Family activities

77 Siesta Islander Trolley

Siesta Key

Free open-air trolley connecting Siesta Key Village, Siesta Beach, South Village and Turtle Beach every day.

941-552-8822 · scgov.net/government/breeze-transit/specialty-routes

Anna Maria Bayfront Park

Anna Maria Island

Scenic north-island waterfront park with views of Tampa Bay, Egmont Key and the Sunshine Skyway, plus shaded picnic areas and a pavilion.

941-742-5923 · mymanatee.org/connect/locations/location-details/anna-maria-bayfront-park

Anna Maria Island Tours

Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island experience operator combining boat, dolphin, sunset, kayak, paddleboard, bicycle and walking tours from a Pine Avenue base.

Insider tip: Useful for guests who want one local operator for several different island experiences rather than booking separate companies.

941-233-8687 · annamariaislandtours.com

Anna's Restaurant & Deli - Siesta Key

Siesta Key · $

Long-running Siesta Key deli serving sandwiches and casual lunch fare.

941-349-4888

Arcade Monsters - St. Armands

St. Armands Circle · $$

Multi-level arcade attraction with Cuban-inspired food, slushies, beer, wine, candy and all-day game play.

Insider tip: The admission is primarily for unlimited arcade play; treat the food and drinks as part of the entertainment experience.

arcademonsters.com/sarasota

Architecture Sarasota

Downtown Sarasota

Architecture and design organization offering exhibitions, programs and guided opportunities focused on Sarasota's internationally significant modern architectural legacy.

Insider tip: Guided access can be limited or event-based, so architecture-focused guests should check the current program calendar before their stay.

architecturesarasota.org

Ascension Lutheran Church and School

Sarasota

WELS Lutheran congregation and school in Sarasota offering traditional Sunday worship, Bible study and family-focused ministries.

Insider tip: Sunday worship is followed by Bible study; associated school and preschool make it especially family-oriented.

941-371-2978 · ascensionwels.org

Bar Hana

Downtown Sarasota · $$$

Tiki-inspired downtown bar and restaurant pairing tropical cocktails with pan-Asian small plates from the KOJO culinary team.

Insider tip: Treat it as a cocktails-and-small-plates destination rather than a conventional full dinner.

941-536-9717 · barhana.com

Beach Market Cafe at Lido Beach Resort

Lido Key · $$

Resort market cafe preparing coffee, smoothies, acai bowls, pastries and quick beach-day food.

Insider tip: Useful for a quick breakfast or beach provisions without committing to a full restaurant meal.

941-388-2161 · opalcollection.com/lido-beach/eat-and-drink

Big Cat Habitat Conservation and Education Center

East Sarasota

A nonprofit zoological sanctuary with more than 300 animals, educational presentations and reserved encounters.

bigcathabitat.org

Big Water Fish Market

Siesta Key · $$

Seafood market and restaurant on south Siesta Key focused on fresh fish and casual prepared seafood.

941-554-8101

Block 15 Cork & Craft

Downtown Sarasota · $$

Downtown wine and craft-beer bar offering cheese, light bites and a relaxed gathering space.

Insider tip: Best for drinks and a light grazing plate rather than a full destination meal.

941-404-9937

Blu Kouzina - St. Armands

St. Armands Circle · $$$

Polished Greek restaurant focused on traditional Mediterranean dishes, quality olive oil and fresh ingredients.

Insider tip: Share several mezze and grilled dishes to experience more of the Greek menu.

941-388-2619 · blukouzina.com

Blue Dolphin Cafe - St. Armands

St. Armands Circle · $$

Long-running casual cafe serving breakfast and lunch near the center of St. Armands Circle.

Insider tip: A practical early-day option before shopping the Circle or heading to Lido Beach.

941-388-3566 · bluedolphincafe.com

Boca Kitchen Bar Market - Sarasota

Downtown Sarasota · $$$

Lively farm-to-table restaurant on Lemon Avenue serving New American dishes, brunch and cocktails.

Insider tip: The central location makes it easy to pair with the farmers market, shopping or an evening downtown.

941-256-3565 · bocakbm.com

Bradenton Beach Marina

Anna Maria Island · $$$

Full-service resort marina just off the Intracoastal Waterway on Bradenton Beach with dockage, storage, marine service, boat rentals and visitor boating activities.

941-778-2288 · bradentonbeachmarina.com

Bradenton Public Market

Bradenton

Seasonal Saturday market on Old Main Street with fresh produce, local art, food, music and free family activities.

941-301-8445 · realizebradenton.com/bradenton-market

Breaking Wave Coffee

Downtown Sarasota · $$

Independent Main Street coffee shop serving espresso drinks, brewed coffee and pastries.

Insider tip: A useful coffee stop between Palm Avenue and the eastern end of Main Street.

941-416-4343 · breakingwavecoffee.com

Breeze OnDemand

Sarasota

App-based curb-to-curb shared rides within defined Sarasota County zones, including Downtown Sarasota, Lido Key and Longboat Key.

