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Things to do in Sarasota

Not Just Any Hotel – Only the Best Things to do in Sarasota, Selected for You!

Jun 17, 2025 - Jun 18, 2025
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Good (4949)

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Garden
900 South Palm Avenue
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Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota showcases over 20,000 species of tropical plants, including the largest collection of orchids and bromeliads worldwide.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

$20 for adults, $10 for children (ages 4-17). Discounts available for students and seniors.

Good (2721)

Sarasota Jungle Gardens
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Garden
3701 Bay Shore Rd (University Parkway West)
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Sarasota Jungle Gardens, an attraction since 1939, features over 150 animals, shows, and free-roaming flamingos in a tropical setting.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adults: $17.95, Children (3-12): $12.95, Under 3: Free.

Good (2866)

Big Cat Habitat Gulf Coast Sanctuary
12:00 PM–4:00 PM
Zoo
7101 Palmer Blvd (at Center Rd)
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Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary in Sarasota offers a lifelong refuge for exotic animals, focusing on public education and behavioral enrichment.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Adults: $15, Children (3-12): $10, Children under 3: Free. Some specific events may require additional fees.

Good (2)

Sarasota International Convention Center
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Business Center
8005 15th St E
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Sarasota International Convention Center features large meeting spaces, modern amenities, and hosts diverse events in Sarasota, United States.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours depending on the event.

Varies by event. Some events may require a paid ticket while many community events are free.

Good (79)

Payne Park
7:00 AM–9:00 PM
Park
2050 Adams Lane
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Payne Park in Sarasota, USA, features a tennis center, skate park, playground, and an amphitheater. It was a former professional baseball venue from 1924 to 1989.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some events may require a paid ticket.

0.94
Good (560)

Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy
Museum
2121 N Tamiami Trail
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Marietta Museum-Art & Whimsy in Sarasota showcases offbeat contemporary art, sculptures, and textiles in a cheerful, quirky atmosphere.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Good (371)

The Mall at University Town Center
Mo-Sa 10:00-20:00; Su 11:00-18:00
Mall
140 University Town Center Dr (University Parkway & I75)
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The Mall at University Town Center in Sarasota, Florida, features over 150 retailers and diverse dining options, showcasing a blend of world-class shopping in a Floridian-inspired setting.

Duration: Approximately 2-4 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Good (101)

Art Center Sarasota
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Museum
707 N Tamiami Trail
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Art Center Sarasota features four rotating exhibition galleries and a sculpture garden. This community art center promotes local and international artists.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Good (822)

Sarasota Classic Car Museum
Mo-Su 09:00-18:00; Dec 25 off
Museum
5500 N Tamiami Trail
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Sarasota Classic Car Museum features over 100 antique, classic, and rare collectible cars alongside vintage music boxes and phonographs.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Adult: $15, Senior (65+): $12, Child (6-12): $8. Free for children under 6.

Sarasota Opera
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Theater
61 N Pineapple Ave
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Sarasota Opera is a 1,000-seat Mediterranean revival theater in Sarasota, founded in 1926. It hosts a prominent winter opera season attracting many audiences.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours for a performance.

Tickets range from $25 to $150 depending on seating and performance.

Good (458)

South Lido County Park
8:00 AM–sunset
Park
2201 Benjamin Franklin Drive
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South Lido County Park in Sarasota offers a diverse waterfront for swimming, hiking, kayaking, and bird-watching, with ample picnic areas and trails.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some activities like kayak rentals may have a fee.

Rolling Green Golf Club
7:00 AM–6:00 PM
Golf Course
4501 N Tuttle Ave
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Rolling Green Golf Club in Sarasota offers an exceptional golfing experience with meticulously maintained greens, expansive fairways, and a welcoming atmosphere for golf enthusiasts.

Duration: 3–4 hours.

Daily green fees apply. Membership options available.

Forest Lakes Golf Club
7:00 AM–6:00 PM
Golf Course
Southgate
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Forest Lakes Golf Club in Sarasota, US, offers a challenging 18-hole course designed to test golfers of all skill levels in a serene environment.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Green fees apply; check the club's website for specific rates and discounts.

Good (199)

Bee Ridge Park
8:00 AM–8:00 PM
Park
4430 S Lockwood Ridge Rd
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Bee Ridge Park in Sarasota is a recreational spot offering sports facilities and picnic areas. Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free.

