Top 10 Things to Do in Sarasota: Trendy Spots, Best Restaurants, Bars & More
Sarasota's best restaurants, bars, shopping, activities, unique places


Top 10 Things to Do in Sarasota: Explore the Best Attractions, Restaurants & Trendy Spots

Sarasota is paradise on earth with more sun than you can take home!
Visit us and you may never want to leave:)

Welcome to Sarasota’s ultimate guide for the best things to do, trendy places to visit, and top dining experiences. Whether you're a local or just visiting, our recommended list highlights the most popular attractions, stylish boutiques, and must-visit restaurants and bars. From exploring fun nightlife to discovering hidden gems in Sarasota's unique neighborhoods, you'll find everything you need to plan the perfect day or night out.

Stay up to date with the latest happenings by exploring our event calendar, where you’ll find the most exciting current events and activities.

Dive in and uncover Sarasota's best-kept secrets and top spots that will make your visit unforgettable.
Sarasota has it and serves it! Elegant restaurants for fine dining, some great Italians, waterfront restaurants with spectacular views, romantic restaurants and places for the whole family.
Sarasota has some major nightlife areas, were you can enjoy sunset drinks, a romantic date or spend all night partying or go barhopping, but always remember, party responsibly.

Sarasota is full of activities that are fun for adults or the whole family. We created some local expert tips for some must-see attractions and things to do, like Helicopter rides and kajaking.
Sarasota has cute and unique boutiques, a variety of gourmet shops, healthy lifestyle shops, jewelry stores, the famous St. Armand's Circle and some wine & cigar shops and much more.


What's up Sarasota?

Find Weekend Events, Live Music, Entertainment, Arts, Movies, Theater and of course the best Sarasota Parties!

03
Apr
-
30 Dec

Taste of Art

Experience culinary & artistic brilliance together in one place!Enjoy award winning food, exceptional wines & cocktails and observe remarkable local visual artists at ...

Taste of Art

Taste of Art

Thursday Apr 3 2025 - Tuesday Dec 30 2025
5:00 - 8:30pm
Location: Chaz 51 Steakhouse
(941) 484-6200

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Experience culinary & artistic brilliance together in one place!

Enjoy award winning food, exceptional wines & cocktails and observe remarkable local visual artists at work.
Taste of Art
03
Apr
-
31 Jul

Weekly Free Fun Runs

Everyone is welcome to join our Fun Run Group! We have walkers, runners and everyone in between! Meet at Fleet Feet each Thursday at 6:00 PM and join in the fun!

Weekly Free Fun Runs

Weekly Free Fun Runs

Thursday Apr 3 2025 - Thursday Jul 31 2025
6:00 pm thru 7:00 pm
Location: 711 South Osprey Avenue #1, Sarasota, FL, United States, Florida 34236

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Everyone is welcome to join our Fun Run Group! We have walkers, runners and everyone in between!
Meet at Fleet Feet each Thursday at 6:00 PM and join in the fun!

Weekly Free Fun Runs
04
Apr
-
09 Jan

Tai Chi Gung at Bayfront Park

🌿Come experience the ancient art of Tai Chi Gung at Bayfront Park. Tai Chi Gung is a simple yoga, passed down through an unbroken lineage of master to student for ...

Tai Chi Gung at Bayfront Park

Tai Chi Gung at Bayfront Park

Friday Apr 4 2025 - Friday Jan 9 2026
5:45 pm thru 6:00 pm
Location: Bayfront Park

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🌿Come experience the ancient art of Tai Chi Gung at Bayfront Park.

Tai Chi Gung is a simple yoga, passed down through an unbroken lineage of master to student for over 3,000 years. This sacred art combines meditative movements with gentle breathing to promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Through Tai Chi Gung, we learn to directly connect to the energy that flows within and around our physical and metaphysical body, aligning spirit, mind, and body.

These gentle yet powerful exercises release stress, enhance energy flow, and cultivate a deep sense of peace, offering a transformative path to balance and renewal.

✨This is a free weekly introductory class open to all levels.

We meet on the lawn behind Marina Jacks. (The island portion of the park)

Class runs for 30-45 minutes

🕉️Donations are welcome and appreciated.

Tai Chi Gung at Bayfront Park
05
Apr

25th Anniversary Fairytale Ball: Magic is All Around

Never be afraid to shoot for the stars!At Children First’s 25th Anniversary Fairytale Ball: Magic is All Around, enjoy a timeless experience like never before. Step ...

25th Anniversary Fairytale Ball: Magic is All ...

25th Anniversary Fairytale Ball: Magic is All Around

Saturday Apr 5 2025
6:00 pm thru 9:00 pm
Location: Michael's On East

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Never be afraid to shoot for the stars!