941-300-1553 · scgov.net/government/breeze-transit/breeze-ondemand

Breeze Transit - Sarasota County

Sarasota

Sarasota County public bus network with fixed routes, mobile ticketing, real-time trip tools and accessible vehicles.

941-861-5000 · scgov.net/government/breeze-transit/breeze-routes

Brewster's Tavern

Downtown Sarasota · $$

Downtown tavern serving burgers, wings, pub food and drinks in a casual sports-bar setting.

Insider tip: A practical choice for games, casual groups and later-night food.

941-343-2380 · brewsterstavern.com

Brick's Smoked Meats

Downtown Sarasota · $$$

Downtown smokehouse specializing in barbecue, smoked meats, Southern sides and whiskey.

Insider tip: Order a mix of smoked meats and sides for sharing, and ask about daily sellouts.

941-993-1435 · brickssmokedmeats.com

Bulgogi House Korean BBQ

Downtown Sarasota · $$$

Korean barbecue restaurant offering grilled meats, bibimbap and traditional Korean dishes downtown.

Insider tip: Korean barbecue works best for a group willing to share several meats and side dishes.

941-559-5678

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Day Trips

Major Tampa theme park combining high-thrill roller coasters, family attractions and a large accredited zoo with more than 200 animal species.

buschgardens.com/tampa

Cafe Amici Downtown

Downtown Sarasota · $$$

Intimate Italian restaurant on Main Street serving pasta, seafood, wine and traditional specialties.

Insider tip: Its compact dining room makes reservations worthwhile, especially before downtown performances.

941-951-6896 · cafeamicisarasota.com

Cafe Gabbiano Italian Restaurant & Bar

Siesta Key · $$$

Established Siesta Key Village Italian restaurant known for pasta, seafood and an extensive wine program.

941-349-1423

Captain Curt's Crab & Oyster Bar

Siesta Key · $$

Casual seafood landmark near Siesta Key's south village serving crab, oysters and Florida favorites.

941-349-3885

Casey Key Fish House and Tiki Bar

Osprey / Nokomis · $$

Old Florida waterfront seafood grill and tiki bar at Blackburn Point in Osprey.

Insider tip: Go for the casual Old Florida setting as much as for the seafood.

941-966-1901 · caseykey-fishhouse.com

Cassariano Italian Eatery - Downtown Venice

Venice · $$$

Downtown Venice Italian restaurant serving contemporary Italian cuisine on Venice Avenue.

Insider tip: A polished dinner choice that pairs well with an evening walk through historic downtown Venice.

941-786-1000 · cassariano.com

Cassariano Italian Eatery - Lakewood Ranch

Lakewood Ranch · $$$

Italian eatery in Lakewood Ranch serving contemporary Italian cuisine in a polished setting.

Insider tip: A strong Lakewood Ranch choice for a more refined Italian dinner.

941-355-8615 · cassariano.com

Celery Fields

East Sarasota

A renowned birding and walking destination with wetlands and one of Sarasota's rare elevated viewpoints.

sarasotaaudubon.org/the-celery-fields

Cha Cha Coconuts

St. Armands Circle · $$

Lively island-themed restaurant and bar serving Caribbean-inspired casual food and tropical drinks.

Insider tip: Choose an outdoor table for Circle people-watching and the full tropical atmosphere.

941-388-3300 · cha-cha-coconuts.com

Chocolate Emporium - St. Armands

St. Armands Circle · $$

Specialty chocolate and confection shop offering sweets and giftable treats on the south side of the Circle.

Insider tip: Useful for a quick dessert or edible souvenir while shopping the Circle.

starmandscircleassoc.com/ice-cream-%26-confections

Christ Episcopal Church - Bradenton

Bradenton

Historic Bradenton Episcopal parish offering three Sunday Eucharist services, music, Bible studies and fellowship.

Insider tip: A strong Bradenton Episcopal option with several Sunday worship styles/times.

941-747-3709 · cecb.church

Cilantro Grill

St. Armands Circle · $$

Colorful Latin-American cafe serving breakfast, brunch and lunch on St. Armands Circle.

Insider tip: Best suited to a daytime Circle visit; confirm closing time before a late lunch.

941-702-8193 · starmandscircleassoc.com/restaurants

Colibri Day Spa

Sarasota · $$

Full-service Sarasota day spa focused on massage, European skin care, spa packages, waxing and natural nail services.

941-800-1818 · colibrispa.com

Columbia Restaurant - Ybor City

Day Trips · $$$

The original 1905 Columbia in Ybor City, a historic Spanish-Cuban dining destination with live flamenco performances.

Insider tip: Choose the Ybor City original for the full historic setting; reserve a flamenco show when schedules align.

813-248-4961 · columbiarestaurant.com/ybor-city-tampa

Coquina Beach

Anna Maria Island

Popular south Anna Maria Island beach with wide Gulf frontage, sunsets, picnic facilities and recreational amenities.

