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.
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.
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.
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
Mangrove Tunnel & Manatee Kayak Eco-Tour
Sarasota - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour
HydroCats - 2 Hour CraigCat Sightseeing Tour
Siesta Key, FL - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
Siesta Key Electric Bike Sunset Tour
Top hotels in Central Sarasota
The Westin Sarasota
"My room is always very clean at the Westin (which should be the standard everywhere but unfortunately isn't, so of course it's always a relief to walk into a clean hotel room). However, the first day I was there, the pool was pretty murky/dirty and I did not want to use it. I did bring this to their ..."
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Embassy Suites by Hilton Sarasota, FL
"We had to call to have our room serviced every afternoon. They say we had our do not disturb sign on the door but we didn’t even have one in the room. Also, they only gave us 3 bath towels for 6 people daily and had to call down for more every day. After waiting an hour on day 3 for towels, we had ..."
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
"We had a lovely time staying at the Ritz Sarasota. Everything was good. I wouldn’t say excellent, but very good. We have stayed at many Ritz Carlton hotels and felt the Sarasota Ritz was not up to the same level of service as the other hotels we have stayed at before. Overall, the hotel was clean ..."
Reviewed on 1 Jun 2026
Aloft by Marriott Sarasota
"Enjoyed my stay."
Reviewed on 4 Jun 2026
Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection
"We felt so welcoming! Great stuff - always smiling, always helpful, great service. Thank you!"
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
voco Sarasota by IHG
"Everything was fine during our stay, only the breakfast service could have been faster and friendlier."
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Central Sarasota
South Sarasota
While visiting South Sarasota, you might make a stop by sights like The Landings and Coconuts Family Entertainment Center.
Downtown Sarasota
While visiting Downtown Sarasota, you might make a stop by sights like Sarasota Opera House and McCurdy's Comedy Theatre.
Palmer Ranch
While there might not be top attractions in Palmer Ranch, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Jim Neville Marine Preserve and Turtle Beach.
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 Lido Beach and Siesta Key Beach.
