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 It's been around since 1979. Purchase seats to enjoy popcorn, hotdogs, soda, and other tasty snacks while watching a training game as the Baltimore Orioles knock balls out of the park. Oscar Sherer is the smaller of the two parks. 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! Online streaming available any time. Moreover, our partners, such as Google Adsense, will collect data and use cookies for ad personalization and measurement. Go Treasure Hunting at The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime 7. Check the website for upcoming shows and events! From The Ringling to Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, Sarasota offers a variety of rainy day activities and other fun things to do indoors including 52 indoor attractions with ratings over 90%. It has a magnificent downtown Sarasota spot, near the Opera House and Main Street shops and restaurants. 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 1 John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. It also offers a space for local artisans and merchants supplying everything from soaps and musical instruments to bicycle repairs. 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. The TPC Prestancia is in the Siesta Key vicinity and has often hosted PGA championship events. Theres an air of intimacy as you step inside the 1119-seat theatre, together with opera lovers from around the world. 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. No matter if you are a car aficionado or not, you must stop at the Sarasota Classic Car Museum and admire these masterpieces of engineering Stroll around shiny classic cars and eye up those cars youve only seen in movies. two week Florida West coast road trip itinerary here. The collection of 80+ pieces created between the years 1100 and 1500 is intended to be seen, heard, smelled, touched, and tasted. Theres much to see and explore at the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium! On any given Saturday you may be lucky enough to see radio-controlled yacht races taking place on the lake. At the Sarasota Farmers Market, you can find numerous vendors selling fresh and unique goods, focusing on farmed produce from local farms and growers. Visit Sarasotas most important landmarks and cultural sites on these whistle-stop trips. With many parks, nature reserves, and gardens nearby, you wont struggle to find fun things to do in Sarasota. Here's 10 standout reasons to drive to Sarasota. Even if you aren't much into museums, or even art, head over to the grounds and wander around as they are quite opulent. But its the Sea Life Encounters cruise that brings the under and overwater world to life. This cookie, set by YouTube, registers a unique ID to store data on what videos from YouTube the user has seen. An upscale, beautiful one with more than 130 locations in a well organised wheel thats close to the beach and with ample parking. Sarasota is a gorgeous town to visit in spring and not just for the beaches! Forget regular mini golf. Paddleboarding offers an unrestrained way to explore the waters around Sarasota. CPonies 11. Check out the list below for fantastic and fun things to do in Sarasota at night. Tickets are $25 for an adult day pass, or yearly memberships can be purchased. This is a lot of fun but not for the faint of heart. If youre a lover of white cotton-soft beaches, youre in luck some of the best beaches in the country are in the Sarasota area. The Celery Fields is another of Sarasotas lesser-known gems. Here is our list of the best things to do in Tampa if youre planning a visit there. In a curious quirk of fate, certain areas near Sarasota have become key travel destinations for Amish communities based in the north in Pennsylvania. After the fact, it was super fun to laugh about the squirrels at CCoquinaBeach. Daily shows welcome visitors to experience and learn more about these fascinating creatures with the chance to have one-on-one interactions with them after the show. It is part zoo part garden with so much to see. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Guests can BBQ on the premises, play shuffleboard, and enjoy the outdoor swimming pool. First, catch your biggest catch yet with a day of deep-sea fishing. Feel the wind on your face and get a birds-eye perspective on the city, its beaches and azure seas as you float high above them. Buy a ticket for lemur yoga. 