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Located south of Tampa, along the Gulf Coast, Sarasota’s the perfect vacation spot if you’re looking to take the family away for the weekend.
Sarasota’s most famous connection is to the circus, but there are more things to do on your vacation in Sarasota than eke out old circus connections.
Whether you’re holidaying as a family, a couple, or friends enjoying a weekend break, there’s something in Sarasota, Florida for everyone.
That also means you can feel spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing how to spend your day. To help you make your choice, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best things to do in Sarasota on your vacation.
Experience a Sarasota City Tour
If you aren’t sure where to start, begin with a city tour. The great advantage of city tours is that they give you a taste of the kind of things you can do in Sarasota on vacation and help you plan your visit.
Additionally, no one knows a city like the locals, and a good guide will offer tips, tricks, and places to discover that you might have overlooked.
A city tour introduces you to:
- Historic neighborhoods
- Parks
- Museums
You may even pick up advice on where to eat out, always an important part of any vacation.
The Ringling
Named after the Ringling Circus Brothers, the Ringling is a fine arts museum. But the name is about more than the circus. In 1927, Mable and John Ringling donated a significant amount of artwork to the state art museum.
It was cared for by Florida State University. Today, it has many galleries, including exhibitions of:
- American Art
- Asian Art
- Modern Art
- European paintings and artwork
- Cyprian artifacts
Additionally, the Ringling offers various temporary exhibitions, both free and admissions-based. If you aren’t keen on art, there are talks, lectures, and screenings you can choose to attend. And, if you’re traveling with children, there are family programs designed to engage everyone in the exhibits.
The Ringling is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, and admittance prices vary depending on age. Note that because The Ringling is curated by Florida State University, it’s subject to the same state regulations as the university. This means Florida’s COVID safety protocols will inform your visit.
To find out what these are, consult the website or call ahead.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Some days are too lovely to spend indoors or poking around museums. These things have their place, but when the sun comes out, we say enjoy it.
In Sarasota, one of the best ways to do that is to take a walk through the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Located in the heart of the city, these sprawling gardens stretch over 15 acres and showcase over 6,000 kinds of orchids. They’re also famous for their air plants.
And if the weather does turn on you, there are several indoor activities to divert you. The gardens feature a museum of botany and several historical buildings.
The gardens occupy the former home of Marie and William Selby in the Hudson Bayou neighborhood. They feature a diverse range of habitats, including:
- Mangroves
- Succulents
- Herbarium
- Live oaks
But dedicated botanists may also want to venture further afield to the 30-acre Historic Spanish Point botanical campus. It sits in the Osprey area of Sarasota and has a comprehensive array of plants native to Florida. It is open to the public, and in addition to its botany, showcases over 5,000 years of history.
If a thorough history of Sarasota doesn’t draw young children, they might enjoy the rainforest garden and the Selby Gardens’ interactive exhibits.
Ca d’Zan Mansion
This lavish mansion was the home of Mable and John Ringling. Despite its size and intricacy, it only took two years to build, between 1924-26. The Mediterranean Revival architecture pays homage to the couple’s love of Venice and all things Italian.
The Ca d’Zan’s look and style was heavily influenced by the Doge’s Venetian palace. The Ringling’s love for the Italian even extended to the house’s name, which is Italian for ‘House of John.’
In addition to stunning architecture, the Ca d’Zan offers spectacular views, with a terrace that looks out across Sarasota Bay. There’s also a ballroom, solarium, and a considerable art collection.
Ringling built the home as a love letter to his wife, and as grand gestures go, this one is hard to match. Visitors can take guided tours of the house to get a taste and feel for how the well-to-do used to live.
Visitors who think they would enjoy a tour during their Sarasota vacation can book tickets through the Ringling website.
Kayak Through the Mangroves
Among other things, many people come to vacation in Sarasota for the outdoor opportunities. If that sounds like you, then you can’t visit Sarasota on vacation without kayaking through the mangroves.
These occupy part of Sarasota’s well-known Lido Key, and kayaking is the perfect way to enjoy them. The experience is tranquil and relaxing, even as it ensures you get a good workout.
You can choose to explore the Lido Key’s mangroves on your own or with a guide. Whichever you choose, the silence of a kayak is ideal for expeditions because it won’t alert wildlife to your presence.
