Things To Do

Coastal charm meets cultural richness in Sarasota County. Whether you’re strolling the powdery quartz sands and village of Siesta Key Beach, consistently awarded Best Beach in America by TripAdvisor, or soaking in the tropical beauty of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, recently named one of the World’s Greatest Places by TIME magazine, this slice of Florida's Gulf Coast delivers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.

Art and nature intersect at events like the annual Siesta Key Crystal Classic, a renowned international sand-sculpting festival, or the highly anticipated Sarasota Chalk Festival, a sidewalk celebration that draws 3D chalk artists from all over. Dive into the area’s rich arts scene with a performance at the historic Sarasota Opera House or the region’s fascinating circus past at The Ringling Museum.

Things to Do by Season

What to Do in Sarasota in the Fall

In Fall, the Sarasota area offers cooler temps and fewer crowds — perfect for outdoor movie nights under the stars at Downtown Wellen Park or The Bay Park, or breezy Oktoberfests at local craft breweries like Big Top Brewing and Calusa Brewing. Find spooky family fun at Historic Spanish Point and family pumpkin picking at Fruitville Grove farm. Catch a performance downtown at Florida Studio Theatre or Venice Theatre when our arts and cultural season kicks off or take a dip in the therapeutic spring waters of Warm Mineral Springs.

What to Do in Sarasota in the Winter

In Winter, the Sarasota area offers warm-weather relief and festive events. From holiday boat parades along Sarasota's and Venice's bayfronts to twinkling tree lightings at St. Armands Circle and Waterside Place and a spectacular holiday-themed circus by Circus Arts Conservatory, it’s a magical time to visit. Don’t miss seasonal splendor and shopping for that perfect gift at University Town Center, or taking Siesta Trolley's Holiday Tour of Lights to cruise the best and brightest neighborhoods. 

What to Do in Sarasota in the Spring

In Spring, the Sarasota area brings blooming gardens under sunny skies and al fresco dining by the sea. Stroll through the Sarasota Farmers Market or Farmers’ Market at Waterside Place, hike the Canopy Walkway and scenic trails of Myakka River State Park, paddle through Lido Key’s mangrove tunnels or go golfing at University Park Country Club. The beautiful weather also means most of our signature events take place — including the Venice Sharks Tooth Festival and Sarasota Film Festival. 

What to Do in Sarasota in the Summer

In Summer, Florida’s Gulf Coast offers sun-drenched beaches and refreshing family fun. Cool off with a visit to our splash parks or hotel pools. Spend the day island-hopping in your boat rental, catching a breeze parasailing or going on a fishing charter with CB’s Saltwater Outfitters. Foodies won’t want to miss Savor Sarasota, our annual restaurant week featuring prix-fixe menus, and art lovers can beat the heat by roaming the exhibitions at The Ringling and galleries at the Sarasota Art Museum.

Things to Do for Every Type of Traveler

Things to Do for Outdoor Lovers

From kayaking through mangrove tunnels and birding in our nature preserves to boating to crystal-blue sandbars, Sarasota is an outdoor enthusiast's playground. RVers and campers soak in the natural landscape of Oscar Scherer State Park, while animal lovers can’t get enough of our wildlife sanctuaries — including Myakka Elephant Ranch and Big Cat Habitat. For those who prefer to be on wheels, go mountain biking in canopy-covered Myakkahatchee Creek or cycling down the paved trailway of the Legacy Trail. Discover how Nature’s Canvas Awaits® for more adventures in the wild. 

Things to Do for Families with Kids & Teenagers

Keep kids and teens engaged at one of our interactive museums and must-see animal attractions, like the free-roaming flamingos at Sarasota Jungle Gardens and manatees at The Bishop Museum of Science & Nature and sea turtles at Mote Science Education Aquarium. Take them on a snorkeling adventure for sharks teeth, zip-lining at TreeUmph! or kayaking the mangroves. When it’s spring training season, catch a Braves game at CoolToday Park or an Orioles game at Ed Smith Stadium. You can find even more Ways to Play in Family-Friendly Sarasota here.

Things to Do for Luxury Travelers

For those who appreciate the finer things, discover the area’s wellness spas, book a private-chef experience or find fine-dining at our upscale restaurants. Set sail on a luxurious Key Sailing cruise along the Gulf, or enjoy the amenities of a private yacht on Kokomo Charters. Shop designer boutiques or attend a polo match at Sarasota Polo Club. End your day by unwinding in luxury accommodations like those at The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota and The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort. For more ideas, check out A Luxurious Weekend Itinerary. 

Things to Do If You Only Have a Few Hours

Pressed for time? Stroll the shops of St. Armands Circle or the waterfront of The Bay Park. Grab a bite at one of our many local restaurants or tiki bars. Rent a Veo scooter to zoom around our historic neighborhoods and admire the Insta-worthy murals and architecture of Downtown Sarasota. See the view of Sarasota Bay and Marina Jack from Art Ovation Hotel’s beautiful rooftop bar, wander the grounds of The Ringling or catch a famous Gulf Coast sunset. Let 50 Things to Do in Sarasota with Only a Few Hours help you prioritize.

Things to Do for Arts & Culture Lovers

Florida’s Cultural Coast® truly has it all. Discover the deep bench of regional talent or take an art class or workshop yourself at Art Center Sarasota and Venice Art Center. Visit the dozens of contemporary galleries and sculptural art that line our downtown streets. Catch a symphony at Sarasota Orchestra, a hit Broadway musical at Asolo Repertory Theatre or a stunning performance by The Sarasota Ballet. Free outdoor concerts can be found at Waterside Place and The Bay Park, while A-list touring acts are presented year-round at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.