Port Charlotte. Throw into the mix almost a thousand natural springs, and Florida truly is a place with as much to explore both above water as below. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Weve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planets best destinations and adventures. Source: Stephen B. Goodwin / shutterstock. Sarasota Jungle Gardens: 3701 Bay Shore Road, Phone: 941-355-5305. Some of the top things to do in Sarasota include visiting The Ringling, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Siesta Key Public Beach, Ca d'Zan Mansion, Myakka River State Park, and Florida Studio Theater. Non-Amish visitors are welcome to explore the neighbourhood but are advised to do so with cultural and religious sensitivity. Copyright Silver Footprint Ltd 2023. The 12 Most Unique Things to Do in Saratoga Springs, NY Other gorgeous trees you will find in the gardens are the strangler figs, royal palms, and bald cypress. Fun Family Things To Do In Sarasota With Kids. Mote has an aquarium that is home to sharks, turtles, stingrays and manatees to name a few. The spring training home of the Baltimore Orioles, the Ed Smith Stadium, was previously the training location for the Chicago White Sox. On the Birdwalk, visitors can see the intriguing differences between each species and how to minimize environmental risks that harm these valuable animals. Summer Circus Spectacular at The Ringling. There is even a petting. 7+ Fun Things to Do in Sarasota with Kids - Toddling Traveler A qualified marine biologist scoops animals out of the bay and into glass tanks so that you can watch and learn right in the environment itself. Why not take a guided tour around some of its best-loved public art pieces and sculptures. Paddleboarders traverse the waters of the Lido Key Mangrove Tunnels (Photo: SURFit via Flickr), See a 27-foot squid corpse at an aquarium. Best romantic things to do and restaurants for a fun date in Sarasota Engage your teens with some mind-bending fun at Sarasota's escape rooms, including Escape Room Sarasota, Escape Reality, and Escape Room Countdown. This place started as a botanical garden, so keep an eye out for exotic plants as well. Modest clothing stands out in a beach town. A boat sitting in the Bayfront Park Marina in downtown Sarasota, southwest Florida (Photo: Gregory Urbano via Flickr). 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. 37 Free Things to Do in Sarasota in 2022 [Complete List] You can visit their Packing House, which showcases how their citrus business worked, and stop at Marys chapel for a quick ring of the bell. Now that you know the best things to do in Sarasota, lets look at the best places to stay in this gem of Floridas gulf coast! Featuring its own stretch of private beach and stunning views over turquoise waters, the Hyatt Residence Club Sarasota tops the list for luxurious stays in Sarasota. As the curtain lifts and Bizet or Puccini begins, you will think only What a great place to spend the night! The acoustics are phenomenal. is one of Sarasotas most adventurous attractions. Sarasota Farmers Market is proud to support its community by connecting local chefs, artisans, growers, and farmers in the area. 1. 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. Sarasota county is full of rewarding activities and experiences to take part in. Upgrade your instagram captions with these hiking quotes and prompts. The renowned Siesta Key Beach is located in south Sarasota county, famous for its white-sugar sands and crystal clear waters. Great for the entire family, including kids! Intrepid types can choose from kayaks or paddleboards as your mode of transport for this magical adventure that will take you into the heart of a unique ecosystem. 2023 Atlas Obscura. It was the private home of circus-mogul John Ringling and his wife Mable. There are 42 different types of things to do inside in or near Sarasota, Florida. Perhaps one of the best things to do with teens in Sarasota might be dining through Savor Sarasota . Some of the data that are collected include the number of visitors, their source, and the pages they visit anonymously. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. This experience offers opportunities to see dolphins jumping through the waters and manatees munching on seagrass while learning about Sarasotas impactful history. A brightly decorated boat seen during the Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights (Photo: Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights), Enjoy free-form theatre at the Sarasota Improv Festival. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". So, make sure to stop here for a boost of amusement and creativity. 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. Mixon Fruit Farms is a great place to take the kids for a day of fun. It has 30 acres along Little Sarasota Bay, boasting an impressive collection of native Florida plants along scenic nature trails. Annual passes are available. Nobody leaves without a smile on their face! Things To Do In Sarasota This Weekend | March 3-5, 2023 This is located at 16405 Myakka Rd. While you ride, learn about the vibrant history and culture of the city from your . Lake Manatee State Park has a swimming beach for anyone wishing to cool off, swim, or bask in the sun. With lots of music, entertainment, and an overall joie de vivre, the list of things to do in Saratoga Springs feels endless. Explore the city in an air-conditioned trolley and be entertained by informed guides. The sand is still white, the water clear. 