October

Visit Sarasota County (VSC) is delighted to welcome Susie Bowie, President and CEO of The William G. and Marie Selby Foundation, to its Board of Directors.

Traveling Sarasota on a budget isn’t a compromise. There are still endless opportunities to experience the beauty and charm here without emptying your wallet. 

Sun-soaked beaches. Cultural delights. Natural wonders. All of these pleasures and more await for the budget-conscious traveler who finds themself in Sarasota. While much of Florida’s Gulf Coast is known for its opulence and luxury, it's entirely possible to explore this slice of paradise without breaking the bank.

If you’ve ever wondered what culinary delights await in Sarasota, check out a few standout dishes from these local restaurants.

It's one thing to receive a restaurant recommendation in Sarasota but it's a whole new level of culinary pleasure when you're directed to a specific dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds. In this culinary journey, we're introducing seven exceptional dishes that you must try while exploring Sarasota's vibrant food scene.

Discover hotel hideaways with a cozy fireside touch to celebrate Florida's fall. 

As November ushers in cooler temperatures and a touch of holiday magic, Sarasota's shores shine in the autumn – welcoming visitors looking to escape the cold weather climates of their more northern cities for a satisfying beach breeze. 

South Sarasota County may surprise you with its palette of performing arts.

When it comes to the arts in Sarasota County, there's a lot more to explore beyond the bustling cultural scene of Downtown Sarasota. While this vibrant hub often remains in the limelight of Florida's Cultural Coast®, further south of the map, in towns such as Venice, Englewood and North Port, there are undersung fine arts communities to seek and discover. 

Sarasota County is more than pet-tolerant; it's pet-welcoming, with plenty of places to explore with your beloved buddy.

Sarasota, with its balmy weather and beautiful beaches, is a paradise for more than just humans. It's also a paradise for our four-legged friends. In this pet-friendly city, there's no need to leave your faithful companion behind. From dog-friendly beaches and markets to pet-welcoming parks and cafes, Sarasota offers a wagging good time for both you and your furry buddy. 

See how Alexia Gonzalez (a.k.a. Gala Life or @alexia_gnz on Instagram) spent a quick Summer trip to Sarasota County while navigating the obstacles of COVID-19

Alexia Gonzalez does not live far from Sarasota County—about a 45 minute drive south from the Tampa Bay area—making it a perfectly short, local getaway while COVID-19 limited air travel options.

Check out a few surprising historical facts surrounding the holidays in Sarasota, and how you can still experience them today