Fun things to do in Sarasota: 36 fun attractions and activities

Thinking this is just a museum dedicated to the circus wrong. of course there is circus memorabilia in two buildings that take you back to your childhood, but there is also the mansion from John and Mabel Ringling, and there is also an art museum with some of the most incredible paintings You have seen in the most amazing building. The property is lush and beautiful. I highly recommend a visit.

My husband and I visited here earlier in the year it was such a cool experience. So much beautiful art, history, lovely gardens, and so much more. This is the kind of place you wander around all day long. The banyan trees are the largest we’ve ever seen in FL. It was kind of disappointing that the rose garden was under construction but I guess we’ll just have to come back again. The staff were all helpful and shared lots of cool information. The cafe was cute but a little over priced so we decided not to eat there. Thank you for an amazing time. This is a great spot to take cool pictures. We were very impressed by the miniature circus.

This place has so much richness to offer! Ensure to leave yourself ample time to enjoy the entire 65 acres of this Museum. The garden is beautiful and so is the 🎭 🖼️ building. The circus 🎪 history. Great place if you're an arts enthusiast. Bonus: catch the sunset on Thursdays they close at 8PM last photo!

We were there for 3 hours! So much to see! Amazing 🤩. The only let down was the Ca' d'Zan house. They charge extra to go there but you cannot go to the second floor currently, and they don't say it upfront....you find out when you get there! Charging full price to see half the house is dishonest...let people know upfront and let them decide. Despite that, the grounds were beautiful, the museum art was stunning ✨ and the circus museums were so fun and interesting to look at and learn the history of the circus 🎪.

Beautiful and what a great experience of history and fine art. Not only that, but the atmosphere of the land and scenery is the best experience. The outside courtyard in the middle of the fine art museum was my favorite 😍 made me think I was in Rome or Venice.

Ringling mansion was a wonderful look back to the gilded age. The collection of was magnificent! What was showing was only 20% of the collection. I could NOT believe that there was a Rembrandt on display. This is a must see. The circus portion of the museum was also very interesting.

Beautiful 66 acre property with museum, art gallery, castle and manicured grounds. Bring your walking shoes because you will definitely get all of your steps in for the day. To see it all plan to spend at least 5 or more hours here. Highly recommended. 👍🏽 🤡 🎪🤹🎠

Beautiful place to be. The parking is easy to navigate and there is a small gift shop below the garage. I explored the gardens and there were many butterflies out. There was a little cafe on the property and the women working the counter was very kind. There is a beautiful banyan tree with bridges and things for children to play with like musical instruments. There is a lovely gazebo where it looks as though wedding as held inside with stained glass above which was very pretty. A peaceful place to walk 🌺.

We went to see the orchids and were duly impressed. The display was very nicely done. When my wife and I went to the intriguing exhibit by Rebecca Louise Law unfortunately, being sensitive to fragrances, I could not enjoy the display. We toured the rest of the grounds at a leisurely pace and enjoyed the shade and cool ocean breezes. Absolutely amazing place. The flora is exceptional.

Marie Shelby Botanical Gardens was a wonderful adventure and awe inspiring immersion into a vast array of unique flowers, plants, and water features. The entire garden and supporting buildings were meticulously clean and filled with friendly staff and volunteers around every thicket and fern fron! Our family was especially impressed by the well planned and designed layout, great trees that made you feel like you were on another planet, and the stunning background of the harbor through the picturesque gardens. We look forward to returning soon, and most definitely recommend it to anyone!

Beautiful way to spend the afternoon! Guided tour was very interesting. Gift shop and Orchids for sale were stunning. We were offered a reduced admission fee due to the museum was closed. Parking garage

So the grounds were beautiful, not up exactly to par with the Naples botanical garden. But a lot of great photo opportunities! The staff, I’m not sure if they are paid or volunteer but they were definitely not very friendly, not rude, but short which I felt was odd given the midday, early afternoon crowd was non existent.

Beautiful garden and the collection of epiphytes is amazing. Added bonus, the restaurant serves delicious food and dessert. It worth the money and a beautiful way to spend your weekend.

I was ready to write a nice review due to the free parking, free use of restrooms and free access to the theater which is AC'd and a blessing in the hot summer months, but my today clients strongly opposed : for 28$ entrance fee "not worth it" and i must oblige giving it just a star. They said all but one orchid expos/greenhouses were closed for "renovation" and for that reason they did not like being charged full ticket price.

Such a fun and peaceful spot! Sarasota Jungle Gardens is full of charm and nature — a perfect place to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. The flamingo experience is absolutely amazing — being able to hand-feed them up close is something you don’t get to do every day. The birds are gentle and curious, and the whole area feels calm and relaxing. Grounds are clean, staff is friendly, and it’s a great place for all ages. Highly recommend this place if you’re looking for something unique and memorable in Sarasota.

Very beautiful place. The Flamingos are always a favorite of mine. Thier area was very nicely done. Staff was friendly. Gift shop was pretty standard, grabbed a few things for the kiddos. There was some construction going on and a few of the animal areas were getting work done or had some damaged, so that's why I did 4 stars. I bet this place is really amazing when its gorgeous sunny out, we came it was a bit rainy. The $20 feed bag with 2 person animal encounter seems a bit steep for the amount of food that you get. We chose to hold the little alligator for our interaction. He was cute but its pretty quick. The other interaction option is to hold a bird. And photo ops of course. All in all I enjoyed it.

The Jungle garden was pretty awesome. The flamingo area was really nice. The large Crocodile enclosures on the other hand could use some work. The staff was friendly and very informative. Getting to hold a baby alligator was pretty cool. Over all worth checking out. The portion sizing of feed you get for the animals is really small for what you pay. Plus there are countless species of lizards running around all over the place.

Such an beautiful place. We really enjoyed the Jungle Garden. A lot of fun for everybody. The alligators are having really less space.. i don‘t know why they having more than 50 into on small enclosure. Because of that just 4 stars. The rest is awesome. We loved the trail through the palm forrest.

If you're an animal lover, this is a great place to spend a few hours! Lots of birds, reptiles, and other critters. We had a lot of fun feeding the flamingos. The staff were friendly and the animal shows were very fun and entertaining. We came just as two adults and while I'm sure kids would love this place, it was plenty of fun for us. Will definitely be back when we visit Sarasota again!

Sarasota Jungle Gardens is a fantastic destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a fun and educational day in Sarasota, FL. The park is full of beautiful animals, colorful birds, and exotic plants that make exploring it a true adventure. Kids especially love the interactive shows and the chance to get up close with flamingos, parrots, and other wildlife. The lush gardens and winding paths create a peaceful, tropical atmosphere that’s perfect for family photos, leisurely walks, or simply enjoying the Florida sunshine. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, making it both a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The only downside is that it can get a little crowded, especially on weekends or during holiday periods, but that doesn’t take away from the overall enjoyment. If you’re looking for “family-friendly attractions in Sarasota,” “things to do in Sarasota with kids,” “Sarasota animal parks,” or “outdoor activities near Lakewood Ranch,” Sarasota Jungle Gardens is definitely worth a visit. A beautiful, fun, and engaging park – perfect for families and animal lovers looking to experience the best of Sarasota, FL!

We went for the first time yesterday, it was such a calm experience. Beautiful nature trails, Flamingo feeding was my kids favorite. Playground & cute little cafe ( under renovation) petting zoo with goats/sheep. LOTS of birds and a small butterfly garden.

I have over 100 pics but they wouldn't load. Highly recommend visiting this whimsical wonderland. It is donation based. Check hours before you go. Well worth the trip. You can easily spend 4 hours here.

In my research of things to do indoors in the area this popped up and it did not disappoint!! Wonder and detail at every turn. A true gem! The volunteers are passionate about sharing stories with you which I loved. It was a true joy to explore this place and admire something at every twist and turn!

If you're into art and/or whimsy as art...and who isn't...you should not miss this place! There is a very short visiting "window" ...Thanksgiving to Memorial Day, Thursday-Saturday, 1:00 - 4:00 Free, donations accepted.

I have smiled, giggled or laughed so much in a long time! The art was just amazing and I don't think I stopped smiling the whole time. The Volunteers were friendly, full of information, but not annoying. They let us just experience the pieces. If you love fun art, or any art, I would recommend.

I visited the museum today and had a wonderful time! There’s a fantastic variety of art pieces, including some truly impressive pieces. Every room had something interesting to look at, and it’s a great place to spend an afternoon.

Quite possibly the most fantastical, whimsical, mixed-medium art museum on the East Coast. Small, yet every square inch is packed full of majestic and magnificent pieces provided by a slew of local artists, each and every one of whom show immense talent and craftsmanship in their works. No wall is left bare, no corner left colorless. An overwhelming rush of visual sensation. I described it to my family, who were unfortunately not attending the gallery alongside me, as "jumping into my childhood toy box," with all my mixed pieces and gizmos mashed in a colorful display of artistic excellence. It's beautiful, a maximalists fever dream, an "I Spy" book personified. The volunteers are sweet, informative and extremely charming. They'll be happy to provide you with any information you need, as well as the unique history of the museum. Marietta herself is a gracious and engaging host, talkative and conversational. If you'd like an in-depth understanding of any particular piece, or all of them, ask her! She provides wonderful conversation and is a pleasant presence to boot. If you have the opportunity, visit for yourself. It really must be experienced in person. Pictures could never do the fantastical, whimsical nature of this place justice.

