This historic Spanish town also offers incredible restaurants, beach hotels, and beautiful scenery. The beautiful building constructed in the Mediterranean Revival style and guarded by mighty palm trees has hosted exceptional performances over the years. The Ringling 4. The Siesta Key distillery produces outstanding, award-winning rums. This is a really fun thing to do while in Sarasota. 18 Best Things To Do In Sarasota, FL You Shouldn't Miss In their lifetimes, John Ringling and his wife Mable were some of the worlds most avid collectors. To help inspire you ahead of your trip, weve picked out 12 of the most unique things you can do here, ranging from the raw and energetic to the intellectually nourishing. In the unique Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf 18-hole course, youll get a chance to practice your shots among pirate ships, waterfalls, and very real alligators in the courses educational alligator exhibit. Day or night, Sarasota is filled with unexpected thrills. Another high-end option is the Resort at Longboat Key Club, which features its own golf course, a full-service spa, and modern luxurious rooms overlooking the Gulf Coast. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The park has extensive areas for kayaking, hiking, cycling and camping grounds located throughout. Ed?! They have a year-round schedule of productions taking place. The property even has an 82-foot-high tower. With miles of beaches, coves and inlets theres an almost endless variety of places to fish. One of the oldest continuously operated attractions in Florida, the gardens were constructed in 1939 and have since become one of the best things to do in Sarasota. The zoo also organises animal shows, where you can learn a lot about the sanctuarys conservation efforts. A lot. People flock to Myakka River State Park to hit the river, from kayaking and fishing to canoeing and boating. Siesta Key Beach is an excellent family-friendly destination with nearby ice cream shops to end a perfect day at the beach. Yet, the most interesting history of the place is related to Bertha Palmer, a businesswoman and philanthropist whose role in Sarasotas development was of extreme importance. The 12-mile-long route is also dog-friendly so no one has to miss out. LOCATION Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway HOURS Mon-Sun 10am-5pm, Delve into Sarasotas culinary heritage on a food tour. See a Circus Under the Big Top at Circus Arts Conservatory. Opened in 1926 as a multi-use cultural space it has hosted performances from some of the biggest stars of yesteryear, including a young Elvis Presley in 1956. Behold the intricate detail of these exquisite miniature worlds. Fun 4 Sarasota Kids - Fun 4 Sarasota Kids Despite what you might expect, there are no manatees in Lake Manatee. Set by addthis.com to determine the usage of addthis.com service. After the fact, it was super fun to laugh about the squirrels at CCoquinaBeach. 20 Things To Do In Sarasota (Florida) In 2023 It is a great place to spot wildlife and on a good day, you can expect to see alligators, herons, armadillos and a variety of fish and birds. 3. Expect to see turtles and of course the watchful eye of an alligator. The museum celebrates the rich traditions, quirks and history of the great American circuses. Taking place on Main Street at Orange Avenue and running east to Links Avenue, the two-day festival features more than 250 gifted artists from Florida and far beyond. For the best in local foods and ingredients dont miss the Sarasota Farmers Market. Theres also a gift shop where you can pick up rare collectibles, unique memorabilia and hard-to-find automotive books. A boat sitting in the Bayfront Park Marina in downtown Sarasota, southwest Florida (Photo: Gregory Urbano via Flickr). This museum is jam packed with mementos from when the Ringling circus was at its heyday. Spend a day strolling through art galleries and museums, hunting for shark teeth, picking up local goods at the farmer's market or perfecting your golf game. 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. Lets have a look in more detail. Marvel at a medieval art exhibit at the Ringling Museum of Art. Eat a Loaded Salty Dog at Old Salty Dog . Unfortunately, visitors will not be able to see manatees at the park. The big felines are the stars here, and you can see them in shows or admire their mightiness as they go on with their lives in their enclosed spaces. A boat tour has to be one of the most fun things to do in Sarasota. Oh, and I did I mention that theyre number one in the world for research into orchids and her cousins? Learn about current animal topics and habitat preservations criticalness as you tour the sanctuary protecting 300+ animals. St. Armands Circle is the vision of its founder, John Ringling. Push your limits with this exhilarating forest adventure. Sarasota Farmers Market is proud to support its community by connecting local chefs, artisans, growers, and farmers in the area. It stands as a gift to the people of Florida and a memorial to its founders. There is a kayak launch here too if youre inclined to get into the water. Our guide to the best