available every Tuesday for an informative tour of the commissioned artwork found within Patriot Plaza. Contained within its own small island there is always something going on at the Circle. You'll paddle though mangrove canals along the shoreline. If you have more time, heres a crazy idea. Visiting this museum is one of the many fun things to do in Sarasota, and it wont even take you a lot of time. Check out our brand-new ultimate guide to the best things to do in Florida for more ideas! With miles of beaches, coves and inlets theres an almost endless variety of places to fish. Although weve covered a lot of family travel ideas here, theres no doubt that Sarasota is a great spot for couples. Explore the John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art 5401 Bay Shore Road Sarasota The detailed circus miniatures at the Ringling Museum in Sarasota Florida. 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! Tampa Bay is not far from Sarasota! You cannot miss the Australian nut tree or the bunya-bunya tree with its large fruits. To tour the first floor only, adults pay $10 additional on top of their museum entrance ticket. Whatever you reason for choosing to visit Sarasota, therell be something to keep you entertained. And so, I researched and reached out to people who know the city well. Mixon Fruit Farms. 28. First, catch your biggest catch yet with a day of deep-sea fishing. Drum Circle Siesta Key Beach 2. Receive exclusive access to the onsite spa, The Beach Club on Lido Key, the championship golf course, and more as a guest at this stunning, elegant retreat. 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. Check the website for upcoming shows and events! You can find a museum of botany, historic buildings, areas for dining and a rainforest garden with interactive exhibits for children all inside the grounds. As a separate area to the beach, Sarasota Bayfront combines marinas, splash pads, palm trees and an unmistakable statue. Watch river otters play and fluidly glide through the waters. A boat sitting in the Bayfront Park Marina in downtown Sarasota, southwest Florida (Photo: Gregory Urbano via Flickr). Here, urban amenities meet small-town living with fantastic beaches, great shopping, and endless dining opportunities. Visit Sarasotas most important landmarks and cultural sites on these whistle-stop trips. Committed to the rescue and rehabilitation of birds, the Wild Bird Learning Centers mission is to recuperate these avian species to return to their natural habitats. If you are still seeking attractions why not visit the animals at Zoo Tampa or cool off at Adventure Island, Tampas largest water park. No matter if youre up for a day of outdoor fun or want to grab a drink or taste some local cuisine, youll find something that fits your schedule and your budget in this beautiful coastal city. Buy a ticket for lemur yoga. 6. Its home to a collection of playful and fun paintings, sculptures and crafts, generously collected by the museums founder, Marietta Lee. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". 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. Unfortunately, visitors will not be able to see manatees at the park. Copyright Silver Footprint Ltd 2023. Payne Park 9. Another high-end option is the Resort at Longboat Key Club, which features its own golf course, a full-service spa, and modern luxurious rooms overlooking the Gulf Coast. 1538 State St, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA Open in Google Maps Meet outside of State Street Garage outside of the elevators next to Rise & Nye's. Your guide will be waiting with a big smile at 3:30 p.m. Contents 1. 1. Its big and in some opinions tacky, but its certainly a conversation starter. 4) Watch A Baltimore Orioles Training Match At The Ed Smith Stadium. Ca dZan means Johns House in Venetian dialect, and the Ringlings adored it. 1. Classic Car Museum Sarasota 14. 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. Sarasota Art Museum 7. Great fun for first-timers as well as the more experienced. Venetian Gothic Architecture is sure to dazzle visitors exploring the 36,000-square-foot house. Cool, unusual and unique things to do in and around Sarasota, Florida, More Unique Things to do in Sarasota Florida, A Road Trip from Boston: A Two Week Mix n Match Massachusetts Driving Itinerary. Its bright, colorful and devoted to its message that art should be a positive force in peoples lives. Get ready for lots of stairs, unique challenges, and some maneuvering to score. Greenhouses show rotating exhibits. Sample Local Goods at the Sarasota Farmers Market 5. This protected park is a great place for a quiet picnic, a bit of kayaking or a place to quietly spot wildlife. This is a must-do for daredevils in Sarasota. The Ca dZan is a huge Venetian-style gothic mansion in Sarasota. But if you want to find the real essence of Sarasota, face west at the end of the day. Through our stories and images we promote exciting off-the-beaten-path destinations and fascinating cultures as we go. The place where rowers train, locals walk their dogs, and tourists go boating this is Nathan Benderson Park. 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! The sprawling 15-acre site is especially devoted to the conservation of air plants and houses 6000 species of orchids. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". Test your skills at Jumpin Fun Inflata Park against friends or family members, through a series of obstacles thatll bring out the competitive side in all of you. These cookies will be stored in your browser. Expanding across a hefty 66 acres, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art was established by the famous circus magnate, The Ringling Circus. If this town is on your list of travel destinations this year, here are 15 things to do in Sarasota! My Sarasota Events Calendar is your gateway to Sarasota happenings and fun things to do in Sarasota, Florida and throughout the sparkling Sun Coast each year. 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. Take on the crystalline ocean waters on a sunset cruise, or dip your toes in the sand while bathing in the sun. Family vacations wouldn't be complete without fun, educational, and exciting activities you can all enjoy together. Sarasota Farmers Market. FREE OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT is hosted at "240 S Tuttle Ave, Sarasota, FL 34237-6334, United States". Each creates an intimate atmosphere and space to entertain different tastes. They include Bownes Lab Theatre, the Goldstein Cabaret, the John C. Court Cabaret, the Gompertz Theatre, and the Keating Theatre. Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf. While we absolutely recommend hitting the white sandy beaches, don't let the adventure end there. Come along if you dare! We hope you enjoy our carefully-made selection. Rather than worrying about organizing how to make it from there to your hotel, why not have a pre-arranged airport transfer waiting for you? This impressive European-style structure is also home to contemporary works and regular exhibitions. For a truly original activity, trekking through these stunning mangrove tunnels in South Lido Beach Nature Park, located a quick drive from central Sarasota, will be hard to beat. Challenge your group to use critical thinking skills and escape from your room by the time limitor else! Abigail King is an award-winning writer and broadcaster who swapped a career as a doctor for a life on the road. The big felines are the stars here, and you can see them in shows or admire their mightiness as they go on with their lives in their enclosed spaces. Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy. Visit the Ringling Museum One of the most iconic and famous landmarks in Sarasota is the Ringling fine art museum. 2075 Bahia Vista St, Sarasota, FL 34239, USA. In the heart of the city, you will find an abundance of sporting and cultural events in addition to upscale shops, restaurants, and powder-white beaches for you to enjoy. Address. Time to think again. Will you take the challenge? 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. Read next: The Perfect 3 Days In Tampa Itinerary. Throughout the trail are signs marking fun highlights of local history. 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. The spring training home of the Baltimore Orioles, the Ed Smith Stadium, was previously the training location for the Chicago White Sox. Top 5 events in Sarasota, Bradenton area this weekend Free events including ones with live music, food, beer, wine and cocktails in Sarasota-Manatee. The Jungle Gardens is one of Sarasotas oldest attractions, first opening in the 1930s. If you thought that Florida was all palm trees and sandy beaches, its time to think again. It has 30 acres along Little Sarasota Bay, boasting an impressive collection of native Florida plants along scenic nature trails.
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