Attractions

A true pioneer in the cultural development of Sarasota, the Van Wezel, presents a broad spectrum of the world's finest performers representing the diverse tastes of Southwest Florida residents and visitors. This season, with more than 100 events, the Van Wezel has carried on the long tradition of presenting spectacular Broadway musicals, top national and international performers, popular comedians, world-class symphony orchestras and a compelling mix of classical, modern and ethnic dance. The Van Wezel also hosts more than 50 performances and events presented by the Sarasota Orchestra, Sarasota Ballet, the Sarasota Concert Association and the Ringling Library Town Hall Lecture Series.

The crown jewel of Sarasota and ranked the #1 Beach in the U.S. in 2020 by TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards™, you will quickly understand why when you feel the quartz-crystal powdery sand between your toes, and experience the soft waves and the abundance of sun & fun at gorgeous Siesta Beach. Thanks to the large parking area, concession stands, the free trolley to get around on the island, and nearby fun Siesta Key Village, you can plan your whole trip centered around this gorgeous Key without getting bored.

Mote Aquarium is your gateway to the ocean, featuring hundreds of marine animal species and windows into Mote Marine Laboratory, where real scientific research happens. Visit the 135,000-gallon shark habitat, meet the resident manatees and sea turtles, and explore coral reefs and other ecosystem displays with diverse fishes and gracefully drifting sea jellies. Mote Aquarium is proud to be accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) and has met rigorous, professional standards for animal care, wildlife conservation & research, education & more.

Today, Venice Theatre is per capita, the largest community theatre in the United States with an operating budget of almost four million dollars, a professional staff and an honored place in the history of Venice, Florida. That history is rich with the stories of the people who nurtured the theatre and made it what it is today. Sit back, relax and enjoy a show! 

Sarasota Opera produces outstanding opera true to the vision of the composer to entertain, enrich, and educate our communities, as well as patrons from across the state and around the world. In addition to striving for artistic excellence, Sarasota Opera directs itself toward becoming accessible to all segments of the greater community. 

McCurdy's Comedy Theatre was established in Sarasota/Bradenton, Florida in 1988. Their new facility is a 7,100 square foot purple building located in the heart of Historic Downtown Sarasota's East End at the intersection of Ringling Boulevard and Washington Avenue. The theatre was completely remodeled to create a world-class showroom devoted to the art of Stand-up Comedy. The Green Room is a great place to visit and have a drink before or after the show with a full bar and a great menu which is also available in the showroom. A wonderful place for guranteed fun and laughter!

Play ball! The Baltimore Orioles are proud to call Sarasota County their Major League Baseball Spring Training home. Spring Training practices at the Ed Smith complex are free and open to the public starting in mid-February. Spring Training games are held in March. Bring the family out for innings worth of fun and action. Go Orioles!

Established in 1939, Sarasota Jungle Gardens is home to more than 200 native and exotic animals including birds of prey, many different species of parrots and macaws, primates, small mammals, dozens of snakes, lizards, iguanas, alligators, crocodiles and other reptiles. Many of them rescued or donated, including Florida’s noted pink flamingos. All nestled within 10 acres of lush tropical landscaping connected by winding jungle trails. Join in on the fun at one of the oldest continuously operated attractions in Florida!

The Legacy Trail is a gift of significant historical and environmental lands which promote a sense of community among Sarasota County residents and provide a place for visitors and residents to use and enjoy. Uses include viewing wildlife in different habitats, relaxing in a mostly undeveloped environment, a travel corridor to other places in the County, discovering and studying local history and recreation such as walking, running, rollerblading and bicycling.

Located in Sarasota, Nathan Benderson Park is a unique 600-acre community park that includes North America’s premier 2,000-meter sprint rowing course and a regatta center. This park serves as a global, innovative, and premier destination that welcomes and connects people, while fostering a healthy, sustainable and safe environment. It offers recreational opportunities and facilities for people to enjoy and engage in activities that promote health and enhance the quality of life and environment, and to generate economic impact for our region.

Eat. Putt. Drink.  PopStroke is an experiential golf and casual dining concept merging a dynamic, technologically-advanced golf environment with food and beverage. Tiger Woods and his TGR Design team created two 18-hole putting courses, built entirely with synthetic turfs, incorporating fairways, bunkers, and rough just as you would see on a traditional golf course. You'll find an expansive variety of craft beer, wine, ice cream, and food to enjoy on or off the course. PopStroke infuses technology within the golf experience to create an interactive and competitive atmosphere for all participants.