things to do in Sarasota is all you need to plan the perfect trip! Like most beaches in Sarasota, Coquina Beach has free parking. the FST began life in 1973 and has since grown into a small village of five intimate theatre spaces in downtown Sarasota. The Best Things to Do in Sarasota, Florida. If you are still seeking attractions why not visit the animals at Zoo Tampa or cool off at Adventure Island, Tampas largest water park. This is easily one of the most unique things to do in Sarasota at night. Beyond the white sand, though, youll find lifeguard huts in candy-popping colours at regular intervals and sea an ice- blue cool. The Marie Selby Gardens are the best of a botanical garden: an art gallery, adventure centre, cool caf and meditative retreat all in one. Myakka River State Park comprises a collection of unique habitats such as lakes, wetlands, rivers, and prairies. Or try your hand at sailing or watch the experts work as you relish in the scenic panoramic views. For live bands and DJs, its worth checking out the Beach Club at Siesta Key. Sarasota Siesta Key Longboat Key Lido Key Venice. The test_cookie is set by doubleclick.net and is used to determine if the user's browser supports cookies. More than 200 species of native and exotic animals call the Sarasota Jungle Gardens home, including pink flamingos, alligators, iguanas, parrots, and crocodiles. Search for free among 1,500,000 tours in every destination around the world! Each creates an intimate atmosphere and space to entertain different tastes. Theres plenty to see and do nearby when youre ready to keep exploring beyond Sarasota. Take your pick of fresh produce, local art, fantastic art, baked goods, and other delightful treats. Sarasota Farmers Market. This is a deep look into the cultural soul of Sarasota. Cool, unusual and unique things to do in and around Sarasota, Florida, More Unique Things to do in Sarasota Florida, A Road Trip from Boston: A Two Week Mix n Match Massachusetts Driving Itinerary. Roll up, roll up! The venues website has an up-to-date guide on what is showing throughout the year. Home . It's open year-round rain or shine, and it takes . With the citys superb weather and beautiful beaches, it takes a lot to drag Sarasota visitors indoors, but the citys annual Improv Festival is as good a reason as any. This is located at 16405 Myakka Rd. One of the largest and oldest parks in Florida, Myakka River State Park is a primeval location that sets back visitors to the time of Spanish explorers and early Native Americans once trekked through. Vegetarian and vegan food are at their best in Lila, which specializes in noodle bowls, while Made is famous for its Nashville-style hot chicken sandwich filled with bacon, spicy sauce, and cheese. The Jungle Gardens is one of Sarasotas oldest attractions, first opening in the 1930s. Visit more than 50 different sculptures and landmarks and gain knowledgeable insights from local informed guides. Theres an air of intimacy as you step inside the 1119-seat theatre, together with opera lovers from around the world. Or visit the nearby Siesta Key Rum Distillery for a guided tour of the tasting room. The building is located directly on the bayfront and its bright colors and seashell design make it a popular local landmark. 1. Watch the competitive beach volleyball tournaments hosted almost every weekend. Or fox yoga. It's been around since 1979. Siesta beach runs long and straight, with plenty of shaded (free) parking beneath the scent of pine. Explore the rest of the sunshine state with these articles: We love a good road trip through America. 1. Performances during the event range in styles, with everything from long and short form, hip hop musical, genre-based, and more on display. Related:A Road Trip from Boston: A Two Week Mix n Match Massachusetts Driving Itinerary. Address. And since the course has 18 holes instead of the usual 9, youll end up spending more time out and enjoying the surroundings. Things to Do in Sarasota Map Popular things to do Kayaking Tours Private and Luxury Parks Historical Tours Top Picks Nature & Wildlife Areas Likely to Sell Out Cruises, Sailing & Water Tours Art Galleries Walking & Biking Tours Airport & Hotel Transfers Points of Interest & Landmarks Private Sightseeing Tours Food, Wine & Nightlife With indoor and outdoor seating you can really make the most of the long summer nights as you take in the view over Sarasota Bay. Want more than just unusual and unique things to do in Sarasota? Discover the best of Sarasota, Florida as you embark on a sightseeing tour of the city. During a tour you may get to visit everything from independent neighborhood shops to gourmet restaurants. This Classic Car Museum is one of the oldest in the country. Theres plenty to do and much to see in Sarasota, so get ready for a world of adventure! Near Tampa Bay in southwest Florida, Sarasota is a tropical paradise that satiates nature lovers, adventurers, and those looking to take a load off and relax in the tropical breeze. One of the things to do in Sarasota that you cannot miss is the Sarasota Jungle Gardens. Start time 03:30 PM End point Gelato-go Sarasota Even if after John Ringlings death, the house slowly degraded it was in such a desperate state that in 1996 it served as Miss Havishams house for a Hollywood remake of Charles Dickens Great Expectations today it is restored to its initial splendour. 