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
Mangroves, Manatees, and a Hidden Beach: Kayak Tour
Sarasota - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
Siesta Key, FL - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
HydroCats - 2 Hour CraigCat Sightseeing Tour
Murder Mystery Trolley: Who Killed The Circus Queen?
Signature Service at the Spa- Refreshment Bar, Access to Serenity Lounge
Top hotels in Central Sarasota
The Westin Sarasota
Great staff. Clean. Dinner not special bit good
Reviewed on 7 Feb 2026
The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
Amenities great, beach club pool was wonderful! Good location, walkable to many restaurants and shops
Reviewed on 25 Jan 2026
Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection
Nice hotel great breakfast
Reviewed on 29 Jan 2026
Embassy Suites by Hilton Sarasota, FL
The rooms were clean and the hospitality of the staff in the breakfast and dining room.
Reviewed on 19 Jan 2026
The Sarasota Modern, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Dinner and drinks were great. Comfortable rooms. Will stay again.
Reviewed on 22 Jan 2026
Golden Host Resort - Sarasota
Really nice hotel! Clean and very comfortable beds!
Reviewed on 3 Feb 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.
