things to do in sarasota florida

Sarasota, Florida, is a beautiful coastal city known for its stunning beaches, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Here are some things to do in Sarasota:

Beaches and Outdoor Activities

1. Siesta Key Beach: Famous for its soft, powdery white sand, Siesta Key Beach is a must-visit.
2. Lido Beach: A popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
3. Longboat Key Beach: A peaceful beach with calm waters, perfect for families.
4. Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Explore the mangrove tunnels and waterways of Sarasota Bay.
5. Sarasota Jungle Gardens: A 10-acre wildlife sanctuary with a variety of animals, including birds, reptiles, and mammals.

Cultural Attractions

1. Ringling Museum of Art: A world-renowned museum featuring European and American art, as well as a beautiful garden.
2. Sarasota Opera House: A historic theater hosting opera, ballet, and other performing arts events.
3. Sarasota Ballet: A professional ballet company performing classical and contemporary works.
4. Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium: A marine research center with interactive exhibits and a shark tank.
5. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens: A 15-acre botanical garden featuring a variety of plant species and a butterfly garden.

Family-Friendly Activities

1. Sarasota Children’s Museum: An interactive museum with hands-on exhibits and play areas.
2. Mote Marine’s Dolphin Research Center: A center dedicated to dolphin research and conservation.
3. Jungle Island: A wildlife park with a variety of animals, including birds, reptiles, and mammals.
4. Sarasota Jungle Gardens’ Animal Encounters: Get up close and personal with animals, including tigers, bears, and monkeys.
5. St. Armands Circle: A charming shopping and dining district with a playground and a variety of restaurants.

Food and Drink

1. The Old Salty Dog: A casual restaurant serving seafood and American cuisine.
2. The Cottage Restaurant: A cozy restaurant with a focus on local ingredients and creative dishes.
3. Selva Grill: A farm-to-table restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
4. Big Olaf Creamery: A popular ice cream shop with unique flavors and toppings.
5. Sarasota Farmers Market: A weekly market featuring local produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods.

Events and Festivals

1. Sarasota Film Festival: A annual festival featuring independent films and industry events.
2. Sarasota Music Festival: A classical music festival featuring performances by renowned musicians.
3. Sarasota Jazz Festival: A festival celebrating jazz music with performances and workshops.
4. Sarasota Seafood Festival: A festival featuring seafood, live music, and activities for all ages.
5. Ringling International Arts Festival: A festival featuring performances, exhibitions, and workshops by artists from around the world.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Sarasota, Florida. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or family-friendly fun, Sarasota has something for everyone.