Last updated: September 18, 2026.
Things to do in Sarasota
Sarasota punches way above its weight on culture — circus history, a world-class art museum, and botanical gardens on the bay. On a budget? Start with free things to do.
The Ringling
The former estate of circus magnate John Ringling: an art museum with Old Masters and contemporary works, the Circus Museum, the bayfront Ca' d'Zan mansion, and 66 acres of gardens. The single best rainy-day (or any-day) stop in town.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Fifteen acres of bayfront gardens in downtown Sarasota, famous for its orchid and epiphyte collections. The downtown campus pairs well with a Bayfront walk; there's also the Historic Spanish Point campus in Osprey.
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
A working marine research lab with a public aquarium on City Island — manatees, sea turtles, sharks, and touch tanks. Good for kids and genuinely educational for adults.
St. Armands Circle
The open-air shopping and dining circle on Lido Key — galleries, boutiques, ice cream, and people-watching. Free to stroll; dangerous for your wallet in the best way.
visitsarasota.com — official visitor info →
Myakka River State Park
One of Florida's oldest and largest state parks, about 20 miles east of downtown. Airboat-free wilderness: alligators, wading birds, a canopy walkway, and a treetop-high observation tower. Cheap admission, big payoff.
Florida State Parks — Myakka River →
Historic Spanish Point
A 30-acre bayfront preserve in Osprey run by Selby Gardens: prehistoric middens, a pioneer homestead, and one of the prettiest sunset spots in the county. Quieter and cheaper-feeling than the big-ticket stops.
Frequently asked questions
What is the single best attraction in Sarasota?
The Ringling — an art museum, the Circus Museum, the bayfront Ca' d'Zan mansion, and 66 acres of gardens. The best rainy-day (or any-day) stop in town.
What can I do in Sarasota for free?
Walk the beaches and Bayfront, stroll St. Armands Circle, and see our free things to do guide for a full free day.
Is Mote Marine Aquarium good for kids?
Yes — manatees, sea turtles, sharks, and touch tanks on City Island. It's fun for kids and genuinely educational for adults.
How can I save on Sarasota attraction tickets?
Check our coupons page — Viator and GetYourGuide often undercut walk-up prices on local tours and cruises.