45 BEST Things To Do In Sarasota, FL (Fun & Unique!) Rent a bike or a pedal-powered Surrey Ride to take on all of Legacy Trail, or, if youre more inclined, take on the trail by foot! A trolley tour will show you what should not be missed when in Sarasota. Theres plenty to do here from building mud pies to identified while surrounded by beautiful and colorful nature. 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. The Sarasota National Cemetery is expected to reach total capacity in 2065 as the final resting place for more than 150,000 veterans. Copyright 2023 TourScanner | All rights reserved. Ten acres of botanical plants are the home of exotic animals and birds, reptiles, pink flamingos, and even farm animals like goats and pigs. Modest clothing stands out in a beach town. YouTube sets this cookie to store the video preferences of the user using embedded YouTube video. It does not store any personal data. 21 Unusual and Unique Things To Do in Sarasota Florida Guests can access the outdoor pool, cable television, and 24-hour front desk for questions or concerns. The Park has a couple of restaurants, including a tiki bar and grill, and also offers an outstanding view of the bay. Next, join a historic walking tour to learn more about downtown Sarasotas impressive architecture and hidden gems. A place for business, socialisation, and entertainment this is probably the best way to describe the most important fresh produce market in Sarasota county. Visit a selection of family-owned restaurants and try dishes from the citys most cutting-edge chefs. The southwest Gulf coast of Florida all the way down to Miami at the states southeastern tip is an area teeming with vibrant coastal cities that draw vast swathes of tourists seeking both natural and cultural delights. But otherwise, the park is peaceful, with paved walking trails and spaces where yoga enthusiasts gather for their courses. Promoting a relaxing and welcoming environment for your stay, the Sleep Inn Sarasota North is only ten minutes from downtown to easily access the best Sarasota activities. For more sightseeing ideas, read our list of the top things to do in Sarasota. Key spots are Yoders and Der Dutchman where you can stop for a comforting, homemade meal or made-from-scratch cooking as they call it. Located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, the opera house is conveniently settled near boutique shops and fine dining restaurants to extend your adventures in Sarasota. In addition, guided tours are available every Tuesday for an informative tour of the commissioned artwork found within Patriot Plaza. 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. Time to think again. Florida is not all about sandy beaches and palm trees. These crumbling foundations are all that remain of the once-stately 1840s manor that gave the town of Bradenton its name. Check out our other American road trip itineraries: Disclosure My trip to Florida involved many partnerships, including with Hertz UK, Visit Sarasota and Visit Florida. Lovers of beautiful automobiles from bygone eras are in for a treat in Sarasota, which is home to its own Classic Car Museum. An annual collaboration between the Circus Arts Conservatory . 10 weekend events near Bradenton: Sarasota Blues Festival, art walk These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. 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. Also about an hour away along the coast is Tampa, home to thrills and screams at Busch Gardens, plenty of culinary delights, a chance to zipline over a natural preserve, and lots of parks to explore. Explore at your own pace or take a two-hour guided tour through the mangroves and backwaters. The superb acoustics are its crowning jewel, making the audience feel like they are not just witnessing a performance but are enveloped by the sound. At first glance, this is a shopping and dining area. Watch river otters play and fluidly glide through the waters. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Run in partnership with the Mote, small boats head out onto the Bay in search of dolphins, snappers, puffer fish and more. It is open to TPC members. Smugglers Cove is a fun mini golf course that you do at . Photo credit: Daderot, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons In the Tampa Bay area, you can also find the Florida aquarium which covers a huge 200,000 sq ft. You can see many species of fish and aquatic mammals and learn about the aquariums coral, shark and sea turtle conservation efforts. Just to the south of Sarasota, you'll so many fun things to do in Siesta Key, a lovely beach town in Florida. Bucket list 100 fun things to do in Sarasota County including restaurants, bars, beaches and more! I love this city and you loved this article about it. Opened only recently in 2014, The Mall has luxury department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Dillards and Macys among a host of other popular brands. This Florida resort community is where the Amish come to have fun in the sun. 8 Great Teen Activities in Sarasota | Must Do Visitor Guides Mixon Fruit Farms is a great place to take the kids for a day of fun. Don't miss out on the attractions that make this such a hidden gem! Its a must for nature lovers. It offers exhibits and educational experiences for young and old alike. It sounds like a scavenger game is right up your street. The renowned Siesta Key Beach is located in south Sarasota county, famous for its white-sugar sands and crystal clear waters. Sarasota has its own airport but unless youre fairly local, it usually makes sense to fly in to Orlando and visit Sarasota as part of a larger trip through Florida. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. 1. Ca dZan means Johns House in Venetian dialect, and the Ringlings adored it. The Most Fun Things to Do in Sarasota With Family Or simply settle down on the fine sand of Lido Beach and simmer in the sun for a nice suntan! Definitely unique through its oddness, Mariettas Museum doesnt have the sobriety of a world-class arts venue but is more of a place for relaxation. The spring training home of the Baltimore Orioles, the Ed Smith Stadium, was previously the training location for the Chicago White Sox. Instead of driving from A to B and on to C, stop for a while in Sarasota. This Big Cat Sanctuary is home to all kinds of wild and exotic creatures including tigers and lions (as well as ligers and tigons), bears, primates, birds and wallabies. Choose from a variety of themed tours that stop at local tiki bars or take a historical tour to bring you up-to-speed on the city. Classic Car Museum Sarasota 14. Engage your teens with some mind-bending fun at Sarasota's escape rooms, including Escape Room Sarasota, Escape Reality, and Escape Room Countdown. Dont forget to keep your eyes peeled for curious groups of dolphins and manatees. Sarasota has something for everyone! They include Bownes Lab Theatre, the Goldstein Cabaret, the John C. Court Cabaret, the Gompertz Theatre, and the Keating Theatre. A historic theatre turned opera house, the Sarasota Opera House has been renovated to exude refinery and class as visitors come upon its stunning Mediterranean Revival-style architecture. 17 Unique Things To Do In Sarasota, Florida On Spring Break - Kb in Bloom 14 Engaging Black History Month Social Media Post Ideas You'll Love February 3, 2023 Make Your Own: Mindfulness Jar for Adults Ideas February 1, 2023 15 Coconut Yogurt Benefits That Will Most Likely Surprise You January 31, 2023 40 Positive Affirmations to Start Your Day The Park is situated at the very tip of Lido Key and kayak and paddleboard rentals are available nearby. Myakka River State Park opened in 1942 and the Myakka River was designated a Florida Wild and Scenic River by the State legislature in 1985. This list of the best and fun things to do in Sarasota will help you to prepare for your ultimate getaway. Sarasota Jungle Gardens make it possible. Activities for kids and families, youth sports, seasonal events, ongoing programs and summer camps! The Best Hiking Trails Near Myrtle Beach South Carolina July 30, 2020. Showcasing a diverse range of productions, the organization aims to make theatre accessible and affordable to all. Online streaming available any time. Things to Do in Sarasota, Siesta Key and Venice for 2023 A natural marvel of lakes and land, of birds and human engineering. To tour the first floor only, adults pay $10 additional on top of their museum entrance ticket. 1) See Reptiles Up Close At The Sarasota Jungle Gardens. The Jungle Garden is a Sarasota institution. 100-plus fun things to do in January in Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties The new year will bring a full lineup of festivals, concerts, stage productions and more to Sarasota, Manatee and . The dam established across the river in the 1960s prevents manatees from accessing Lake Manatee. No need for lengthy training, just come along and enjoy the ride. And for those not in the green-fingered know (like me) thats orchids, ferns and bromeliads. So does amazing pastry. Thats right, the Marie Selby Gardens are the world centre for epiphyte research. All you can see from here used to be their land. This impressive European-style structure is also home to contemporary works and regular exhibitions. Keep going down the coast and youll get to Cape Coral, where youll find water parks, great golf courses, and giant manatees. 1 John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. Or head over to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall for more entertainment! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 10 Fun and Free Things To Do in Sarasota - Go Backpacking The Asolo Repertory Theatre is another cultural staple of Sarasotas artistic community. Here is our list of the best things to do in Tampa if youre planning a visit there. It once hosted big names in live music such as Elvis Presley and the Ziegfeld Follies shows. 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. Go Museum Hopping 2. Shop till you drop. Find things to do with kids in Sarasota and Bradenton on Fun 4 Sarasota Kids! Top Things To Do In Sarasota, Florida 1. 