941-748-4501 · mymanatee.org/connect/locations/location-details/coquina-beach

Crow's Nest Restaurant & Marina

Venice · $$$

Established Venice marina restaurant with seafood, a tavern and waterfront dining near the Venice Inlet.

Insider tip: Reserve for dinner; the tavern is a more casual option within the same waterfront destination.

941-484-9551 · crowsnest-venice.com

Daiquiri Deck - Siesta Key Village

Siesta Key · $$

Flagship Siesta Key Village Daiquiri Deck serving frozen drinks, casual food and seafood in an open-air setting.

941-346-1664

Daiquiri Deck - St. Armands Circle

St. Armands Circle · $$

Open-air casual restaurant and bar known for frozen daiquiris, seafood, pub fare and a lively atmosphere.

Insider tip: Popular for drinks and a lively atmosphere; families may prefer earlier hours.

941-388-3325 · daiquirideck.com

Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar - South Siesta Key

Siesta Key · $$

South Siesta Key outpost of the local Daiquiri Deck chain with frozen drinks, seafood and raw-bar selections.

941-312-2422

Dutch Valley Restaurant

South Sarasota / Gulf Gate · $

Casual Sarasota diner serving homestyle food with breakfast available all day.

941-924-1770

Egmont Key State Park

Day Trips

Boat-access-only island state park at the mouth of Tampa Bay with secluded beaches, wildlife refuge habitat, an 1858 lighthouse and Fort Dade ruins.

727-241-6106 · floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/egmont-key-state-park

Ephesus Mediterranean Delights - John Ringling

St. Armands Circle · $$

Second St. Armands location for Turkish delights, baklava and Mediterranean confectionery gifts.

Insider tip: This is a separate storefront from the North Boulevard location and should remain a distinct Place ID.

starmandscircleassoc.com/ice-cream-%26-confections

Ephesus Mediterranean Delights - North Boulevard

St. Armands Circle · $$

Mediterranean sweets shop specializing in Turkish delights, baklava and imported confections.

Insider tip: Choose an assortment if you want to sample several Turkish-delight flavors.

650-284-9969 · starmandscircleassoc.com/ice-cream-%26-confections

Faith Lutheran Church

South Sarasota / Gulf Gate

ELCA Lutheran congregation serving South Sarasota and Palmer Ranch with traditional and contemporary Sunday worship.

Insider tip: Useful South Sarasota/Palmer Ranch option with morning and evening Sunday services.

941-924-4664 · faithlutheransrq.com

Farmers' Market at Lakewood Ranch

Lakewood Ranch

Year-round Sunday market at Waterside Place with more than 100 curated vendors offering produce, prepared foods, artisan goods and family activities.

lakewoodranch.com/life-on-the-ranch/themarket

Fins at Sharky's

Venice · $$$$

Upscale beachfront Venice steakhouse with Gulf views, seafood, sushi and premium cuts.

Insider tip: Book near sunset for the combination of fine dining and Gulf views.

941-999-3467 · finsatsharkys.com

First United Methodist Church of Sarasota

Downtown Sarasota

Historic downtown United Methodist congregation, organized in 1891, offering traditional worship, music and community programs.

Insider tip: Convenient downtown location with both chapel and sanctuary Sunday services.

941-955-0935 · firstsrq.com

Flavio's Brick Oven & Bar - Siesta Key

Siesta Key · $$

Family-owned Siesta Key Italian restaurant known for scratch-made classics and brick-oven pizza.

Insider tip: A strong dinner choice when you want Italian food in the Village rather than seafood.

941-349-0995 · flaviosbrickovenandbar.com

Ford's Garage - Sarasota UTC

University Town Center · $$

1920s service-station-themed burger and craft-beer restaurant in UTC's West District.

Insider tip: The themed setting makes this an easy family-friendly stop while shopping or visiting UTC.

941-803-3673 · fordsgarageusa.com/locations/sarasota

Fork & Hen

Downtown Sarasota · $$

Casual downtown restaurant specializing in Southern comfort food and fried chicken.

Fort De Soto Park

Day Trips

Large Pinellas County island park with beaches, historic Fort De Soto, paddling, paved trails, camping, fishing and a designated dog beach.

727-582-2100 · pinellas.gov/parks/fort-de-soto-park

Fresh Catch Fish Market & Grill

South Sarasota / Gulf Gate · $$

Family-owned seafood market and grill focused on fresh wild fish, shellfish and simply prepared seafood.

941-413-7133 · freshcatchfishmarketandgrill.com

Gamble Plantation Historic State Park

Bradenton

Historic antebellum plantation mansion and museum in Ellenton, preserved as a Florida State Park with guided house tours.

941-723-4536 · floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/judah-p-benjamin-confederate-memorial-gamble-plantation-historic-state-park

Gecko's Grill & Pub - Hillview

Sarasota · $$

Locally owned Southside Village pub and sports grill serving fresh American fare, drinks and daily happy hour.