As you kayak, keep an eye out for:
- Dolphins
- Manatees
- Herons
- Green parrots
- Egrets
Depending on where your kayak takes you, you may even catch sight of the odd flamingo.
Sarasota Paddleboard Company
Another thing to do in Sarasota on vacation, especially for the outdoorsy, adventurous types, is to rent a paddleboard.
This offers holiday-makers another excellent way to explore the mangrove tunnels. The company rents kayaks and paddleboards, and if you’re hesitant to collect your own, you can arrange to have it delivered to you.
Moreover, if you’re new to kayaking or paddleboarding, you can hire an instructor to coach you through your watery expedition.
Of course, you don’t have to stick to the mangrove tunnels. Sarasota’s many beaches and parks offer a wide range of places to explore. This can be especially rewarding for visitors who’ve rented their paddleboard or kayak for several days, since different habitats offer opportunities to spot different types of wildlife.
Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota
One of these habitats is Sarasota’s Nathan Benderson Park. The park is an expansive 600-acre affair.
It has many advantages, but one reason for its popularity is that it’s friendly to dogs. So, if your canine companion is the type to enjoy hikes and long rambles, there’s no reason not to take him with you. Doubtless, there will be all kinds of interesting smells for him to explore.
And while your dog is busy with local scents, you can enjoy the scenery. There are cycling trails to explore as well as several paved and shell trails. They’re suitable for:
- Rollerblading
- Cycling
- Running
But they’re particularly popular with runners and routinely feature as a training ground for triathletes.
The other notable feature of Nathan Benderson Park is its 400-acre lake. And the lake is famous for its rowing facilities. It’s so well-suited for rowers that it’s a rowing favorite, not only in Sarasota, but named one of the best rowing facilities in North America.
Its combination of racing lanes, coaching lanes, stating huts, training center, and wave attenuation, among other things all, combine to make it ideal for the aspiring rower.
Because it’s so well-equipped, the park also boasts regular rowing regattas. So, the less ambitious visitor can stick to the grandstands and watch others row.
But whether you’re rowing or watching, it’s a spectacle not to be missed and one suitable for the whole family.
Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium
The Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium began life as the Cape Haze Marine Laboratory in 1955.
The name changed in 1967. The new name paid homage to husband and wife duo William and Lenore R Mote, as well as William’s sister, Betty Mote Rose.
The aquarium’s laboratory specializes in estuary and marine research. While you can’t visit the laboratory, the aquarium is open to everyone.
It features local and exotic marine animals. There are over 100, so everyone is sure to find a favorite. But, because of Sarasota’s many watery environs, the aquarium places particular emphasis on its native animals.
Families can expect to see:
- Jellyfish
- Seahorses
- Sea turtles
The scheduled shark feedings are a highlight for many visitors. So, if you’re looking for things to do in Sarasota on vacation with kids, the aquarium is a must.
The aquarium also runs educational programs, including:
- Field trips
- School visits
- Summer camps
If you’re vacationing in Sarasota with kids in the summer, this last is worth taking advantage of. Kids love it, and it frees adult visitors up to explore on their own for a couple of hours.
The aquarium also regularly hosts temporary exhibitions. To find out what these are, consult with the website or call ahead and book tickets to ensure you don’t miss out.
To book tickets, telephone the Marine Laboratory and Aquarium or organize tickets online through the website. The aquarium is open from 9:30-5:00 PM, and visitors can choose their entry time.
Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary
Lions and tigers and bears – oh my!
Yes, really. Despite being primarily a sanctuary for rescued wildcats, the Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary also hosts several other animals. In addition to the lions and tigers, visitors can also see:
- Bears
- Chimpanzees
- Lemurs
- Foxes
Founded in 1987 as a sanctuary for exotic cats of all types, it has since branched out to include various other animals. In 2005 it became a non-profit organization.
The sanctuary features three different habitat types that combine swimming pools with flora to recreate the animals’ native habitats. These habitats are both indoor and outdoor.
Families can enjoy the petting zoo, and more adventurous visitors can volunteer to feed the lions and tigers.
The sanctuary also runs training demonstrations and gives cat yoga a whole new spin with its yoga sessions with tigers and other wild occupants.
