Distinctive Venues
Sarasota is home to some of the most sought-after event venues in Florida. Whether you are interested in creating a picture-perfect setting, or incorporating unique interactive experiences, there is a place for every occasion.
Events and Experiences
Here, create the perfect combination for your group with sunshine year-round, a vibrant arts scene, culinary delights for any appetite, amenities awaiting to accommodate your every need and the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport as an aviation gateway to the area. For groups that are new to Sarasota, our Meetings Incentive Program makes the deal even sweeter.
Sarasota is, after all, the Cultural Capital of the Florida Gulf Coast. Consider one of these locations for hosting your meeting or event:
Address: 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
Phone: 941-953-3368
About: A true pioneer in the cultural development of Sarasota, the Van Wezel presents a broad spectrum of the world's finest performers in an iconic waterfront venue along Sarasota Bay.
Indoor Space: Auditorium: 1,700 fixed seats with stage | Grand Foyer: 6,000 SF flexible space, connecting to the Bayfront Lawn
Outdoor Space: Provides adjacent space to Grand Foyer for 1,500 people
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
Address: 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota FL 34236
Phone: 941-388-441
About: Mote Aquarium is one of Sarasota's premier attractions, hosting more than 300,000 visitors each year. This venue offers you and your guests a departure from the ordinary with spectacular animal exhibits and breathtaking views of Sarasota Bay.
Indoor Space: The New Pass Room: 4,300 SF flexible space, featuring a 1,300 SF balcony with views of Sarasota Bay. Suitable for 150 people banquet-style. | Wave Center: 2,800 SF ideal for conferences and presentations; full A?V capabilities; theater capacity is 250 people | Aquarium Gallery: 2,000 SF suitable for 50 people banquet-style and 150 people reception-style
Outdoor Space: Aquarium Courtyard: 4,000 SF of covered, open-air space suitable for 350 people banquet-style and 400 people reception-style. Rental includes access to all exhibits and touch pools. | The Chickee: Outdoor tiki hut picnic area with fixed seating, suitable for 56 people banquet-style and 100 people reception-style.
Circus Arts Conservatory
Address: 2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota, FL 34239
Phone: 941-355-9335
About: This multi-purpose circus arena includes a concession area and an immense rehearsal/performance spae. Pair your event with a performance; or have attendees get a feel for circus life with trapeze and tight-rope lessons.
Indoor Space: Arena: Permanent Big Top tent with 15,000 SF suitable for groups up to 400 people.
The Ringling
Address: 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL 34242
Phone: 941-359-5700
About: The Ringling offers a variety of spectacular venues along Sarasota Bay. The picturesque grounds include the Museum of Art, the Circus Museum, Asian Art Center and John Ringling's historic mansion, Ca' d'Zan.
Indoor Space: Exhibits including art galleries and Circus Museum may be open for event guests to enjoy self-guided tours, however food and drink is not permited indoors.
Outdoor Space: Museum of Art Courtyard: Suitable for up to 800 people | Ca' d'Zan Terrace and Bayfront: Suitable for up to 250 people | Circus Museum, Tibbals Learning Center: Suitable for up to 80 people, museum is indoors with adjacent, tented event space.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Address: 900 S. Palm Avenue, Sarasota FL 34236
Phone: 941-366-5731
About: The Gardens provide an urban oasis that will give you and your guests the chance to relax and enjoy your occasion in a stress-free environment. The 15-acre property is located near resorts and hotels and is conveniently close to downtown shopping, dinning and business facilities.
Indoor Space: Michael's on the Bay Room: 4,800 SF flexible space, sutable for up to 300 people seated and 500 reception-style.
Outdoor Space: Mansion Lawn and Bay Lawn: Suitable for 500 people | South Lawn: Suitable for 1,000 people
Historic Spanish Point
Address: 337 N. Tamiami Tr., Osprey, FL 34229
Phone: 941-96605214
About: Discover old Florida charm at this outdoor museum consisting of 30 acres overlooking Little Sarasota Bay with sweeping views, formal gardens, a quaint chapel, historic homes, and lush Florida foliage.
Indoor Space: Community Room: 1,070 SF suitable for up to 75 people theater-style | Classroom: 440 SF suitable for up to 24 people theater-style
Outdoor Space: Sunken Gardens: Barfront lawn and garden space suitable for up to 200 people banquet-style.
