If you’re looking to head south for the winter and are not a fan of the cold weather, it’s time to take a trip to sunny Sarasota, Florida known for its white sand in favorites like Lido Beach. There’s plenty of things to do in Sarasota, FL.
Sarasota County is full of indoor and outdoor activities. Experience the performing arts centers, museums, boat tours, and water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. Camelot Lakes Village and Camelot East Village are great places to own a vacation home in Florida Sarasota.
1. The John Ringling Museum
Home to the legacy of husband and wife John and Mable Ringling, The John Ringling Museum is a great way to spend an afternoon. In the early 1900s, John and his wife became active members in the Sarasota community, purchasing several waterfront property acres. Sarasota city soon became the winter quarters of the Ringling Brothers Circus. Visitors can see the performers’ wardrobes, props, and much more.
Along with the Circus Museum, there are:
- Ringling College of Arts
- the Historic Asolo Theater,
- Bayfront Gardens
- Museum of Art Ca’ d’Zan
Ca’ d’Zan is a testament to the Roaring Twenties’ American Dream.
2. St. Armand Circle
John Ringling St. Armand Circle is a cheaper day trip alternative. With over 100 stores, you can shop, dine at cafes, relax in the tropical gardens, and explore the concept, history, and beauty.
3. Big Cat Habitat and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Near downtown are Big Cat Habitat and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Big Cat Habitat is one of the world’s largest conservation and education centers for over 350 animals spanning more than 60 diverse species. Those include tigers, bears, sloths, lemurs, wolves, foxes and more. The park also offers guests services like feeding the animals, restaurants, wild yoga, and tours.
The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is great for connecting people with air plants of the world, native nature, and regional history. They also host boat tours, events, and field trips for school functions.
4. Sarasota Classic Car Museum
The Sarasota Classic Car Museum is the second oldest antique car museum. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine, seeing antique, one-of-a-kind classics from over 100 years of history. The museum features nearly 80 different automobiles, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
5. Arts Center Sarasota
Located on Sarasota’s historic Bayfront, Art Center Sarasota is the heart of this city’s visual arts community. While this is a member-based organization, it is worth checking out. The Center also provides educational programs and exhibitions.
The Center’s mission is to host international and local teaching artists to bring cultural diversity to the city.
The exhibitions showcase contemporary art in three curated galleries. Get your children involved in visual arts with the Center’s youth programs.
6. AlexArt International Art Gallery
AlexArt International Art Gallery is near the Opera House in downtown Sarasota. It’s one of the city’s leading venues for contemporary art. Since opening its doors in 2016, the Gallery has quickly established itself as a must-see art destination, featuring contemporary international and American artists.
You can also host private events. With ceilings up to 16 feet and three large arched windows, it is a fantastic place to hold dinners, weddings, concerts, and much more.
AlexArt International Art Gallery also has an in-residence Italian artist and award-winning art collection owner, Fabio Dal Boni. The gallery owner provides art consultation services.
Fun Fact: The AlexArt International Art Gallery was originally home to Morrison’s Cafeteria in 1948, which Elvis Presley was said to frequent.
7. Kayaking SRQ Tours
Voted one of Tripadvisor’s 2020 Travelers’ Choices, Kayaking SRQ takes visitors through the husband-and-wife-duo tour guides in the Mangrove Tunnels. As they take you through the tunnels, search for manatees, dolphins, and a wide array of sea life.
Kayaking SRQ has two locations in Lido Key and Siesta Key along Sarasota Bay. If a self-guided tour is more your speed, you can rent your own kayak or paddle board. With no age restriction, this activity is fun for the whole family.
8. Sarasota Paddleboard Company
Like the above activity, Sarasota Paddleboard Company offers kayak and paddle board tours and rentals in the Mangrove Tunnels. This paddle board company has another site in Longboat Key, visitors take time to relax and explore miles of pristine backwaters. Sarasota Paddleboard Company also provides illuminated night tours.
9. Biotica EcoTours
If you’d rather experience Sarasota on land instead of on the water, Biotica EcoTours has you covered. They also offer guided hiking tours and nature walks with the option to customize a hike based on your skills and interests. So, no matter your skill level, you can enjoy this activity.
10. Island Time Charter
Last on our list of the best ways to experience Sarasota is through an Island Time Charter. Awarded a Certificate of Excellence in 2017 by Tripadvisor, this activity won’t disappoint. Island Time Charter offers Eco Tours, fishing, sightseeing, sunset cruises, and tiki bar hopping. Take the kids or make it an adult-only vacation.
Homes for Sale in Sarasota, FL
Find your seasonal retreat at Camelot Lakes Village or Camelot East Village. Each community has resort amenities, and activities, and is near Sarasota attractions. Explore the homes for sale in both communities.
