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floralsflorals

things to do

Below are some recommendations for things to do in the Sarasota area. Downtown Sarasota is super walkable with lots of restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and galleries all close together. If you’re staying a bit longer, there are also great day trips just outside of Sarasota—like St. Pete, Anna Maria Island, Clearwater Beach and Longboat Key.

Bayfront Park

5 Bayfront Drive, Sarasota, FL 34236

Bayfront Park is a great spot for a casual walk along the water with awesome views of the bay, downtown, and the Ringling Bridge. For waterfront sunset drinks, check out Marina Jack and O’Leary’s! Distance from downtown Sarasota: ~2-3 minutes

St. Armands Circle

300 Madison Drive, Sarasota, FL 34236

St. Armands Circle is a walkable shopping and dining district on Lido Key with boutiques, ice cream shops, and great restaurants. It’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon or evening out. Distance from downtown Sarasota: ~10 minutes

Lido Key

Sarasota, FL 34236

Lido Key is the closest beach to both downtown Sarasota and St. Armands Circle. The bride and groom will be staying here with their families and it's also where the welcome party will be held. Distance from downtown Sarasota: ~10–15 minutes.

Siesta Beach

948 Beach Road, Sarasota, FL 34242

Siesta Key is Sarasota’s most famous beach and a must for us every time we’re in town. It’s perfect for a beach day, and the village is full of fun spots for food, drinks, and live music. Some of our favorites are Gilligan's Island Bar and Daiquiri Deck! Distance from downtown Sarasota: ~15–20 minutes.

PopStroke

195 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, FL 34243

A go-to for us every trip! Play a round of mini golf with food, drinks, cornhole, games, and a family friendly outdoor setup. The surrounding UTC area has tons of shopping and restaurants, making it an easy full afternoon or night out. Distance from downtown Sarasota: ~15-20 minutes.

Waterside Place

7500 Island Cove Ter, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240

Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch is a waterfront town center with restaurants, bars, and live music right on the lake. We especially love “Ranch Night” on Wednesdays for food trucks, music, and a fun outdoor vibe. Some of our favorite restaurants here include Good Liquid Brewing Company, Osteria 500, and Agave Bandido. Distance from downtown Sarasota: ~20-30 minutes.

Golf Courses

Here are some solid public/semi-public golf courses in the Sarasota area for anyone looking to sneak in a round during the weekend! University Park Country Club Calusa Lakes Golf Club Rosedale Golf & Country Club