A MUST SEE!! Thurs, Fri, Sat 1-4pm only. Amazing story, amazing artwork🙌🙌❤️ suggested cash donation of $20, definitely a wonderful priceless experience

My kids and I visited this car museum and loved it. In all, with the interactive display and the three different rooms of cars (including the dealership side), we were there for just over an hour. There are lots of exotic cars, some stuff I've never seen before. This is a great outing at a reasonable price.

Great collection of cars. If you love cars, highly recommend! Worth the stop, it’s a hidden gem. Staff is nice/friendly. Well done w/displaying a wide array of cars & there is a bonus room w/even more 😎cars. 😍🤓

Have been driving past this place for years. Finally made a point of going in. I am so glad I did. The collection is terrific! Definitely worth the time and entry fee. Beautiful cars. Many of which I had never seen before.

Fascinating museum. Older models were so different. There were some included whose names I've never heard of. I took off one star just because some cars didn't have any info on them or much accessibility to view. Overall, was an enjoyable visit.

Best collection of classic cars I've ever seen. Well worth the price of admission. Having heard the rumors that after 70 years, the landlord needed the space back, I decided to see the collection before it was too late. Given notice to vacate by June 30th, they have managed to extend the lease to at least October. But clearly time is running out. I like the fact that the museum is registered as a non profit with the mission of acquiring and preserving 20th century cars for the purpose of education and entertainment. With ever changing exhibits, the current one is 'The Automotive Art of Ferdinand Porsche and Enzo Ferrari.' The exhibit was impressive as was the permanent collection of cars from years gone by with names, some I've heard of and some I have not. From John and Mable Ringling's Rolls Royce to Abraham Lincoln's Funeral Hearse to the Pontiac Shark to an ISO Rivolta Varedo, it is quite a collection. The gentleman that greeted us was friendly and knowledgable, the price was right, the space was well air conditioned and it was time well spent. So happy that I was able to see this impressive collection. Hoping they are able to relocate to a space nearby.

Interesting collection of cars at the second oldest automobile museum in the United States. Very friendly staff. Be sure to walk next door into Sarasota Vintage Motors to view additional classic cars that are also for sale. Even if you are not a "gear head," this exhibit is worth seeing at least once.

Visiting the Sarasota Classic Car Museum is a must if you love Cars. Give your self at least an hour to see all the cars. Really loved the attention to detail and the displays are very professionally set up. The amount of cars and amount of information is extensive. The Lady that greeted us at the front desk was very professional and had a great wealth of information of everything that was on display and about the Museum in general. This Museum certainly rates five stars and more. A great visit if you love cars!!!

It was really nice! Beautiful view of Sarasota Bay and lovely building. It is $15 on top of general admission to see the first floor and I did find the viewing area a bit small. I wish I could have seen the second floor then it may have been five stars. Still really beautiful though!

DONT WASTE YOUR TIME RIGHT NOW. I drove over an hour to see this house, which you have to pay extra for. It is completely under construction. On the website they mention you can’t access the second floor right now, but nothing about the whole house being a construction zone. Not only do you only get to see half the house on the inside, you can’t even enjoy its beauty on the outside. Would not have drove and spent the money to check out if they would have been transparent on the state of the house. There is also a fence around the back side which is where everyone takes pictures. They should have reduced prices right now or mention on the website the whole house is wrapped in green plastic and metal fencing.

Went here on a Monday - also saw the circus and art museums. The mansion was relatively limited - a lot of areas were ripped off. Also there was no guided tour - only could do self guided audio tour option. That was a bit of a bummer. The mansion itself was insane. Crazy to see the wealth back in that day. Had no idea circus money was that big.

This a unique, historical and amazing place that everyone should visit. The architecture is phenomenal, the view of the Sarasota Bay and the surroundings areas so beautiful. The food in the restaurant was excellent!!

The history of the place is one thing and is definitely worth listening to the audio tour. But the craftsmanship of the building, in and out along with the furniture and everything else. Just wow. The view of the water is absolutely astonishing too. Was sad only the first floor was open due to restorations. However, it just gives us an even better reason to come back in the future! And we plan to!

Had such a fun experience exploring the Ringling Museum and the beautiful Ringling house (Ca' d'Zan)! The museum offers a great mix of art, history, and circus flair—it’s easy to spend hours wandering through the exhibits. The mansion itself is absolutely stunning, with gorgeous views of Sarasota Bay that are just breathtaking. It’s clear they’re still working to recover fully from the hurricane damage, but even so, the experience was wonderful. Hoping everything is restored soon—it’s truly a Florida gem worth visiting!

Under reconstruction but wonderful amd they expect to open all the floors in the coming months.

For me, I wasn't thrilled with The Barber of Seville but mainly because I don't speak Italian and even though they had the words on a screen they didn't really say all the words when the actors were singing so half the time I had to ask my husband or read between the lines. Just wasn't an enjoyable experience. The venue was beautiful and orchestra was great and even the actors. Had it been in English it would have been so much better.

It was great. The seats were nice and sized so normal Americans can fit in them - so roomy for smaller folks. The building was WELL attended, so you knew exactly where your seat was with all the help around. You also learned very quickly that they did not like you setting your water bottle on the mezzanine rail and there was no place but the floor for it to go (nothing in the seat handles). While it is an opera house, they do sell to many different types of shows and they have drinks available in the lobby to take in with you, just no place to set them easily. Oh well. Other than that, it was perfect. The show ("The Piano Men" - Elton John and Billy Joel impersonators both on stage in a dueling piano type setup) was great and had some energy and excitement going. A nice night out.

The Sarasota Opera House is a stunning venue that combines history, beauty, and world-class performances. The building itself is elegant and well-preserved, giving you the feeling of stepping back in time while still enjoying modern comfort. The acoustics are excellent, making every performance clear and powerful, whether it’s a full opera production, a concert, or a special event. The staff and volunteers are welcoming and knowledgeable, which adds to the overall experience. Seating is comfortable, and there really isn’t a bad view in the house. Located right in the heart of downtown Sarasota, it’s also convenient to pair a show with dinner nearby. For anyone who loves live music, culture, and theater, the Sarasota Opera House is a true gem.

Nice little Opera House. Keep doing the important things, like supporting artists. What a treasure we have with this facility!

Here for the Sarasota Opera Food and Wine Festival. Beautiful! Great food, great wine, fabulous people and met THE Jake Stamatis. Looking forward to the upcoming season.

We saw a rock show there. Great hall with fine acoustics. The crowd was appropriately lowd and singing along. I asked some.of the staff if the crowd acted similarly for a Puccini opera- they said nope.

A jewel of an opera house…you can feel a very special spirit from the volunteers to the audience up to the stage and down to the orchestra pit. We had a wonderful evening with Ernani. When in Sarasota or in the neighbourhood do not miss it👏👏👏

Our favorite beach in the area! So clean. Very safe. Great location. Beautiful sand. We come here for our typical beach days and all photo shoots!!!

Loved this clean, beautiful beach! Amenities like food, drinks, and ice cream make it easy to relax, plus restrooms, showers, and changing rooms. Super easy trip from downtown Sarasota on the free trolley.

This beach is beautiful, white sand, not crowded, clean. I did not see a lot of parking available. The town is pretty close, there’s local trolleys and such to help you get around. The sunsets are my favorite.

Lido Key Beach is one of the best beaches in Sarasota, Florida! The soft white sand, clear turquoise water, and relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a beach day. It’s less crowded than Siesta Key but just as beautiful—ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or taking long walks along the shore. There’s convenient beach access, clean restrooms, and free parking, which is a huge plus. Lido Beach is also close to St. Armands Circle, so grabbing lunch or shopping after the beach is super easy. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly beaches near Sarasota, a romantic sunset spot, or just a peaceful place to unwind, Lido Key Beach checks all the boxes. Highly recommend!

Lido beach is super peaceful and less crowded than the other beaches in the area! We enjoyed the white sand and blue water, the shops that were nearby and the parking was easy to find and free! Very kid friendly, family friendly and a nice place to unwind.

Beautiful Beach, not way too busy; lots of parking but better come in early. Bathrooms available, food and beverages are available for purchase.

A breathtaking sunset! The beach is clean, calm, and ideal for relaxation or picnics. Plenty of parking spots!

Bayfront Park is a charming, scenic, and above all, practical spot. Whether you're here to admire the sunset, enjoy a relaxed picnic, spend time with children, or simply be in the moment, the park offers something for everyone. There’s space for yoga, casual walks, or just sitting quietly and taking in the view. Nearby, you'll find local restaurants, public restrooms, and access to sunset cruises and boat rentals. The city center and main street are also just a short walk away, making it a convenient and enjoyable place to visit. A well-rounded, peaceful location worth stopping by.

