Things to Do in Sarasota

A Sarasota Guide for Longboat Key Guests

Sarasota is rich with art, history, gardens, restaurants, waterfront walks, and family activities. For Casa Del Mar guests, it is close enough for a day trip or evening outing while still letting Longboat Key remain the beach home base.

The Ringling

The Ringling is one of Sarasota’s signature attractions, with art, circus history, gardens, architecture, and the Ca’ d’Zan mansion. Families, couples, and history-minded guests can easily spend several hours there.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens gives visitors a bayfront garden experience with tropical plants, display gardens, and outdoor spaces. It is a good option when guests want a slower cultural outing away from the beach.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Sarasota Jungle Gardens is a long-running family attraction with gardens, birds, animal experiences, and shows. It can work well for families looking for something easy and memorable.

Downtown Sarasota and Bayfront Stops

Downtown Sarasota has public art, dining, shopping, waterfront parks, and places to walk. The live article highlights Sarasota’s Unconditional Surrender sculpture, Bayfront Park context, and nearby options for exploring.

Performing Arts and Museums

Sarasota’s cultural calendar includes opera, theatre, concerts, museums, and seasonal events. Guests interested in performing arts should check current schedules for Sarasota Opera, Asolo Repertory Theatre, Van Wezel, and other venues before arriving.

Wildlife, Water, and Outdoor Activities

For water-focused outings, Sarasota and the surrounding area offer kayaking, paddleboarding, bay tours, dolphin tours, biking, fishing, and guided outdoor experiences.

Shopping and Casual Outings

Guests who want shopping or dining can plan time around St. Armands Circle, Siesta Key Village, UTC, downtown Sarasota, or other nearby districts. Check current hours and parking before going.

Plan Your Sarasota Day From Casa Del Mar

The best Sarasota outings usually pair well with a quiet return to Longboat Key. Choose one museum, garden, restaurant, or waterfront stop, then head back to the beach.

Review the area guide, browse Casa Del Mar rentals, or use the resort map to understand where your rental sits before planning day trips.