While the state of Florida offers several vacation spots for travelers, Sarasota, located on the spacious Gulf Coast, is a unique destination with plenty of surprises. Whether you see yourself as an outdoor enthusiast, a culture seeker, or a little bit of each, Sarasota is the place to be, any time of year.
This vibrant city has a lot to offer all ages, from children to snowbirds escaping the winter months up north. Along with the pristine coastline suitable for swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, and more, Sarasota offers a robust, year-round arts and culture scene, historical attractions, unique museums, spectacular restaurants with amazing views, and shopping venues to dawdle away your time. Keep reading this thorough guide to Sarasota to find out all you need to know to plan your next trip to this surprising Florida city.
How to Get Around Sarasota
When it comes to the best ways to get around Sarasota, it is essential to keep in mind that traffic here can be quite busy and time-consuming. If you are driving in with your own vehicle, make sure your hotel has ample parking and consider leaving it there until you need it to get to day trips or special locales.
The city offers both public transportation and ride-share services to help you make your vacation as stress-free as possible. Enjoy rides throughout the downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods on the free, open-air trolley, The Bay Runner. These trolleys will even take you to and from the beach daily and often run late at night, so you can enjoy the restaurants and bars. Another option is ride-share service. Numerous Uber drivers service this area and are always ready to take you where you want to go.
Best Time to Visit Sarasota
The best time to visit Sarasota will largely depend on your vacation preferences. For instance, if you want to enjoy warm weather and all the available beach access and activities, then Summer (June-August) will be the best time for your trip. It does get extremely hot during these months, however, often averaging 90 degrees during the day, with high humidity. For a little less heat and humidity but still warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities, Spring (March-May) may be your best bet.
For those seeking warm but more comfortable temperatures, Fall (September-October) is the best time to visit. You can still enjoy outdoor activities but will avoid some of the crowds. Fall is also a fun time to visit for special events, such as all the Halloween activities nearby and Sharktoberfest at Mote Marine and Aquarium.
Still, don’t rule out Winter (December-February) if you are looking for a place to get away from cold weather and if you’re not set on outdoor activities only. Temperatures during winter here usually average around 74 degrees during the day but dip into the 50s at night. Sarasota is also enjoyable over the holidays, with the city decorations and events happening almost daily.
In reality, there is no bad time to visit this Gulf coast city. While it already has so much to keep you busy, it also offers numerous events and festivals at different times of the year, and these will undoubtedly make your trip even more memorable.
Top Things to Do in Sarasota
The most difficult task you may have when planning your trip to Sarasota is what to do first and what not to miss. Below we recommend some of the top things to consider adding to your list, whether it is your first visit or the twentieth.
The Ringling
Sarasota is home to a famous circus family history and a trip here isn’t complete without visiting The Ringling. Within this 66-acre estate you’ll find various attractions, museums, and green spaces. You can take a tour through the Venation-inspired mansion known as Ca’ d’zan, former home of the Ringlings. You can also spend time roaming through the fascinating and entertaining Circus Museum or the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. For those intrigued or looking for a little bit more, there is the option of joining a Circus Secrets of Sarasota tour.
Mote Marine Lab and Aquarium
A visit to Florida brings with it the possibility of seeing sea life while swimming or on the beach. Here in Sarasota, however, there is another option. The world-class Mote Marine Lab and Aquarium houses sea turtles, otters, manatees, sharks, and more. Learn about your favorite marine species, visit the touch pools, and glimpse into the labs of researchers who work here.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Plants that grow in South Florida can differ greatly from where many visitors come from, and there’s no better place to see these up close than at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Located along the bay, you can experience a walk on a mangrove walkway, stroll through amazing gardens, stop in the Museum of Botany and Arts, and visit the conservatory. There’s also a child-friendly Rainforest Garden, a café, and a garden shop to peruse.
Myakka Canopy Walkway
Enjoy a daring walk on a treetop trail through a canopy of trees, and make your way up to the observation tower for spectacular views, all within the Myakka River State Park. The Myakka Canopy Walkway is a treat for nature lovers of all ages and a prime birdwatching locale in Florida.
Siesta Key
When you think of Florida and things to do in Sarasota, naturally you think of sandy beaches. Be sure then to head over to Siesta Key. This small island is 8 miles long and consistently ranks high up on the list of the World’s best beaches. You can access the island via two bridges and spend the day taking walks along the beautiful Siesta beach, swimming in the warm, calm water, sunbathing, bike-riding, or enjoying a cocktail at one of the beach restaurants.
Where to Stay in Sarasota
Sarasota offers visitors a variety of accommodation options to fit all budgets. Below, we provide five of the best.
The Sarasota Modern, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel
- Address: 1290 Blvd. of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
The Sarasota Modern, located within the Rosemary District, serves as your home away from home while here, complete with a central courtyard containing a pool and outdoor bar. The building itself is architecturally enticing and offers various room sizes, many with furnished patios or balconies. You also have access to complimentary bicycles to enjoy during your stay.