941-953-2929 · geckosgrill.com/locations/geckos-hillview-in-southside-village

Gecko's Grill & Pub - Stickney Point

South Sarasota / Gulf Gate · $$

Locally owned sports bar and grill serving American pub food with a gourmet twist near Stickney Point.

941-248-2020 · geckosgrill.com

Gelateria degli Angeli

South Sarasota / Gulf Gate · $

Small Gulf Gate gelateria specializing in traditional Italian-style gelato.

Gilligan's Island Bar & Grill

Siesta Key · $$

Lively Siesta Key Village bar and grill with outdoor seating, tropical drinks and entertainment.

941-346-8122

Green Zebra Cafe - St. Armands

St. Armands Circle · $$

Health-focused cafe serving organic breakfast and lunch dishes, fresh juices, smoothies and plant-forward options.

Insider tip: A strong choice when the group wants lighter fare, juices or vegan-friendly options.

941-388-2848 · greenzebracafe.com

Grillsmith - Sarasota

South Sarasota / Gulf Gate · $$

Polished casual grill serving American favorites, steaks and seafood on South Tamiami Trail.

941-259-8383

GROVE Restaurant

Lakewood Ranch · $$$

Contemporary American restaurant in Lakewood Ranch with polished dining, cocktails, patio and private spaces.

Insider tip: Good for a more polished Lakewood Ranch dinner or group meal.

941-893-4321 · grovelwr.com

Gulf Islands Ferry

Bradenton

Passenger ferry connecting Downtown Bradenton's Riverwalk with Historic Bridge Street on Anna Maria Island, providing a scenic car-free alternative.

bradentongulfislands.com/gulf-islands-ferry

Historic Bridge Street

Anna Maria Island

Walkable historic Bradenton Beach district with island boutiques, restaurants, bars, the Bridge Street Pier and easy beach access.

bradentongulfislands.com/blogs/shopping-on-bridge-street

Historic Downtown Venice

Venice

Historic 1920s downtown with locally owned boutiques, restaurants, cafés, parks and easy access to Venice Beach and nearby trails.

visitvenicefl.org/explore-downtown

IL Panificio Siesta

Siesta Key · $$

Siesta Key pizzeria serving Italian-American favorites and casual takeout-friendly meals.

941-800-5570

Incarnation Catholic Church

Sarasota

Established Sarasota Catholic parish on Bee Ridge Road offering multiple weekend and daily Masses, including a Sunday Polish Mass.

Insider tip: A convenient central Sarasota Catholic option with extensive Mass and devotion schedule.

941-921-6631 · incarnationchurch.org

Isan Thai Restaurant

South Sarasota / Gulf Gate · $$

Neighborhood Thai restaurant serving curries, noodles and traditional Thai dishes.

941-923-1232

J's Korean Food

Sarasota · $$

Small Korean restaurant near Southside Village serving homestyle Korean dishes.

941-552-8492

Joan M. Durante Park

Longboat Key

Thirty-two-acre Longboat Key nature park protecting wetlands, mangroves and coastal hammock habitat along Sarasota Bay.

longboatkey.org/Facilities/Facility/Details/Joan-M-Durante-Park-3

JPAN Sushi & Grill - UTC

University Town Center · $$$

Modern Japanese restaurant at UTC serving sushi, Japanese dishes, lunch and dinner.

Insider tip: This is the UTC location; reservations are available directly through JPAN.

941-960-3997 · jpanrestaurant.com

Kacey's Seafood & More - Fruitville

East Sarasota · $$

Casual East Sarasota seafood restaurant serving fresh seafood and American favorites on Fruitville Road.

Insider tip: A practical local seafood option away from the tourist districts and barrier islands.

941-378-3644 · kaceysseafood.com

Key Culinary Tours

Sarasota

Small-group culinary walking tours pairing local restaurants and tastings with neighborhood history across Sarasota and surrounding Gulf Coast communities.

Insider tip: A good choice for guests who want both a meal and an orientation to a neighborhood; allow about three hours and arrive hungry.

941-893-4664 · keyculinarytours.com

Lakewood Ranch Baptist Church

Lakewood Ranch

Baptist congregation serving Lakewood Ranch with two Sunday services and age-based ministries focused on Bible teaching and discipleship.

Insider tip: Two Sunday morning services make it flexible for Lakewood Ranch visitors.

941-257-4431 · lwrbaptist.com

Le Macaron French Pastries - St. Armands

St. Armands Circle · $$

French pastry shop serving macarons, chocolates, gelato, coffee and gift assortments.

Insider tip: Macaron gift boxes travel well and offer an easy souvenir from the Circle.

941-552-8872 · lemacaron-us.com/locations/sarasota-st-armands-circle

Le Shop

St. Armands Circle · $$

Small French-style cafe and specialty food shop offering coffee, pastries and light bites.