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. Kayaking in Sarasota, Florida (Photo: Visit Sarasota County) In the center of the cemetery is the Patriot Plaza amphitheater where visitors can receive guided tours of the artworks every Tuesday at 10 am. Sarasota Chalk . This one is fun for all the family. Here, urban amenities meet small-town living with fantastic beaches, great shopping, and endless dining opportunities. 6. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Greenhouses show rotating exhibits. Truly a haven for flora and fauna, Sarasota Jungle Gardens is one of the most fun things to do in Sarasota! Sarasota - Manatee. But the biggest attraction by far is the feeding of the pink flamingos. Theres also an awards ceremony, with prizes handed out to the boats with the most impressive decorations. Here's 10 standout reasons to drive to Sarasota. Sarasota has something for everyone! This historic Spanish town also offers incredible restaurants, beach hotels, and beautiful scenery. Sample Local Goods at the Sarasota Farmers Market 5. A lone gunner's station is all that remains of a replica Spanish Fort in Florida. A lot. One of the major cultural institutions on the Gulf Coast, the Florida Studio Theatre specializes in contemporary theatre. 40+ Memorable Things to Do in Sarasota for A Weekend of Fun 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. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The Ringling Museum was built to house the collection and serve as a cultural center for the state of Florida. For a peek inside the lives of Sarasotas most wealthy couple, the Ca dZan is well worth a visit. Theres also a gift shop where you can pick up rare collectibles, unique memorabilia and hard-to-find automotive books. Discover Sarasota Tours offers daily tours in an air-conditioned trolley featuring intriguing events from Sarasota's rich past including tiki trivia, circus tours and an "infamous Sarasota". The Bishop Museum is the largest museum of natural history on Floridas Gulf Coast. You can expect to catch redfish, flounder and mackerel throughout the summer months. Check the website for upcoming shows and events! 2 The Ringling Circus Museum. YOGA NIDRA and SOUND CONCERT is hosted at "Casa Cia 5844 Sandy Pointe Dr, Sarasota, FL 34233-3514, United States". It was constructed in the 1920s, drawing inspiration from the couples love of Italian architecture and design, and took only two years to complete. Experience a truly laid-back taste of Florida life. For more sightseeing ideas, read our list of the top things to do in Sarasota. We are Alesha and Jarryd, the award-winning writers and professional photographers behind this blog. One of the most unique ways to explore Sarasota is by joining a Historic Trolley Tour. Floridas overlooked Gulf Coast sweeps from live oaks and manatees to white sand and art routes. It is a preservation area for the Florida scrub-jay habitat and protects other invaluable species, such as bald eagles nesting in the winter. Whimsy art exhibits are exposed inside the museum and through the garden, where you may also find the artists posing next to their pink dragon piglets or fish plants. Quench the need for quality retail therapy at the various boutiques, galleries, and souvenir shops. 27. Lido Key Beach Just adjacent to Siesta Key Beach with a short scenic drive west of Sarasota, Lido Key Beach is a lesser-known hidden gem. A sanctuary to big cats and other exotic animal species, the Big Cat Habitat Gulf Coast Sanctuary is dedicated to the animals that call it home. The organization rehabilitates and releases thousands of injured birds each year. 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. Check out our brand-new ultimate guide to the best things to do in Florida for more ideas! If you're in the area when the weather warms up, make sure you catch a race at the Saratoga Race Course. Trying to find great activities and attractions in Circus City? photo: VisitSarasota.com 6. The Jungle Gardens is one of Sarasotas oldest attractions, first opening in the 1930s. John Ringling founded the museum to build a legacy and memorial for his beloved wife, Mable, and to present his and his wifes exceptional art collection. If youre looking for fun things to do in Sarasota, FL, the Florida Studio Theatre should be high up on your list. This restaurant specializes in local seafood but also offers a variety of other dishes including pasta, pizzas, snacks, and a childrens menu. Go kayaking among the mangroves, play a round of golf, or explore an adventure course high among the trees. Hosted by the Historical Society of Sarasota County, guests will board a traditional tram (known in the US as a 'trolley') before embarking on a fascinating tour of downtown Sarasota. Ringling Museum of Art. The space is one of seven national cemeteries in Florida at the service of veterans. 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. You can easily pick up a rental car in either location. 