10 Reasons to Visit Sarasota, Florida’s Best Kept Secret

All year round, Sarasota offers beautiful weather which affords visitors to experience an eclectic variety of exciting activities! These include some of the most diverse restaurants, quartz stone beaches, outdoor festivities, and the most breathe taking sunsets on the Gulf Coast.
Why you Should Make Sarasota Florida your Next Vacation Destination.
1.) Restaurants & Dining

Sarasota’s dining experience is unlike any other because of the abundant variety of flavors and different types of cuisine. This city can satisfy any foodies most sophisticated cravings. When dining in Sarasota, you can expect to indulge in the freshest seafood dishes caught right from the Gulf waters. Sarasota is also home to multiple cultural influences that make their way into the restaurant scene, this provides a unique dining experience for even the most advanced palette. It’s no big surprise that Sarasota is known for its outdoor dining, but don’t be fooled, because this city prides itself on the ambiance of its indoor dining options as well, making it perfect for any date night or family outing.
2.) Warm Weather

You’ve probably heard that Florida is the sunshine state, in fact, Sarasota gets an average of 251 days of sunshine per year. This makes it easy to experience all the amenities this city has to offer! The weather in Sarasota stays in the eighties year-round including the winter months which is great for people looking to escape colder climates. Sarasota is a tropical paradise where you can sit back, relax, and sip on a sweet beverage while taking in the Gulf Coast scenery. Not to mention, the sunshine and palm trees make it easy to relax and enjoy your vacation.
3.) The Ringling

The Ringling is one of the most visited attractions in Sarasota with its art museum, circus museum, live performances, and historic theater. Whether you decide to visit one of these attractions or catch a circus performance, you will not be disappointed. While you’re there, be sure to check out the beautiful bayfront gardens to see a wide variety of plants and European inspired architecture. The gardens also host activities like yoga and sunset concerts and much more, so be sure to check the website for upcoming events! The Ringling is a family friendly option where there’s definitely something for everyone to enjoy!
4.) Beautiful Beaches

Sarasota is home to the #1 rated beach in America, Siesta Key! This beach is unlike any other with its white quartz sand, large shore, and clear waters. There’s a snack bar available with drinks and food you can enjoy, or you can bring a cooler with your favorite beverages, because alcohol is fully permitted on this beach. If you’re a more active person, rent a beach cruiser bicycle and explore the seaside and Siesta Key Village. If you’re looking for a more low-key experience, there are a couple of other beach options known by the locals which are found a couple of miles up the motorway. These include Turtle Beach, with calm waters, perfect for young children and Lido Key Beach, with a spectacular and bustling downtown area filled with more restaurants and shopping!
5.) Fun Outdoor Activities

Sarasota, being home to the best beaches in the country, allows for visitors to treat themselves to many outdoor activities. These include kayaking and paddle boarding adventures in both ocean and freshwater spots. If that’s not your thing, try snorkeling, beach volleyball, or fishing off one of the many piers in Sarasota. The family will also love renting jet ski’s or parasailing down the coast of Siesta Key. Additionally, Sarasota is a bicycle friendly city with multiple bike trails including Bird Key Park and Nathan Benderson Park. Whatever thrills you and your family are looking for, can surely be found in Sarasota Florida.
6.) Amazing Nightlife

After a long day at the beach, nothing is better than experiencing a fantastic meal and award-winning cocktails at the trendiest spots! Sarasota is full of bars and restaurants with amazing happy hours and all the live music that you could wish for. Check out the wine bars, pubs, and a back-alley speak-easy where you need a password to get in. If drinking isn’t your thing, be sure to indulge in all of the fine desserts that Sarasota has to offer. There are many dance clubs and a comedy theater so it’s hard to be bored here. At sunset, downtown Sarasota is a magical place to take a stroll with your partner or make your way to Siesta Key beach and enjoy the drum circle that takes place every Sunday at dusk.
7.) Bayfront Botanical Gardens

The Marie Selby Botanical Garden is a beautiful bayfront sanctuary filled with native plants and regional history. Take a walk around the impressive 45 acres of garden and learn about the different plant species native to Sarasota Florida. Selby Garden holds the most well-documented species and conserves a number of historic plants including orchids. If you go, be sure to experience the guided tour and check out the garden shop for a souvenir. You won’t want to miss this one-of-a-kind natural experience!
8.) Extensive Shopping

The saying “shop til’ you drop” was made for Sarasota, with every store that you could ever hope for in one city. If you want a mall experience, check out The Mall at University Town Center and shop in over 100 stores! If local is what you’re looking for, find small clothing boutiques and farmers markets with unique and hand-crafted goodies all over downtown Sarasota.
9.) Gorgeous Sunsets

The biggest perk to visiting Sarasota is experiencing the most breathe-taking sunsets of your life. The cotton candy and orange bursts of color explode in the sky above. This is a great opportunity to snap a memorable photo or take in the peace and stillness as the sun goes down. Sarasota sunsets are truly one of the best things about this city.
10.) Great for All Ages

No matter how young or old you are, there are many things to love about Sarasota Florida. The laid-back pace of this city makes it easy to relax and enjoy your time here. The beauty of the bayfront and quartz beaches are enough to overwhelm your senses and keep you coming back. It’s impossible to not have a great time when you’re visiting Sarasota Florida.