2021

Clyde Butcher, a world-famous photographer, is one of Sarasota County’s most well-known residents.

He’s a large man in a cowboy hat, with a full Santa Claus beard and eyes that twinkle behind wire-frame glasses. Looking constrained as he sits at a small desk in his Venice office cubicle it’s obvious this is not a man who spends his time indoors.

Discover colorful cottages, indie theaters, art galleries and cozy cafés nestled in the heart of downtown Sarasota’s beloved Burns Court.

Amid the new construction and tropical vibes of Sarasota, lies a neighborhood unlike any others found here. Instead of Island-inspired pastels or stark modernity, brick and patina exude an Old World charm. The Burns Court community—spanning only a few blocks down Orange Ave, Pineapple Ave, and Burns Ct—fills a much-needed niche, one that brings visitors to a time and place where charm, pride and friendliness surpass mass production or speed.

The creative spirit of Sarasota seeps into its every nook and cranny, including unique playgrounds where kids can enter a rainforest, ride a train, or join the circus.

Begin 2026 focused on wellness, adventure and fresh starts on Sarasota County’s sunny coastline.

For many of us, the start of the year marks our declarations of healthy living, turning over a new leaf and detoxing from one too many glasses of holiday wine. Despite our best intentions, exercise often gets put on the back burner, especially on vacation. There’s always something else to do – a museum to see, a tour to take, a lounge chair awaiting, a book to read. 

Only in town for the afternoon? Time to kill before your dinner reservation? Uncover things to do in Sarasota when you only have a few hours to spare.

Whether you’re here on vacation, for a sporting event or a business trip, or just passing through, you can find something to do every time of day on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Here are 50 of our favorites:

Traveling with a pet? Get prepared with our guide on this critter-friendly destination offering plenty of options for accommodations.

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.

Brunch may originate from combining breakfast and lunch, but what it means is extended conversations, savoring good food, and being in the present. So where to go to find the perfect slow Sunday starter in Sarasota?

Spectacular views can be found up high on Sarasota’s growing rooftop scene.

Looking for spectacular views, Gulf breezes, and crafted drinks and eats?

Then come on down—or should we say, up—to Sarasota’s rooftop bars.

The Sarasota area has welcomed a growing number of rooftop venues. Visitors are attracted to the great views and atmosphere; for hotel-based rooftop bars, the pools that are located right beside the bars make for a great combo. And there’s no better way to take in Sarasota’s ever-changing skyline than from the top of a roof.