Easy Escapes

Sarasota, Florida: An Arty, Food-Forward Getaway

by  Jan Schroder | Updated on Feb 15, 2022
John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art / csfotoimages/iStock

From its charming downtown district, to its vibrant dining scene, to its beautiful beaches, Sarasota, Florida, has plenty to offer. This up-and-coming destination spot, located on Florida's southwestern coast, is known as the state's Cultural Coast because of its many galleries, museums, and theaters. Read on for our full guide on what to eat, do, and explore in Sarasota. 

Where to Stay

If you want to be within walking distance to events, restaurants, and the scenic Bayfront Park and Marina, check in to the Marriott-owned Art Ovation Hotel, an art-centric, 162-room property that's complete with on-site installations, ukuleles, and sketchbooks. After an action-packed day of sightseeing, visit the hotel's rooftop bar and pool for a quick dip and a cocktail. In the evenings, head to the lobby to listen to live music or watch an artist paint.

Travelers with a flair for chic decor should book a room at The Sarasota Modern, an 89-room hotel (also owned by Marriott) featuring mid-century style architecture and sleek interiors. Both Art Ovation Hotel and The Sarasota Modern provide complimentary shuttles to local beaches; however, if you're looking for an oceanfront oasis, check out the 187-room Zota Beach Resort on Longboat Key. Here, you'll find gorgeous and fully furnished poolside cabanas that'll make your day at the beach extra special. 

Where to Eat

If you're on the hunt for massive breakfast sandwiches and crispy hash browns (paired with picturesque views of the water, of course), dine at New Pass Grill & Bait Shop. Alternatively, if you're closer to downtown, pop into ofKors Bakery for coffee, smoothies, quiche, crêpes, salads, and sandwiches.

When you're in a hurry, you can't go wrong with lobster roll at Lido Island Grill, which makes for a fuss-free and delicious meal. Walt's Fish Market Restaurant is another favorite for its extensive menu, which features fresh catches that are sure to satisfy any seafood craving. 

Award-winning chef Christopher Covelli runs the kitchen at Sage, which is housed in the former Sarasota Times building. Here, try the Thai bouillabaisse. After dinner, enjoy a cocktail on the rooftop lounge. Mattison's City Grille, one of three Sarasota-based restaurants owned and operated by renowned chef Paul Mattison, is another must-visit. The menu here features everything from brick-oven pizza to grouper piccata. 

Baked, steamed, fried, or au gratin: order your seafood any way you'd like at Phillippi Creek Oyster Bar, which features a beautiful waterfront setting. You'll know you've arrived at the right place when you see the 1,500-pound great white shark hanging from the sign.

What to See and Do 

If you love the sand and the sun, you're bound to love Sarasota. Here, travelers can choose from miles of pristine sugar-sand beaches in Longboat Key, Venice, Lido Key, Casey Key, and Siesta Key.

For a fun, family-friendly activity, consider booking a guided mangrove tunnel tour with Kayaking SRQ. Those who participate in the two-hour tour will explore the mangrove tunnels, learn about the environment, and  hopefully  spot a manatee or a dolphin. 

Everyone from art enthusiasts to young children will appreciate The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. The museum is named for Ringling Bros. Circus owner and operator John Ringling, and his wife, Mable, who spent their winters in Sarasota. While you're here, take some time to stroll through the lush gardens, explore the Circus Museum, catch a show at the historic Asolo Theater, and admire the beauty of the Ringlings' 56-room mansion, Ca' d'Zan.

Love to shop? Head to St. Armands Circle, which features over 130 restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, ice cream shops, and more. Afterward, check out the St. Armands Statue Walk and view all 33 statues  several of which were purchased by John Ringling in the 1920s. The Sarasota Farmers Market, which features around 80 local vendors, takes place every Saturday. 

Other local attractions include the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens (which features a children's rainforest garden), and the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium (where you'll find a magnificent 135,000-gallon shark habitat). For more art and music, stop by some of Sarasota's many galleries; go to a show at one of the many theaters and performing arts venues; attend the ballet; and watch the orchestra play.

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