Very nice park in town. Great views of the water and of Sarasota. There’s a restaurant/bar as well. Nice paved trails. Definitely a popular location. Dog friendly from what I could see.

I love this place. Is my second time comming. Family friendly, pet friendly. Very clean and welcoming. Loved the restaurant. Gorgeous sunset here! And people here are kind and friendly.. will keep comming is a little far from home. But so worth it.

Small but lovely waterfront Park in downtown Sarasota. Clean, safe, and great for a short walk after a beach day. There’s a nice playground for kids, yachts at the marina, and O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill nearby for snacks or drinks. The famous dolphin fountain sculpture - “Dolphin Fountain” wasn’t working in October 2025, but sunset views here are beautiful!

It's one of my favorite spots in Sarasota. It is just beautiful there. My kids enjoy the water splashing park and a playground. Nice to take a promenade. There is also a tikki bar in the corner (we have not tried it, though), overlooking the water.

This park is a hidden gem with a scenic trail that winds around the area, perfect for a relaxing walk. The beautiful banyan trees are truly a highlight, and the park has clean, convenient restrooms. There's even a bar with live music where you can grab a drink and unwind. We caught an unforgettable sunset there—just a short walk from our hotel—and even hopped on a sunset cruise right from the bay. Watching people walk their dogs added a cheerful vibe to the whole experience. I can't wait to come back next time I'm in Sarasota!

Bayfront Park, Sarasota. I have been traveling full-time in my RV for the past few years, which has allowed me to visit many beautiful places around the country. In return, I try to leave reviews for others, especially for those who may not have the same opportunity to travel as I do. This park is very beautiful, clean, and colorful. I truly enjoyed my visit. Thank you to my potential new followers — I appreciate it. ;) Michael

Nice place full of vibrant artistic atmosphere. Famous people on the stage. Interesting cultural events. Plenty of parking space

Super cool looking building. Great place to come watch a show. We saw Trevor Wallace! Definitely recommend checking this place out!

The Sarasota Orchestra was fantastic! We saw one of the Star Wars movies and the Orchestra played the music. Very enjoyable!

If you're looking for a nice entertainment venue, I recommend seeing a performance at the Van Wezel center in Sarasota, FL. The atmosphere is relaxing, the hospitality genuine, and the seating and viewing was comfortable. Enjoy!

We returned to this venue to see Leanne Morgan (hysterical!🤣) after an absence of many, many years. The smallness of it was actually a positive attribute to us. Acoustics were great, customer service was excellent, food/bar/restrooms were all good, and the crowd was very manageable. We got there early and were able to walk out and see the waterfront. Parking and leaving after the event was pretty easy. We will return! 👍👍

Saw an inspiring show with the Sarasota Orchestra. The sound was fantastic, even in the seats far from the stage. The Performing Arts Center is beautiful inside and out. We parked the car and it was not too far of a walk. They do offer valet parking for $10. Which is a good option, especially if you are running late.

First time at Van Wezel, very impressed! Great venue, it’s small but every seat is a good seat for the show! It’s a little tight in isles so if you need more room, make sure you get handicap isle tickets. The drinks are offered, however a tad pricey, super clean and gorgeous outside grounds, on the bay! Perfect date place! Enjoy!

One of my favorite daytime activities is checking out any kind of museum, especially art galleries. This adorable museum can be the most pleasant use of an hour or two, and is in a great location just off of downtown Sarasota and very close to Siesta Key Beach. I’ve heard all about the Ringling Museum of Sarasota, of course, but didn’t know of the smaller Sarasota Art Museum that’s also on the Ringling campus. It’s not actually that small of a building, but compared to the average museum it’s a little on the smaller side with 3 floors and not all the space completely taken up. First I must say that the staff here made half the experience. Everyone was smiling and so kind and willing to help- Martha helped us at the desk and Karen was super sweet as well. I thought the layout of the museum was a little odd, but it is the historic site of the original Sarasota High School which they tried to still keep parts of so I’m guessing they had to work with what they had. Nonetheless, we were given a trifold pamphlet with a “map” laying out where everything was- except they don’t include the newer and rotating exhibits so it’s really not actually helpful. There’s a main and colorful staircase or an elevator you can take to the higher floor galleries where they change out exhibits here and there. I really enjoyed the “Future Now” exhibit that was all about sneakers and how they’ve fit into culture and impacted it over time. They had a really impressive collection for this exhibit. And, they even had a fun interactive scavenger hunt where you had to find a list of shoes on display, mark them, and then you got a free sticker if you returned it to the front desk. The inner child in me loved this. The other exhibit I was not a fan of as the content was mostly really dark subject matter, and the artist clearly created from a place of pain and trauma but it was honestly a little disturbing. It wasn’t the type of art that speaks to me as much personally, but if that’s something you enjoy don’t miss this one. Normal admission for an adult is $20. I don’t think this is a worthy price unless there are new exhibits that really truly interest you and you’re dying to see. Even then, every second Sunday of the month it’s free admission all day so I would definitely come back then. We didn’t try the bistro but it is nice that there’s an option for food if you stay awhile. I’d say you really only need a solid hour or so to get through the whole museum.

We started our visit with a lunch in the museum bistro which is a lovely airy place to eat and while away some time. There is also an informative display about the history of the Thonet chair. We are from the Uk and were interested to hear that the Sarasota art museum was hosting an Art Deco posters exhibition. We love to visit the many wonderful art galleries when we visit Florida. The poster exhibition is vast and very informative. We enjoyed it immensely. Jude one of the curators made it extra special for us with her knowledge not only of the posters but the local area too.

The Sarasota Art Museum (SAM), housed in a beautifully repurposed 1927 high school, offers a compelling contemporary art experience. With 15,000 ft² of flexible gallery space, SAM operates as a “kunsthalle,” showcasing rotating exhibitions that span sculpture, painting, mixed media, and immersive installations. Its architecture melding gothic and midcentury modern creates dynamic settings, from crisp white rooms to industrial niches. Visitors praise its thoughtful curation and the engaging Bistro café, though some note the admission may feel steep for its scale. Education is woven into the museum’s DNA, with classes, talks, and lifelong learning programs rooted in its connection to Ringling College. SAM is a refined cultural anchor intellectually stimulating, architecturally unique, and vibrant in spirit.

Had a great visit to SAM! LOVED the Lillian Brand exhibition! Was able to take advantage of free entry with our Selby gardens membership .

Great use of the old Sarasota High School building. Art Deco posters exhibit was very good. Also loved Thru the Veil' installation.

The Sarasota Art Museum is so beautiful. I was looking forward to going for some time. While we visited the art on display was sneakers, history and innovation of. As well as paintings and sculptures representing the Me Too movement. And lastly art by Larry Fink.

Currently there is an amazing exhibit on the 100th anniversary of the art deco movement. The exhibit features cocktail shaker sets, some furniture and a 100 spectacular rare posters. The exhibit runs through March 29, 2026. Several other exhibits are also on display. There is a wonderful cafe, a gift shop and plenty of free parking. Highly recommended.

This is an incredible theater complex with a wide selection of scripted and improvised theater. I am always amazed at how much they can do and how smoothly it all runs behind the scenes. As an audience member and performer on their stages I have seen both sides and I am always impressed. You must see a show at FST while you're in town!

FST IS A wonderful organization that features several different venues. Our daughter, Carole J. Bufford, has been fortunate to have been booked for several different residencies for different Cabaret shows over the last several years. We love attending here not only to see her, but other attractions as well. Also, it's definitely an easier trek for us than NYC, where she normally originates and performs her shows! We are so looking forward to our upcoming visit during the last week of this month!

This is a beautiful space to see live theatre in the Sarasota area.

We purchased our 4 tickets online to reserve our spot. The location was within walking distance from my hotel. Our server Danny was wonderful. He was able to bring our cocktails without interrupting the show. Many people were eating entrée and dessert. I was not aware of the menu, but I did arrive minutes before the show started. My friend was a judge, and I was part of the show. It was such a blast. Ms. Jasmine was my character, and I loved every minute on the stage. The show was amazing, fun, and unpredictable. Kyle, Sarah, and Kevin had me laughing all night. It was the best date night!

Great small theater in Sarasota that attracts super performances from around the world. Passionate staff who take pride in their jobs

SURFER BOYS! this was the August 6 performance . This might have been my favorite show. we just love FST and honestly have enjoyed every performance, Service is wonderful, food is surprisingly VERY good. i recommend the Southwestern salad. they put a few fried avocado balls on the top. yummy. but getting back to this performance, the singers were unbelievable, their wonderful performance has stuck with me. each voice was as good as the other. their harmony and energy and talent was just as good as it gets. i love the beach Boys and every song they sang. what especially struck us was their encore songs which included a Les miserable song and a very lovely tribute to our servicemen and country. I was truly moved. thank you.

Always a great time! Wonderful cabaret style entertainment and other performances each in a unique environment. FST has five different venues for your complete entertainment experience.

