2022

Guide to the Top Wildlife Encounters and Wild Animal Experiences in Sarasota County

Long to get up close and personal with some beautiful, wild creatures? Sarasota County's year-round subtropical climate means we've got a longer list than most destinations for sanctuaries, nature preserves and conservation foundations—land and sea. Whether you're here for just a visit or live here, the wildest of places are all within a 30-minute drive of Downtown Sarasota, so you can sneak in an exciting afternoon with some exotic animals.

Grab a meal to-go and share it alfresco at one of these picturesque picnic spots.

Sure, going out to lunch or dinner at atmospheric restaurants is great, and many here even have beautiful outdoor dining setups. But sometimes, it's just really nice to get further away from downtown areas and closer to nature. Luckily, Sarasota County is spoiled with scenic landscapes and pristine coastal parks.

As the 17th year of Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week wraps up, take a peak at which restaurants will continue their Savor menus for an extended period of time

When it comes to events in Sarasota, there’s plenty to do for those who have special needs. This includes children or adults who are hearing or vision impaired, have mobility challenges, or on the autism spectrum.

Here is more information on date-specific and ongoing events that are geared toward those with special needs in the Sarasota area.

Art aficionados and creatives traveling Sarasota County will have their hands, and hearts, full with artful museums.

See Sarasota's true colors shine. From contemporary-chic art installations to historic, circus-themed exhibitions and botanical-inspired masterworks of art, Sarasota's notable and revered arts scene—both historic and modern—is not afraid to show off its imaginative culture and creative expression.

Plan your summer travels around SarasotaCon Pop Culture Show this August.

Direct your speech balloons to Sarasota this August 13, 10am–5pm, at Carlisle Inn & Conference Center. SarasotaCon 2022 is calling all superhero fans, comic book collectors and illustration artists to revel in this nostalgic art form. 

From larger-than-life murals to sculptural works of fine art, spot a sundry of public art pieces as you road trip or stroll Sarasota County.

Truly an art lover's paradise, especially for those who'd rather stumble upon public art outside in nature instead of inside the walls of a museum or

Revel in these cutting-edge galleries featuring various mixed mediums on display for the modern art-goer.

Art enthusiast or not, a trip to Sarasota or Venice is not complete without a stop into one of the dozens of art galleries in the area. Robust cities of profound arts and innovative artists, there are almost as many galleries as there are restaurants per capita in the area for the visual art enthusiast to enjoy in between their meals.

Locals and visitors can find some of the best deals and discounts in Sarasota County by utilizing "Fun in the 941"