Things To Do
Siesta Beach
This beach, often ranked among the best beaches in the U.S. for its powdery white quartz sand and clear turquoise water, is a must-see.
Lido beach
Lido Beach offers soft white sand, gentle Gulf waves, and a relaxed, uncrowded vibe perfect for a beach day. It’s great for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a gorgeous Sarasota sunset just steps from St. Armands Circle. This is our favorite beach where most locals go to avoid the busy crowds.
Lido Key Mangroves
The Lido Key Mangroves offer a peaceful escape where you can kayak or paddleboard through quiet, winding tunnels of lush mangrove trees. It’s a beautiful way to experience Sarasota’s wildlife, calm waters, and natural coastal magic up close. Don't forget your sunscreen!
Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island is a tranquil, old‑Florida–style barrier island with 7 miles of white-sand beaches, charming vintage shops and galleries on Pine Avenue, scenic piers, bike‑friendly lanes, and a laid-back waterfront dining and boating scene.
Ringling Museum
The Ringling Museum offers a stunning mix of art, history, and architecture, featuring world-class galleries and the beautifully preserved Ca’ d’Zan mansion. It’s an unforgettable place to wander lush grounds, explore circus history, and enjoy one of Sarasota’s cultural gems.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a serene tropical oasis filled with vibrant orchids, lush greenery, and stunning bayfront views. It’s a peaceful spot to stroll, unwind, and experience Sarasota’s natural beauty up close.
St. Armands Circle
St. Armands Circle is a stylish outdoor shopping and dining district filled with boutique stores, cafés, and coastal charm. It’s perfect for an afternoon of exploring, people-watching, and enjoying the relaxed elegance of Sarasota.
Siesta Village Plaza
Siesta Village Plaza is a walkable, beachy strip filled with coastal boutiques, cafes, and a lively bar scene—think tropical tiki bars, craft cocktails, and live music.
Sarasota Farmers Market
Every Saturday from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the Downtown Sarasota Farmers Market lights up Lemon Avenue (between First Street and South Pineapple) and nearby State Street. You’ll find fresh produce, seafood, coffee, flowers, handcrafted goods, and treats like empanadas and popsicles — all while live music plays and families stroll with kids and pets.
The Mall at University Town Center
The Mall at University Town Center is a sprawling, open‑air retail and lifestyle hub in Sarasota with over 150 shops, department stores, dozens of restaurants, family‑friendly green spaces, and year‑round events.
Mote Aquarium
Mote Aquarium is a cutting-edge marine hub, that brings together over 1 million gallons of immersive exhibits with more than 400 species—from sharks and sea turtles to manatees and otters. This is a great choice for families and all ages.
Big Cat Habitat
Big Cat Habitat in Sarasota is a 20+–acre nonprofit sanctuary where you can observe lions, tigers, bears, lemurs, and over 60 other species up close, while learning about conservation and animal care.
Perspective Rooftop
Found on the top floor of the Art Ovation Hotel, Perspective Rooftop offers stunning panoramic views of Sarasota, perfect for enjoying drinks, sunsets, and city lights.
The Westin Rooftop
The Westin, the city’s tallest rooftop bar, offers sweeping skyline and waterfront views alongside cocktails and a lively atmosphere
Owen's Fish Camp
Our favorite restaurant in the area. Owen’s Fish Camp is a Sarasota favorite known for its fresh seafood, Southern flavors, and Old Florida charm. Kasey's favorite dish is the tripletail with the brown butter hollandaise, collard greens and mashed potatoes. Sam's go to dish is the Camp Basket. As you wait for your table, don’t miss the back patio—there’s live music, tasty small bites, and refreshing drinks to enjoy.
La Mucca Ballerina
La Mucca Ballerina is our favorite Italian restaurant in Sarasota, loved for its fresh, flavorful pasta, creative dishes, and cozy, welcoming atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal and savor authentic Italian flavors. The lobster ravioli is exceptional, and the focaccia bread is equally delicious.
Ocean Prime
Ocean Prime is a premier Sarasota steakhouse known for its expertly prepared steaks, fresh seafood, and elegant, modern atmosphere. The lobster mac and cheese is outstanding.
Boca
Boca is a Sarasota favorite for contemporary American cuisine with a Latin flair, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes. This is great place to unwind during happy hour, with delicious cocktails and a relaxed vibe.
Marina Jack
Marina Jack is a waterfront dining hotspot in Sarasota, offering fresh seafood, scenic views of the marina, and a lively, relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great spot to enjoy a meal, sip a cocktail, and watch the boats go by.
Bar Hana
Bar Hana is a cozy Sarasota spot known for its creative cocktails, small plates, and relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
O'Leary's Tiki Bar & Grill
O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill is a laid‑back waterfront spot on Sarasota Bay with sandy beach seating, tropical cocktails, live music, and a relaxed, vacation‑vibe atmosphere.
Pangea Alchemy Lab
Pangea Alchemy Lab is a cozy, speakeasy-style cocktail lounge tucked away in a back‑alley on Main Street, where expert mixologists serve creative, seasonal craft drinks in a relaxed, European-inspired vibe. Good luck finding it!
Calusa Brewing
Calusa Brewing offers a relaxed, craft-focused taproom where you can enjoy expertly brewed local beers in a laid-back Sarasota setting. Sam's favorite local beer is the Zote, a crisp, juicy hazy IPA (7.5% ABV).
99 Bottles
99 Bottles in downtown Sarasota is a cozy taproom and bottle shop known for its ever-rotating craft beer lineup, boutique wines, brunch bagels, and laid-back, community‑vibe atmosphere.
State Street Eating House + Cocktails
State Street Eating House + Cocktails is a rustic‑chic downtown Sarasota restaurant and lounge featuring modern American fare and a creative, handcrafted cocktail program in a cozy, lodge‑like setting. Our go-to place for late-night fun. Our pick is the Bramble—a refreshing gin-based drink mixed with fresh blackberries.