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. AddThis sets this cookie to ensure that the updated count is seen when one shares a page and returns to it, before the share count cache is updated. Head to Manatee Public Beach on Anna Maria Island if youre after a day of picnicking and grilling or try Cortez Beach for a more underdeveloped feel and tall trees lining up the long stretch of sand. Ed Smith Stadium is the spring training ground for the Baltimore Orioles and former training ground for the Chicago White Sox and Cincinnati Reds. Sarasota also has year-round competitions for the competitive angler. Founded in 1962 with the aim of supporting the local arts community, its success has led to several million dollars in grants and scholarships down the years, and it continues to play a crucial role in the Sarasota area, as well as providing visitors with a quirky retail experience. Im only recommending them because I think theyre interesting. 1. 21 Best Things To Do In Sarasota, Florida (2023 Guide) Fun things to do, best events Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice Feb. 2023 The options are endless! The centers living museum offers a chance for visitors to learn through educational displays with live birds that were previously patients deemed unfit to return to the wild. Between its wealthy patrons, private collectors, museums and creators there is art on display in the city almost everywhere you look. The Ca dZan is a huge Venetian-style gothic mansion in Sarasota. St. Armands Circle offers a unique continental shopping experience that feels both classic and contemporary at the same time. 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. Tampa Bay theme parks is just minutes away too if youre looking to get your heart pumping. Heres our inside guide to unusual and unique things to do in Sarasota, Florida. Take a free tour of the distillery and visit the tasting room and gift shop afterward for a true taste of the Caribbean. 14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Sarasota, FL More than 80 antique cars are preserved inside the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, many of which are from the worlds top automobile manufacturers, including Edsel, Alfa Romeo, and Ferrari. The museum is $25 a person, but admission is free on Mondays. Take a tandem skydive with highly trained instructors over the beaches and glimmering waters of Sarasota, Venice, and Tampa. 1. If you love the circus, you must visit the Ringling Museum of Art! The Sarasota Classic Car Museum features a collection of Rolls Royce autos from famous circus magnates John and Mable Ringling and numerous other classic and muscle vintage cars on display. Sarasota sits just south of Tampa on Floridas sparkling Gulf Coast, a place well known as a coastal getaway for all ages. Nobody leaves without a smile on their face! Oscar Scherer State Park is an invigorating and refreshing escape. A Circus legend leaves an unexpected endowment. Yes, its another world-beating educational complex. But it was the variety of unique things to do in Sarasota that made me rethink fly-drive travel in general. As a separate area to the beach, Sarasota Bayfront combines marinas, splash pads, palm trees and an unmistakable statue. The campus is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. For years, it was the winter residents of John Ringling and his wife, Mable. 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. 23 Fun Things to Do in Saratoga Springs NY in 2023 - Travel Addicts You cant visit Sarasota without a night out on the town. With many parks, nature reserves, and gardens nearby, you won't struggle to find fun things to do in Sarasota. Theres also a flag assembly area, a memorial walkway, a donations area, committal shelters, and a ceremonial amphitheater. John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. An upscale, beautiful one with more than 130 locations in a well organised wheel thats close to the beach and with ample parking. This article explores the best things to do in Sarasota during your trip so you dont miss out on top attractions that draw in millions of visitors to this tropical oasis each year! Adult tickets are $18, with options for children and seniors. 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. After the Circus Museum, the Museum of Art and whimsy has to be the most cheerful place in Sarasota. Greenhouses show rotating exhibits. Ten Cool Outdoor Things To Do In Orange Beach and Gulf Shores Alabama The result is as cool as a cucumber. 1538 State St, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA Open in Google Maps Meet outside of State Street Garage outside of the elevators next to Rise & Nye's. Your guide will be waiting with a big smile at 3:30 p.m. Watching a Broadway musical here is one of the best things you can do on a summer night, and the atmosphere will stay with you forever. These sweet, rescued creatures are part of the "Animals in Action" adventure at Big Cat Habitat. photo: VisitSarasota.com 6.
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