Insider tip: Best used as a quick pastry or coffee stop while walking the Circle.

starmandscircleassoc.com/restaurants

Legacy Trail Bicycle Rentals

South Sarasota / Gulf Gate

Dedicated bicycle and e-bike rental shop located directly on the Legacy Trail, with free parking, delivery options and a broad selection of bikes.

Insider tip: The shop is directly on the Legacy Trail, making it especially convenient for guests who want to rent and ride without transporting bikes by car.

941-346-0891 · bikerentalssiestakey.com

LEGOLAND Florida Resort

Day Trips

Large family theme-park resort in Winter Haven with LEGO-themed rides and attractions plus seasonal water-park and additional family experiences.

legoland.com/florida/theme-park-resort

Lenny'z Pizza & Island Bar

Siesta Key · $$

Island bar and pizzeria serving pizzas, wings, burgers and cocktails on south Siesta Key.

941-260-8879

Libby's Neighborhood Brasserie

Sarasota · $$$

Stylish Southside Village neighborhood brasserie serving modern American cuisine, brunch and cocktails.

941-487-7300

Lido Island Grill

Lido Key · $$

Public Lido Beach Pavilion concession serving island-inspired favorites, beach snacks, beer and wine.

Insider tip: Designed for beach convenience; verify hours before relying on it outside peak beach periods.

visitsarasota.com/blog/beachside-concession-eats-drinks

Longboat Key Public Tennis Center

Longboat Key

Public Longboat Key tennis center with 10 courts, daily open play, round robins, clinics, lessons and a full-service pro shop.

941-316-8367 · longboatkey.org/199/Tennis-Center

Lucky 8

Sarasota · $$

Neighborhood Sarasota restaurant serving New Orleans-inspired and Southern dishes near Southside Village.

Manatee Performing Arts Center

Bradenton

Major Bradenton performing-arts venue with two theaters presenting musicals, plays, concerts and community productions.

941-748-5875 · manateeperformingartscenter.com

Manatee Public Beach

Anna Maria Island

Popular Holmes Beach public beach with year-round lifeguards, concessions, playground, volleyball, accessible beach features and trolley access.

941-742-5923 · mymanatee.org/connect/locations/location-details/manatee-public-beach

Manatee River Marina

Bradenton · $$$

Full-service Manatee River marina specializing in indoor and outdoor boat storage, unlimited valet-style launches, service support and concierge boating.

941-745-1199 · manateerivermarina.com

Manatee Village Historical Park

Bradenton

Open-air historical park preserving Manatee County's 1840-1918 heritage through 15 historic buildings, exhibits and points of interest.

941-749-7165 · manateevillage.org

MarineMax Sarasota

Lido Key

Full-service MarineMax marina on City Island/Lido Key with floating docks, fuel, boat and yacht sales, and marine service.

941-388-4411 · marinemax.com/marinas/sarasota

MarineMax Venice

Venice

Large full-service Venice marina with wet slips, dry storage, fuel dock, pump-out, boat sales and comprehensive yacht service.

941-485-3388 · marinemax.com/marinas/venice

Mattison's City Grille - Bradenton Riverwalk

Bradenton · $$

Open-air Bradenton Riverwalk restaurant serving casual American fare with frequent live music.

Insider tip: Pair it with a Riverwalk stroll and check the live-music calendar before you go.

941-896-9660 · mattisons.com

Meaney's Mini Donuts & Coffee House

Siesta Key · $

Walk-up Siesta Key Village favorite for made-to-order mini donuts, coffee and frozen treats.

941-960-1133

Midway Lounge at Cirque St. Armands Beachside

Lido Key · $$$

Stylish lobby lounge serving cocktails, light bites and Ringside menu selections in Cirque St. Armands.

Insider tip: Check the resort entertainment calendar for live music and busier evening periods.

941-413-5992 · opalcollection.com/cirque-st-armands/eat-and-drink

Mojo Risin' Coffee Co.

Siesta Key · $

Independent Siesta Key Village coffee shop serving espresso drinks and light cafe fare.

941-349-6656

MVP - My Village Pub

Siesta Key · $$

Casual Siesta Key Village pub with indoor and covered outdoor seating, draft beer and pub fare.

941-777-6787

Myakka River Trail Rides

East Sarasota

Myakka City ranch offering guided horseback trail rides and ATV farm tours through rural Old Florida landscapes, with options for beginners, families and groups.

Insider tip: A very different Sarasota-area experience from the beaches: rural ranch scenery, guided riding and off-road farm tours in Myakka City.

941-219-9399 · myakkatrailrides.com

Nokomo's Sunset Hut

Osprey / Nokomis · $$

Casual Dona Bay waterfront restaurant and tiki bar with Caribbean-influenced food, nightly music and boat access.

Insider tip: This is primarily an outdoor waterfront experience; plan around the weather.

941-488-1324 · nokomos.com

Nonno Umberto

St. Armands Circle · $$$

Family-owned Italian restaurant offering house-made pasta, seafood, steaks and traditional Italian hospitality.