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. Or fox yoga. With beautiful seafront pools to relax by and a variety of drinks and snacks for a high-quality al fresco dining experience. The Asian art collection focuses on sculptures and ceramics before leading to a Japanese tea house (chashitsu)and the 66 acres of gardens that overlook Sarasota Bay. The Legacy trail follows the route of the old Seaboard Air Line railroad and runs from downtown Venice up to Sarasota. A great place for bird-spotting, the Celery Fields is home to breeding bird populations with species of owls, sandpipers, meadowlarks, bitterns and sparrows. As well as being a habitat for local wildlife it is also an important stormwater collection area for the city. Heres our inside guide to unusual and unique things to do in Sarasota, Florida. Only a five-minute drive from the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, the Sarasota Deluxe Inn offers a convenient location ten minutes from the beach. by Paul Joseph|Published December 17, 2018, A Comparison of Bus Services from Dallas to Houston, 10 Exhibitions to Visit in Indianapolis and Indiana this Spring, 7 of the Best Patagonia Down Jackets for Women. In addition to trails, there's also camping, picnic grounds and several . Mote Marine Laboratory 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 388-4441 Kayaking is one of the most environmentally friendly and tranquil ways to explore Lido Key. And its a curious place to visit. A Circus legend leaves an unexpected endowment. There are 42 different types of things to do inside in or near Sarasota, Florida. Facebook sets this cookie to show relevant advertisements to users by tracking user behaviour across the web, on sites that have Facebook pixel or Facebook social plugin. Experience Sarasota nightlife with a guided tour of some of the best local eateries. By the way, you should really taste the honey. Officially recognized as the second oldest continuously operating antique car museum in the United States, the museum is a leap back to the start of one of the greatest inventions. If youre looking for a downtown location close to major attractions, the Art Ovation Hotel is a great choice. This unique building is an impressive mansion in Sarasota from the 1920s. Instead of driving from A to B and on to C, stop for a while in Sarasota. Each creates an intimate atmosphere and space to entertain different tastes. The building is located directly on the bayfront and its bright colors and seashell design make it a popular local landmark. There are many things you should do while visiting Sarasota, but if you only do one thing from this list, let it be a trip to the Circus Arts Conservatory. Greenhouses show rotating exhibits. 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. Annual passes are available. People flock to Myakka River State Park to hit the river, from kayaking and fishing to canoeing and boating. This is the second most important antique car museum in the United States and one of the best Sarasota attractions to visit with kids. The Ca dZan is a huge Venetian-style gothic mansion in Sarasota. They have a year-round schedule of productions taking place. What can I say? Copyright Silver Footprint Ltd 2023. Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium Paulleon / Shutterstock The Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is situated on City Island, in a little spot called Ken Thompson Parkway in Sarasota, Florida. So what does this mean? Museums for kids in Sarasota Crowley Museum and Nature Center Hike the trails at Crowley Museum and Nature Center because it is such a fun place to visit. Join a free outdoor fitness class to stay active during your vacation. Next, join a historic walking tour to learn more about downtown Sarasotas impressive architecture and hidden gems. Smugglers Cove is a fun mini golf course that you do at . 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. Things to do in Sarasota These are all things you can do in Sarasota that will create endless "keepsake" memories. When we were there, Andy Warhol prints came to life in six foot high florals while music pumped out over the sound system. Its still a beautiful place to visit and an excellent place for freshwater fishing, swimming and other kayaking. How would you like to pet a baby alligator? Sarasota has something for everyone! Barracuda, sea bass, snapper and amberjack are all to be found lurking about the reefs. And since the course has 18 holes instead of the usual 9, youll end up spending more time out and enjoying the surroundings. Its regular exhibits include an outstanding collection of pristine classics and muscle cars from the worlds finest automobile producers. Children under 5 are free, and children 5-17 are only $5. If youre seeking a truly exhilarating escapade, skydiving could be for you. Although weve covered a lot of family travel ideas here, theres no doubt that Sarasota is a great spot for couples. 1) See Reptiles Up Close At The Sarasota Jungle Gardens. Theres life-size sculptures, incredible paintings, one-of-a-kind jewels, photography, ceramics and plenty more to bedazzle visitors, while many artists are also on hand to discuss their inspirations and working methods during the event. Access is included with the Myakka park entry fees. 28. Ed Smith Stadium is the spring training ground for the Baltimore Orioles and former training ground for the Chicago White Sox and Cincinnati Reds. Key Culinary Tours are a company that hosts a diverse range of food tours that invite visitors to sample some of the culinary delights that the area has to offer. 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. See a Circus Under the Big Top at Circus Arts Conservatory. The Asolo Repertory Theatre is another cultural staple of Sarasotas artistic community. Shark's Tooth Festival. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze how you use this website. 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. There are also well-known food and beverage outlets and even a store selling arcade games, pinball machines, and memorabilia. An alternative to the Sarasota Jungle Gardens is the Big Cat Habitat & Gulf Coast Sanctuary, home to many lions, tigers, bears, primates, and birds. Nobody leaves without a smile on their face! Theres also a gift shop where you can pick up rare collectibles, unique memorabilia and hard-to-find automotive books. As well as a cultural center, the Sarasota Opera House is a historic institution in its own right. Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium 10. The gentle tides of Ted Sperling Park are a great place for beginners to learn the ropes. 3. LOCATION 539 South Orange Avenue HOURS Mon-Fri 9am-4pm Sat 10am-4pm Closed Sun, Goods on display at The Womens Exchange in Sarasota (Photo: The Womens Exchage), Attend an artistic extravaganza at the Festival of the Arts. Committed to the rescue and rehabilitation of birds, the Wild Bird Learning Centers mission is to recuperate these avian species to return to their natural habitats. 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. A 600-acre community park, Nathan Benderson Park is renowned for its world-class rowing and recreational facility along with its 2,000-meter sprint rowing course. 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. Sarasota Art Museum 1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; 941-309-4300;. 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. Try to get the most points and make it to the top of the leader board. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens 1534 Mound St, Sarasota, FL 34236, map Tickets: $15 for adults, $10 for kids We've always loved checking out botanical gardens and even more now that I'm obsessed with plants. The Gator Club is a stylish venue with a good selection of drinks, it plays reggae each Thursday. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Sarasota Art Museum 7. Parasailing is often thought of as a thrill-seekers sport but it can also be a very peaceful experience, much like gliding. An 18.5-mile recreational rail trail, Legacy Trail stretches from Fruitville Road in Sarasota to the Historic Venice Train Depot in Venice. Open year-round, the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is mere minutes from downtown! Experience a truly laid-back taste of Florida life. Guides are on-site at all times to help navigate the tougher parts of the trails. Aside from the freshest fish dishes this place offers a selection of the best wines and regional craft beers. Fly Drive Florida: A Two Week Itinerary & Adventure. No matter if youre up for a day of outdoor fun or want to grab a drink or taste some local cuisine, youll find something that fits your schedule and your budget in this beautiful coastal city. People flock to the park to go kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on the waters. Im only recommending them because I think theyre interesting. This 25-foot sculpture on Sarasotas bay-front is based on an iconic photograph taken in New Yorks Times Square on V-J day, 1945. Navigate through the obstacles, enjoy the tropical setting, and walk around the well-kept grounds. Its long stretches of sugar-white beaches, sparking clear waters, native mangroves, and expansive parks leave plenty of opportunities to step out to enjoy the great outdoors. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Contents 1. Eat a Loaded Salty Dog at Old Salty Dog . Mysterium Escape Rooms 13. Sarasota Farmers Market. Tampa Bay is not far from Sarasota! This was voted in 2020 as the best beach in the United States and should be a must visit when staying here. Sarasota Jungle Gardens make it possible. 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. 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. The United States National Cemetery, the Sarasota National Cemetery, is the sixth of seven national cemeteries established in Florida. Mote has an aquarium that is home to sharks, turtles, stingrays and manatees to name a few. 1. Nestled behind the Municipal Auditorium along Van Wezel Way on Sarasota Bay sits a replica military installation known as Fort Juan Ortiz. Looking for a novel way to explore the city, solve clues and compete against others at the same time? The beautiful building constructed in the Mediterranean Revival style and guarded by mighty palm trees has hosted exceptional performances over the years. From burying your toes in white-sandy beaches to adventures that take you deep into mangrove forests, there are plenty of things to do in Sarasota. It means that legislation preserves and protects the 34 mile portion of the river that runs through Sarasota County and the result is a serene scene of green. Peer at the intriguing differences between European and American cars and how the design of automobiles changed throughout history. Truly a haven for flora and fauna, Sarasota Jungle Gardens is one of the most fun things to do in Sarasota! But this unique list of things to do has been tested and curated by yours truly. 