Sarasota Beach is absolutely stunning! The white, powdery sand feels like walking on flour, and the crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and relaxing. The sunsets here are picture-perfect — like something out of a postcard. It’s clean, family-friendly, and has a calm, peaceful vibe that makes it one of my favorite beaches in Florida. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a beautiful and relaxing getaway!

This beach used to be one of the most beautiful beach in the west coast of Florida, however, after visiting it last time we didn't have public space to put our tent since the company for umbrellas and chairs is taking the whole beach making it almost impossible to find a spot. In addition, it had a horrible smell with that stink water stuck there and trash everywhere. It is nothing compared with years ago where the city was taking well care of this space.

Absolutely gorgeous white sandy beach to visit. The water is warm and clear. The atmosphere and vibe is very calm, laid back, and relaxing. The ice cream boat came up while we were there and added more fun memories to an already amazing day.

Literally one of the best beach we’ve been so far. White sand, transparent water, amazing with kids

The sand and water was beautiful. Water was warm in July. I will be back to visit Sarasota Beach again next time.

Amazing beaches so clean clear water we had so much fun

Love it, I don’t mind driving 3 hours to get here, family friendly and gorgeous beach highly recommended.

Unforgettable Experience! Whenever I'm in Sarasota, Siesta Key Rum is my go-to destination every single weekend! What an absolute blast! The tour was a total thrill, and the bar is bursting with such incredible energy—it’s a must-visit spot! Kevin, the bartender, is simply amazing; chatting with him is always a highlight of my visit! The drinks? They’re not just delicious, they’re also super affordable! I couldn't resist those complimentary tasting shots 🤪 and ended up falling head over heels for the toasted coconut rum—I just had to take home a large bottle!

Fantastic tasting room, lots of education, just a fantastic company and great ingredients and sourcing. Kevin is fantastic as a bartender for your after purchase drinks! The rum itself is also just excellent stuff. All around great.

Formed around 2010 by a Florida retiree, Siesta Key Rum is now a nationally recognized distillery. Mags like Go Rum, Caribbean Journal, and Wine Enthusiast are all enthused. After being assured by Caribbean Journal that no brewers have ever won 2 years in a row (so don't bother submitting anything), they went on to win 6 years in a row. Silver was their first variety. They set up a folding table at a Miami competition, right across from Bacardi, and Bacardi was running a circus: Dancers, extravaganzas, samples, and giveaways. Siesta Key Rum won. They branched out into spiced rum and now have flavors like coffee and toasted coconut which are their next most popular ones. They dedicate tour time to going over their ingredients. They use real ingredients and do not chemically enhance their flavors or alcohol content, unlike most other manufacturers. Besides rum, their gift shop includes natural soy candles poured into glass holders made from recycled glass from the tasting room. They have insulated travel cups, silicone travel tumblers and shot glasses and scrumptious looking Rum cake. They put out limited release flavors. Many of them are from passing barrels back and forth with beer manufacturers, so the oak takes on a unique flavor of its own. The tour is free and starts in the tasting room and ends in the “infinity“ room, though we headed back to the tasting room to purchase some items. Kevin took great care of us.

Shout out to Vera and Kevin. Siesta key rum was a pleasant experience. It takes great personalities to work in a great field. I was so impressed with Vera and her amazing personality and the way she told the story on the tour. I will go back again. amazing product but even a better staff. Thank you!

We wanted to do a tour and learn more about the spirits we’ve been enjoying while in Florida this week, but we got a late start and missed the afternoon tour. Instead we spent time enjoying Kevin’s friendly and helpful approach to learning about the brand and more of the offerings than we even realized they had! As a self proclaimed bourbon snob, I feel like their rum really is top notch! Not a sexy or touristy facility but I’ll take the premium product at a fair price over the guise of marketing, smoke and mirrors like I’ve seen in other places. (Gatlinburg..cough cough) Anyway, visiting was a great way to spend an hour or two!!!

We had the best tour and tasting here! Fantastic rums. Amazing not only in the United States but in the Caribbean too “Go Rum” Kevin is awesome and so much fun! I highly recommend stopping in and taking the tour. Try the silver rum. It’s as smooth as water although toasted coconut is my favorite.

I decided to do this while on vacation as it was recommended by family. I had fun as it was cool to experience different kinds of rum and learning how Rum was made. I was expecting more of a tour more it's more of a sit down, drink, and learn sort of tour, but overall, it was a lot of fun! I loved the decorations all around the area and the souvenirs. I ended up getting a cup and coffee Rum cake (wish I could get some mailed to me). 😄 I also enjoyed that there were no children, which made the experience 10 times better. The employees (forgot their names, I apologize) were very friendly and very informative. I definitely recommend this place if you're up for some fun and a neat experience, and the best part is it's free to have fun here. Go for it! You won't be disappointed. 😄

55 acres of beauty. Sad that the hurricane took out the beautiful rose garden. We elected not to do the tour of john and Mabel’s home because the hurricane damaged the house so only bottom floor was open to tour. The museum and grounds GORGEOUS! Enjoyed the afternoon exploring this with my daughter who equally loved it. I’m not an art enthusiast but it was enjoyable in the art museums. We were wow’d! Right on the water, incredible landscaping and we learned a lot. Highly recommend!

The memories I have of seeing the circus back in the 80s are some of my best as a child. Seeing how it all started in America's circus heyday (1915-1938) was quite a nostalgic experience. Seeing the people that made it happen and all of the moving parts, animals and logistics that made it possible was quite interesting. I highly recommend taking the full tour. From Barnum and Bailey to the Ringling Brothers these are the people that helped shape American culture for generations. You really get a sense of the epic scale of the circus from the models that were lovingly crafted. It's a phenomenal tour and a must see experience.

It is just a jewel, one of a kind. I have been there many times.....I always find something new to fascinate me. For a visitor to Sarasota, not to be missed! A MUST!

An interesting museum about the ringling bros and barnum and bailey's circus. There are beautiful gardens and despite some damage from Hurr. Milton the design of the gardens are inspiring. We didn't get to the art museum but understand that there are some great paintings. The restaurant in the main pavilion was very good. I had the papperdelle and it was delicious. Having spent time in Italy studying Tuscan food prep. it takes a bit to impress us but impress they did. You do not have to attend the museum to eat at The Grill Room so if your attending an event at the Asolo Repertory Theatre it would be nice pre-show dinner.

Wonderful museum all about the history of the circus. Lots of fun interactive exhibits and the amazing miniature circus, which is truly awe inspiring.

This museum was amazing. So impressed by the miniature circus! Must have taken a long time to set up. So impressive. There was even an active high wire act which was neat. So much history about Barnum and Bailey and interactive exhibits. I especially liked the video of the man applying clown makeup. It was an entertaining museum.

So much to look at! My entire family enjoyed this place. Friendly workers also...

We had a great time. It was very hot outside, so it was refreshing to have the caves to golf through

We absolutely loved this place, I am not exaggerating when I say that Smugglers Cove was the best Miniature Golf Course we have ever visited, we have been to courses in Florida, Europe and Australia but this hidden gem in Sarasota won our heart. Not only is the place wonderfully kept & clean but also beautifully decorated/themed. You play on bridges over the water, through artificial caves & down a hill. The lady behind the counter was also very nice + feeding the gators was a fun experience. If the popsicles weren't $5 each I wouldn't have anything negative to say at all, we will definitely be back

I came from Tennessee to visit friends I hadn't seen in 36 years. I suggested miniature golf to them and they loved the idea. While sitting in traffic I noticed Smugglers Cove, right up the road from the hotel I'm staying in. Brenda was welcoming with a smile on her face. She took care to provide amazing customer service. She had much to talk about with my friends, residents of Sarasota. We truly enjoyed our experience there and I even got a hole in one! The best part was feeding the alligators at the end of the course.

Had a great time with miniature golf and then topped off the experience by feeding some alligators! Great fun and plan to take visiting relatives here.

We had such an amazing time at Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf in Sarasota! There was plenty of free parking behind the place when we arrived, which made things super easy. The staff was so friendly right from the start, and we loved that you can even buy gator food and feed the alligators—such a fun, unique touch! We’ve probably played at 15–20 mini golf courses from Florida to Massachusetts, and honestly, this one ranks at the very top. I can’t even decide what I loved more—the creative course design or the beautiful tropical landscaping. And as if that wasn’t enough, they’ll deliver alcohol, snacks, and beverages while you play… yes, please! This place really felt special. My late Aunt Cindy V lived in the area for many years, and I know she probably loved this spot too. ❤️ Her dog Jaxx is happy and sometimes visits us here in Florida if anyone wants to say hi! Can’t recommend Smugglers Cove enough! It’s the perfect mix of fun, relaxation, and good vibes. (If you like groovy clothes KissaDoody . Com )

This was so much fun here feeding the gators. The putt putt was medium difficulty with some being very long and others easy to get a hole in one. They also have very nice breathable souvenir tank tops for a reasonable price. Highly recommend if you want to have an hour to 1.5 hrs of fun!

