The Best Open-Air Shopping Spots in Sarasota County
Here are some of the best areas to stay outdoors while browsing our dozens of locally owned shops and unique products
St. Armands Circle
St. Armands Circle is an island shopping center on Lido Key separated from the mainland by Sarasota Bay. Unique in concept, history, and beauty, it's unforgettable to visitors thanks to an enchanting roundabout of fine shops and restaurants set in a tropical paradise. Renowned for its continental flavor, the circle is a graceful blend of past and present.
Gulf Gate
Gulf Gate is a hidden jewel in south Sarasota with a unique collection of restaurants and shops that celebrate global traditions. In one day, visitors can travel from Mexico to Sweden, Poland to England, Korea to Hungary, and many places in-between. Teeming with small businesses, Gulf Gate is an amazing way to travel the world without leaving Sarasota County.
Sarasota Farmer's Market
The Sarasota Farmers Market, held on Saturdays in downtown Sarasota, is considered the granddaddy of the local farmers markets, as it’s been around more than 35 years and features 70-plus vendors. The market is a major draw for residents and tourists looking to catch an early morning bite or a midday meal while they also stock up on locally grown produce and baked goods.
Venice Avenue
A hundred independently owned shops and boutiques line the avenues of Historic Downtown Venice, where you can find unique gifts, art, and much more! Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint downtown as you're greeted by friendly faces and interesting finds. Dine at one of our many world-class restaurants or grab a refreshment at a martini bar.
Main Street
Shop, dine, enjoy and explore all downtown Sarasota has to offer along Main Street. Stop into various locations for a welcome drink, small bites, browse the store that always catches your attention or enjoy the window shopping! Specialty shops galore, a foodie’s paradise, beautiful art galleries, and so much more! Downtown Sarasota is a “Mosaic of Interesting Districts” with unique finds right at your fingertips.
Dearborn Street
What Main Street is to both Sarasota and Venice, Dearborn Street is to Englewood. As you roam down the road, you'll discover all sorts of places you might like to make your new haunts. Great food, shopping and fun hangouts await you down on Dearborn.
Southside Village
Behind Sarasota Memorial Hospital on Osprey Hillview Avenues, Southside Village has it all: a popular gourmet market, home decor stores, trendy boutiques, jewelry stores and sidewalk tables at restaurants and taverns.
Siesta Key Village
The Siesta Key Village is everything you want it to be during a visit to the No. 1 beach in the U.S. Quaint shops and boutiques, bars and eateries offering everything from frozen treats to five-star meals. This walkable stretch of Ocean Avenue is a longtime staple after a long day at the beach.