What Are Some of the Must-See Places Near Sarasota, Florida?

Sarasota is a coastal city situated in the Gulf of Mexico and is the county seat of Sarasota County. Offering beautiful beaches and plenty of exciting outdoor activities, it’s no surprise that the city has grown in popularity and is a popular destination in sunny Florida. If you’re planning a trip to Sarasota, here are some of the must-see places nearby.

1. Siesta Key Beach

One of the most famous and beloved beaches in Florida, Siesta Key Beach is known for its stunning beauty and white sand. It was consistently chosen as the number one beach in the country by Dr. Beach, and it’s easy to see why. You can swim, kayak, paddleboard, fish or relax in the sun for hours. Siesta Key Beach also has a playground for children, lifeguards on duty and a few concessions around for convenience.

2. Ringling Museum of Art

A must-see for any art lovers, the Ringling Museum of Art is home to world-class art from around the world, as well as a widely diverse selection of American art. With an interesting combination of European old masters, Asian, modern and contemporary art, the museum even features circus-based exhibitions to pay tribute to Sarasota’s own past. The grounds are just as impressive, with a waterfront garden, historic mansion, gift shop and more.

3. Mote Marine Aquarium

The Mote Marine Aquarium allows guests to explore all the incredible aquatic life that lives in and around the Gulf of Mexico. With seven galleries available to explore, interactive exhibits, touch pools and advanced virtual reality experiences, you won’t be bored here. At the Tank Talk Theater, you can learn about the different species from an expert and experience more throughout other interactive programs.

4. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota is comprised of 15 acres of tropical foliage and nature trails. It also boasts a wide array of outdoor gardens that depict different habitats like a Japanese garden, fragrant garden, bamboo garden and more. Inside the greenhouse exhibits, meanwhile, you can find orchids, bromeliads, cacti and even some rare plants.

5. Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary

Animal lovers won’t want to miss out on the Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary when visiting Sarasota. Home to numerous exotic animals like camels, tortoises, lions and bears, this habitat advocates for animal rights and responsible pet ownership and rehabilitation. Interactive shows are also a popular pastime for guests and are sure to provide an enjoyable visit for all ages.

Sarasota is a bustling city with plenty of programs, events and attractions available for everyone to enjoy. From serene beach walks to interesting botanical gardens, art museums to animal sanctuaries – there’s never a dull moment here. With these must-see places near Sarasota, you can be sure you’re making the most out of your Florida getaway.
For more information about these 5 must-see places near Sarasota, Florida visit Escape Oars Sarasota, an official travel guide of Sarasota County.

An Insider’s Guide to Sarasota, Florida

Sarasota, Florida, is a vibrant and beautiful city located on the southwestern coast of the state. Known for its white-sand beaches, cultural attractions, excellent dining, and year-round tropical weather, Sarasota is a popular destination for tourists from around the world.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another trip, there is always something new to discover in Sarasota. In this insider’s guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the must-see places in and around the city, as well as some off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make your trip truly memorable.

Local Attractions

Sarasota is home to several popular attractions that offer something for everyone. Among them are:

• Siesta Beach – consistently voted one of the best beaches in the world
• Ringling Museum of Art – featuring an extensive collection of European and American art and stunning gardens
• Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium – where you can see sea turtles, dolphins, and manatees up close
• Selby Botanical Gardens – showcasing over 20,000 exotic plants from around the world
• Marie Selby Botanical Gardens – a world-renowned research and conservation center with a vast collection of orchids and other tropical plants

Dining Spots

Sarasota is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine offerings. Here are some local favorites:

• Owen’s Fish Camp – a seafood-centric restaurant with rustic Southern charm
• The Columbia Restaurant – a classic Spanish eatery with tasty tapas and sangria
• The Rosemary – a farm-to-table restaurant with a focus on fresh, local ingredients
• Indigenous – serving up innovative and locally sourced cuisine in a chic and modern atmosphere
• The Cottage – a charming bistro specializing in New American cuisine and a wide selection of wines

Cultural Experiences

Sarasota is rich in cultural offerings, from performing arts to museums to galleries. Here are some cultural must-sees:

• Asolo Repertory Theatre – a Tony Award-winning theater company featuring performances from renowned actors and directors
• The Sarasota Opera – offering world-class operatic performances in a historic theater
• The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art – a celebrated art museum with artworks from around the world and impressive landscaped grounds to enjoy
• The Venice Art Center – a hub of cultural activity with an exhibit gallery and art classes for all ages
• The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall – a performing arts center with a diverse lineup of shows, concerts, and other live performances

Local History

Sarasota has a rich history that spans centuries. Here are some local landmarks that showcase the city’s unique past:

• The Ca’ d’Zan Mansion – a grand 1920s estate built by John Ringling with stunning views of Sarasota Bay
• The Sarasota Classic Car Museum – featuring a vast collection of classic, exotic, and one-of-a-kind cars
• The Florida Maritime Museum – a fascinating museum chronicling Florida’s rich maritime history
• Historic Spanish Point – an outdoor museum with prehistoric and pioneer artifacts, beautiful gardens, and walking trails along the bay
• The Sarasota National Cemetery – a solemn and peaceful place to pay respects to those who served our country

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those looking to explore beyond the typical tourist destinations, here are some off-the-beaten-path tips that offer a unique Sarasota experience:

• Myakka River State Park – a vast expanse of wilderness with hiking trails, airboat tours, and stunning wildlife encounters
• Siesta Key Farmers Market – a weekly farmers market with fresh local produce, baked goods, and artisanal crafts
• Ringling Underground – a monthly event held at The Ringling that showcases local artists and musicians with a lively party atmosphere
• Marina Jack II Sunset Dinner Cruise – cruise around Sarasota Bay while enjoying a delicious gourmet dinner and sunset views

In conclusion, Sarasota, Florida, is a fantastic destination that offers something for everyone. We hope this insider’s guide has provided you with some new and exciting ideas to make your trip unforgettable. Safe travels!