Insider tip: Ask about house-made pasta and daily seafood preparations.

941-263-9809 · nonnoumbertorestaurant.com

Origin Craft Beer & Pizza Cafe - Southside

Sarasota · $$

Casual Southside Village pizza and craft-beer restaurant known for specialty pies, wings and late-night hours.

941-316-9222

Oscar Scherer State Park

Osprey / Nokomis

A state park with hiking and biking trails, paddling, camping and protected Florida scrub habitat.

floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/oscar-scherer-state-park

Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church

Lakewood Ranch

Large Lakewood Ranch Catholic parish with multiple weekend Masses, daily Mass, confession and an extensive adoration schedule.

Insider tip: Strong Lakewood Ranch Catholic option with several Sunday Mass times and daily worship.

941-752-6770 · olangelscc.org

Peace Presbyterian Church

Lakewood Ranch

Inclusive PC(USA) congregation in Lakewood Ranch with Sunday worship, family ministries, music, arts and community-service programs.

Insider tip: Visitor-friendly Lakewood Ranch congregation with Sunday worship at 9:30 AM.

941-753-7778 · peacepcusa.com

Pelican Alley

Osprey / Nokomis · $$

Long-running Nokomis waterfront restaurant on the Intracoastal serving seafood, daily specials and patio dining.

Insider tip: Friday music nights can fill up, so call ahead when live entertainment is part of the plan.

941-786-3616 · pelican-alley.com

Pi Pizza 3.14

Siesta Key · $$

Casual Siesta Key Village pizza restaurant for dine-in, takeout and an easy family meal.

941-346-1188

PIER 22

Bradenton · $$$

Historic downtown Bradenton waterfront restaurant on the Manatee River serving seafood, steaks and sushi.

Insider tip: Request waterfront or covered-patio seating when the view is part of the occasion.

941-748-8087 · pier22.com

Plaza de Toros Mexico Restaurant Bar & Grill

South Sarasota / Gulf Gate · $$

Casual Mexican restaurant and bar near Stickney Point serving familiar Mexican favorites.

941-702-5963

Pop's Sunset Grill

Osprey / Nokomis · $$

Large casual waterfront landmark on the Intracoastal in Nokomis with tiki dining, boat access and live music.

Insider tip: Boat access and abundant outdoor seating make this a particularly good stop on a nice-weather day.

941-488-3177 · popssunsetgrill.com

Relax Spa - University Town Center

University Town Center · $$

Convenient massage-focused spa inside The Mall at UTC for a relaxation break during a shopping day.

941-447-6968 · utcsarasota.com/places/shop/relax-spa

Ringling College Galleries and Exhibitions

Sarasota

Seven on-campus galleries at Ringling College with rotating student, faculty, alumni and visiting-artist exhibitions and events.

941-359-7563 · ringling.edu/about/community-programs/galleries-exhibitions

Ringmaster Pool Bar at Cirque St. Armands Beachside

Lido Key · $$

Outdoor pool-bar venue serving casual food and sun-friendly cocktails from a menu similar to Midway.

Insider tip: Confirm access before visiting; pool-deck service may be limited to registered guests or approved diners.

941-413-5992 · opalcollection.com/cirque-st-armands/eat-and-drink

Ripfire Pizza

Siesta Key · $

Casual Siesta Key Village pizza stop serving quick, customizable pies.

941-313-7511

River Street Sweets - St. Armands

St. Armands Circle · $$

Savannah-style candy store offering fresh pralines, bear claws, fudge, ice cream and giftable sweets.

Insider tip: Pralines and bear claws are signature choices, and many items travel well as gifts.

941-217-4832 · riverstreetsweets.com

Robinhood Rentals - Siesta Key

Siesta Key

Siesta Key Village rental shop offering golf carts, scooters, e-bikes, bicycles, paddleboards and kayaks with delivery available on many rentals.

Insider tip: Located in Siesta Key Village; free delivery is offered on most items on Siesta Key.

941-554-4242 · robinhoodrentals.net

Robinson Preserve

Bradenton

A major coastal preserve with mangrove waterways, paved and natural trails, wildlife habitat and an observation tower.

mymanatee.org/departments/natural_resources/preserves/robinson_preserve

Safe Harbor Regatta Pointe

Bradenton · $$$

Large Palmetto-side marina on the Manatee River with wet and transient slips, fuel, charter boats, ship store and multiple waterfront dining options.

941-729-6021 · safeharbor.com/locations/safe-harbor-regatta-pointe

Sage Biscuit Cafe - Downtown Bradenton

Bradenton · $$

Scratch-cooking breakfast and lunch cafe in downtown Bradenton with vegetarian and vegan choices.

Insider tip: A useful breakfast or lunch stop before exploring downtown Bradenton and the Riverwalk.

941-405-4744 · sagebiscuitbradenton.com

Salty Sisters Gourmet Popcorn - St. Armands

St. Armands Circle · $

Gourmet popcorn and snack shop listed at Fillmore Drive on St. Armands Circle.