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". But it was the variety of unique things to do in Sarasota that made me rethink fly-drive travel in general. The Museum of Art was commissioned in 1925 by circus entrepreneur John Ringling. This is easily one of the most unique things to do in Sarasota at night. Im not afraid to confess: it moved me to tears. Inside this gorgeous building are 21 art galleries, featuring American, Asian, European, and contemporary art. Related:7 Unusual Things To Do In The USA. Inside the Travel Lab is described by National Geographic Traveler as Essential Reading and Lonely Planet as one of the best travel blogs in the world.. Run in partnership with the Mote, small boats head out onto the Bay in search of dolphins, snappers, puffer fish and more. Selby Gardens - Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Immerse yourself in a world of orchids For any budding botanists out there (pun fully intended),. Siesta Key Seaplanes 8. Time to think again. Oscar Scherer State Park is an invigorating and refreshing escape. Non-Amish visitors are welcome to explore the neighbourhood but are advised to do so with cultural and religious sensitivity. TripBuzz found 36 things to do indoors in the Sarasota area. And for those not in the green-fingered know (like me) thats orchids, ferns and bromeliads. You'll paddle though mangrove canals along the shoreline. So get in on the fun and discover the fun things to do in Sarasota with kids. If you love the circus, you must visit the Ringling Museum of Art! Choose from a number of private transfer options, all with your very own driver who will meet you and greet you at the gate and bring you straight to your hotel. Ever fancy yourself as a ninja warrior contestant? For the ultimate in privacy, book a room at the Lido Beach Resort, which offers a stretch of private beach, a poolside bar, and elegant rooms with fully equipped kitchenettes. Sarasota Farmers Market. Escape Countdown Sarasota 15. All Rights Reserved. It has been putting on side-splitting shows in the city since 1988 and is dedicated to the art of stand-up comedy. The _ga cookie, installed by Google Analytics, calculates visitor, session and campaign data and also keeps track of site usage for the site's analytics report. Then, catch a show at the Asolo Repertory Theater, founded by some of the 20th-century theaters most influential people, Robert Whitehead and George Wood. The theater is reputed for hosting one of the largest Shakespeare festivals in the nation. This is heaven for every kid who will have a great time in the petting zoo, playing with the rabbits or giggling in amazement with a primate on their shoulder. Not exactly. The structure first opened in 2000 and was the first public treetop trail in North America. Its home to a collection of playful and fun paintings, sculptures and crafts, generously collected by the museums founder, Marietta Lee. Some were hosted, some were not. Expect festive music and you might even spot Santas elves dancing aboard some of the boats. 1. A two-hour Segway tour is a great way to explore the area. After a busy week of sightseeing, why not unwind at The Ritz-Carlton Resort? All you can see from here used to be their land. As well as fantastic food the Dry Dock also offers a beautiful location. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Catch a movie with the family or spend time in the social green hub space. To learn more about cookies, you can consult our. Aside from a place to see world-class comedy, theres also a bar and restaurant with a full menu to savor before the show. This is a must-do for daredevils in Sarasota. This Sarasota art museum features European pieces and iconic sculptures meant to inspire and engage visitors wishing to learn more about the arts and culture. Sarasota Farmers Market is proud to support its community by connecting local chefs, artisans, growers, and farmers in the area. Its been said that to truly get to know a place you must eat its food. Many anglers flock to Lake Manatee State Park for great opportunities for freshwater fishing off its shores, off the parks fishing docks, or on a boat. It is a great place to spot wildlife, skate or take a leisurely walk. A little farther away is Clearwater, best known for its dolphin-watching opportunities and the many chances to enjoy the waterfront. On the Birdwalk, visitors can see the intriguing differences between each species and how to minimize environmental risks that harm these valuable animals. Payne Park 9. Day or night, Sarasota is filled with unexpected thrills. Save Our Seabirds is a rescue center for sick and injured birds. ), Romantic things to do as a couple in Sarasota, The Best Hidden Gems in the US for Your Next Trip, The Secret Behind The Beignets of Cafe du Monde New Orleans, Be The Change: Steps to Take for a Better World, How to Boost Your Writing in 4 Simple Steps. Instead, grab a bite at the numerous upscale bistros, enticing bakeries, and lively pubs. 