About Sarasota
Nestled on the stunning Gulf Coast of Florida, Sarasota is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural scene, beautiful beaches, and historic architecture. Once a winter retreat for circus performers, including the famous Ringling Brothers, the city has evolved into a hub of arts and culture, boasting the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art and the Sarasota Opera. The city's eclectic neighborhoods, from the charming streets of Burns Court to the bustling downtown area, reflect a community that embraces its artistic roots while catering to modern tastes. With a thriving culinary scene and an abundance of outdoor activities, Sarasota offers something for everyone, making it a truly special place to live and visit.
Highlights
Cultural Richness
Sarasota is home to a vibrant arts scene, featuring numerous galleries, theaters, and the renowned Ringling Museum, showcasing art and history.
Culinary Diversity
The city offers a wide range of dining experiences, from the French-inspired Paris Bistrot to the fresh seafood at Pinchers, making it a foodie paradise.
Beautiful Beaches
Sarasota boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, including Siesta Key Beach, known for its soft, white sand.
Outdoor Adventures
With its close proximity to nature reserves and parks, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking in scenic settings.
Community Events
The city hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the Sarasota Film Festival and the Ringling International Arts Festival, fostering a strong sense of community.
💡 Local Tips
For a true taste of Sarasota, make sure to visit the local farmers' markets for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Also, explore the hidden gems in the downtown area, where you can find unique boutiques and cozy coffee shops off the beaten path.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Sarasota is between October and May when the weather is pleasantly warm and the city hosts various cultural events and festivals.
Popular Activities
- ✓Visit the Ringling Museum of Art
- ✓Relax on Siesta Key Beach
- ✓Explore the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
- ✓Attend a performance at the Sarasota Opera
- ✓Enjoy water sports at Lido Key
Businesses in Sarasota
Beach Bazaar
★4.4
📍5211 Ocean Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34242, United States
📞(941) 346-2995
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Bravo Pizza & Eatery
★4.2
📍1995 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 906-9500
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C'est La Vie - Pastries Breakfast & Dinner
★4.4
French cafe & bakery counter for breakfast & lunch from croissants to crêpes served indoors & out.
📍1553 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 906-9575
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Drunken Poet Cafe Thai Bistro & Sushi Bar
★4.2
Informal hangout known for creative sushi rolls & traditional Thai dishes.
📍1572 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 955-8404
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Evie's Tavern & Grill On Main Street
★4.1
Pub grub & cocktails served in an easygoing, industrial space with a pool table & sidewalk seating.
📍1560 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 366-7711
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Florida EBikes- Sarasota, FL
★4.8
Specialty Electric Bike store offering Magnum Bikes, Bagibike, Raleigh, Izip, Civiibikes, Surface 604, Ariel Rider, Velec and etrike and etrike conversions
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook!
Instagram: @flebikes
Facebook: Florida EBikes - Sarasota, FL
📍6326 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34231, United States
📞(941) 993-2618
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Florida Fun Rides
★4.8
📍1532 Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota, FL 34231, United States
📞(941) 313-5603
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Fresh Mozzarella Pizzeria
★4.2
📍2289 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34237, United States
📞(941) 330-8787
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Ginza
★4.2
Asian entrees & cocktails offered in a contemporary space with a long neon-lit sushi bar.
📍5428 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232, United States
📞(941) 342-9282
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Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse
★4.5
High-end steakhouse chain serving grilled meats, seafood & cocktails in a sophisticated setting.
📍35 S Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 366-7788
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IL Panificio Pizzeria Downtown
★4
Long-running, brick-walled Italian restaurant & deli serving hand-tossed pizzas, pasta & subs.
📍1703 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 366-5570
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JR's Old Packinghouse Cafe
★4.5
Quirky local haunt supplying American tavern grub & Cuban options, plus live music on a small stage.
📍987 S Packinghouse Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232, United States
📞(941) 371-9358
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Korean Ssam Bar
★4.8
📍1303 N Washington Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 413-5080
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Laura Jean's
★4.3
📍3830 S Tuttle Ave, Sarasota, FL 34239, United States
📞(941) 922-5535
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Liquid Blue Outfitters
★4.9
📍Bird Key Park, 200 John Ringling Cswy, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 306-1220
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Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota
★4.7
Bayside showcase for tropical plants, plus a conservatory & garden museum, in a historic space.
📍1534 Mound St, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 366-5731
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Marina Jack
★4.4
Seafood spot with an outdoor raw bar patio, upstairs dining room, piano bar & expansive water views.
📍2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 365-4232
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Mattison's City Grille
★4.2
Varied New American menu, cocktails & live music presented outside in a tiki-inspired setting.
📍1 N Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 330-0440
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Milan's Jewelry Inc
★5
Stalwart, upscale showroom offering fine & designer jewelry, plus custom pieces & repair services.
📍1666 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 953-5871
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Namo Izakaya Ramen & Yakitori
★4.9
📍1439 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 362-3332
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New Pass Grill & Bait Shop
★4.5
Circa-1929 tackle shop & eatery with kitschy fishing decor, serving breakfast, subs & burgers.
