Big Things are Happening: 2025 in Sarasota

The New Mote Science Education Aquarium

Sarasota's beloved Mote Marine Laboratory is moving from its current location to Nathan Benderson Park, conveniently located near The Mall at UTC and Interstate 75. The new Mote SEA (Science Education Aquarium) will have 1 million gallons of animal habitats with new exhibits, three stories of hands-on teaching labs, onsite diving programs, larger-than-life murals, and ocean demonstrations. Mote SEA is slated to open early this year (prospectively March 2025).

New Restaurants to Open at SRQ Airport

Want to grab a bite before you travel? The Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) will welcome not one, not two, but several local restaurants this year at its terminals, including Mattison's, Anna Maria Oyster Bar, Motorworks Brewery, Patrick's 1481, and Rise Up Cafe.

Watch Planes Come and Go at SRQ

You'll also soon be able to enjoy the thrill of watching planes take off and land at the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport. The airport will welcome an 825-square-foot flight observation deck in 2025, including an aviation-themed playground, historical signs, shaded seating, and a tower transmission. 

The Popular Legacy Trail Upgrades

Sarasota's 20-mile Legacy Trail is a popular destination for anyone looking to bike, skate, or walk. It connects Payne Park in Sarasota with the Venice Train Depot. Now, the trail will have new overpass crossings over two major roadways to improve pedestrian safety and connectivity whether cycling north or south. 

Spectacular Shows at the Van Wezel

Sarasota's Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall will welcome a host of talent in 2025, spanning a wide range of genres and interests. The Van Wezel premiere of Funny Girl, Yacht Rock Revue, Stayin Alive - One Night of the Bee Gees, The Temptations & The Four Tops 40th Anniversary, RAIN: A Tribute to The Beatles, Moulin Rouge! The Musical, ZZ Top: The Elevation Tour, plus performances by Frankie Avalon, Gladys Knight, Yo-Yo Ma, Chris Botti, Jay Leno, Paula Poundstone, and the Sarasota Orchestra are just some highlights for the first few months of shows at the iconic purple theatre overlooking Sarasota Bay.

St. Regis Longboat Key Debuts

Photo courtesy of Pat Phillips

Although the St. Regis Longboat Key Resort opened in 2024, 2025 will be its full year in business. This stunning 18-acre beachfront property takes Sarasota luxury to a whole new level. Plus, you have your choice of several upscale restaurants and bars onsite (some open only to hotel guests). Indulge the senses in the exquisite Spa and Relaxation Lounge, or swim and sunbathe in the resort pools, cabanas, and Winding River. That's not all, snorkelers will be over the moon to find a 350,000-gallon lagoon at the resort, home to nearly 50 rays and 2,800 fish, comprising more than 40 different species.

Restaurant & Community Spaces at Quay Open

If you don't already know about Quay Sarasota, located on prime real estate along Sarasota Bayfront, the new 14-acre waterfront destination is in its final stages of development. Quay will include up to 695 luxury residential units, 175 boutique hotel rooms, 38,922 square feet of modern office space, and 189,050 square feet of commercial space for upscale shopping and dining, all designed to be an extension of Downtown Sarasota. 

In early 2025, expect the opening of upscale restaurant Ocean Prime to enjoy a premier seafood and steakhouse experience. With well-known locations in Orlando, Naples, and Tampa, Ocean Prime will add even more sophistication to Sarasota's dining options. This is the first of many restaurants to open along the new Central Quay Park, a one-acre gathering space at the heart of Quay Sarasota. More exciting things to come include public art installations of large sea-life sculptures throughout the community space, designed by world-renowned artist Rachel Rodi.

The 20th Anniversary of Savor Sarasota

Savor Sarasota, a program that celebrates Sarasota's diverse culinary landscape and the chefs who bring it to life, has its 20th anniversary in 2025. Whether you're craving classic comfort food, international cuisine or contemporary creations, chef-curated menus allow you to sample a variety of dishes and flavors while taking advantage of stellar deals. Savor Sarasota is held from June 1 to June 14 each year.

New Resort & Revamped Restaurants on Lido Key

The grand opening of Cirque St. Armands Beachside is expected in 2025. The new Opal resort will be just steps from the powdery sands of Lido Beach and a two-minute walk to the entertainment district of St. Armands Circle. This circus-inspired hotel was designed to pay homage to the cultural legacy of Sarasota's circus magnate, John Ringling. 

Additionally, there will be the reopening of many shops and restaurants on the Circle (including ones that have had to close temporarily due to storm damage and undergo repairs/renovations due to Hurricane Milton). One of them includes a complete rebrand of Cafe L'Europe, which will now be The Cafe on St. Armands. As one of the oldest area restaurants (with more than 50 years in Sarasota), the new name also brings a new menu, inspired by France, Greece, Italy, Spain, and the Middle East. The restaurant is also adding a coffee bar.

A New Sports Park Complex Underway

The new 17th Street Regional Park Athletic Complex (actually set to open in 2026) will serve as a massive haven for sports lovers and athletes. It will include state-of-the-art women's collegiate softball fields, batting cage tunnels, turf multipurpose fields, and a food truck staging area. You'll also find more than 600 parking spaces and lots of shade to watch your favorite players compete.