Central Sarasota Travel Guide
Sarasota
Visit Central Sarasota
Popular places to visit
Marina Jack
Explore the waterfront of Marina Jack and enjoy other activities such as boating in Sarasota. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
See a diverse range of exciting musical, dance and comedy shows at this architectural landmark inspired by the jagged shape of seashells.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
See a world-class collection of orchids and tropical bromeliads and walk through peaceful mangrove and palm gardens in this botanical park.
Sarasota Opera House
Here, 1920s style meets 21st-century luxury in a fully restored Mediterranean Revival opera house and cultural institution, complete with its own opera company.
Sarasota County Visitor Information Center and History Museum
Sarasota County Visitor Information Center and History Museum is just one of the places to see in Sarasota, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Stroll along the beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event in the area.
Florida Studio Theatre
You can get tickets for a performance at Florida Studio Theatre during your stay in Sarasota. Wander the beautiful beaches and marina in the area.
Things to do
Sarasota - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
HydroCats - 2 Hour CraigCat Sightseeing Tour
Siesta Key, FL - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
Experience Parasailing in Sarasota
City Sightseeing Trolley Tour of Sarasota
Amish Experience Trolley Tour: Bridges to Understanding
Top hotels in Central Sarasota
The Westin Sarasota
The hotel is in a great area… and I could tell that it had once been lovely… but it’s showing signs of age: stains, cracks, and water that just doesn’t get hot enough. The room configuration was awkward with not nearly enough storage space. And, while the bed was comfortable, the pillows were lifeless, ...
Reviewed on 14 Mar 2026
The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
Long line at check-in. Rooms were not ready. With corporate events, wedding(s), and other social events, staff was overwhelmed; delays in valet car service. As regular guests, we felt like we were in the way. Rufa's was closed Saturday night with no notice. Other guests were loud (children yelling ...
Reviewed on 11 Mar 2026
voco Sarasota by IHG
The property is centrally located for a visit to Sarasota. We had the junior suite which was spacious and comfortable. The pool and fitness center are very nice. The facility is definitely outdated and nothing “special”, although they try to dress it up with colorful decor. The maid service was subpar, ...
Reviewed on 13 Mar 2026
Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection
The hotel is a happening place with both lobby and poolside entertainment. It's located downtown near all the best restaraunts. The valet parking is also convenient. My only "complaint", which the hotel is aware of, is that the bed headrests are showing serious wear and tear, so much so that there ...
Reviewed on 14 Mar 2026
Embassy Suites by Hilton Sarasota, FL
Kompose Boutique Hotel
I enjoyed my stay here and would love to stay here again for longer!
Reviewed on 15 Mar 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Central Sarasota
Downtown Sarasota
While visiting Downtown Sarasota, you might make a stop by sights like Sarasota Opera House and Regal Hollywood - Sarasota.
Arlington Park
Though Arlington Park may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and Marina Jack.
Bird Key
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Bird Key and surrounding area, you can visit St. Armands Circle and Lido Beach.
Indian Beach Sapphire Shores
While visiting Indian Beach Sapphire Shores, you might make a stop by sights like Sarasota Jungle Gardens and John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art.
Saint Armands Key
Beaches and restaurants are just a few things travellers like about Saint Armands Key. A stop by St. Armands Circle is also recommended if you've got time to explore the area.
Southgate
While there might not be top attractions in Southgate, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Siesta Key Beach and Lido Beach.