Florida Studio Theatre
12:00 PM–5:00 PM
Theater
1241 N Palm Ave
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Florida Studio Theatre in Sarasota offers a vibrant theatre scene with diverse performances and community engagement. Founded in 1973, it hosts dramatic works and musicals.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Tickets range from $27 to $62 depending on the show. Discounts available for students and seniors.

Good (253)

Edson Keith Estate
8:00 AM–sunset
Park
5500 South Tamiami Trail
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Phillippi Estate Park in Sarasota spans 60 acres and features a historic mansion, trails, fishing piers, and a kayak launch. A dog-friendly destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free.

Ringling School of Art and Dsgn
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Gallery
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Ringling School of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida, offers a premier education in fine arts, visual arts, and design disciplines to aspiring artists.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free for general access; some events may have a fee.

Sun N Fun Resort and Campground
8:00 AM–8:00 PM
Camping
7125 Fruitville Rd (at East)
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Sun N Fun RV Resort in Sarasota offers over 1,000 RV sites with amenities like pools, sports courts, and planned activities, catering to families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 3 to 5 hours.

Paid. Rates vary by season and site preference.

Good (7915)

Saint Armands Circle
10:00 AM–10:00 PM
Mall
11 S Blvd of the Presidents (St Armands)
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Saint Armand's Circle is a vibrant outdoor shopping and dining hub in Sarasota, Florida, featuring over 140 merchants, restaurants, and a unique seaside atmosphere.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Dining and shopping costs vary by merchant.

New College of Florida
8:00 AM–5:00 PM
University
5800 Bay Shore Rd (at US41)
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New College of Florida is a public liberal arts college located in Sarasota, Florida, known for its unique academic approach and beautiful campus.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may have a fee.

Good (3119)

Myakka River State Park
8:00 AM–sunset
Park
13208 State Road 72
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Myakka River State Park is a 39,000-acre wildlife preserve in Sarasota, Florida, known for alligators, diverse ecosystems, and outdoor activities.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Entry Fee: $6 per vehicle (2-8 people); $4 single-occupant vehicle.

Good (8950)

The Ringling
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
5401 Bay Shore Road (at US41)
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Ringling Museum in Sarasota, Florida, is the State Art Museum with 31 galleries showcasing art from antiquities to modern works, founded by circus magnate John Ringling.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free for grounds and gardens. Admission to the Museum of Art costs $15 for adults; free on Mondays and for students.

Ringling College of Art and Design
8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Gallery
2700 N Tamiami Trl
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Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida, offers a specialized education in the arts, fostering creativity and innovation in a dynamic environment.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free for campus tours. Some special events may have a fee.

Good (371)

Red Bug Slough Preserve
8:00 AM–sunset
Park
5637 Lake Arrowhead Trail
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Red Bug Slough Preserve is a 72-acre nature preserve featuring wooded trails, a butterfly garden, and a fishing dock by a small lake in Sarasota, Florida.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free.

Good (73)

Scherer Thaxton Preserve
Dawn to Dusk
Nature reserve
13125 Honore Ave
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Scherer Thaxton Preserve in Sarasota, Florida, is a vital nature preserve showcasing local ecosystems and wildlife, providing trails, observation areas, and educational programs.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Educational programs may have a nominal fee.

Good (8)

The Artful Giraffe
10:00 AM–7:00 PM
Museum
1861 Fruitville Rd
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The Artful Giraffe in Sarasota, United States showcases local Florida artists with a focus on whimsical coastal-themed art, jewelry, and gifts, including a pottery studio.

Duration: Around 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Good (35)

Crowley Museum and Nature Center
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
16405 Myakka Rd
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Crowley Museum and Nature Center in Sarasota offers nature trails, historic buildings, and educational programs focused on local flora and fauna. Ideal for families and nature enthusiasts.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Special events may have a nominal fee.

Good (6)

Saint Thomas More Catholic Church
9:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
2506 Gulf Gate Dr
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Saint Thomas More Catholic Church in Sarasota is a beautiful site for worship and community events, offering a peaceful atmosphere and rich history.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for community programs.

Good (6)

Arlington Park and Aquatic Complex
8:00 AM–7:00 PM
Park
2650 Waldemere St
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Arlington Park and Aquatic Complex in Sarasota offers sports facilities, swimming pools, picnic areas, and recreational programs for families and individuals.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Swimming and certain activities may have separate fees.

Good (93)

Eloise Werlin Park
7:00 AM–8:00 PM
Park
Sarasota
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Eloise Werlin Park in Sarasota, Florida, is a city park featuring natural landscapes ideal for outdoor activities and family gatherings.

