Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy: Sarasota’s Most Playful Hidden Gem
Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy Sarasota delights visitors with colorful sculptures, vibrant paintings, and joyful surprises inside and out.
Discover world-class museums, whimsical art collections, and fascinating historical landmarks that define Sarasota’s vibrant culture.
Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy Sarasota delights visitors with colorful sculptures, vibrant paintings, and joyful surprises inside and out.
Explore the Sarasota Art Museum, where historic architecture and contemporary exhibitions create a one-of-a-kind cultural experience.
Experience opulent elegance at the Ringling’s grand Venetian-style mansion on Sarasota Bay.
Explore the Ringling Museum of Art—iconic galleries, Statue of David, banyans, and after-5 events that make it a Sarasota favorite.
From scenic trails to wildlife sanctuaries, immerse yourself in the beauty of Sarasota’s vast and breathtaking natural landscapes.”
Discover Red Bug Slough Preserve Sarasota — hidden trails, peaceful lakes, and quiet moments for dog walkers & nature lovers off Beneva Road.
Explore Oscar Scherer State Park Campground — a peaceful Old Florida escape for camping, kayaking, and discovering Sarasota’s natural beauty.
Discover Ted Sperling Nature Park Lido — Sarasota’s best spot for kayaking, paddle boarding, and exploring its mangrove tunnels and hidden beaches along Lido Key.
Explore Myakka River State Park — Sarasota’s wild heart. From alligators and cabins to Deep Hole and the Canopy Walkway, experience Florida as it once
Explore lush tropical landscapes at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and journey through time at Historic Spanish Point’s native flora and archaeological treasures.
Discover The Children’s Garden Sarasota — a hidden gem near downtown where fairies dance, dragons grin, and children’s imaginations bloom.
Discover 15 Sarasota family activities—from flamingo feeding to kayaking mangroves—told through real stories from nearly 40 years of local life.
Payne Park Sarasota celebrates the city’s circus legacy with colorful playgrounds, shady trails, and family fun just off Ringling Boulevard downtown.
The Bay Park Sarasota brings art, nature, and community together — home to the stunning Ibis Playground, bayfront trails, and events for all ages.
Urfer Park in Sarasota blends family fun, fitness trails, and history — a beloved local park with playgrounds, wildlife walks, and room to roam.
Discover Nathan Benderson Park Sarasota — from hidden lake to world-class rowing venue, family playground, and year-round waterfront events.
From the peaceful trails of Urfer Park and the vibrant energy of The Bay Park to the panoramic views at The Celery Fields, these Sarasota favorites invite you to slow down and explore. Wander the playful exhibits of the Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy, dive into culture at the Sarasota Art Museum, or escape to South Lido Beach and the South Lido Nature Park for paddling, wildlife, and waterfront sunsets. Together, these destinations define Sarasota’s “lesser-known” treasures — familiar to locals, yet always worth rediscovering.
Discover Boca Grande Florida on Gasparilla Island — an Old Florida gem with island charm, rich history, tarpon fishing, and unforgettable character.
Discover Crescent Beach on Siesta Key — Sarasota’s quiet, vintage beach near Point of Rocks with top snorkeling, shelling & classic old-Florida charm.
Experience Sarasota National Cemetery — sacred grounds honoring veterans and families through Patriot Plaza and community remembrance.
Bird Key Park Sarasota offers bayfront sunsets, leashed-dog water access, and scenic walks along the Ringling Causeway—just minutes from downtown.
Climb the tallest hill in Sarasota at Celery Fields Sarasota — a peaceful landmark where sunsets, bird calls, and unexpected adventures meet.
Discover Point of Rocks on Siesta Key—rugged limestone ledges, rare shells, snorkeling, and King Tide surprises on Crescent Beach.
Discover Sarasota’s world-class theatre scene, from Broadway-caliber productions at the Asolo Rep to intimate, innovative performances at Florida Studio Theatre. Whether you’re catching a comedy, musical, drama, or a night of unforgettable entertainment at the Van Wezel, Sarasota’s stages promise inspiring artistry and show-stopping talent all year long.
Celebrate The Ringling’s Toys for Tots Holiday Splendor—free admission with toy donation, student performances, and festive Ca’ d’Zan décor.
Discover Florida Studio Theatre Sarasota—cabaret, comedy & improv in the heart of downtown’s arts district, steps from dining, galleries & nightlife.
Experience Asolo Repertory Theatre Sarasota—Broadway-caliber productions in a historic setting on the grounds of The Ringling Museum.