Like other Sarasota institutions, the Big Cat Sanctuary offers several educational opportunities, many of which focus on its exotic inhabitants, their environments, and how to protect them.
You can break up the visit with a meal at the Sanctuary’s restaurant or a detour to the shop. But whether you grew up on Curious George or belong to an imperious, albeit domestic cat, this is one Sarasota sight-seeing opportunity you shouldn’t overlook.
The Ringling Circus Museum
No visit to Sarasota on vacation would be complete without a visit to the Ringling Circus Museum.
Sarasota was the winter home of John Ringling, circus director, as well as his wife, family, and many circus performers. So, it seemed natural that in 1948, someone started documenting the circus’ colorful and quirky history.
But it wasn’t acceptable for Ringling to spotlight the source of his considerable income, so instead the idea came from fellow circus director A. Everett ‘Chick’ Austen Jr.
The circus was popular with Sarasota, and contributions poured in, running the gamut from wardrobe selections to memorabilia.
The circus’ legacy continues, and visitors can tour everything from clown cars to posters and parade wagons. There’s even a life-sized model circus and replica tiger.
Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy
Curated by Marietta Lee, this is one thing to do in Sarasota that’s guaranteed to send you away smiling. Not only that, but admittance is free. That’s ideal if you’re holidaying on a budget.
The exhibits emphasize mixed media, and their whimsical offerings include:
- Paintings
- Sculptures
- Crafts
All are designed to appeal even to the most unartistic nature. They’re bright, cheerful, and full of playfulness and zest for life that proves contagious.
However, visitors should note that the recent pandemic may have affected opening hours. Check with the website to confirm opening times before setting out.
Sarasota Opera
From the whimsical to the sublime. If you’re looking for a way to fill your evening while on vacation in Sarasota, consider a night at the opera. The opera house is located on North Pineapple Avenue.
Sarasota’s operatic endeavors began under the umbrella of the Asolo Opera Guild. In 1979, they took over the Edwards Theatre, and after several years finally opened as the Sarasota Opera House in 1984.
This is an excellent thing to do if you find yourself vacationing in Sarasota during the winter since the company performs most during its Winter Festival.
It’s best known for its depictions of Verdi’s operatic repertoire. Historically it hosted not just opera singers but a range of musicians, including Elvis Presley.
In addition to its Verdi, the other outstanding feature of the opera house is its acoustic. Attendees don’t just experience the music; they feel surrounded by it.
While streaming and radio productions are outstanding in their own right, music is a living, breathing thing, and a night at the Sarasota Opera will convince you of this.
Asolo Repertory Theatre
We said the opera company began as part of the Asolo Opera Guild. And while the opera company changed hands, Asolo is still a thriving artistic enterprise.
So, if the opera isn’t for you and you’re still looking for evening things to do in Sarasota on vacation, the Asolo Repertory Theatre may be a solution.
The company started in a reconstructed theatre from the 1700s close to the Ringling museum. But these days they make use of Florida State University’s Mertz theatre.
Productions change regularly, and visitors should plan their visit before arriving in Sarasota to avoid disappointment. In addition to booking information, interested parties can also find the theatre’s health and safety protocols on their website.
South Lido Park
If the hustle and bustle of Sarasota’s downtown gets too much, come to South Lido Park.
The park sits on land that used to belong to the pioneer Otto Schmidt Zolan. He petitioned to acquire the land in 1904 and received it six years later, in 1910. The land sits at the tip of the Lido Key, and these days you can access it via Benjamin Franklin Road.
Its waterfront location makes it ideal for picnicking families and couples in search of a quiet afternoon excursion.
You can take a kayak or paddle boat out on the water, stroll along the beach or find a shady spot to watch the nearby wildlife.
Keep your eyes peeled for:
- Crabs
- Clams
- Osprey
The South Lido Park also features several habitats inspired by environments in:
- The Gulf of Mexico
- Big Sarasota pass
- Sarasota Bay
- Brushy bayou
In addition to boating and picnicking, visitors can cool off with a swim in the Gulf or the Pass. Alternatively, they can hike through the surrounding woods.
Note that boating enthusiasts may have to bring their own craft, but that won’t be difficult, as the nearby Lido Key is full of boat rental businesses.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Another thing to do when on vacation in Sarasota is visit the Jungle Gardens. If you’re hoping to see flamingos, this is the place to go.
