Mother’s Day in Sarasota

Eddie Kirsch

Celebrate Mother’s Day in Sarasota by treating the special one who raised you with some unforgettable experiences.

There’s no better time and place to celebrate Mothers than mid-May in sunny Sarasota.

It is truly a beautiful time in this Florida destination. The flocks of snowbirds have returned to their northern nests and the weather is pleasantly warm — with Gulf Coast waters still cool enough to provide relief if an afternoon on the beach becomes too hot. The rainy summer months have often not yet started and all around us are blooming flowers and singing song birds.

For Mother’s Day, make sure you take full advantage of some of the best that Sarasota has to offer:

Every Bloomin’ Thing

Enjoy the blooming plants and green scenery of some truly gorgeous locales.

First, explore Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and the Paul Gauguin exhibit “Voyage to Paradise.” Step into another world of colorful bromeliads, orchids and tiki sentinels made to look like a Polynesian rainforest akin to Gauguin's search for unspoiled "paradise." Also, enjoy a special Mother’s Day Brunch buffet provided by Michael’s On East, featuring omelets made to order, a carving station and much more!

Alternatively, take your mother to the beautiful Bayfront gardens and grounds of The Ringling. Stroll through the lush 66-acre property and explore the museum of art, the Ca’ d’Zan mansion and the circus museum. Enjoy the many blooming plants on the property, including Mable Ringling's Rose Garden.

Just down the road, grandmas and moms get free admission at Sarasota Jungle Gardens during Mother’s Day weekend with the purchase of any full-priced same-day admission. Moms with young children will find something for everyone here, and don't forget to take a picture right next to their iconic flock of flamingos.

South of Sarasota, walk the stunning and historical grounds of Historic Spanish Point in Osprey and enjoy free admission on Mother's Day. Get creative and pack a picnic basket when you go to enjoy at the beautiful sunken gardens.

Special brunch menus

Several area restaurants are offering special brunch menus for Mother’s Day. Enjoy food and drink specials at some of the best eateries in town, including Bijou Café, Café L’Europe, The Capital Grille, Euphemia Haye, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse, Harry's Continental Kitchens, Libby's Cafe & Bar, Mattison’s City Grille, Mattison's Forty-One, and Michael’s On East.

Race to (and on) the beach

Join in on The Great Mother’s Day Race 5K on Siesta Key Beach! Entry is $40 until 6 p.m. May 10, and $45 on Race Day May 11 ($25 for children 8-14). Entry includes free race pictures, a dry-fit shirt, a medal, a goodie bag, food, drinks and more.

Make it her day

Start a Mother’s Day tradition and treat her to a spa day at Sirius Day Spa or Mandala Med-Spa. Go shopping for a new outfit at The Mall at UTC. Rent a pontoon boat from CB’s Saltwater Outfitters and have a relaxing day on Sarasota Bay. Or just spend time catching up and relaxing on one of our area beaches.

No matter how you choose to spend the day, the important part is sharing the love and telling mom thank you for everything!