Bucket List: Best Activities and Amazing Places to Visit in Sarasota, Florida

The world has gotten better at adapting to the new normal, and more flights and hotels are now available. This is probably one the most uplifting news for wanderers at heart.

If you’re eyeing the US for your next trip, you won’t have to worry about getting disappointed. Many establishments have reopened, observing strict sanitizing standards for the safety of everyone.

With the prolonged months of social distancing, it’s normal to miss the great outdoors. Florida is home to some of the most popular parks, the best golf courses, and the most exciting theme parks (honestly, the entire list can fit a medieval scroll). Its cloudy skies shelter a wide variety of places that are sure to captivate your taste buds, fill your eyes, and warm your heart.

Are you ready to fall deeply in love with Florida? These are the fifteen best things to do in Sarasota for an attention-grabbing getaway.

Spread love to dozens of exotic animals

If there’s one thing the pandemic is teaching the world, it’s that life is valuable. Sometimes, life can be preserved by protecting each other. Wildlife preservation and protection are the themes that inspire the Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary work.

If you’re among the many who gained a renewed appreciation for life these past months, this sanctuary will fulfill your purpose. You can expect to see plenty of rescued exotic animals who are well-loved and cared for here. This home has been operating since 1987, and their work is truly amazing.

Lay your eyes at a grand Venetian home

One of Sarasota’s iconic mansion-landmark is the Ca d’Zan. This is the home of one of the world’s most successful circus owners, John Ringling. Looking at his grandiose palace will fill your eyes with wonder.

After all, what’s there not to love about Venetian architecture? The intricate details and the technique scream, “Stare at me! Wander your eyes at my every angle”. Expect to be glued to the magnificence of this home’s beauty and history when you visit.

Pick among the freshest seafood catch.

Eating healthy is paramount to the new normal. If you want to dose on fresh produce, you have to see the Central Sarasota Farmers Market. It offers a wide variety of the freshest seafood (note that stone crab is among the crowd’s favorite).

Roam around for rum

Did you know that drinking rum contributes to a healthier heart and health? Whether you’re a rum lover or a health buff, Sarasota has an excellent offering! It is home to Drum Circle Distilling, a well-respected brand that’s been distilling rum since 2007.

There is a myriad of variety for you to try (hopefully not all at the same time). If you are interested in our recommendation, the Siesta Key Toasted Coconut Rum tastes as interesting as its name. This rum is infused with real toasted coconut and natural spices, with additions of honey. Talk about healthy, right?

Allow nature to wash your worries away.

The appreciation for plants has soared to unbelievable levels over the past few months. If you agree that plants bring relaxation and calmness, the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens will give you loads of inspiration.

They host orchid shows and other activities that will help you understand green life better. Visiting this botanical garden will give you a nugget or two and surround you with flowers featuring the most uplifting colors.

Demystify life underwater

Did you know that people make noises that can be heard underwater? Would you like to know more about how noise and sound affect marine life? Fret not because your visit to Sarasota can include a trip to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

Spending a day here will give you lots of information (feel free to jot down notes in case of detail overload) and even more fun!

Experience nature while burning calories

Following a trail as an outdoor trip is a healthy way to have fun. You get to see nature in its purest form and obtain a sense of accomplishment while having a form of workout.

The Legacy Trail In Florida extends from Sarasota to Venice, giving you ample time to keep healthy and see stellar sights.

Brave the city waters by boat

Being landlocked for months can make anyone crave for some wetland. If you’re planning a trip to Sarasota, you can cruise through a prairie-covered river that’s surrounded by pinelands.

The Myakka River State Park is an excellent place where you can have a relaxing boating tour. There are surrounding restaurants, too, offering savory meals, guaranteeing an energizing and enjoyable experience.

Be captivated by a collection of classic cars.

Did you know that you can view antique and exotic cars in Florida? The Sarasota Classic Car Museum is filled with groundbreaking cars made by notable individuals like Ferdinand Porsche and Enzo Ferrari.

If you want to go back to the humble beginnings of some of the world’s most established brands (and see lots of heart-thumping cars), you know the place to visit.

Unleash your inner beachbum

Vacations are made even better by basking under the sun and taking a plunge, don’t you agree? This makes South Lido Beach and Park an excellent holiday destination in Sarasota.

The fine white sand and deep blue waters are simply irresistible. Fair warning, prepare to be enticed, and a lot more than a day here if possible.

Take a journey to the jungles.

Going to the jungle is usually a maze and is generally unsafe. Fortunately, the Sarasota Jungle Garden is here to treat us! There is entire wildlife to see and many shows to attend in this jungle garden, so what are you waiting for?

You can book a ticket for the Jungle Bird Show, Wildlife Wonder Show, Reptile Show, and the Multi-Species Animal Show. Children to seniors are encouraged to experience the fascinating wildlife without risking your security-certainly an excellent holiday idea!

Experience transcendence through music

Opera can make us see, feel, and hear the world differently–this is according to Kasper Holten, the director of the Royal Opera House in London, and we couldn’t have said it better.

There’s something out of this world when you witness the beautiful concoction of music notes. The Sarasota Opera House is famous for offering headline-worthy opera and ballet performances–certainly a must-see when you’re in the city.

Have a kayak-filled day

If you want a healthy sunglow, Sarasota has many options for you. Kayaking, the favorite of many beachgoers, offers nothing less than the superlative of fun.

If you want a day filled with safe water adventure, the Sarasota Paddleboard Company will serve your needs on a silver platter-go grab the chance now.

Escape to a village-island

The Siesta Key Village is an island of exciting and relaxing activities. You will find that this place is dotted with over 100 boutiques, restaurants, and clubs, which will enrich your day as well as your night.

If you want the best that a single vacation can offer, feel free to get lost in the beauty of this village.

Dig in!

Sarasota is home to many Michelin-star restaurants as well as places that offer a unique dining experience.

If you want a ‘first’ for your books, we’ve got something distinctly delicious for you. Bob’s Train is a train and museum-themed restaurant, which offers a stellar menu. Their M.O.O.S.E. burger is a stand-out and a must-try. It’s made of premium Angus beef and quality ingredients, which will surely indulge your taste buds.

If you are in the US for a romantic holiday, there are many lovely options. Still, nothing is as incredible as Ophelia’s On the Bay. This fine-dining restaurant is across the bay, giving you the freshest seafood and the most romantic city view. What diners especially appreciate is the outstanding menu. The total experience you’ll get dining here is undeniably enviable.

Sarasota is bountiful in outstanding restaurants. If you’re judging dining places through their stars, might we recommend First Watch? This is an award-winning dining place that specializes in authentic American cuisine. If you want a hearty breakfast and the most filling lunch, you can locate this exceptional option at Main Street.

Sarasota Travel and Tour Packages

To help you plan out your travel to Sarasota, we listed places to visit and other amazing things to do in Sarasota, Florida. We also listed some of the best travel deals and tour packages and excellent flight deals and accommodation.

Searching for the best hotels, resorts, and affordable flights in the nearby Cities? Check out our list of affordable Sarasota FL hotels and resorts via Agoda, Booking, or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.

Want more updates about new package tours and tourist spots in Sarasota, Florida? Follow #TeamOutofTown, on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest for more travel ideas.

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