Things To Do in Sarasota, FL

This picturesque city, located on the southwestern coast of the state of Florida is the perfect destiny for beach lovers. Soft sand and pleasant waters are merely two of the remarkable things that make Sarasota beaches one of the best in our country. Most people think Sarasota’s main attractions are all about peaceful beaches like Siesta Key and Lido Key, gorgeous places where you can relax all day laying on a beach bench under the shade of a palm tree. Even though this is true, this radiant city has much more entertainment to offer. Sarasota has some fantastic museums and outstanding restaurants. A vibrant artistic scene is present with several local theaters and cultural festivals. Behind its impressive skyline, Sarasota preserves a variety of gardens, parks, aquariums and sanctuaries that will make you experience a deep connection with nature. If you’re planning a family trip, Sarasota is always a great idea. There are things to do for every family member! Below are some ideas for things to do in Sarasota.

Siesta Key

Popularly known as one of the best beaches in America, this paradisiac barrier island is famous for its sugar-like sand and calm waves. Surrounded by the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and Robert’s Bay, Siesta Key offers a luxurious experience for its visitors. A drum circle takes place on this shore every Sunday. Feel the cheerful sound of tambourines and enjoy this freestyle dance circle while the splendid sun goes down in the ocean landscape. If you want to visit the most exclusive shops and acclaimed restaurants, you must go downtown to Siesta Village.  The vibrant streets have local business such as spas, bars, boutiques, and cafés. There’s always a fun energy at Siesta Key.

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

Established in 1927, this fine art museum is one of the leading destinations in Sarasota. A vast collection of European, American and Asian art is what makes the Ringling Museum one of the prime cultural venues in Florida. This collection includes paintings, sculptures, drawings, photographs, decorative arts and much more. Visitors are welcomed with a beautiful Venetian-style garden, along with two monumental fountains. A replica of Michelangelo’s David adorns the museum’s Mediterranean architecture. Inside their 21 galleries you will find works from some of the most acclaimed artists in history, such as Marcel Duchamp, Diego Velazquez, Gianlorenzo Bernini and many others. From invaluable pieces of art history to bold and edgy contemporary works, by visiting Ringling Museum you will be enlightened by the world of art. Exhibitions, performances, special screenings and other special events are some of the activities this museum has to offer.

Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium

This aquarium is the home of almost 200 different species. You will have the opportunity to see manatees, otters, alligators, manta rays, jellyfish, sea turtles, and a hundred of colorful and exotic marine animals. Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is a great choice to visit with your kids. Every family member will learn about the sea life and its preservation by the hand of scientists and experts. One of the main attractions is the shark tank, where you can be part of a special narrated training session. Yes, sharks can learn tricks, that was actually discovered by Mote Marine’s team of researchers. Visitors of 13 years old and over can book a shark encounter and feed them with the help of aquarium biologists.

Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary

Another great attraction for kids and animal lovers in Sarasota. This sanctuary is a safe and natural environment not only for big felines like tigers, jaguars and lions but also for other animals including birds and bears. Being the home of more than 150 animals, you will learn about their habitat and the importance of their preservation. Don’t miss this exotic family-friendly adventure.

Mary Selby Botanical Gardens

This emerald oasis preserves 6,000 species of plants. Housing the largest collection of bromeliads in the world. This magnificent park has around 20 different habitats, including gardens of bamboo, succulents, ferns and epiphytes, you will also find a mangrove area with a wooden walkway, a butterfly garden and a coffee shop. Take a pleasant walk while you hear the symphony of a live orchestra. Mary Selby Botanical Gardens hosts many music events, most of them of relaxing classical variety.

Sarasota is a place you will never forget. Pristine beaches, outstanding museums, a lovely nature, and vibrant energy are some of the things that make us one of the most visited cities in Florida.