Great family fun for all ages! If you need something to do for a couple hours of fun; this is your place.

This park would get a 5/5 but unfortunately we did get locked in so I had to take one star off. The gates shut and lock at 10 PM so be careful and make sure to get out of the parking lot by then. The wait is not short if you do get locked in. The parks operator was super kind but the process and timing was unclear. It is a great spot for family fun and fishing and the shelling is good some days too. Sunset is beautiful to watch from anywhere on Lido too.

It’s the best spot for parking convenience and relatively easy access to restrooms.

South Lido Beach has become my family's favorite beach in the Sarasota area. It's improved drastically from when I was a youth. Lots of white sand, plenty of parking, and a newer restroom tower make it easily accessible. Also, there are a good number of shells that wash up on the beach so it's fun for the kids to go beachcombing while we're there. There are multiple picnic tables and space for gatherings.

Good shelling g and not crowded. Be careful of the rip current if you enter the water.

Beaches combed regularly. Nice clean restrooms open at 7 and concessions start at 11.

South Lido County Park is a good little park, but WOW! with all the shrubs, trees, and greenery, those pesky mosquitoes are plentiful! Bring your bug spray ‐ they're everywhere!! We were fighting them off nonstop until we finally ended up leaving.. It was miserable! I'm not sure if it was just bad timing or if its always like that, but we definitely caught the brunt of it!

Great spot for people with families with jetsky or boat a lots of parking spots shade and clean bathrooms. I little bit crowded sometimes

Completely enjoyed our visit. Loved the show Frog and Toad! The performance was so very cute. Adorable theatre! I hope to be able to visit again soon. Charlotte, you were amazing and so talented. The staff were all incredibly involved and kind.

We saw Jesus Christ Superstar during a vacation visit in the area. Such a wonderful performance. The theater is gorgeous, and the staff is very informative. We plan to return next year during our return visit. We are excited to see Fidler on the Roof.

The Asolo Repertory Theatre in Sarasota is a true gem for anyone who loves live performance. The venue is beautiful and historic, with a warm, inviting atmosphere and excellent acoustics. I’ve been impressed by the quality of the productions, they feature talented casts, thoughtful direction, and stunning set designs. Whether it’s a drama, comedy, or musical, every show I’ve seen has been professionally done and emotionally engaging. The staff is friendly, and parking is convenient. It’s also great to see the connection to the FSU Conservatory, bringing in fresh energy and talent. I highly recommend checking it out if you’re in the Sarasota area. It’s a fantastic place to experience high-quality theatre without the big-city crowds.

Had a fantastic time at the Circus. The performers were over the top AWESOME. The theater was beautiful. Love the elegance of the interior.

it sits on such a beautiful setting in Sarasota. I would recommend spending the whole day there art museum glass Museum Ringling Museum, Magic Museum so much to say and the restaurant was superb make reservations for the restaurant before you go.its a must see when you’re on the West Coast.💗

We saw the circus here for the Sarasota summer shows. Totally worth the 20 bucks! Great fun for the whole family and then you can check out the circus museum for 5 bucks after the show. When selecting seats, you don’t have to worry about getting in the front rows. The theatre is small

It was a wonderful night and the show presented was an absolute delight ..it was Jesus Christ Superstar what a hit !

What a magical place for small children 1-8 to go! Our small daughter that is 1.5 years old had a blast running around and exploring. She did not want to leave when it was time to leave (stayed to close). She absolutely loved the pirate ship, and the sand area and dragon! We did not get to experience all the activities they have since we came about 2 hours before close while it was raining. However looking forward coming back to get to experience them even though it's 2.5 hours away! The staff was super friendly as well. Thank you so much for having a raw imagination place like this, I did not think they existed anymore and it really warms my heart knowing one exists. True core memories for me were formed at a place similar to this (story land, NH) Thanks for everything you guys do here it's important for children to have places like this vs ipad kids just growing up without an imagination

Not bad for the price! Just visiting the area and it wasn't bad if you're into rustic theme. The negative was a lot of things needed cleaning! Such as the kids costume where the kids dress up they had dirt and mold on them if you pay close attention. The overwhelming smell that catches you even before you enter and certain areas ate not kept clean. Otherwise the place has potential, unique themes where kids can actually use their imagination and a sense of magic to it.

We absolutely LOVED this place!!! There was so much to explore! It was $17 for the two of us, and definitely worth it! We stayed for hours until we were all sweaty and dirty and hungry. 😂 We will definitely be back. It was such a magical experience. It’s literally a hidden gem. It’s off a back road and the entrance is hidden away. Just my kind of place. We are in love with nature! They do have water for sale, but I would definitely recommend bringing a big jug. They also have bug spray on a cart for everyone to use which was definitely needed because it’s surrounded by plants and trees. We didn’t need sunscreen because it’s all shaded. They also have a Lilly pad pond, bridges over streams, a dress up house, a puppet stage with a basket full of puppets, and multiple little “cottages”. There’s so much to climb on, which my son loved. It was very relaxing for me and very stimulating for him; It was so magical for both of us. We will definitely be back! Thank you for creating this world of wonder for all to enjoy!!!

It's always a great experience for the kids. However, the place is not kept up with. It smells like sewage. The parking is very limited. For the price, it should be managed better and more accessible.

Amazing hidden gem in town. I loved it as much as my kids did. So much to do and see. Flowers, sculptures, art, stone walkways, sand pit, misting bamboo forest, puppet shows, trains, oversized rocking chair, garden maze, pirate ship, jungle gym and swing bridge, oversized art, stage, and so much more! You could definitely spend hours here. I was smiling and laughing the whole time. Ample parking. There is a gift shop. There is a restroom, but I would advise against it.

Very cute place for kids, mostly geared towards 4 to 10 years old I'd say. Great imagination play areas here, all at a very reasonable price.

We easily spent 3 hours there today! While it is hot and buggy outside (such is Florida in July) the trees provide a great cover. Bug spray was at the entrance which was super nice. My kids loved the dress up area, mud kitchen, and tree house. One of my kids made the mistake of eating the dirt in the kitchen and I was happy to find out they don’t use pesticides. Will be returning for an event. Definitely worth the hour drive and will recommend

March 28th 2025. First time visit with my partner. I live in Lehigh acres and he is from East coast. We did not have very high expectations but the wild life encountered today was rarmarkable and very surprising. Signage needs a bit of improvement but overall I enjoyed walking through a d taking pictures. I missed some great scenes of birds in flights and catching fish but I cam never forget what I had seen today. I have posted my pictures so that others can view

Nice short trail. Very short walk to the dock over the pond. There are some trail offshoots, but they end up fading out. Cool little local vegetation markers- I learned about some plants. There’s also a playground if you have kids. Pretty views and lots of shade.

This 72 acre preserve has extensive trails both paved and unpaved. Very scenic along lakes,canals and wetlands with some shade. There are picnic tables, a playground, and benches overlooking the water. There are restrooms and the preserve is dog friendly.

Another walking area in Sarasota County offering ponds w wildlife, birds, turtles, gators. Explored most perimeter trails using map my walk to guide me to cover more distance. The pic shows walk w very little backtracking.

Red Bug Slough Preserve is a beautiful, well-maintained natural area just 15 minutes from Siesta Key. The preserve offers peaceful walking trails through oak hammocks, pine flatwoods, and wetlands, with plenty of opportunities to see wildlife like birds, squirrels, and even otters. Great for hiking, birdwatching, or a family picnic, it’s a serene spot to enjoy Florida’s natural beauty.

We love this place. Awesome trails & friendly people & dogs! Tons of different bird species! Too many to list. Favorite thing we did see was the swallow tailed kites!

Pretty, serene park to walk. Shade or sun, walk in the woods or by the pond, very safe. There are birds, turtles, fish, and flowers. Easy parking. Lots of paths to take.

This park is beautiful and very well-maintained, with multiple trails perfect for walking, running, or just enjoying nature. It’s a family-friendly spot and you’ll almost always see lots of happy dogs around—great for pet lovers! Along the trail, there are several exercise stations, which make it feel like a mini fitness circuit if you want to add movement to your walk. The picnic areas and restrooms are clean and well-kept, which adds to the comfort of the visit. The vegetation is lush and lovely, making it a peaceful place to unwind. There’s also a large open space that’s perfect for outdoor events, and even a special piñata area—a fun touch for celebrations! Overall, it's a well-preserved park that’s perfect for families, pets, and outdoor gatherings.

Very clean and beautiful park with two playgrounds: one is for kids 2-5 years old, and the other for school-aged children. It has a few swings and picnic areas. The bathrooms are accessible and clean. It even has a box with books and a drop-off locker to return those. Water fountains for people and dogs are a nice addition. There are a few trails for walking, so people come with dogs in the evening as well. It is a neat park.

Very family park with plenty of parking space, playgrounds for different ages and walking trails. Clean bathrooms and water fountains for you and your pet. Playgrounds has shades.