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. Located in Sarasota, Florida, the farm offers a variety of activities for kids of all ages. 29. Activities for kids and families, youth sports, seasonal events, ongoing programs and summer camps! The Farmers Market is a great place to meet up with friends and even has weekly live music at either end of the market. Lets have a look in more detail. Sarasota has its own airport, but many travelers arrive at the larger Miami International Airport or the Orlando (MCO) Airport instead. Port Charlotte. You can listen to live music performed by local artists right in the middle of the market. If bikes are your thing, the 600+-acre Robinson Preserve an hour away offers plenty of cycling trails going past mangroves, mud flats, and beautiful waterfront habitats. The giant squid's 27-foot-long corpse lies preserved within a Sarasota aquarium. Whether your interest is shopping, dining or culture you can find it all here. The Middle Ages was in many ways a dark and gruesome period in our history, but few would also deny that it also gave rise to some truly stunning art. Here you can find free roaming flamingos, alligators, all sorts of birds and a petting zoo! Or simply settle down on the fine sand of Lido Beach and simmer in the sun for a nice suntan! It offers the best in contemporary theatre, cabaret, childrens theatre and improvisation. If you have more time, heres a crazy idea. 1. A high-flying course of tree-top zip-lines, platforms, climbing walls, ladders and bridges, this place has fun in spades. Lake Manatee State Park has a swimming beach for anyone wishing to cool off, swim, or bask in the sun. Go Museum Hopping 2. Cool, unusual and unique things to do in and around Sarasota, Florida 1) Taste Some Amish Delicacies In a curious quirk of fate, certain areas near Sarasota have become key travel destinations for Amish communities based in the north in Pennsylvania. With or without children, youll need at least a day here. Medieval Art Exhibit at the Ringling Museum. Don't miss out on the attractions that make this such a hidden gem! Others wishing to remain on the dry land stick to the biking and hiking trails winding through the park. With a stay at this mid-range hotel, guests are given appealing accommodations, including complimentary continental breakfast, access to the palm-tree-lined outdoor pool, and free WiFi. The Siesta Key distillery produces outstanding, award-winning rums. 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. It was ranked the #1 beach in the nation by TripAdvisor in 2020! Want to hear something crazy? 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. Home . 27. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. Venetian Gothic Architecture is sure to dazzle visitors exploring the 36,000-square-foot house. Originally conceived as a botanical garden it has since come to be home to a variety of domestic and exotic creatures also. Welcoming more than a quarter million visitors a year, Oscar Scherer State Park is a hidden oasis from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Visit the eight greenhouses to gaze at vibrant displays of bromeliads and orchids collected by the Gardens scientists. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The park has extensive areas for kayaking, hiking, cycling and camping grounds located throughout. Away from the beach, you can enjoy the cool sea breeze and most stunning sunsets Florida has to offer. Its such a fascinating country to drive through with so many different landscapes, stories, peoples and cultures. 2 The Ringling Circus Museum. A world-class shopping and dining destination, the University Town Center boasts more than 250 restaurants and stores of unique and famous retailers. Dine on brandied duckling at Cafe L'Europe. Check out our brand-new ultimate guide to the best things to do in Florida for more ideas! 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. What makes the Sarasota neighbourhood of Pinecraft unique is not its physical appearance so much as its people. Sarasota, Florida Molly the Mollusk The giant squid's. Climb aboard your air-conditioned vehicle and see several points of interest including the Ringling Museum and College, Selby Library, and the Sarasota Opera House. Set by addthis.com to determine the usage of addthis.com service. The sculpture has been at the center of numerous controversies in its short life in Sarasota and has been vandalized and even hit by a car on one occasion. Clown cars, cannons, ornate parade wagons, posters, a huge 44,000 piece model circus and a life-size replica of a tiger. Push your limits with this exhilarating forest adventure. Baseball lovers will undoubtedly have the time of their lives at the Ed Smith Stadium! The two parks couldn't be more different and definitely offer something unique to do in Sarasota for those who love the outdoors. Moreover, our partners, such as Google Adsense, will collect data and use cookies for ad personalization and measurement.