Why Go to Sarasota
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Sarasota pairs Gulf Coast beaches with a surprisingly rich arts scene. This waterfront city on Florida's west coast is known for its museums, theaters and festivals, making it a favorite for art lovers as well as beachgoers.
The circus is part of Sarasota's DNA. John and Charles Ringling of the Ringling Bros. Circus settled here in the early 1900s, and today you can tour The Ringling, which includes the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, a fascinating Circus Museum and Ca' d'Zan, John Ringling's spectacular Venetian Gothic mansion on the bay. The city also has ballet, opera and theater, and art galleries are everywhere.
Nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy. Relax on Lido Beach and nearby Siesta Key, famous for its powder-soft white sand, and shop and dine at St. Armands Circle. Explore the tropical plants of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, and see alligators and birds on an airboat or the canopy walkway at Myakka River State Park. Sarasota is also home to one of Florida's largest Amish and Mennonite communities in Pinecraft. I'll find the right beach resort or condo and plan your arts and nature days.
BEST FOR
Gulf beach lovers, museum enthusiasts, arts patrons and couples
BEST MONTHS
Late fall through spring is generally comfortable for outdoor sightseeing, while summers are hot, humid and prone to afternoon thunderstorms. Atlantic hurricane season runs June through November.
EXPLORE
Downtown Sarasota suits galleries and dining; Lido Key makes beach access easier; the airport corridor can offer convenient short stays. Compare parking and resort fees before reserving.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Sarasota
North America › Southeast › USA › Florida
Sarasota travel guide: highlights and local tips
Coastal & Harbor
Art
Circus
Nature
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Pair The Ringling and the gardens on a culture day, then give Myakka River State Park its own morning to avoid the hottest part of the day.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Allow several hours and check which historic-house tours require separate tickets.
The Ringling
Explore the art museum, circus heritage and bayfront estate associated with the Ringling family; the campus combines galleries, architecture and gardens.
Go earlier in the day for cooler paths and confirm which exhibitions are underway.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Visit a bayfront botanical campus known for orchids, bromeliads and curated tropical plant displays.
Visit on a weekday or allow extra time for parking during peak season.
St. Armands Circle
Browse the landscaped shopping and dining district on St. Armands Key, convenient to Lido Beach.
Check water conditions and available parking before leaving your hotel.
Lido Beach
Enjoy a Gulf-facing beach day with broad sand and easy access to the St. Armands area.
Bring insect protection and observe alligators from a safe distance.
Myakka River State Park
Discover wetlands, forests and wildlife along the Myakka River through trails, scenic drives and designated viewing areas.
A luxury hotel overlooking Sarasota Bay and close to downtown cultural attractions.
The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
Downtown / Sarasota Bay
Hotel Tags
An arts-inspired hotel near theaters, galleries and restaurants.
Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection
Downtown Sarasota
Hotel Tags
A modern hotel with convenient access to downtown and the waterfront.
The Westin Sarasota
Downtown / bayfront
Hotel Tags
A beachfront resort on Lido Key close to St. Armands Circle.
Lido Beach Resort
Lido Key
Hotel Tags
An upscale beachfront retreat on Longboat Key north of central Sarasota.
Zota Beach Resort
Longboat Key
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Sarasota
High 79°F · Low 60°F · Rain 1.9 in
The busy arts season begins at the Ringling and the Van Wezel.
Late fall through spring is generally comfortable for outdoor sightseeing, while summers are hot, humid and prone to afternoon thunderstorms. Atlantic hurricane season runs June through November.
Best Times to Visit Sarasota
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Explore downtown Main Street for an evening meal, St. Armands Circle for restaurants near the coast and waterfront options around Sarasota Bay. Book ahead for popular winter-season dining.
06
Siesta Key and Myakka outings
Build extra flexibility around siesta key and myakka outings when visiting Sarasota. Verify access, cancellations, road or sea conditions and the return journey before committing to an excursion.
05
Downtown and Bayfront walking
Plan time for downtown and bayfront walking in Sarasota. Check terrain, weather, accessibility and local restrictions; allow an alternate transfer where walking is impractical.
04
Taxis and rideshares
For more flexible journeys, taxis and rideshares may be relevant in Sarasota. Use authorized providers, confirm the pickup location and agree on payment arrangements before travel.
03
Rental cars for barrier islands
Consider rental cars for barrier islands when organizing trips beyond your accommodation. Confirm the exact boarding location, advance booking requirements and any transfer between terminals.
02
Sarasota County Breeze buses
For travel within Sarasota, investigate sarasota county breeze buses. Verify route coverage, ticket rules, operating dates and the last return service before relying on it for sightseeing.
01
Sarasota Bradenton International Airport
Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is about 15 minutes from downtown Sarasota. Tampa International (TPA), about an hour north, offers more flight options.
Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) serves the area. A rental car is useful for Myakka and multiple beaches; use local buses, trolleys and rideshare for selected corridors.
Getting Around Sarasota
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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