2022

As planners ponder ways to respond to the new normal of meetings and events, small destinations are rising to the forefront as viable options to consider.

Arts enthusiasts are in luck: It does not take much digging to immerse oneself in Sarasota County's dynamic arts scene. 

At a glance, world-class performing arts venues and art galleries such as the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and the Ringling Museum of Art beckon along the main route through town, Tamiami Trail, and dominate the results in search engine queries about the Sarasota art scene.

There are endless things to do at this award-winning — not to mention stunning — Florida's Gulf Coast beach. Come see for yourself why Siesta Beach ranks among the best.

It's no wonder Siesta Beach, with its quartz-crystal sand as white and soft as powdered sugar, has been called "the finest white-sand beach in the world." Every year, travelers vote it one of the Best of the Best Beaches in Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards™ — as of February 2025, it's ranked #1 in the U.S. and #4 in the World.

Thirsty for knowledge about the craft beer scene in Gulf Coast Florida? We've got your guide to Sarasota’s most hoppin’ breweries and local restaurants with a flair for pairing their bites with Florida pints.

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, people of all ages, welcome to the home of John Ringling, owner of the ‘greatest show on earth.' From traditional to modern, indoor to out, somber to whimsical, The Ringling – with its Art Museum, Circus Museum, Ca' d'Zan, and Bayfront Gardens – has plenty for anyone to ooh and aah over.

This outdoor swimming and aquatics facility features a 50 meter competition pool and additional warm-up area.

Sarasota and Venice have some great waterfront dining restaurants! Check out a list of our favorite places to eat on the water.

When the sunbathing hours draw to a sunset close, Sarasota County diners head to the bevy of beachfront or bayfront restaurants nearby for a sip and some sustenance. From the quiet shores of Longboat Key and the popular Lido Key Beach to the picturesque Sarasota Bayfront and Venice Beach Pier overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, there is no shortage of places to cheers to the sights of Sarasota County.

Combine exercise, fun and sightseeing in one. Whether you're a competitive cyclist or just looking for a leisurely bike ride, you'll find what you need in Sarasota.

There are many different ways to experience Sarasota County; the best way, though, is on a bicycle. Whether you're looking for bike rentals in Venice Beach, cycles on Siesta Beach, or rides through Sarasota, here's the scoop on where to get the bikes and where to take them. 

Located in Venice, Fla., Fox Lea Farm is one of the few privately owned equestrian facilities in the state.

While many of the events held at the facility are owned and managed by Fox Lea Farm, Inc., it is also available for rental to outside organizations. Hunter jumper, quarter horse, appaloosa and dressage shows have all been held at this facility. In addition to bleachers and viewing pavilions, an onsite café is available for every event.

Sports Accommodated

Equestrian