Insider tip: Treat this as a specialty snack and gift stop rather than a meal destination.

starmandscircleassoc.com/ice-cream-%26-confections

Samurai Japanese Fusion Sushi & Hibachi

Sarasota · $$$

Japanese fusion restaurant near Sarasota Memorial serving sushi, sashimi and hibachi-style plates.

941-777-7707

Sarasota Bike Tours

Sarasota

Long-running Sarasota bicycle and e-bike operator offering guided local rides, custom tours and bike rentals/delivery.

Insider tip: Guided-tour inventory is more limited than rentals in 2026, so reserve the guided experience before building a day around it.

941-313-0613 · sarasotabiketours.com

Sarasota Vortex Tours

Sarasota

Guided small-group mindful nature walks in Sarasota County state parks combining easy hiking, forest bathing, meditation and interpretation of the local landscape.

Insider tip: This is a slower, reflective nature experience rather than a conventional sightseeing tour; morning/evening departures help avoid peak heat.

srqvortex.com

Sea-renity Beach Spa & Bou-Tiki

Anna Maria Island · $$$

Unique Bradenton Beach spa offering indoor treatments plus private tiki-hut massage directly on the beach.

941-779-6836 · searenityspa.com

Seasons 52 - Sarasota UTC

University Town Center · $$$

Fresh-grill and wine-bar concept at The Mall at UTC built around a seasonally changing menu.

Insider tip: A convenient polished dining option inside the main UTC mall complex.

941-702-9652 · seasons52.com

Settimi's Gelato - St. Armands

St. Armands Circle · $$

Circle gelateria serving Italian-style gelato and dessert treats.

Insider tip: A convenient post-dinner gelato stop in the center of the Circle.

941-388-4485 · starmandscircleassoc.com/ice-cream-%26-confections

Siesta Beach Eats

Siesta Key · $

Beach concession at Siesta Beach serving casual meals, snacks and drinks for a beach day.

941-484-7362

Siesta Key Chapel

Siesta Key

Presbyterian Church (USA) congregation on Siesta Key with a distinctive wooded campus serving island residents and visitors.

Insider tip: One of the most convenient Protestant congregations for Siesta Key vacation guests.

941-349-1166 · siestakeychapel.org

Siesta Key Oyster Bar

Siesta Key · $$

Popular Siesta Key Village oyster bar serving seafood, drinks and a lively island atmosphere.

941-346-5443

Siesta Key Village

Siesta Key

Classic beach shopping and dining district centered on Ocean Boulevard, with boutiques, beach retail, restaurants and nightlife near Siesta Beach.

siestakeychamber.com/explore-the-key/our-villages/siesta-key-village

Spa Experience Siesta Key

Siesta Key · $$$

Established Siesta Key day spa offering therapeutic massage, facials, couples rooms, spa packages and wellness treatments.

941-349-4833 · spaexperiencesiestakey.com

Spearfish Grille

Siesta Key · $$

Small marina-side Siesta Key restaurant serving fresh local fish, island dishes and nightly live music.

941-349-1971 · spearfishgrille.com

St. Armands Key Lutheran Church

St. Armands Circle

Lutheran congregation on St. Armands Circle known as Church on the Circle, with visitor-friendly worship and a strong music program.

Insider tip: Very convenient for St. Armands and Lido Key guests; the church also hosts notable public music programming.

941-388-1234 · saklc.com

St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church

University Town Center

Large Greek Orthodox parish near the Sarasota-Manatee line with traditional Orthodox worship, ministries and cultural programming.

Insider tip: A useful Orthodox option for guests; the parish is also associated with Sarasota’s Greek cultural community.

941-358-8464 · stbarbarasrq.org

St. Boniface Episcopal Church

Siesta Key

Welcoming Episcopal parish on Siesta Key with Sunday worship, weekday services, music programs, outdoor chapel and labyrinth.

Insider tip: Outdoor chapel and labyrinth add a quiet reflection option beyond regular worship.

941-349-5616 · bonifacechurch.org

St. Jude Catholic Church

Sarasota

Multicultural Catholic parish offering English, Spanish and Portuguese worship and serving Sarasota’s diverse Catholic community.

Insider tip: Especially useful for Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking Catholic guests.

941-955-3934 · stjudechurchsarasota.com

St. Martha Catholic Church

Downtown Sarasota

Historic downtown Catholic parish welcoming residents, seasonal parishioners and visitors with multiple daily and weekend Masses.

Insider tip: St. Martha explicitly welcomes seasonal Sarasota residents and visitors; check current Mass schedule before attending.

941-366-4210 · stmartha.org

Station 400 - Downtown Sarasota

Downtown Sarasota · $$

Popular breakfast and brunch restaurant in a historic rail-station building in the Rosemary District.

Sun Garden Cafe

Siesta Key · $$

Popular Siesta Key Village breakfast and lunch cafe with garden-style outdoor seating.

