July

Whether you want to mingle with the locals and chit chat the day away or keep to yourself and take a break from banter after the family-filled holidays, there’s a great way to spend a day – or days - alone in Sarasota.

Sometimes we travel alone, be it for work or for fun. Maybe the boss sent you out for a conference, maybe it’s research, maybe you need time to think and get away. For whatever reason, traveling alone is always different than traveling with others because you get to do whatever you want to do.

One of the biggest traveling challenges frustrating visitors can be parking. Read up on the free and low-cost parking options in Sarasota before you come to town.

Get away from busy cities, congested traffic and head to a small charming village in Sarasota County.

The southernmost reach of Sarasota County is home to one of Florida's finest hidden treasures: the quaint, friendly, and historically charming village of Englewood, nestled alongside the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway at Manasota Key.

Since 1999, Sarasota’s Westcoast Black Theatre troupe has blossomed into one of our most popular theatre experiences, and has big plans to keep pushing the envelope.

When Siesta Key Village restaurants band together, there’s never a dull moment.

When the sun sets on Siesta Key, the party moves from the world-famous crystal sand to the lit sidewalks of Ocean Boulevard, where every so often a few of the unique restaurants combine forces to guarantee a fun night in flip flops.

If you want to enjoy the weather, meet friendly locals and explore unique stores, plan a day out in Venice and Englewood.

Here, shopping and dining areas are easily walkable and definitely charming. Ladies, you can lure the men to accompany you with the promise of shops just for them and restaurants that serve Florida craft beers and delicious food.

Want to learn how to weave with recycled materials? How about trying your hand at a fun painting technique called ‘acrylic pour’? Or learn how to use chalk paint? Or take classes to play the ukulele?

Maybe you’re looking for hand-crafted soap, felt flowers, essential oils, vintage clothes, a beautifully rendered fish mount, local honey, intuitive readings, or hand-made jewelry?

Pack a five star meal for an unforgettable al fresco experience using these helpful hints from a lifelong Sarasota County resident. 

Sarasota County is a great place to get outdoors. Whether it’s glistening sandy beaches, luscious gardens, picturesque rivers or birding and wildlife areas, you can always find a serene spot. Bundle one of these four themed picnic baskets with items from a few choice eateries and locally owned grocery stores in town.

Uncover some of the best beaches and backdrops to snap a picture in #MySarasota

It’s hard not to feel like you’re living in paradise among the clear blue skies, warm weather, glistening oceans, waterfront dining, great food, and delicious tropical drinks in Sarasota.

From Sarasota’s white sand beaches to the palm trees and sunny days, this county provides ample opportunities to take a glamorous photo, but knowing the best places in town for a photo can ensure your followers like the view just as much.