THE BEACH The world renowned white sandy beach on Siesta Key is made of 99.9% quartz crystal and is cool on the feet. It's unlike anything you've seen before. Once you step foot on the beach and witness a Siesta sunset, you'll fall in love and want to return time after time.
THE VILLAGE With plenty of shops, eateries, and nightlife, Siesta Key's Village is sure to be a favorite hangout. Hang a signed dollar on the wall of the SKOB (Siesta Key Oyster Bar) or dance the night away at the Beach club. Don't forget to shop a bit at Beach Bazaar. Grab a new suit or a souvenir.
DOWNTOWN Sarasota has a great downtown area too. Catch a comedy show or stroll through Marie Selby's botanical gardens. Be sure to eat on the deck among the yachts at Marina Jacks and take a selfie under the Unconditional Surrender statue along the bayfront. Then head over to The Gator Club for live music. What a great town!
Myakka Elephant Ranch is a non-profit conservation center. From tusk to tail they strive to educate guests on elephant conservation while providing a memorable once in a lifetime experience.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens provides 45 acres of bayfront sanctuaries connecting people with air plants of the world, native nature, and our regional history. Established by forward-thinking women of their time, Selby Gardens is composed of the 15-acre Downtown Sarasota campus and the 30-acre Historic Spanish Point campus in the Osprey area of Sarasota County, Florida.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens, affectionately known as just “Jungle Gardens”, is home to more than 200 native and exotic animals including birds of prey, many different species of parrots and macaws, primates, small mammals, dozens of snakes, lizards, iguanas, alligators, crocodiles and other reptiles – many of them rescued or donated – including Florida’s noted pink flamingos. All nestled within 10 acres of lush tropical landscaping connected by winding jungle trails.
The Ringling, the State Art Museum of Florida, is home to one of the preeminent art and cultural collections in the United States. Spend a day or two exploring the 66 acre estate of John and Mable Ringling which also includes the Circus Museum, Ca' d'Zan, The Historic Asolo Theater, Bayfront Gardens and more.
The best place to start is the FREE Visitor and Education Center. There you can get information and brochures, visit the Nature Store, and explore our exhibits. Exhibits feature information about our ecosystems, the work of Jay Norwood "Ding" Darling, migratory flyways and a hands-on area for children. Then you can walk, bike, drive the four-mile Wildlife Drive, access three walking trails and two canoe launches from it. You can walk or bike the Bailey Tract too, an interior part of the refuge dominated by freshwater plants and wildlife. The refuge is home to more than 245 bird species, so birdwatching and photography are fabulous. Or sign up for a tram tour offered by Tarpon Tay Explorers to see the Wildlife Drive. Stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, and more are available at Tarpon Bay
You will discover the natural heart of authentic Florida like you’ve never seen before on a narrated 90-minute eco-tour through Babcock Ranch. Experience the thrill of seeing wildlife in nature – alligators, birds, perhaps deer, wild hogs, wild turkeys, Sandhill cranes and more, often coming within a few yards. Travel through four different ecosystems of Florida including Telegraph Cypress Swamp. Our expert guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the history, wildlife, and various ecosystems you will see and will enhance your experience with their commentaries. Get back to nature and enjoy the excitement of a true wilderness adventure.
Visani's dining is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that transforms an ordinary evening into something truly special. A Culinary Delight... At Visani's Comedy Club, you have the perfect options for your night out:- Enjoy a delightful dinner and head home with cherished memories- Or linger a little longer, savoring a delicious meal followed by captivating live entertainment**Let laughter fill the air as you enjoy live comedy shows featuring national touring comedians from The Comedy Zone. This blend of humor and fine dining will make your night unforgettable.**Perfect for Every Occasion**Whether it’s an intimate dinner for two, a grand celebration, or a memorable event, Visani's Comedy Club offers an inviting setting that enhances every occasion. Visani's Comedy Club is an experience to be cherished!