10 Things for Locals to Do in Sarasota

It’s time to bask in the sun and enjoy all the things to do in Sarasota, south Florida's coastal gem. From beaches to big-city offerings, Sarasota invites visitors and new residents to enjoy delicious food and participate in numerous outdoor experiences. Here are 10 things that will leave you feeling like one of the locals.

1. Sarasota Beaches

Sarasota has six islands sitting alongside its coastal shore, also known as the keys of Sarasota: Longboat Key, Lido Key, Siesta Key, Venice, Manasota Key, and Casey Key. With so many options, you can definitely create your ideal beach getaway. Take a relaxing stroll through nature preserves or spend a day splashing (or lounging) in the surf. Each beach has a variety of activities, including picnic areas, entertainment districts, parks, and luxury resorts.

Sarasota beaches are recognized among the top-rated beaches in the country for both beauty and environmental preservation. Discover the paradise of Sarasota's beaches, where soft sand meets iconic palm trees and diverse wildlife.

2. Sarasota Aquarium

Dive into the underwater wonderland at the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, which serves as a hub for marine life research and education–and fun. This world-class facility offers interactive exhibits, behind-the-scenes glimpses at labs, and unparalleled learning experiences. Through the exhibits, you can watch sharks swim in the Shark Zone, sea turtles and manatees swim, learn about the animals native to Florida, and see all kinds of creatures that you’d normally only find under the water.

3. Sarasota Art Galleries

Discover the vibrant arts and culture of South Florida. This city has visual arts, outdoor sculptures, and films and performances. As you explore the eclectic art galleries, you'll also have the chance to see some of the most renowned traveling exhibits.

4. Sarasota Shopping

Shoppers, rejoice: Sarasota has a treasure trove of stores and boutiques to explore. Embrace your inner fashionista and check out chic boutiques, chains, and luxurious designer selections. Pop into Westfield South Gate or lose yourself in St. Armand's Circle, where there’s the most exclusive shopping in the region.

5. Sarasota Dining

Sarasota, nestled along the Gulf Coast, offers seafood caught fresh off its shores. From global cuisine delicacies to dining experiences at luxury resorts, your taste buds will embark on an unforgettable journey in this coastal, culinarily diverse city.

6. Ringling Museum

Sarasota is the town the circus built; it’s the former home of the Ringling family and the winter home of the Ringling Brothers Circus. As such, you’ll see reminders of this area’s past alongside contemporary and modern styles. The Ringling Museum is actually more like a campus with a fine arts gallery, circus museum, and performance theater. Unravel the world of art and architecture in a stunning 56-room Gilded-Age mansion. Every visit promises a new experience.

7. New College of Florida

Located near the Ringling Museum is the New College of Florida, a liberal arts college. This institution partly operates out of Charles Ringling's mansion. Programs focus on marine and environmental science, the arts, and culture. The Mildred Sainer Fine Arts complex has year-round events by students and visiting artists.

8. Sarasota Boating

Imagine yourself out on the open ocean or journeying along the Myakka or Manatee Rivers. With a strong focus on protecting green spaces, Sarasota has plenty of opportunities for you to appreciate the local wildlife and waterways via watercraft. Gaze at stunning waterfront homes in Bird Key, Siesta Key, and Casey Key from the seat of a rented yacht or on an eco-friendly kayak.

9. Sarasota Conservation

Sarasota is a thriving sanctuary for nature lovers. This community deeply cherishes its land, marsh, and waterways–with a strong dedication to their preservation. Locals of all ages can volunteer with their favorite organizations and participate in hands-on fieldwork as well as research assistance.

10. Sarasota Historical Sights

Learn about Sarasota’s history through the events and tours offered by the Sarasota Historical Society. They host meetings and events at local historical sites, historic trolley tours, and even bay cruise tours with an emphasis on historical events. You can also take a step back into the Roaring 20s by visiting the nearby Ringling complex.

Sarasota has a collection of beauty, elegance, and natural wonder. If you're looking for the perfect community to call home, look no further than what Pulte has to offer in this region. Our neighborhoods are packed with even more to love, all meticulously crafted with the care and attention to detail you expect. Visit one of our new homes for sale in Sarasota and find out how easy it is to create your perfect Sarasota lifestyle.