📍1505 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 388-1618
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Patricks 1481
★4.3
Long-running spot with a patio, serving burgers, sandwiches & other comfort foods, plus drinks.
📍1481 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 955-1481
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Pinchers
★4.3
📍10707 Rodeo Dr, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202, United States
📞(941) 900-3315
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Reyna's Taqueria (Main Location)
★4.6
📍Commons Plaza, 935 N Beneva Rd Suite 701, Sarasota, FL 34232, United States
📞(941) 260-8343
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Ride & Paddle by Siesta Sports Rentals
★4.9
📍6551 Midnight Pass Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242, United States
📞(941) 346-1797
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Sarasota Estate Auction
★4.1
📍522 S Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 359-8700
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Sarasota Jungle Gardens
★4.3
Historic attraction featuring more than 150 animals & shows in a tropical setting.
📍3701 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34234, United States
📞(941) 355-5305
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Siesta Key Watersports
★4.9
📍1536 Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota, FL 34231, United States
📞(941) 921-3030
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Sunny Rentals
★4.8
📍57 S Boulevard of the Presidents, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 413-2525
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Take Aim Gun Range
★4.7
📍1865 61st St, Sarasota, FL 34243, United States
📞(941) 351-4867
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Tandoor Fine Indian Cuisine
★4.6
Traditional Indian dining & a buffet are available at this laid-back standby with Eastern decor.
📍8447 Cooper Creek Blvd, Bradenton, FL 34201, United States
📞(941) 926-3077
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The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
★4.7
State art museum founded by the circus magnate with 31 galleries in a pink Renaissance-style palace.
📍5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243, United States
📞(941) 359-5700
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The Main Bar Sandwich Shop
★4.6
📍1944 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 955-8733
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The Old Salty Dog Siesta Key
★4.3
Pooch-friendly British pub offering beer-battered hot dogs & other bar eats plus live music.
📍5023 Ocean Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34242, United States
📞(941) 349-0158
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Toasted Mango Cafe
★4.5
📍1371 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA
📞(941) 388-7728
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Tropical Thai Restaurant
★4.5
Cheery, informal eatery for traditional Thai dishes plus noodles, rice, curries & Asian beer.
📍1535 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 364-5775
Vino Bistro of Sarasota
★4.7
📍1419 5th St, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 952-3172
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Bonefish Grill
★4.5
Contemporary grill chain offering a seafood-centric menu, plus steaks & cocktails.
📍3971 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34231, USA
📞(941) 924-9090
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Courtyard Sarasota Bradenton Airport
★4.1
Modern hotel offering an American restaurant & outdoor pool, plus free WiFi access.
📍850 University Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34234, USA
📞(941) 355-3337
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Der Dutchman
★4.6
Casual Amish kitchen featuring a buffet of classic fare, plus a bakery with pies & other treats.
📍3713 Bahia Vista St, Sarasota, FL 34232, USA
📞(941) 955-8007
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Fork & Hen SRQ
★4.8
📍2801 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34234, United States
📞(941) 960-1212
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Good Liquid Brewing Company
★4.7
Good Liquid Brewing Company. Located at 1570 Lakefront Dr, Sarasota, FL 34240, USA. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars.
📍1570 Lakefront Dr, Sarasota, FL 34240, USA
📞(941) 770-4282
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Hampton Inn & Suites Sarasota/Bradenton-Airport
★4.3
📍975 University Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34243, USA
📞(941) 355-8140
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Homewood Suites by Hilton Sarasota Lakewood Ranch
★4.7
📍305 N Cattlemen Rd, Sarasota, FL 34235, USA
📞(941) 309-3904
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Libby's
★4.8
Seasonal New American cuisine served in a stylish space with a copper bar & outdoor dining.
📍1917 S Osprey Ave, Sarasota, FL 34239, USA
📞(941) 236-5826
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Michael's On East
★4.7
Sophisticated New American plates & monthly specials in a modern setting with a chic piano lounge.
📍1212 S East Ave, Sarasota, FL 34239, USA
📞(941) 366-0007
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St. Armands Circle
★4.7
Boutiques, restaurants & salons set around a charming circular park with Italian statuary.
📍300 Madison Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA
📞(941) 388-1554
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The Reserve Retreat
★4.5
Polished boutique hotel featuring a coffee shop & a wine bar, plus a restaurant with a terrace.
📍1322 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA
📞(941) 253-6003
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Trattoria Bella Napoli
★4.8
📍1551 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
📞(941) 330-9200
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voco Sarasota, an IHG Hotel
★4.5
Chic hotel offering hot & cold wading pools, plus a bistro, a lobby bar & free parking.
📍1223 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA
📞(941) 487-3800
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Yoder's Restaurant
★4.7
Old-fashioned locale known for hearty American & Amish cuisine, including homemade pies.
📍3434 Bahia Vista St, Sarasota, FL 34239, USA
📞(941) 955-7771
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