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. Enjoy a thrilling speed boat ride or a leisurely sail around the local beauty spots and beaches. It is held only on Saturday mornings from 8 to 13 and tends to get crowded, so be there early if you want to take your time strolling around the stands. Learn all about the citys disreputable history of murder, mystery, and unsolved crimes. 6. You can buy food for them as you enter the gardens or at a small shop on the premises called The Flamingo Caf. Traveling with little ones? DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Stretching three miles down Lake Manatee, its namesake, Lake Manatee State Park is a quaint getaway perfect for fishing, picnicking, and de-stressing. Ive stood on said sand, rummaged and scrummaged and buried my toes in it and I have to agree. For those wanting a more structured visit, theres a number of art and nature programs available, including doing some gardening, having a plant safari through the gardens, or creating art using sticks and rocks. Showcasing a diverse range of productions, the organization aims to make theatre accessible and affordable to all. It comes from pure quartz, filtered from the Appalachian mountains, and it winds up looking bright white, peppy and pretty on Siesta Beach on Siesta Key. Experience the thrill and freedom of parasailing around the local Siesta Key and Anna Maria islands. Tampa Bay has long been renowned for its world-class theme parks and attractions. Held each spring, this festival attracts a crowd that voraciously devour three days of food, fossils, arts and crafts, music and fun for the whole family. Its big and in some opinions tacky, but its certainly a conversation starter. Florida is not all about sandy beaches and palm trees. 15 Fun and Unique Things to do in Sarasota 1. Escape Countdown Sarasota 15. Here you can find free roaming flamingos, alligators, all sorts of birds and a petting zoo! 1. Nestled behind the Municipal Auditorium along Van Wezel Way on Sarasota Bay sits a replica military installation known as Fort Juan Ortiz. Or learn about local history and hidden gems with an engaging, informative walking tour. Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Sarasota - Atlas Obscura Even without the education, its a beautiful experience to glide across the water, past the mansions and the palms with dolphins skitting alongside. The Siesta Key distillery produces outstanding, award-winning rums. Escape rooms. The collection of 80+ pieces created between the years 1100 and 1500 is intended to be seen, heard, smelled, touched, and tasted. An annual collaboration between the Circus Arts Conservatory . It has no less than 36,000 square feet of concrete and brick, terracotta, stucco, and glazed tiles inspired by the Gothic style of the Venetian palazzos the circus king and queen admired during the years they spent in Europe. Use an app to find objects, score points and complete challenges, all under the supervision of a local host. Skydiving in Sarasota is a truly unforgettable experience. Go kayaking among the mangroves, play a round of golf, or explore an adventure course high among the trees. Explore Myakka River State Park 4. AddThis sets this cookie to track page visits, sources of traffic and share counts. See a Horse Race at the Saratoga Race Course. This museum is jam packed with mementos from when the Ringling circus was at its heyday. John Ringling collected unusual works from around the globe. Sarasotas creative impulses are allowed to flow each year as more than five city blocks are given over to a popular arts festival. Between its wealthy patrons, private collectors, museums and creators there is art on display in the city almost everywhere you look. It also has an animal hospital, virtual reality diving experience and fossils, including a replica of prehistoric sharks jaws. At any given time you are likely to catch world-class Broadway productions, live music, comedians, contemporary dance and even the odd ballet and orchestral performance. 5. 20 Things To Do In Sarasota (Florida) In 2023 Don't miss out on the attractions that make this such a hidden gem! 14 Fun Things To Do In Siesta Key You Can't Miss!!! - Florida Trippers There are also well-known food and beverage outlets and even a store selling arcade games, pinball machines, and memorabilia. Details: Lakewood Ranch Cinemas, 10715 Rodeo Drive 8, Sarasota and Burns Court Cinemas, 506 Burns Lane, Sarasota. The Myakka Canopy Walkway offers a unique opportunity to witness life up in the tree canopy. Its still a beautiful place to visit and an excellent place for freshwater fishing, swimming and other kayaking. 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. Here's a list of 10 great things to do in and around Sarasota, with either a low-cost or FREE admission. An upscale, beautiful one with more than 130 locations in a well organised wheel thats close to the beach and with ample parking. Mote Marine Laboratory 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 388-4441 Experience a free live encounter with these massive cats. Here is a list of the best places in Sarasota for families. 30 Best Fun things to do in Sarasota Florida You Must Do! Tour historic buildings, such as the Guptill House, built entirely with Florida yellow pine in 1901. It has a rotating schedule of temporary exhibitions as well as a large permanent collection.