The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
- Address: 1111 Ritz-Carlton Dr., Sarasota, FL 34236
- Diamond-designation: Four Diamond
This luxurious resort hotel provides everything you need, including a stunning waterfront view, furnished balconies, a health club, and an inviting spa. The Ritz-Carlton is located in downtown Sarasota, providing you with plenty of areas to explore within walking distance. You can also ride the hotel’s shuttle over to the resort beach club for the day, where you’ll find a restaurant and pool in addition to sandy beaches.
voco Sarasota
- Address: 1223 Blvd. of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
Enjoy your stay in a boutique hotel located near the performing arts center, numerous restaurants, and fun shopping venues. In the evenings, gather with family or make new friends while sitting around the fire pit enjoying a glass of wine or even a cup of hot chocolate. The voco Sarasota offers guests free, covered parking during their stay and a business center for those not just here on vacation.
Art Ovation Hotel
- Address: 1255 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
- Diamond-designation: Four Diamond
For those looking for a unique accommodation while enjoying what Sarasota has to offer, look no further than the stunning Art Ovation Hotel which is located in the heart of the city. Enjoy rotating art displays in the lobby and relax in upscale rooms which inspire creativity. The hotel offers a shuttle to the beach for guests and provides coolers, towels, and chairs once you arrive. In late afternoon, you can join the hotel’s art and wine tour or just relax at the rooftop bar and pool.
Lido Beach Resort
- Address: 700 Ben Franklin Dr., Sarasota, FL 34236
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
If you wish to stay closer to the beach while visiting Sarasota, the Lido Beach Resort will not disappoint. You can stay in a clean, crisp suite situated in one of the two oceanfront towers and receive a nightly turndown service and more. For convenience, the resort offers a free shuttle service for all guests, so you never have to worry about driving or finding your own transportation to all the sites.
Where to Eat in Sarasota
While visiting Sarasota, you may want to explore the many types of restaurants in different neighborhoods or spend your time at cafés on the beach. If you’re looking for something a bit more, however, consider finding your way to one of the following.
Michael’s On East
- Address: 1212 East Ave S., Sarasota, FL 34239
- Diamond-designation: Four Diamond
- Reservations: Recommended
- Type of Cuisine: Continental, Contemporary American, Seafood, Steak
Enjoy a special meal at Michael’s On East, the restaurant where both visitors and residents go for an upscale experience. The chef prepares seasonal dishes containing both seafood and steaks, and all breads, pastries, and desserts are made fresh daily. You can also choose from their craft cocktails and extensive wine list.
Columbia Restaurant-Sarasota
- Address: 411 St. Armands Cir., Sarasota, FL 34236
- Diamond-designation: Approved
- Reservations: Suggested
- Type of Cuisine: Cuban, Spanish
A visit to the southern Gulf Coast of Florida isn’t complete until you dine at the Columbia Restaurant, a small, local chain that began slightly north of Sarasota in Ybor City (Tampa) in 1905. The cozy interior sports a Spanish motif, with brightly designed tiles and historic ephemera throughout. On the menu, you will find specialty meals, including paella Espanola, grilled grouper, and, of course, Cuban sandwiches.
JPAN Sushi & Grill-University Town Center
- Address: 229 N. Cattleman Rd., #61, Sarasota, FL 34243
- Diamond-designation: Approved
- Reservations: Recommended
- Type of Cuisine: Pan-Asian, Sushi
A hidden gem, JPAN Sushi & Grill is located in a regular shopping complex and is a popular spot for residents, business visitors, and tourists. Serving a variety of modern and classic Pan-Asian cuisine, you can choose one of the many Japanese specialties or perhaps go with a new Korean dish. Everything on the menu here, however, receives high praise.
Sarasota Photo Spots
Whether you are looking for the best photo spots for your family photo album or are thrilled to share what the area has to offer on your Instagram feed, the following scenic locations are some of the best in and around Sarasota.
1. The Ringling Museum
Spend some time at the Ringling Museum, where you will find both indoor and outdoor photo spots to cherish. Inside, you’ll experience an art collection to keep you entranced, including sculptures, paintings, and decorative art pieces. Outside, spend time wandering into the spacious gardens, marvel at the pink exterior walls and mosaic tile, and capture the spacious courtyard as your backdrop.
2. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens offers both beautiful and unique backdrops consisting of various plants, flowers, succulents, and more. You’ll also find evolving exhibits centered around famous artists to help boost your creativity and provide unexpected subjects to photograph.
3. St. Armands Circle
St. Armands Circle, located on its own cozy isle, is a circular neighborhood with unique shops, restaurants, and other businesses. Take photos of the treasures you find here, including historical Italian statutes, unique gifts to take home, and beautiful meals to savor.
