10 Things to Do in Sarasota, FL, for First Time Visitors

Sarasota is a city in Florida that is situated on the Gulf Coast. Its coastal location and the climate are two of the main reasons why tourists are attracted to the city. If you are planning a visit to Sarasota for the first time, you will find plenty of things to see and do during your stay. Here are just ten of the activities you should try to include in your itinerary for a first time stay in Sarasota, Florida.

1. Treat Yourself to a Stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota

Your choice of accommodation will make a big difference to how much you enjoy your stay in Sarasota. For the best experience, treat yourself to a stay in the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. This four-star hotel offers high-end accommodation and fantastic facilities. Some of the amenities available to guests include three restaurants, a bar, an 18-hole golf course, a spa, and an outdoor pool.

2. Dine at the Indigenous Restaurant

Sarasota is a fantastic place for eating out as there is a vast choice of restaurants from which to choose. These give options for all budgets and taste preferences. One of the top restaurants in the area to try is Indigenous Restaurant. This offers innovative New American cuisine that is made using carefully sourced ingredients. It has a sophisticated environment for a special and relaxing dining experience.

3. Spend Time at the Beaches

The beaches are one of the main attractions of staying in Sarasota as this is for what the city is famous. Nokomis Beach is the oldest beach in Sarasota County and this is in Casey, an 18-acre beach park. The beaches in Casey Key have picnic areas and concession stands.

4. Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Sarasota Jungle Gardens is the top-rated family attraction in Sarasota. There are over 200 species of birds, reptiles, and mammals living in this natural-looking jungle setting. You can spend a full day at this attraction learning about the animals, watching the displays, and relaxing in a jungle environment.

5. Take a Boat Tour

If you are a fan of riding the waves, then a boat tour is a fun way to see Sarasota from a different perspective and to enjoy the sea views. You can enjoy a dolphin-watching excursion, a fishing trip, or charter a yacht for your group or family.

6. Tree-Umph Adventure Course

There is something for all ages and abilities at this tree-top adventure park. Some of the activities include crazy obstacle courses, aerial adventure games, swing ropes, and zip wires. It is an exciting way to burn off some energy and is one of Sarasota's most unique attractions.

7. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is one of the most beautiful attractions in Sarasota. It is described as a tropical urban oasis and it is a delight to all the senses. The gardens offer group tours, classes, and photography sessions.

8. South Florida Museum and Bishop Planetarium

This natural and cultural museum is home to many fascinating exhibits relating to the local area. While there, you can also enjoy the digital Bishop Planetarium. Furthermore, you will find the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Aquarium located at this attraction.

9. Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium

A trip to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is a fun and educational day out for all the family. Not only is it an interesting attraction in Sarasota, it is also the base of some of the world’s top marine biologists and marine researchers. A visit here is a chance to get up close and personal with marine life. Some of the attractions include two touch tanks and a shark habitat.

10. Historic Spanish Point

Historic Spanish Point is a top archaeological site and is home to a history museum. These feature prehistoric mounds and pioneer homesteads. It is also where you will find nature trails, Bertha Honore Palmer’s Gardens, and boat tours. This is a living history museum that covers 30 acres and has different points of interest for everyone.