Explore Sarasota County With This Comprehensive Travel Guide

Sarasota County is a hidden gem located on the southwestern coast of Florida. With its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse culture, it’s no surprise that this area is a popular tourist destination. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s something for everyone in Sarasota County. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything from the top attractions to the off-the-beaten-path experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.

Top Attractions

Sarasota County is home to some of the top attractions in Florida. Here are some of the must-visit places:

Siesta Key Beach

This beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and soft, white sand. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and watching the sunset.

The Ringling Museum

This museum is home to an impressive collection of art, including works by Rubens, van Dyck, and Titian. The museum also has a beautiful garden and a circus museum.

Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium

This aquarium is home to over 100 species of marine life, including sharks, manatees, and sea turtles. It’s a great place to learn about the ocean and its inhabitants.

Hidden Gems

While Sarasota County has plenty of popular tourist attractions, there are also some hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are a few:

Crowley Museum and Nature Center

This nature center is a great place to escape the crowds and get back to nature. It has walking trails, a butterfly garden, and exhibits on local wildlife.

Historic Spanish Point

This historic site is home to a museum, gardens, and prehistoric burial mounds. It’s a great place to learn about the history of the area and its early inhabitants.

Oscar Scherer State Park

This state park is a great place to hike, bike, or kayak. It has miles of trails, a lake, and a campground for overnight stays.

Food Scene

Sarasota County is known for its diverse food scene. Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood, authentic Italian cuisine, or farm-to-table fare, you’ll find it here. Here are a few restaurants to check out:

Indigenous

This restaurant focuses on using locally sourced ingredients to create innovative dishes. It’s a great place to try something new.

Owen’s Fish Camp

This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and casual atmosphere. It’s a great place to grab a bite after a day at the beach.

The Rosemary

This restaurant is known for its modern American cuisine and craft cocktails. It’s a great place for a night out with friends.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling can be expensive, but there are ways to save money in Sarasota County. Here are a few budget-friendly tips:

Go to the beach

The beaches in Sarasota County are free to visit and offer plenty of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and fishing.

Visit during the off-season

The off-season, which is typically from May to November, is a great time to visit Sarasota County. The weather is still warm, but the crowds are smaller, and prices are lower.

Use public transportation

Sarasota County has a public transportation system that is affordable and easy to use. It’s a great way to get around without breaking the bank.

Outdoor Adventures

Sarasota County is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Florida. Here are a few outdoor adventures to check out:

Myakka River State Park

This state park is home to miles of hiking trails, a lake, and a canopy walkway. It’s a great place to see local wildlife and explore the outdoors.

Legacy Trail

This biking trail is 10 miles long and runs through some of the most scenic areas in Sarasota County. It’s a great way to see the area and get some exercise.

Shark Tooth Hunting

Venice Beach is known for its abundance of shark teeth, which can be found in the sand. It’s a fun and unique activity for all ages.

Family-Friendly Activities

Sarasota County has plenty of activities that are great for families. Here are a few:

Children’s Garden

This garden is designed for children and features interactive exhibits, a butterfly garden, and a treehouse. It’s a great place for kids to learn about nature.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

This botanical garden is home to over 200 species of animals, including flamingos, alligators, and snakes. It’s a great place for kids to see and learn about wildlife.

Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary

This sanctuary is home to big cats, bears, and other exotic animals. It’s a great place for kids to see and learn about these animals in a safe and educational environment.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a little different, Sarasota County has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. Here are a few:

Sarasota Architectural Salvage

This salvage yard is a treasure trove of vintage and antique items, from furniture to lighting to architectural elements. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs.

Sarasota Farmers Market

This farmers market is held every Saturday and features local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It’s a great place to experience the local culture.

Island Time Tiki Bar

This tiki bar is located on a private island and is only accessible by boat. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Natural Wonders

Sarasota County is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in Florida. Here are a few to check out:

Myakka River

This river is one of the oldest and most diverse ecosystems in Florida. It’s a great place to go kayaking, fishing, or hiking.

Lemon Bay

This bay is home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles. It’s a great place for boating and fishing.

Celery Fields

This area is home to over 200 species of birds and is a great place for birdwatching. It also has walking trails and picnic areas.

Vibrant Nightlife

Sarasota County has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Here are a few:

The Gator Club

This club is known for its live music and dance floor. It’s a great place to let loose and have some fun.

The Beach Club

This club is located right on the beach and has a laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink and watch the sunset.

McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre

This comedy club features nationally recognized comedians and is a great place to laugh and have a good time.

Local Markets

Sarasota County has plenty of local markets where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Here are a few:

Sarasota Farmers Market

This farmers market is held every Saturday and features local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It’s a great place to experience the local culture.

Siesta Key Farmers Market

This market is held every Sunday and features local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade jewelry. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs.

Phillippi Farmhouse Market

This market is held every Wednesday and features local vendors selling fresh produce and baked goods. It’s a great place to stock up on snacks for your trip.