This place is amazing. It's super peaceful, the nature trails are to die for. I spent 3 hours just walking and probably could have kept going if I didn't have somewhere to be. They also have a pretty decent playground for kids. The best I've seen lol. There's plenty of parking, it's open all hours and has a side for dogs to be able to run around.

I went to this park around 7am on a Monday morning. I did not see any homeless people. I saw lots of birds and bunnies. There are lots of covered picnic tables and paved trails. There are exercise stations strategically placed along the trail. It’s a good place to walk and watch the wildlife. I was very happy to take my morning walk at this park.

Very nice park, plenty of places to sit in the shade while the kids played. The shade over the equipment was pretty solid too. Large equipment structure, unique, and the kids loved it! Someone was actively cleaning the park and emptying the trash cans while we were there, very clean!!

Beautiful park, fun for the kids, not full of kind folks though sadly, but we still had a good time.

After paying the required fees, my artwork was either not displayed at all or not promoted in any meaningful way. Communication was poor, and the support I expected simply did not materialize. It has become clear that this gallery prioritizes collecting fees from emerging artists rather than genuinely helping them succeed. It's a Gallery of artist exploitation.

An awesome free exhibit with local artists with kind docents and plenty of parking. I will be back every time I visit Sarasota now!

It seems like every time we visit, there is something new to see. We like to stop in from time time, and see what is being displayed. This place is free to visit. They do have a donation box.

While visiting the Art Center, I stumbled into a photo shoot for their largest fashion show of the year. This is a must see if you are in Sarasota.

Beautiful sculptures and magical things to look at everywhere!!! Everyone is very kind. My daughter and I had a great time checking it out!

I liked the sculpture garden. The local art in the building was very nice. It is well worth a visit.

If you're considering exhibiting here, skip it. There's no notice to pick up art after an exhibition--no phone calls, no e-mails, nothing. I called to ask because we had received no notice, and they told us ASAP in the middle of the work week. I said I would get down before the week's end. I made time the next day to drive out of town, and can you believe we were charged $5 to pick up artwork that we already paid to submit? They made no mention of a late charge over the phone and when we had no pick up time, either. I bet they spent less on the ribbon for the award.

Underrated park on Lido Key. To get there head north from Lido to Longboat Key. You will come to a traffic light, turn right onto Ken Thompson Parkway. Go till it dead ends at Sarasota Bay. Has a small playground, clean restroom, picnic tables, and a few grills. Plenty of parking. Nice place to take dogs as there is a large grassy area and some trails. The beach, if you call it that, is full of ugly sea shells….however you can definitely swim there (but wear some water shoes).

My Favorite Banyan 🌳 Tree! lovely park ❤️ Plenty of paved sidewalks and beautiful views of the Ocean! Great spot to watch the 🌅 Sunrise!! People do bring their dogs, but most are not leashed🙄

Beautiful view and lots of playground equipment, although it is spread out in three areas. Also adult exercise facilities. Great swimming area for kids too. Shallow and calm. Water shoes recommended since it is a lagoon. Nature boardwalk also well-kept.

Kent Thompson Park is truly an exceptional place to spend time outdoors. The park is spacious, clean, and very well-organized, making it an ideal destination for the whole family. The atmosphere of the park is perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature. It’s a fantastic spot for picnics, with plenty of green areas to lay out a blanket and enjoy a meal outdoors. Additionally, there are numerous facilities that allow for a variety of recreational activities, from walking and running to playing on the sports fields. The park is so well-maintained and inviting that it’s always a pleasure to visit. The tranquility and beauty of the natural surroundings make it easy to forget the hustle and bustle of daily life and simply relax. Without a doubt, Kent Thompson Park is a place I would return to many times. Whether it’s for spending quality time with family, enjoying a picnic, or just relaxing in a beautiful natural setting, this park has it all. It’s a true gem in the community and highly recommended for anyone looking for a pleasant place to enjoy the outdoors.

Beautiful waterfront park. Nice walking trails and a nice playground. Beautiful view of downtown Sarasota from the other side of the Bay!

The boardwalk in the mangroves is absolutely fantastic. Nice little park to walk around or eat lunch.

Had an awesome morning at Ken Thompson Park walking our dogs. On the way out we met this fella by the boat ramp!

Downtown Sarasota is one of those places that just feels good the minute you get there. It has this laid-back, artsy charm that somehow appeals to everyone — whether you’re wandering solo, out with friends, or enjoying a family getaway. There’s art everywhere — galleries, murals, sculptures — and endless beaches just minutes away. Shelling, boating, shopping, delicious restaurants… you name it, Sarasota delivers. It’s super walkable, felt very safe, and there’s no shortage of hidden gems to stumble upon, from cozy cafés to unique little shops. Sure, it’s hotter than Hades in the summer — but let’s be real, that’s Florida for you. Grab a cold drink, stroll the palm-lined streets, and soak up the good vibes. The sunsets? Absolutely unreal. The community? Friendly and welcoming. It’s one of those rare spots that somehow combines art, nature, food, and fun — all wrapped up with a salty sea breeze. Highly recommend — whether you're planning a day trip or staying awhile, Downtown Sarasota is pure Florida charm with a little something for everyone.

This evening Tony and I went down to Sarasota Bayfront Park to walk around! Free parking! The huge famous "Unconditional Surrender" Statue depicting the infamous end to War World 2 was on display! This is very lovely! Highly recommend!

It's a really cool statue celebrating the end of WWII. It doesn't seem to be lit up at night so come during the day or early during sunset to enjoy it.

We loved it ! Took some pictures and other people were really nice👍🏻

This place is always nice, perfect for a walk or ride on a bike, the sunsets are nice here and it's also good for kids.

I took my Aunt who was visiting from CT and we had a great time. The whole area is very enjoyable..

Such a beautiful area along the water!

We decided to try our very first escape room here, don't one of the harder ones to challenge ourselves. All I can say is, THEY HAVE COMPLETELY OUTDONE THEMSELVES! Moving to, many different rooms after unlocking one and eerily moving to the next, keeps you on edge and completely immersed! You HAVE to check this place out!

Our family had an amazing time at Evasive Escape Room. Chris was phenomenal, hilarious and accommodating. We really appreciated their honesty and guidance in picking a room. We will be back thanks again!

We loved the exterminator escape room. I’ve completed a few but this was hands down my favorite room I’ve ever completed. And “Spaulding” made it worth so much more he really got into it and made the scene. There were a few jump scares and a lot of laughs. Will be back the next time I’m in Florida!

It was really fun. 5 guys from 13-70 years old. It was a good time to work together and get to know each other. Excellent team building. Great managers!

I’ve never been here before but this was my 6th escape room and it was definitely the best escape room I’ve ever done!! The live actors and effects are amazing and it’s an amazing room! I will definitely be coming back! It would be super cool if you guys sold a night vision video that way people could see all of their reactions!

So much fun! These rooms are creative and exciting, allowing for an excellent escape room experience. My family and I have competed all of their rooms so far, and can't wait to try their new rooms that are scheduled to open soon. Check it out!

Wow. After the amount of escape rooms we have done, it’s really difficult to impress us with a new room. WE WERE IMPRESSED. The staff were amazing, the room was themed perfectly, and the jump scares were fantastic. With scary rooms, it sucks when they make the puzzles extremely hard WITH fear. This game was made perfectly. Not too hard, not too easy… genuinely, it was JUST right. The only thing I dislike is that I never get to do this room again. I would recommend this to everyone! I’m so excited to see what this group does in the future!!!

We had a wonderful time with our youngest granddaughter taking her on the Sea Life encounter cruise out of Mote Marine. We saw dolphins, a manatee, different types of crabs and fish as well as tons of birds on an island just for them. It was a beautiful day on the water and definitely worth doing.

Went on the Sea Life Cruise and had the most wonderful time. The boat is spacious and comfortable, we saw many dolphins and birds throughout the entire tour. I was surprised by the extensive route we took and how many areas of Sarasota Bay we saw. It was also a nice touch driving through multiple areas with incredible homes to view. The most exciting elements of the Cruise included seeing a sting ray jump out of the water within close proximity of the boat, and when they dropped a net into the water so that we could get a peak of the fish wildlife. We saw 4 puffer fish, some large shells, and a seahorse! The captain/crew including a volunteer and marine biologist were extremely well spoken and friendly. Offered at a very reasonable price for this kind of activity, I highly recommend checking them our for a fun couple of hours on the water!

We loved our trip with Sarasota Bay Explorers…I live local and had friends from out of state visiting and we booked the sunset cruise. We especially liked our first mate and she shared so much knowledge about the birds and sea life. The captain was great and found us a wonderful spot for the sunset. This was my first time with this trip and it will certainly be a must for visiting guests.

Super cool experience with our homeschool co-op group! The staff were extremely knowledgeable and we learned a ton while getting the awesome opportunity to see so much marine wildlife. Captain Angel rocked it .. highly recommend!!

This was a great boat tour. The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable. We saw many dolphins and some manatees. It was fun to see what the marine biologist brought up in her net. She passed everything around so all could see, including star fish, seahorses, Robin fish, crabs, etc. we had a really nice time and highly recommend this tour.

