Arts, Museums & Galleries

Art-centric Sarasota County abounds with places to view art, make art, and purchase art.

Sarasota is very much an arts- and culture-based city. Perhaps it’s the area’s rich history, could be the inspiring beauty of the beaches, or possibly the vibe of the location leads to a relaxed creative outlet. Regardless of the reasoning behind the art-centric attitude, the result is a small city bustling with art venues* - places to view art, to make art, and to purchase art. Often all it takes is a strolling walk and an open eye; but for a clearer direction, look no further.

Since 1999, Sarasota’s Westcoast Black Theatre troupe has blossomed into one of our most popular theatre experiences, and has big plans to keep pushing the envelope.

In addition to its world-renowned shopping, dining, and beaches, modern St. Armands Circle is home to the Circus Ring of Fame

One century ago, the circus reigned supreme as the pinnacle of popular entertainment in the United States. Beginning in the 1880s and continuing well into the post-war midcentury, exquisite, caravans of colorful wagons carried "The Greatest Show on Earth" from coast-to-coast.

For years, Sarasota’s popular public art exhibit “Embracing Our Differences” has celebrated diversity and inclusion through the eyes of an equally diverse group of artists

Turn hours of fun at a Baltimore Orioles Spring Training game into a full day of activities at these nearby restaurants and attractions.

Let’s play ball! It’s Spring Training time again, which means the Baltimore Orioles are back at Ed Smith Stadium and ready to knock it out of the park for the next few months in Sarasota. 

Did you know Sarasota was nearly home to a “Winter White House?” Every U.S. president since 1976 has made a stop in Sarasota, some more fortunate than others.

Was President Warren G. Harding was a socks-and-sandals man? Did First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt ever don a bikini? (Our understanding is that she preferred a one-piece — but what happens in Sarasota stays in Sarasota.) What we do know is that Sarasota has served as host to a number of U.S. presidents and their kin — both on the campaign trail and in leisure.

Those craving a spiced, slow-cooked delicacy and live music will find both in Sarasota County this March.

To make the most of your early spring trip to Sarasota County, you have got to get outside. Beyond leisurely strolls, and dips in the water, we have a weekend chock full of fabulous festivals to help you soak up the community culture as well as the warm sunshine. This year, March 29 and 30 features not one, but two big BBQ and music festivals.

Beer, Bands and BBQ Festival

Follow these tips to find the best places in Venice for a photo. Share your #MySarasota masterpiece on social media or a picture frame to make audiences green with vacation envy.

Historic downtown Venice is a Sarasota County treasure with charming streets, stores and beautiful beaches nearby. Its ‘Old Florida’ charm is preserved in original architecture and public spaces. These make for amazing photographs to fill your social media feed during and after your stay.

Take a spin in our time machine, and plan an excursion filled with nostalgic charm from breakfast 'til bedtime

Ever have the urge to plot an escape to a different decade?

Maybe there's a tropical shirt in your closet that's screaming for a kitschy, oh-so-Florida tourist backdrop from the 1950s like flamingos or a tiki lounge? Perhaps you're in the mood for a sophisticated splash of Mid-Century Modern, or the Roaring Twenties sounds like the bee's knees.