2019

Pristine beaches, vibrant circus culture, boutique shopping and fine dining are a few of the first things that spring to mind when most people think of Sarasota, but for quilting enthusiasts, the area is attractive for a reason that others usually overlook.

With more than 700 members spread across three quilters' guilds, a dozen independently-owned quilting shops throughout the county and yearly events that draw thousands of attendees and participants, Sarasota and her surrounding cities have become popular travel destinations and seasonal homes for quilters across the globe.

Fall is in the air. In most areas of the country, it is an obvious change of seasons as leaves begin to change colors and drop from trees, the air becomes crisper and cooler and sweaters come out of the closets. But in Sarasota County, fall arrives in much more subtle, less obvious ways. You have to know what to look for to observe our seasonal change. The best thing about a Sarasota County fall is that it is an ideal time to be here.

Sarasota County is centrally-located on Florida’s Gulf Coast and has sunshine and blue skies year-round, making anytime of the year favorable to say “I do.”

Let your personalities shine through with a wedding venue as unique as the two of you.

Sarasota has enough Florida Gulf Coast nightlife to spice up (or cool down) your visit to our sunny beaches-and-beyond destination.

When many of us think of Florida, we imagine daytime activities -- visions of ourselves on the beach, out on a boat, or perhaps indoors, perusing a museum or someplace that closes its doors at 5. But what happens after the sun goes down? From Sarasota's museum nights and live music to breathtaking sunsets, there's more to do than dine and drink after dark.

If weather is hurting your planned Sarasota County vacation, escape the dangers of cabin fever with indoor family fun

"What else can we do besides the beach?"

There are several retail districts and ways to spend a day browsing and buying in Sarasota. 

Grab your bag and a pair of comfortable shoes: It’s time to go shopping. Whether you’re looking for stylish swimwear or hip home decor, you’ll find plenty of stores in Sarasota County with must-have merchandise. When you’ve had your fill of sun, sand and surf or simply prefer to find the local shopping center over the local beach, here are a few ways to spend a day filling your retail therapy cup. 

The Historic Downtown Village of Sarasota provides hands-on, kid-friendly creativity with the no-planning-or-cleaning relaxation that vacation demands

Sarasota is a city of creativity.

Thanks to the legacy of circus magnate John Ringling, Sarasota is known as the “Circus Capital of the World,” with many offerings designed to honor the past, present and future of the circus.

Learn About the Circus and History of The Ringling

• The Ringlin