941-346-7170

Ted Sperling Park at South Lido Beach

Lido Key

Natural waterfront park at the south end of Lido Key with beach access, picnic facilities, playground, canoe launch and wildlife viewing.

941-861-5000 · visitsarasota.com/beaches-parks/ted-sperling-park-south-lido-beach

Temple Beth Sholom

Sarasota

Full-service egalitarian Conservative Jewish congregation in Sarasota with Shabbat services, education, programs and community activities.

Insider tip: Friday evening and Saturday morning Shabbat services are offered in person and online.

941-955-8121 · templebethsholomfl.org

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

Bradenton

A regional science and natural-history museum featuring a planetarium, Florida history and a manatee rehabilitation habitat.

bishopscience.org

The Cottage Restaurant

Siesta Key · $$

Eclectic Siesta Key Village restaurant blending local seafood with globally inspired dishes and patio dining.

941-312-9300

The Grasshopper Mexican Restaurant & Bar

South Sarasota / Gulf Gate · $$

Long-running south Sarasota Mexican restaurant serving classic plates and margaritas.

941-923-3688

The Hub Baja Grill

Siesta Key · $$

Colorful Siesta Key Village restaurant serving Baja-style Mexican fare, cocktails and live entertainment.

941-349-6800

The Little Day Spa

Downtown Sarasota · $$

Long-running full-service Sarasota day spa offering massage, facials, body treatments and customizable spa days.

941-363-9455 · thelittledayspa.com

The Lobster Pot Restaurant

Siesta Key · $$$

Long-running Siesta Key Village seafood restaurant known for lobster and classic coastal dishes.

941-349-2323

The Old Salty Dog - Siesta Key

Siesta Key · $$

Casual island pub serving sandwiches, seafood and its signature hot dogs in Siesta Key Village.

941-349-0158

The Tabernacle Church

University Town Center

Large non-denominational Sarasota church offering Sunday worship, Bible classes, family ministries and midweek programming.

Insider tip: Sunday classes precede the main worship service; complimentary coffee bar is promoted for visitors.

941-355-8858 · tabsarasota.org

The Waterfront Restaurant - Anna Maria

Anna Maria Island · $$$

Anna Maria waterfront restaurant overlooking the bay with seafood, steaks, cocktails and an island setting.

Insider tip: Reservations are generally limited to holidays, so expect a wait during busy periods.

941-778-1515 · thewaterfrontrestaurant.net

Toasted Mango Cafe - Siesta Key

Siesta Key · $$

Daytime cafe near south Siesta Key known for breakfast, lunch and its signature mango-forward dishes.

941-552-6485

Tralia Pizza

South Sarasota / Gulf Gate · $$

Gulf Gate pizzeria and Italian restaurant focused on quality ingredients, pizza and scratch-made dishes.

Insider tip: A good mainland pizza stop close to Siesta Key, with more than just pizza on the menu.

941-312-1621 · traliapizza.com

Turtle's Restaurant

Siesta Key · $$

Bayfront restaurant on south Siesta Key offering seafood and casual waterfront dining.

941-346-2207

Twin Dolphin Marina

Bradenton · $$$

Protected downtown Bradenton marina on the Manatee River with 225 wet slips, transient and long-term dockage, fuel and resort-style boater amenities.

941-747-8300 · twindolphinmarina.com

Unitarian Universalists of Sarasota

Sarasota

Liberal Unitarian Universalist congregation offering Sunday services, forums, children’s programs, meditation and community activities.

Insider tip: Sunday programming includes a forum, worship service and children’s programs; visitors are explicitly welcomed.

941-371-4974 · uusrq.org

Venice Art Center

Venice

Community art center with rotating exhibitions, public gallery access, classes and programs in Venice.

941-485-7136 · veniceartcenter.com

Venice Beach

Venice

Certified Blue Wave Beach close to Historic Downtown Venice, popular for Gulf swimming, sunsets and shark-tooth hunting.

941-861-5000 · visitvenicefl.org/beaches

Venice Florida Tours

Venice

Guided Venice history company offering downtown and neighborhood walking tours, bicycle tours, golf-cart history tours, haunted-history experiences and private tours.

Insider tip: A particularly good way to understand why Venice looks different from other Gulf Coast communities; choose walking, bicycle or golf-cart format based on mobility and weather.

941-318-3585 · venicefloridatours.com

Village Cafe

Siesta Key · $$

Casual Siesta Key Village cafe serving a full breakfast and lunch menu throughout the day.

941-349-2822

Waterline Villas & Marina

Anna Maria Island

Upscale Holmes Beach resort marina offering boat slips alongside waterfront lodging, dining and resort amenities.

844-863-9443 · marriott.com/en-us/hotels/srqak-waterline-villas-and-marina-autograph-collection/overview

Zen Day Spa

Venice · $$

Traditional Venice day spa offering massage, skin-care treatments and a relaxed full-service spa environment.

941-408-9000 · zendayspavenice.com