4. Bayfront Park and Marina
Any time of day, the Bayfront Park and Marina serves as the perfect spot for photos. Stroll through the green space, stopping often to enjoy the spectacular views of the city, the bay, an outdoor art exhibit, and whatever surprises that may catch your eye, including boats in the marina.
5. Siesta Key
For beach scenes, head over to Siesta Key and capture the true essence of Florida - a white sandy beach, tropical plants, and calm, transparent turquoise waters. Time it right, and you can also enjoy a beautiful sunset or sunrise here.
6. Historical Burns Court
Built back in 1925, Burns Court is a unique find in the Sarasota area. With its appealing storefronts, Mediterranean-style houses, retro movie theater (now home to the Sarasota Film Society), and quaint buildings decorated with hand-painted art, you’re sure to find just the right spots to capture in your photos.
7. Longboat Key
Head over to nearby Longboat Key and enjoy the 12 miles of beach, scanning for osprey, pelicans, dolphins, manatees, and turtles to photograph. This small island is a prime location to capture wild Florida at its best.
Day Trips from Sarasota
Being located along the spacious Gulf Coast of Florida, Sarasota is close to other cities and attractions you may want to explore during your time here. Much will depend on how far you want to travel and how much time you have. To help, we list five popular destinations to consider spending a day.
1. Venice Beach
- Distance: 30-minute drive (approx. 20 miles from downtown Sarasota)
Enjoy a quick drive south to Venice Beach for the day and comb the sand for fossilized shark’s teeth and other natural treasures. Try your luck fishing off the wooden pier or stroll over the jetties. The historic downtown offers charming restaurants, sites, and shops to keep you busy.
2. The Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg
- Distance: 1-hour drive (approx. 45 miles)
For a unique treat, drive north to St. Petersburg and the Salvador Dalí Museum. The iconic building that houses the museum attracts attention all on its own. Inside, you will find the most significant permanent art collection of works by the surrealist artist Salvador Dalí, famous for his melting clocks, double imagery technique, and unique oil paintings. Pick up keepsakes and gifts for family and friends back home in the on-site museum shop.
3. Sponge Docks in Tarpon Springs
- Distance: 1.5 hour drive (approx. 80 miles)
Explore the unique history of Greek sponge divers, shop for gifts and mementos of your trip, and, of course, enjoy an authentic Greek meal. Join a short cruise out on the waterway from the docks and be sure to stop in Hellas Bakery and try their amazing Greek desserts.
4. Busch Gardens, Tampa
- Distance: Approx 1.5 hour drive (approx. 66 miles)
If you’re looking for something away from the beach towns, head north to Tampa and visit Busch Gardens. This classic amusement park offers guests thrilling rides, live shows, a zoo housing over 10,000 animals, and numerous food and shopping venues. All ages will enjoy a day trip here.
5. Key West
- Distance: 3.5 hours via ferry (approx. 118 nautical miles)
If you are feeling adventurous, take a day trip to the southernmost point in the US via the Key West Express ferry. The ferry sails from nearby Ft. Myers Beach and Marco Island, departing in the early morning and returning in the evening. You can spend the day roaming around historic Key West, enjoying time out on the water, and fitting in a good meal before climbing back onboard the ferry for a relaxing trip back.
Visiting Sarasota on a Budget
Sarasota has a lot to offer and enough to keep you busy, no matter what your interests may be or how long you choose to stay. If you’re visiting on a budget, however, you’ll need to find ways to be thrifty without sacrificing fun and relaxation. Below, we provide several tips to help you do just that.
1. Plan your day’s activities keeping in mind transportation options, including the complimentary trolley which runs 7 days a week (up until midnight). You can also buy a pass (for 1 day, 7 days, or 30 days) for the Sarasota bus system, with routes taking you to the Ringling Museum and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.
2. Take advantage of your AAA membership, including discounts on vehicles, tickets, and hotels. You may be surprised at how much you can save by doing so!
3. Purchase picnic items and snacks for your hotel room at food markets, such as Detwiler’s Farm Market in Sarasota or the weekly Farmers Market (Saturdays at 1 N. Lemon Avenue) frequented by locals.
4. Bring good walking shoes and enjoy a self-guided walking tour. Maps and point of interest brochures and lists can be obtained throughout the city. Other options include joining in on the various free gallery walks.
5. Enjoy happy hour specials at various spots around the city, including the Hub Baja Grill (Siesta Key) and Smokin’ Joe’s Pub (Main Street).
6. Before traveling to Sarasota, find out when sites and attractions offer free or discounted admission. For example, The Sarasota Art Museum has free admission on the 2nd Sunday of each month, and the Ringling Museum is free on Mondays.
Plan Your Sarasota Vacation with AAA
Once you’ve gathered inspiration for your dream Sarasota trip on Trip Canvas, contact one of AAA’s Travel Agents today to start making your dream a reality, using your AAA membership to access exclusive deals. No matter your budget, they can help you simplify the planning process with prepackaged trips or à la carte options.