Established in 1939, the Jungle Gardens are full of tropical flora and fauna. Despite being a mere ten acres, it’s filled with beautiful and exotic plants and animals.
In the 1970s, it caught the public eye by showcasing its brightly colored macaws and cockatoos in its Exotic Bird Show.
Today, there are still rotating exhibits and shows on offer, which combine with the natural beauty of the Jungle Gardens to make it the longest-running and one of the most popular Sarasota tourist destinations.
The exotic birds are still there, and the gardens are famous for their flamingos. But you shouldn’t be surprised to see other animals, either.
Visitors can choose to feed the flamingos, snap photos of the lugubrious lizards or ride an alligator, or try all three.
Sarasota’s longest continuous sight-seeing destination, the Jungle Gardens are a holiday favorite, and for a good reason.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall was built between 1968-69. The money to build it came from Lewis and Eugenia Wezell.
It’s worth a visit for its eclectic architecture alone. But it’s also home to a vast range of performances. Depending on the season, you can expect to discover a variety of entertainment at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, including:
- Broadway productions
- Ballet
- Comedians
- Live music
Situated on the Bayfront, the brightly colored exterior with its seashell design makes it hard to miss.
If you’re looking for a way to spend a romantic evening out in Sarasota, the Van Wezel makes an excellent, affordable option. The website keeps visitors appraised of the available performances, so have a look as you plan your vacation.
And if an evening of music or theatre isn’t for you, the Sarasota trail takes you past the theatre. So, you can still take a look at it without taking in a show.
Legacy Trail
Active visitors searching for things to do in Sarasota will appreciate the variety of trails and walks available throughout the city. The legacy trail runs from Sarasota South to Venice.
It’s paved, so you can decide whether to walk, run or cycle along the trail. It’s 10.8 miles long and follows a historic rail corridor. The original railroad dates back to 1911. It continued to be used by trains until being abandoned in the early 2000s.
However, the neglect was temporary, and the Legacy Trail opened in 2008. It was an immediate and lasting success with cyclists. They enter the trail at Palmer Ranch and follow the Legacy trail along and through Oscar Scherer State Park.
At the park, the trail diverges and connects with other trails that run through the park. However, you can continue along with it past the park, and doing this brings you variously to:
- Nokomis
- Dona Bay
- Venetian Waterways Park
As with the Oscar Scherer State Park, the final lap of the Legacy trail connects with the many trails available to visitors of the Venetian Waterways Park.
Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for old-fashioned milestones. They measure the distance you’ve traveled and nod at the historic beginnings of the Legacy Trail.
Classic Car Museum
If you’re holidaying with someone who prefers mucking about with old cars to museum visits, the Classic Car Museum might be the compromise you’ve been looking for.
It’s second only to the Jungle Gardens for longevity and ongoing tourism. Visitors can walk through over 100 years of automobile history. And car enthusiasts can wax rhapsodic about its collection of cars, which includes examples of:
- Bentleys
- Cadillacs
- Ferraris
But the collection also highlights famous cars, like John Lennon’s 1965 Mercedes or the many Rolls Royse of the Ringling family.
Take a Boat Tour
Finally, Sarasota has some of the loveliest beaches in America. There are also miles of clear, blue water. Visitors looking for an undemanding way to explore the coast can embark on a sail around the coast, enjoying the sun and taking in the stunning views.
If you time your boat trip right, you’ll get to see some of Florida’s most spectacular sunsets. Go earlier in the day, and the cool afternoon breeze will take the heat out of the day. Just make sure you bring a hat. Even the gentlest of cool ocean breezes can leave you red from wind and sun.
Conclusion
Whether you want to hike through woods, take a romantic stroll around beaches or get to know Sarasota’s history, when it comes to finding something to do on your vacation, there’s something for everyone.
When you make your plans, don’t forget that some of Sarasota’s most interesting places offer time-sensitive exhibitions. So, however relaxed your vacation, call ahead and book a visiting time if there’s something you’ve set your heart on doing.
Finally, whatever you decide to do, don’t forget to talk to the residents. There’s nothing better than local advice when it comes to finding interesting and overlooked places to eat, visit or shop.
