Zip Code Map Sarasota County Travel Guide
Introduction
If you’re planning a trip to Sarasota County, Florida, you might be overwhelmed by the sheer number of things to see and do. That’s where this comprehensive travel guide comes in. We’ve compiled a list of the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports. So, whether you’re traveling solo, with your family, or with friends, you’re sure to find something that appeals to you in this guide.
Top Attractions
Sarasota County is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida, including Siesta Key Beach, Lido Key Beach, and Longboat Key Beach. If you’re looking for something a little different, check out the Ringling Museum of Art, which features an extensive collection of European art, as well as a circus museum and a beautiful rose garden. Other top attractions include the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, and the Crowley Museum and Nature Center.
Hidden Gems
For those who want to get off the beaten path, Sarasota County has plenty of hidden gems to discover. Check out the Myakka River State Park, where you can take a scenic airboat tour or go hiking or biking on one of the many trails. The Venice Area Audubon Society Rookery is another hidden gem, where you can spot all kinds of birds in their natural habitat. And don’t miss the Siesta Key Drum Circle, a weekly gathering of musicians and dancers that takes place on the beach every Sunday evening.
Food Scene
Sarasota County has a diverse food scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. For seafood lovers, check out the Dockside Waterfront Grill, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and stunning views of the bay. The Columbia Restaurant is a local institution that serves up delicious Spanish cuisine, while the Indigenous restaurant offers farm-to-table dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients. And for a quick and tasty bite, head to Yoder’s Amish Village for their famous pies and other comfort foods.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Sarasota County has plenty of options for the budget-conscious traveler. Many of the beaches are free to visit, and you can often find discounted tickets to local attractions on Groupon or other discount sites. If you’re looking for a cheap meal, check out the food trucks that often gather in downtown Sarasota. And for affordable accommodations, consider staying at a budget hotel or vacation rental instead of a fancy resort.
Outdoor Adventures
Sarasota County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, and more. The Legacy Trail is a popular biking trail that winds through the county, while the Myakka River State Park offers miles of hiking trails and scenic waterways to explore. For a unique experience, try taking an airboat tour of the Everglades, where you can spot all kinds of wildlife in their natural habitat.
Historical Landmarks
History buffs will love Sarasota County’s many historical landmarks, including the Ca’ d’Zan Mansion, a stunning Italian-style mansion that was built in the 1920s. The Venice Train Depot is another historical landmark that is worth a visit, as is the Sarasota County Courthouse, which was built in 1926 and features a beautiful Art Deco design. And if you’re interested in military history, check out the Military Heritage Museum in Punta Gorda.
Family-Friendly Activities
Sarasota County is a great place to visit with kids, with plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. The Children’s Garden is a magical place for kids to explore, with whimsical gardens, a butterfly house, and a playground. The Sarasota Jungle Gardens is another popular attraction, with a variety of animals and birds to see. And for some indoor fun, check out the Sky Zone Trampoline Park or the Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, Sarasota County has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to discover. Try taking a sunset sail on a catamaran, or spend the day exploring the Myakka River on a kayak or canoe. The Sarasota Architectural Foundation offers walking tours of the city’s many historic buildings, while the Sarasota Farmers Market is a great place to discover local food and crafts.
Natural Wonders
Sarasota County is home to some of Florida’s most beautiful natural wonders, including the Myakka River State Park, which is home to a diverse range of wildlife and plant species. The Celery Fields is another natural wonder, with stunning views of wetlands and marshes. And for a truly unique experience, check out the Warm Mineral Springs, where you can soak in natural mineral waters that are believed to have healing properties.
Vibrant Nightlife
Sarasota County has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. The Beach Club Siesta Key is a popular spot for dancing and live music, while the Gator Club is a classic dive bar with a laid-back atmosphere. The Sarasota Opera House is another must-visit venue, with a variety of performances throughout the year.
Local Markets
For a taste of local flavor, don’t miss the many markets and festivals that take place throughout Sarasota County. The Sarasota Farmers Market is a great place to discover fresh produce and local crafts, while the Siesta Key Farmers Market features live music and food trucks. Other popular markets include the Englewood Farmers Market and the Venice Farmers Market.
Beaches and Mountains
Sarasota County is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida, including Siesta Key Beach, Lido Key Beach, and Longboat Key Beach. And while there are no mountains in the county, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring natural areas. The Myakka River State Park offers miles of hiking trails through a variety of ecosystems, while the Celery Fields provides stunning views of wetlands and marshes.
Cultural Immersion
Sarasota County has a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. The Ringling Museum of Art features an extensive collection of European art, while the Sarasota Opera House is a beautiful venue for live performances. The Sarasota Ballet is another must-see cultural institution, with a variety of performances throughout the year. And for a taste of local culture, check out the many festivals and events that take place throughout the county.
Art and Music Scene
Sarasota County has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and live music venues to discover. The Art Center Sarasota features a variety of exhibitions and classes, while the Sarasota Orchestra offers a variety of performances throughout the year. Other must-visit venues include the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and the Sarasota Art Museum.
Walking Tours
Sarasota County is a great place to explore on foot, with plenty of walking tours to choose from. The Sarasota Architectural Foundation offers tours of the city’s many historic buildings, while the Sarasota Bay Explorers offers guided kayak tours of the bay. And for a spooky experience, try the Sarasota Ghost Tour, which takes you on a journey through the city’s haunted history.
Architectural Marvels
Sarasota County is home to some of Florida’s most beautiful architecture, including the Ca’ d’Zan Mansion, a stunning Italian-style mansion that was built in the 1920s. The Sarasota County Courthouse is another architectural marvel, with a beautiful Art Deco design. And for a taste of mid-century modern architecture, check out the Sarasota School of Architecture, which was founded by a group of architects in the 1950s.
Historical Sites
Sarasota County has a rich history that is worth exploring. The Venice Train Depot is a historical landmark that is worth a visit, as is the Sarasota County Courthouse, which was built in 1926 and features a beautiful Art Deco design. Other must-visit historical sites include the Crowley Museum and Nature Center and the Military Heritage Museum in Punta Gorda.
Biking Routes
Sarasota County is a great place to explore on two wheels, with plenty of biking routes to choose from. The Legacy Trail is a popular biking trail that winds through the county, while the Myakka River State Park offers miles of biking trails through a variety of ecosystems. And for a unique experience, try taking a bike tour of the city’s many historic buildings with Sarasota Bike Tours.
Wellness Retreats
Sarasota County is a great place to relax and recharge, with plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. The Siesta Healing Spa offers a variety of spa treatments, including facials and massages, while the Pineapple Yoga Studio offers a variety of yoga classes and workshops. And for a truly unique experience, try the Warm Mineral Springs, where you can soak in natural mineral waters that are believed to have healing properties.
Adventure Sports
Sarasota County is a paradise for adventure sports enthusiasts, with