Sarasota

What you need to know before you go

    Sarasota is the gateway to some of Florida’s most heavenly beaches, but the city itself is packed with equally luminous culture. You’ll discover the history of the great Ringling circus performers – their venetian-inspired mansion, Ca d’Zan, is filled with palatial, theatrical rooms. Next door is the Ringling Museum of Art, a vast collection including priceless European masterpieces and American classics.

    The historic district in Sarasota is pretty in pastel hues, with independent shops and galleries to peruse. The waterfront is where you want to be as the sun goes down, glass of wine in hand, and seafood supper sizzling.

    What to see & do in Sarasota

    Featured stories & fun stuff

    Things to do in Sarasota go far beyond relaxing on soft white sand on shores of clear turquoise waters and extend to art galleries, museums, open-air markets, and championship golf. You can tour historic sites, hit the Red Bug Shough Preserve for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. You can get pampered at a local resort spa. Check out the Red Barn Flea Market for deals on everything you can... Read more

    Where & what to eat in Sarasota

    Food and dining in Sarasota take you to award-winning restaurants where world-famous chefs cook up unique dishes from rooftop eateries overlooking skylines and beaches. Here you'll find everything from white tablecloth fine dining to good old-fashioned hot dogs and French fries. You can enjoy oyster bars with fresh seafood just caught on the shores. Head for a tiki bar with live music and craft cocktails. Pick and... Read more

    Where to shop & what to buy in Sarasota

    • 8 Best Places to Go Shopping in Sarasota

      Shopping in Sarasota opens the door to a range of entertainment in a city that's famed for its endless beaches, offering everything from art to clothes, and secondhand goods to housewares. You'll find just about anything you need in the various shopping malls, outdoor shopping centers, and shopping districts in this city. You'll find a shop or boutique for everything...

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    Where to go & what to do at night in Sarasota

    • 10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Sarasota

      Sarasota after dinner offers a world of experiences from romantic sunset cruises on the ocean to shopping villages on the keys, live entertainment, and all-night parties. Here you can hit a wide range of beach clubs to dance till dawn with craft cocktails and your toes in the sand. You can sit in on a rhythmic drum circle and...

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    COVID-19 Travel Alert

    Attractions and experiences recommended in our guides may be affected. Please check local guidance before you travel.

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