Things To Do
The Ringling Museum
Visit the museum of the famous Ringling Brothers! Charles Ringling, one of the brothers, built his magnificent mansion (next to the museum) in 1925-1926 as a winter retreat for his family - the very mansion we are hosting our wedding.
St Armands Circle
Enjoy shopping of boutiques and galleries, dine at sidewalk cafes with various cuisines and stroll through the central park with the "Circus Ring of Fame" featuring bronze plaques honoring famous circus performers. As a closer alternative, check out the Main Street strip in the heart of Sarasota for additional walkable dining and bars.
Main Street - Downtown Sarasota
Main Street is lined up with many restaurant and bar options! Check out some recos below and make sure you book dinner reservations in advance if you are interested: Restaurants: - Rosemary & Thyme: American (beautiful outdoor patio stting, slightly off Main Street, one of our favorites!) - La Mucca Ballerina: Italian (very delicious & quaint) - Beso: Spanish Tapas (vibey, fun restaurant) - Lucile Pizza & Wine Bar (tiny little cute spot) - Mediterraneo: Italian (very good Italian) - 1592 Wood Fire Kitchen & Cocktails: Casual Greek Spot (they have Fix beer!) - Fork & Hen on Main: Southern Comfort Lunch Spot (another fave, casual spot!) Cocktails & Bars: - State Street Eating Out House + Cocktails (cozy, fun setting - both a restaurant on left and cocktail lounge on right) - Block 15: Draft Wine Bar - Cask and Ale: Staple Bar with Live Music
Lido Key
Check out the closest, public beach in Sarasota - Lido Key - just a short drive/walk from St Armands and 10 minutes from hotels within the downtown strip! See parking/additional details in website.
Siesta Key
Ranked #1 beach in the U.S. - Siesta Key is just south of Sarasota! It's known for its white quartz-crystal sand, turquoise waters & many beach amenties. If you are staying in town for a few days, definitely check it out! - Visit Siesta Beach (crowd favorite with picnic tables) or Turtle Beach (quieter) - Grab a bite at favorites - The Cottage or Siesta Key Oyster Bar
Anna Maria Island
For those staying more than a few days, we recommend you check out AMI - Anna Maria Island holds a very special place in Kasey & George's hearts. At 10 years old, Kasey began coming to AMI regularly after her grandparents, parents, and aunt & uncle bought condos. Since then, George & Kasey have enjoyed many Christmas holidays and Spring trips down to visit. AMI has a hometown, laid back feel with many things to do. Recommended Activities Include: - Head to Coquina Beach (lots of parking, quieter & closer to Sarasota), Cortez Beach or Holmes Beach (bit busier, parking does fill up) for beach fun! - Rent bikes to check out the 7-mile island - Stop by numerous shops including Kasey's favorite: Sand Dollar + shops around Pine Ave and Bridge Street - Enjoy various eateries on the island including Harry's for a good burger/fish taco in a casual, outdoor setting for lunch, The Waterfront Restaurant for waterside brunch/dinner or The Porch or Blue Marlin for an intimate cozy dinner
Longboat Key
If you are staying in Sarasota for more than a few days, consider checking out Longboat Key, known for its beautiful white sand beaches, upscale dining and waterfront golf. Please note more of the public beaches are located within the Northern part of the island (further from downtown Sarasota). See the website for more information. Enjoy top waterside, lovely atmosphere dining including Dry Dock Waterfront Grill, Mar Vista and Shore Longboat Key.