Duration: More than 1 hour.

Free.

Good (60)

Sarasota Garden Club
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Garden
1131 Blvd of the Arts (Tamiami Trl.)
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Sarasota Garden Club, founded in 1927, features landscaped grounds with native and tropical plants, a butterfly garden, and is committed to ecological education.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free.

0.94
Good (7663)

Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium
Mo-Su 10:00-17:00
Museum
1600 Ken Thompson Parkway
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Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium showcases diverse marine life, featuring a 135,000-gallon shark tank, a stingray touch tank, and a manatee rehabilitation center in Sarasota, Florida.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Admission fees are required; check the official site for current rates.

Good (67)

Towles Court Artist Colony
Varies by gallery
Museum
1938 Adams Lane
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Towles Court Artist Colony in Sarasota features vibrant art galleries within colorful bungalows, showcasing local and unique artwork.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Individual gallery exhibitions may offer special pricing.

Good (4)

Faith Lutheran Church
8:00 AM–12:00 PM
Church
7750 Beneva Rd
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Faith Lutheran Church in Sarasota, United States, offers a welcoming community for worship and fellowship, featuring modern architecture and spiritual events.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require registration.

Good (590)

Urfer Family Park
8:00 AM–8:00 PM
Park
4000 Honore Ave (Bee Ridge Rd)
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Urfer Family Park in Sarasota is a nature hub featuring hiking trails, fishing spots, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing, ideal for outdoor activities.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events may require registration.

Good (53)

Rothenbach Park
6:00 AM–8:00 PM
Park
8650 Bee Ridge Rd
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Rothenbach Park in Sarasota offers 75 acres of natural beauty, walking trails, and wildlife observation areas. A prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. No admission fees apply.

Good (2)

Galleria Silecchia
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
20 S Palm Ave
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Galleria Silecchia is a contemporary fine art gallery in Sarasota, Florida, featuring original works and limited edition bronzes by renowned artists.

Duration: More than 1 hour.

Free. Special exhibitions may have a separate admission fee.

Good (171)

Conservatory Park
8:00 AM–6:00 PM
Park
8027 Conservatory Dr
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Conservatory Park in Sarasota offers a serene environment with lush greenery, walking paths, and various recreational facilities. Ideal for nature lovers.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have entry fees.

Good (5)

Church of the Redeemer Episcopal
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
222 S Palm Ave (ringling blvd)
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Church of the Redeemer Episcopal in Sarasota, founded in 1885, features traditional Anglican architecture, vibrant stained glass windows, and a historic bell tower.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance and community activities.

Good (526)

Circus Museum at The Ringling
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
5401 Bay Shore Rd
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Circus Museum at The Ringling in Sarasota showcases American circus history with props, costumes, and a restored Wisconsin train carriage.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

General admission is $15 for adults, $10 for children ages 6-17. Free for children under 6.

Bent Tree Country Club
7:00 AM–7:00 PM
Golf Course
4510 Bent Tree Blvd
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Bent Tree Country Club in Sarasota offers a premier golf experience with beautifully maintained courses, exceptional dining, and various recreational activities.

Duration: 4 hours.

Access is by membership or guest invitation only. Daily fees for guests may apply.

Good (2729)

Ca d'Zan
10:00 AM–5:30 PM
Museum
5401 Bay Shore Rd
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Ca d'Zan is a historic mansion in Sarasota, Florida, inspired by Venetian Gothic architecture, and was once home to circus king John Ringling.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for children ages 6-17. Discounts available for seniors and students.

Heritage Oaks Golf and Country Club
7:00 AM–7:00 PM
Golf Course
4800 Chase Oaks Dr
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Heritage Oaks Golf and Country Club offers a challenging golf course, fine dining, and activities in a scenic Sarasota setting. Enjoy nature around 18 holes of golf.

Duration: About 4 hours.

Paid. Membership options available; access fees vary for non-members.

Good (5)

Main Street At Lakewood Ranch
10:00 AM–9:00 PM
Mall
8100 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard
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Main Street At Lakewood Ranch is Sarasota's premier shopping and dining destination, featuring over 100 retailers, restaurants, and entertainment options in a picturesque setting.

Duration: About 2-3 hours.

Free. Individual events may require tickets for participation.

Pelican Plaza
10:00 AM–8:00 PM
Mall
Florida
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Pelican Plaza in Sarasota offers a vibrant shopping and dining experience with local boutiques, diverse eateries, and art displays. A hub for community events and relaxation.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have entry fees.