Things To Do

Siesta Key Beach

Siesta Key is about a 15-20 minute drive from downtown Sarasota. Named #1 Beach USA in 2020, 2017, and 2015. Stick around into sunset on Sunday evenings for the unoffocial Siesta Key Drum Circle and dance your worries away.

Siesta Key Village

Just around the corner from Siesta Key Beach. Lots of shopping and restaraunts to check on along this strip, including SKOB - Siesta Key Oyster Bar. Cass Family tradition for the best happy hour and oyster specials.

Lido Key Beach

Lido Beach is about 10-15 minutes from downtown Sarasota. It is smaller than Siesta Key but just as nice a beach. Close to St. Armand's Circle.

Saint Armands Circle

Great place for shopping, eating and generally walking around. Just a few blocks from Lido Beach. Don’t forget to grab some Kilwin’s ice cream before you head out. Highly recommend Columbia Restaurant, outstanding paella.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Ringling Museum

Free admission on Mondays! Call to confirm though.

Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy Temporarily Closed until April 2, 20200

Siesta Key Oyster Bar

The best oyster happy hour around! Go-to spot during Cass Family Vacations.

Owen’s Fish Camp

Southern seafood in a cozy atmosphere. No reservations so get there early! Outdoor backyard area with fire pit and grilled oysters makes waiting not so bad. Often times live music.

Demetrio's Restaurant & Pizza

Cass Family Tradition! World’s best pizza on the Trail.

Bayfront Park

~1 mile walking loop around the marina. Plenty of green space, swings and benches to relax. Art installations rotate throughout the year. Water fountains for children to play. Grab a beer at O’Leary’s Tiki Bar before you leave. For more substantial food, check out Marina Jack’s restaurant. This is one of Allie’s favorite places, riding bikes around here to and from Mema’s house.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Great spot for families and Bride's favorite spot for flamingo viewing!

Myakka River State Park

Big Cat Habitat Gulf Coast Sanctuary

Big Cat Habitat & Gulf Coast Sanctuary in Sarasota, Florida has absolutely no affiliation or connection of any kind with Big Cat Rescue in Tampa, Florida. Due to the similarity in the facilities’ names, many people have confused our sanctuary with the Tampa facility owned by Carole Baskin.

Big Cat Rescue

THIS is Carole Baskin’s “business” if you’re a fan of Tiger King. Tampa is about one hour from Sarasota. We highly recommend not supporting her organization (I’m sure you know why).