Holiday Splendor at The Ringling: My Family’s Favorite Toys for Tots Tradition
Celebrate The Ringling’s Toys for Tots Holiday Splendor—free admission with toy donation, student performances, and festive Ca’ d’Zan décor.
Discover world-class museums, whimsical art collections, and fascinating historical landmarks that define Sarasota’s vibrant culture.
Celebrate The Ringling’s Toys for Tots Holiday Splendor—free admission with toy donation, student performances, and festive Ca’ d’Zan décor.
Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy Sarasota delights visitors with colorful sculptures, vibrant paintings, and joyful surprises inside and out.
Explore The Ringling’s Circus Museum—three exhibits in one: the miniature model, the people behind the show, and real equipment like The Wisconsin.
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.”
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.
Bird Key Park Sarasota offers bayfront sunsets, leashed-dog water access, and scenic walks along the Ringling Causeway—just minutes from downtown.
Urfer Park in Sarasota blends family fun, fitness trails, and history — a beloved local park with playgrounds, wildlife walks, and room to roam.
Explore Rothenbach Park Sarasota — a shady oak-canopy trail, playground, and family-friendly park filled with deer, open space, and peaceful paved paths.
Discover Red Bug Slough Preserve Sarasota — hidden trails, peaceful lakes, and quiet moments for dog walkers & nature lovers off Beneva Road.
Climb the tallest hill in Sarasota at Celery Fields Sarasota — a peaceful landmark where sunsets, bird calls, and unexpected adventures meet.
Explore lush tropical landscapes at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and journey through time at Historic Spanish Point’s native flora and archaeological treasures.
This 30-acre historical site offers a glimpse into Sarasota’s past, with prehistoric shell mounds, pioneer homesteads, and beautiful gardens. Learn about the region’s Native American
A Sarasota classic for generations, Jungle Gardens invites families to feed flamingos, meet reptiles, and wander under towering palms. This old-Florida treasure mixes simple magic,
During Lights in Bloom, Selby Gardens glows with millions of lights, tropical holiday scenes, and magical night walks under the banyans. It’s Sarasota’s most breathtaking
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 The Children’s Garden Sarasota — a hidden gem near downtown where fairies dance, dragons grin, and children’s imaginations bloom.
Discover fence art Sarasota—tropical murals of dolphins, sunsets, and Florida icons that turn wooden fences into vibrant outdoor galleries.
Discover Bradenton’s Village of the Arts—where historic cottages, colorful murals, and lively Art Walks create a most unique experience.
Night Market UTC Sarasota brings live music, food, vendors & family fun to The Green at UTC—free outdoor concerts with a community vibe.
Fresh Fridays Sarasota: live music, food, vendors, art & giveaways every first Friday downtown. Free concerts & fun in the heart of the city.
Discover sand art Sarasota—from beach sayings etched in sand to casual creations and professional sculptures with inspiring messages.
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.
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.
Night Market UTC Sarasota brings live music, food, vendors & family fun to The Green at UTC—free outdoor concerts with a community vibe.
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.
Discover The Children’s Garden Sarasota — a hidden gem near downtown where fairies dance, dragons grin, and children’s imaginations bloom.
Payne Park Sarasota celebrates the city’s circus legacy with colorful playgrounds, shady trails, and family fun just off Ringling Boulevard downtown.
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.
Celebrate The Ringling’s Toys for Tots Holiday Splendor—free admission with toy donation, student performances, and festive Ca’ d’Zan décor.
Discover fence art Sarasota—tropical murals of dolphins, sunsets, and Florida icons that turn wooden fences into vibrant outdoor galleries.
From tiki bars to lifeguard stands, explore 15 must see icons of Sarasota that continue to shape the community and define its character.
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.
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.
Celebrate The Ringling’s Toys for Tots Holiday Splendor—free admission with toy donation, student performances, and festive Ca’ d’Zan décor.
Experience the vibrant essence of Sarasota through our comprehensive guide, designed to showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage, stunning coastal beauty, diverse culinary scene, captivating attractions, and engaging recreational activities. Whether you’re seeking artistic inspiration, outdoor adventures, family-friendly fun, or the finest accommodations, our curated selections offer invaluable insights to help you make the most of your Sarasota experience.
Discover fence art Sarasota—tropical murals of dolphins, sunsets, and Florida icons that turn wooden fences into vibrant outdoor galleries.
Explore Sarasota murals — from iconic landmarks to provocative street art and tropical-themed walls that brighten the city.
Explore Sarasota sidewalk art at the Avenue of Art in Burns Court — murals celebrating Sarasota’s history, whimsy, and community spirit.