What a beautiful and educational experience, the sun, water, sea life, vegetation, homes and surrounding area. Amanda, a volunteer sorry I forgot her name and Captain Angel shared so much knowledge with us aboard. We spotted 2 small sharks, a good number of dolphins, many different types of birds and cranes. Our guide Amanda demonstrated netfishing which was very interesting to see done in person and to see such an assortment of beautiful sea life pulled from the water by this net... seahorse, crabs, assorted beautiful fish, red sponges, dark sponges, assorted Jelly fish and many others. All sea life was returned to the environment after viewing and discussion. Amanda explained many details of the different sea life caught and this young lady has a wealth of knowledge. While viewing each individual sea life there was a touch and no touch experience. A very relaxing trip with the opportunity to purchase snacks, water and soft drinks from a cooler. My congratulations and thank you to a wonderful staff. This trip was so much more than I expected.❤️

Brilliant morning out on the bay. Our biologist, volunteer and boat captain were all so informative and had a wealth of knowledge to share with us. Saw manatees, dolphins, bald headed eagles, osprey, hermit and spider crab to name a few!! Highly recommend.

This review is for Holley Hall at 709 N Tamiami Trl., for William Yang’s recital who had just won the Chopin competition in Miami last month. The four stars is for efforts, that a small town of 57,000 residents, supports an orchestra, opera and ballet. The venue is decent. General seating. The staff said it has 400 seats. They can’t scan our digital tickets - perhaps due to the fact this event is presented by the Polish-American Association. Two episodes stood out: an elderly lady climbed up to the stage to take self and autograph; the two chairwomen presented the pianist, flowers, lumpy red bag and inside the bag is a white t shirt, that she tried to size it up on him. Pretty funny. Parking is easy. The touchiness faucet in the bathroom dispenses pretty hot water. Next month will go to Hilary Hahn’s concert in Van Wezel, which is on the water.

Phenomenal. We're in our 20s and have season tickets to the GE series. Having travelled all over the world we can safely say the quality and standard of the performances is exceptional. Whats one thing that's better than the performances..... the customer service! It is so important to support the arts and we would recommend to everyone to attend a performance!

My first time. Delightful. The orchestra was outstanding. Crisp. Total pleasure. I loved this. It is worth the hour drive for us to get there. The place has "flexible" seating. The chairs were not comfortable for me for the hour we were there. That is the only thing that needs improvement. I'll be back!

Sarasota Music Festival’s 60th anniversary series began today at Holley Hall with 12 concerts to follow until June 22. Tonight’s concert began with Francois Couperin’s “Le Rossignal en Amour”. This is the same piece that began this series 60 years ago. Excellent concert.

The orchestra at Holley Hall was great. I took in a Holiday music concert. The conductor was fun and they took COVID precautions seriously. Everyone had to wear a mask and show proof of vaccinations with picture ID. That said, many people we’re carrying in their own cushions and I soon found out why. The chairs were horribly uncomfortable and stacked right next to each other making it uncomfortably close to your neighbors. I couldn’t help but fidget through the concert. But again the music was superb.

Our first time and won’t be our last! Celebrating John Williams, composer and director, it was an amazing performance. Brought back many memories of the great movie soundtracks he composed. Wow. Schindlers List composition brought tears to my eyes. What great talent of the Sarasota symphony. Thank you.

I had significant concerns regarding their leadership's handling of financial matters. Specifically, there appeared to be attempts to access our house's resources connected to our bank accounts through indirect means. This raised serious questions about transparency and trust. As a result, I would advise others to be cautious and vigilant when dealing with this organization.

My wife and I had a great time. Jeremy was funny and his instructions made for an easy and enjoyable painting. I would highly recommend Painting with a Twist as a fun date night for people of all ages. When you are finished, you go home with a wonderful keepsake.

We would like to give a special shout out to Annette. She was the main artist working for the mommy and me class at 10:30 in the morning on mother's Day. We want to give her a special shout out for maintaining and being calm cool and collected, with all the hassles of that morning's class. From late arrivals to kids running around in the back room getting into things barefoot because their parents were not watching them. God for the parents actually enjoyed the mommy and me part. But you did an amazing job being a babysitter / teaching artist. You did an amazing job accommodating my husband. And did an amazing job integrating him into the mommy and me class. She did such an amazing job we are now going on to book a Father's Day one. We love their turtles and we loved how they looked at the end as well as your help in between everything. You did an amazing job teaching us not only how to color combo colors as well as outlining shadowing and everything that comes in between with painting. Thank you and we look forward to our Father's Day event.

We enjoyed my daughter's bridal celebration this past weekend at Painting With A Twist! Throughout the planning, Annette was flexible and accommodating, and was responsive to calls and emails. She was the artist for our event, giving clear instruction, checking on everyone and offering extra help if needed, and making a fun time for all! She really helped to make the party run smoothly. I definitely recommend this paint studio and hope to visit again.

Annette and Joan came to our place for a paint party to celebrate mom's on my staff. They arrived early to set up and were ready to go on time. They were patient and fun, while we snacked and studied each other's work. I would definitely recommend them.

Very fun experience! Joan was fun, patient, very helpful, and the perfect instructor for our group of ladies. We all discovered the "artist" in us. Highly recommend "Paint with a Twist" for a ladies night out.

Jeremy our painting instructor was fantastic. It was a great way to have a date night with the husband. Not an artist at all however they make you feel like no matter what you create it is art. Offer many options for you to choose and don't rush you to finish your project.

I attended a Paint Your Pet event with a group of Realtor friends, and we all had a great time! Our artist, Joan, was wonderful. She was supportive, attentive, and super helpful to all of us who needed assistance… And we definitely needed assistance! They provided an atmosphere of fun, and we all left pleased with our masterpieces! 🤣😊

Sadly very common for a number of malls I have visited in recent months with probably 25 to 30% of the shops closed and little traffic the day I was there. The theatre there was fine once inside but the entry way and signage were in need of attention.

All the staff are really nice the theaters are always clean, and Ive been coming to this theater since my teens and this is a first, There were rats running around the emergency exit before the movie started, we just ignored them until after the movie to say something. In the lobby I talked to who I presumed the manager was and informed him of this problem, the guy kind of non chalantly with no urgency told me that they didn't know and they were going to report it to some kind of pest control. I really love this place and would like to continue going to this theater, but rats are really a no go, and this probably goes for alot of other people too.

The bathrooms are clean compared to other theatres. Theatre is kind of dirty, but it's the average movie theatre dirty. Seats are cloth and do not stay down if you are not sitting in them, so you are forced to put food and bags on the floor. Definitely strip and shower as soon as you get home. But the pros are that the movies look and sound great, and there's usually not a lot of people in the theatre or long waits in line for tickets or for concessions.

The staff is nice and I don’t blame them for any of the following complaints. These theaters are hot, muggy, and vaguely smell like dirty ash trays. Everything is grubby and the building is disheveled, I feel gross sitting in the chairs. The mall is failing of course but it’s really obvious in the theater area and it needs a renovation before I go back, but as is I would not return even if it was free.

Good theater, but "rushes" we're extremely LOUD !! Sound level for the movie was much better. Seats in theater were very comfortable. Prices are what you'd expect today...high.

I been to this mall for over 20 years I enjoyed for the most part but now and days this mall is dying many stores are closing down especially during the pandemic. But the most annoying thing about the mall is the teenagers I never seen a annoying group of teenagers in my life. I understand that kids need a place to hangout and all but these teenagers will annoy and bother you and asked you for money especially in Fridays so if there is one day to avoid going to the mall don't go on Fridays I felt bad for the security guards to put up with these annoying kids. Something has to be done about this.

Theater 10 was disgusting! Smelled like urine. We went this past weekend to see mission impossible final reckoning. Movie was good. But Theater made it a less than great experience. Movie was a 12:10 showing time,over 40 minutes of previews! Ridiculous! Had we known,we would have arrived at 12:45 and still not have missed the first scene of the featured film. We will wait for movies to come to streaming services in the future.

I took my son here. Love the fitness area here! There's a separate playground on the other side of the fence but it's definitely for toddlers and little kids. He made it work for a few minutes. There are paved walking trails as well. The aquatic center looks great but we didn't go in. Nice Olympic pool and more. Nice park!

Great place for a peaceful walk and clear your head. Dog friendly has a dog park.

What a great pool! We were visiting from out of town and stopped in to swim some laps. Clean locker rooms and beautiful swimming pools. I wish we had a pool like this where I live.

Arlington Park Sarasota is a great local spot with trails, tennis, a playground, and a nice pool. It’s clean and peaceful, but some areas could use upkeep and parking can be tight. Still, an awesome place to relax or get active.

Pool: Great for locals! Not the “free play” type of place as the small pool is often closed for classes. But the large pool is great to cool off and do some laps! Strict swim test for the little ones, makes you feel safe! Park: love taking a stroll, plenty of shades when the sun is too high.