Discover Van Wezel Sarasota—the iconic “Purple Cow” on the bay with concerts, Broadway tours, FridayFest, and unforgettable cultural experiences.
From lively night markets and sunset concerts to downtown block parties and waterfront stages, Sarasota’s live music scene brings energy to every corner of the city. Enjoy free outdoor shows, discover rising local artists, and experience the vibrant rhythm of Sarasota—where every weekend offers a new beat.
Catch FridayFest Sarasota: bayfront live music, food trucks, and sunset views on the Van Wezel south lawn—easy, family-friendly summer nights.
Music on Main Lakewood Ranch: free live music, food & beer vendors, kids’ activities, and monthly non-profit spotlights on Main Street.
Fresh Fridays Sarasota: live music, food, vendors, art & giveaways every first Friday downtown. Free concerts & fun in the heart of the city.
Experience the Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival this January—fresh Gulf seafood, live music, and Florida art by the bay.
Thunder By The Bay Sarasota roars each winter with motorcycles, live music, vendors, and community spirit at the Sarasota Fairgrounds.
Discover Sarasota’s signature icons — from the colorful cottages of Anna Maria Island and the artistic flair of the Bradenton Village of the Arts to the historic beauty of Cortez Village and Venice Island. Wander St. Armands Circle for coastal shopping, explore the Bayfront’s picturesque views, or stroll through vibrant mural districts for unforgettable photo-ready moments.
Experience Sarasota National Cemetery — sacred grounds honoring veterans and families through Patriot Plaza and community remembrance.
Bayfront Park Sarasota blends banyan trees, bay breezes, and tropical vibes from O’Leary’s and Marina Jack — Sarasota’s #1 park for sunsets and memories.
Discover 12 tiki bars in Sarasota and nearby towns. Savor tropical cocktails, watch sunsets, and soak up island vibes on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
From tiki bars to lifeguard stands, explore 15 must see icons of Sarasota that continue to shape the community and define its character.
Discover Van Wezel Sarasota—the iconic “Purple Cow” on the bay with concerts, Broadway tours, FridayFest, and unforgettable cultural experiences.
Discover Sarasota lifeguard stands — from Siesta’s yellow tower to Scooter of the Beach and the colors that capture Sarasota’s coastal spirit.
Escape the everyday with quick, magical getaways just a short drive from Sarasota. From holiday magic at Disney and the thrills of Busch Gardens to coastal gems like Clearwater, St. Pete, and Boca Grande, these nearby destinations offer family fun, world-class attractions, and easy day-trip inspiration for every kind of traveler.
Anna Maria Island blends Old Florida charm, three distinct island vibes, and decades of family memories—just a short drive from Sarasota.
Discover Boca Grande Florida on Gasparilla Island — an Old Florida gem with island charm, rich history, tarpon fishing, and unforgettable character.
Zoo Tampa Lowry Park blends wildlife, conservation, family-friendly encounters, and Christmas magic into a relaxed zoo experience perfect for younger kids.
Experience Harry Potter Universal Orlando—Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade, Hogwarts Express, thrilling rides, immersive details, and family magic.
Experience Disney Springs Orlando with great dining, imaginative shopping, live entertainment, LEGO fun, free parking and the Disney magic.
Busch Gardens Tampa blends wildlife, thrills & Christmas magic. A Florida resident shares real memories & why this park keeps families coming back.
From festive holiday traditions right here in Sarasota to iconic Christmas attractions in Tampa, Orlando, St. Augustine, and beyond, these experiences show what it really means to do Christmas in Florida — warm nights, lights, and seasonal escapes worth planning around.
Christmas around Sarasota comes alive with glowing neighborhoods, garden lights, trolley tours, and warm family traditions.
Nights of Lights St Augustine blends history and Christmas charm—but does it live up to the hype? A firsthand family experience and honest comparison.
Experience Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom — festive parades, fireworks, stage shows, treats, traditions, and family memories you’ll never forget.
Experience Gaylord Palms Christmas — the unbelievable 9° ICE! attraction, magical atrium nights, family traditions, memories, and why locals love it.
Discover the ultimate guide to Disney Resorts at Christmas, from the Grand Floridian gingerbread house to Wilderness Lodge’s towering tree and holiday magic.
Experience UTC Christmas—Sarasota’s best lights, shows, and holiday vibes. Fireworks, movies, Santa, Wonderland, and unforgettable memories.
Explore Sarasota Lifestyle’s local guides — from beaches and dining to arts, attractions, outdoor fun, family activities, events, and places to stay.