Today was my first time at this park, and it did not disappoint. Initially, the park doesn't seem like much, but after the first few feet, you get a fork in the path; I chose to go right. Instantly I am bombarded with Florida's infamous beauty. To each side of me, there are cabbage palms, grand oaks, and canopy after canopy of green waterfalls as I walk down the paved path. As I'm walking, I come across a lake. Once I approach the lake, I can see little heads bobbing from the water; they are turtles, they gollow me as a cross a bridge. Next, I come across different species of ducks, a few bunnies, and squirrels, of course. An hour later, my guy and I call it a day. This park is among the most active with people and animals. What a beautiful way to end a beautiful day. BONUS: There is a dog park along the trail!

As this is a neighborhood park, many streets butt up to it, yet it feels very rural with the overhanging trees. A 1/2 mile paved track winds thru it. Squirrels and an iguana crossed my path the day I took my walk. There is also a unique fitness playground and “Little Library” on the outskirts of the property. There are lights which allows the park to be open 5am to 11pm.

Nice park located at the base (east side) of Ringling Bridge. To get there stay in the right lane as you approach Ringling Bridge. Just before the bridge there is a turnoff on the right. Plenty of parking. A lot of people park here to walk over the bridge. There is also a small park over the bridge on the west end. Has a playground, Hart’s Landing which is a bait and souvenir shop, and a fishing pier. Terrific place to walk and is very dog friendly as well.

Every weekend we do a ruck across the John Ringling Bridge and stop at the park to do a little exercise. There are alway people fishing, people exercising, kids playing, and boats coming not Harts Landing. Definitely a place to stop and enjoy the scenery and weather

Great place to just relax and enjoy the view.

I went fishing today on the pier. I caught a catfish and put him back. Over the years, I've been successful fishing here and caught a variety of fish. There is a baitshop right here which is very convenient. There is also a play area for the kids. I recommend this place for a fun, relaxing time in downtown #Sarasota #Florida on #SarasotaBay. Enjoy yourself. If this review is helpful, please give it a thumbs up. Thanks. #letsguide

Great place to fish or bring the kids to play. Situated under Ringling Causeway Bridge

Fun park on the Bay. Great for kids and next to Saprito Fishing Pier and Harts Landing.

Excellent park! Beautiful views sunset gorgeous under bridge

My husband and I did the Trickery room together, and it was a great way to spend an evening together. The puzzles were fun, and our game master was helpful both in giving in-character time alerts and providing clues when we got stuck. The room itself was well decorated and helped build the world of the room's story. We're looking forward to going back and doing more rooms here.

We did the “Trickery” escape room with my brothers recently, and it was great! The story, quests, and hints were all good, and the staff was attentive and friendly. I am glad we went, and we will DEFINITELY be back in the future. If you’re looking for something fun to do, check this place out. You won’t regret it!

So much fun! My daughter was visiting and wanted to go. We had never been. We had such a blast, although it was very challenging. Logan was amazing, friendly, upbeat helpful. I warn you though, you will question how smart you think you really are. Lol. For reference our daughter is 22 and we are 55 and 60 and still enjoyed it very much. Just an all around great experience. Will definitely be back.

A group of 4 of us went and did the Trickery Escape Room in Port Charlotte. It was an absolute blast! The game host Josh was fun and energetic (and patient 😅). The clues are well thought out and unique tasks take you to the next clue it was super fun! Definitely recommend. Josh even took a picture with us. Can't wait to try the other rooms and their location in North Port!

The escape rooms are a blast. The game masters are a riot and really get into their roles. I've also spent some time with my grandson playing board games there. They have a HUGE selection. Far more than I'd care to store at home. Made for a great rainy afternoon. I'll be hanging out there frequently.

We are obsessed! Every visit to Amaze Games is a special treat. The staff is so kind and friendly, the rooms are clever, and our kids absolutely love it. Highly recommend!

The new owners have put their hearts into these games and you can feel it from the moment you walk through the door! We played both rooms they currently have running and enjoyed them both! Cant wait for the next one!!!

Hands down the coolest putt concept that I had ever seen. It’s an adult playground and must be seen in person to fully appreciate. There are two courses, Tiger Red and Tiger Black. Each hole is well designed and requires a plan of attack to par. This isn’t a hit the ball in the clowns nose putt putt from the 80s. It requires skill or luck to score well. Pro-Tip: If you’re local to Manatee County and plan to play more than once a month, just buy the $25/mo membership. It’s less than a day pass and great value as long as you play twice a month. Pro-Tip 2.0: If your just looking for a cool place to chill while the rest of the party plays, go up stairs. It was half empty on my visit. Great views of the course, a huge bar with a wall of TV, tables, and couches. I’ll see ya at Pop Stroke

It's A. Beautiful park to take your kids or yourself. Maybe even a dog on just a nice walk.... They have Tennis courts.They have basketball courts.They have the new playground with all the new fun toys.... And little hidden secret that not many people know is Where the bathrooms are in the back is actually a trail that you can walk very deep Into the Woods and have a really cool nature walk. 💯 There's a pickle ball court and a stretch of parking lot behind that which people practice slow speed, motorcycle stuff! So it's a phenomenal park. Just be respectful.

This playground and community center are such a gem for our neighborhood! The playground is clean, safe, and thoughtfully designed with equipment for kids of all ages — from toddler-friendly swings and slides to climbing structures that keep older kids engaged. There’s plenty of shade and seating for parents, which makes it comfortable to spend time here even on warm days.

So much to do! They have two different playgrounds, a tennis court, a baseball field, multiple picnic tables with some being covered to fight off any rain. Bathrooms are open to the public and lots of open grass for the kids to run off all their energy!

We love this playground! Shaded, safe and lots to do! Walking trails, basketball courts and picnic tables 😊

Great park. Two separate areas; one for 2-5 year old and one for 5-12. Almost entire play structure is shaded and there are multiple swings (both baby and regular). Definitely taking my kids back...they are already asking when they can go back.

Nice little playground with features for all ages. Some other nice facilities for other activities too.

Park is up to date but the neighborhood is something another thing. Lots of broken down house and tons of cars on the lawn. Picked up a lot of garbage in the park. Small but would be nice for kids if adults cleaned up after themselves and the houses around were so sketchy.

It's clean but the park is dated and parking isn't plentiful

Very nicely kept on the grounds, absolutely no shade, water fountains or bathrooms, parking is also non existent unless you’d like all the neighbors to be casing your car wondering why your parked on their street.

If you like to take photos of squirrels - and I do - this park has several. They were neither aggressive nor overly shy, which is a good zone for squirrel photography.

Nice neighborhood playground. It's clean most of the time but sometimes lazy and careless people liter even on the slide!

I ride a electric bike and like to stop by all the parks to cool down and take a break.

Beauitful park . The Sarasota landscape crew and the Sanitation crew keeps the park looking amazing.

My boys loved the idea and look of thus park. Unfortunately, both times we went it was raining/had rained and everything was wet. Bugs were pretty bad too; we had lots of bites. Tucked away in a neighborhood.

My kids really enjoyed this park however we had to leave because I found a syringe by a tree. Luckily I came across it before my kids did. I normally don’t post anything about playgrounds but felt I had to for the sake of our children’s safety. I was lucky enough to find the syringe but what if there are more around the playground that I didn’t see? Or hidden in the mulch?

Playground is smack in the middle of a neighborhood. Neighborhood children were very helpful in pointing out that the wasps made a nest under the only way to the slide. There were Ants all over all equipment. If the city has a park they should at least make sure that children will in fact be able to play on the equipment and not be stung by insects!! Otherwise great equipment good neighborhood!

Cute little secluded park. Very quaint. The scenery is really nice and its relatively quiet. Its a calm small park.

It's a cute little park right in the middle of a neighborhood. It got 4 stars and not 5 because there is no restrooms and it has mulch instead of that rubber mat stuff or fake grass like or parks I like.

In Payne Park, great place for the whole family! Kid zone, frisbee golf, running/ jogging track, wide open green space!

Very nice and quiet and convenient place if you just want to take your kids to unwind.

Beautiful view of the bay to sit & watch the sunset. Dog friendly & has a fountain and dish for doggies to gets drink. Benches & swings, handicap accessable playground. Lots of shade. Park along the road.

Small little park. Very little parking on the side of the road. Nice view of the water. A couple benches in the shade. Dog friendly, must be on a leash.

Bring my bestie/wife here when in the area. Great place to catch a sunset, or enjoy an afternoon.

Beautiful little park for anyone that wants to relax and find a small spot to let your mind free. It's also a dog park so it is setup with the amenities you need to walk your dog there which is nice. There is also a small playground for the little ones. The best part about this park is the view out to the bay. Keep in mind there is no parking lot. You will have to park on the side of the street.

Beautiful park. Great for walking, fishing, dog friendly, and a small playground.

I really wish I lived near this park. What a quaint well taken care of Park. It had a fancy dog watering station, a few benches, a nice small playground, and well-kept grass. The views were amazing.. lf you have a dog, this would be the highlight of its day.

Peaceful quiet park with water view and relaxing benches within a quiet neighborhood.