At Children First’s 25th Anniversary Fairytale Ball: Magic is All Around, enjoy a timeless experience like never before. Step into a world of imagination and whimsical beauty where fairytales bring our mission to life. Learn about your collective impact on our children and families through heartfelt stories and enjoy a delectable dinner and libations from Michael’s On East.

Join us for an unforgettable evening of enchantment as we celebrate 25 years of making dreams come true!

Thank you to Presenting Sponsor PGT Custom Windows & Doors and MITER Foundation!

25th Anniversary Fairytale Ball: Magic is All Around
05
Apr

Bellydance Workshop and Showcase with Master Instructor Virginia Mendez

Master instructor Virginia Mendez, of Rakstar, and Bellydance by Virginia, Presents a Mejance workshop, Saturday April 5th, 2025, in Sarasota, ...

Bellydance Workshop and Showcase with Master ...

Bellydance Workshop and Showcase with Master Instructor Virginia Mendez

Saturday Apr 5 2025
2:00 pm thru 8:30 pm
Location: Dynasty Dance Clubs

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Master instructor Virginia Mendez, of Rakstar, and Bellydance by Virginia, Presents a Mejance workshop, Saturday April 5th, 2025, in Sarasota, Florida.
https://venmo.com/code?user_id=2825760612024320654...
https://dancingsrq.com/event/bellydance-workshop-a...

Bellydance Workshop and Showcase with Master Instructor Virginia Mendez
05
Apr
-
27 Dec

Sarasota Farmers Market

Join us every Saturday morning from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Sarasota Farmers Market. We are located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, centered at the intersection of ...

Sarasota Farmers Market

Sarasota Farmers Market

Saturday Apr 5 2025 - Saturday Dec 27 2025
7:00 am thru 1:00 pm

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Join us every Saturday morning from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Sarasota Farmers Market. We are located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, centered at the intersection of Main Street and Lemon Avenues, extending to First Street on the North End, and Pineapple Avenue on the South End, with Vendors also located on State Street.

Sarasota Farmers Market
06
Apr

Classic Cars for a Cause!

Join us for a Classic Car Show benefiting Ronald McDonald Charities and Johns Hopkins Children's Hospital! Enjoy a day of stunning vintage cars, community fun, and ...

Classic Cars for a Cause!

Classic Cars for a Cause!

Sunday Apr 6 2025
9:00 am thru 12:00 pm
Location: Venice Community Center

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Join us for a Classic Car Show benefiting Ronald McDonald Charities and Johns Hopkins Children's Hospital! Enjoy a day of stunning vintage cars, community fun, and giving back to families in need. Your support helps provide care and hope for children and their families! ❤️

Classic Cars for a Cause!
09
Apr
-
18 Feb

DIXIE DIVAS LADIES NIGHT EVERY WEDNESDAY

Dixie Divas Ladies Night every Wednesday at Cadillac Jack's! Cowgirls 21+ get in for free and enjoy 50% off all drinks all night. Florida Cowboys 21+ pay a $10 cover, ...

DIXIE DIVAS LADIES NIGHT EVERY WEDNESDAY

DIXIE DIVAS LADIES NIGHT EVERY WEDNESDAY

Wednesday Apr 9 2025 - Wednesday Feb 18 2026
8:00 pm thru 11:55 pm
Location: Cadillac Jack’s HonkyTonk Saloon

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Dixie Divas Ladies Night every Wednesday at Cadillac Jack's! Cowgirls 21+ get in for free and enjoy 50% off all drinks all night. Florida Cowboys 21+ pay a $10 cover, out-of-state Cowboys 21+ pay a $20 cover, and 18-20 yr old Cowboys & Cowgirls pay a $30 cover. Hosted by DJ GessFX, with line dancing all night, and a VIP lounge available. Must have valid identification to enter. #sietsakeyvillage #linedancing #floridahonkytonk #siestakeyflorida #livemusic #sarasota #nightclub #midnightcove #palmbayclub #dancing #SpringBreak2025 #sarasotanightlife #boots #ladiesnight #ladies #girlsnight #girlstrip #siestakeybeach #siestabeach #tampa #florida #nightlife #linedancing #linedancelessons #linedance

DIXIE DIVAS LADIES NIGHT EVERY WEDNESDAY
13
Apr

Don Smith

Live Music 6pm - 9pmDon has performed and recorded with the Indianapolis Jazz Orchestra and was the principle trumpet player for Indianapolis Civic Theater orchestra for ...

Don Smith

Don Smith

Sunday Apr 13 2025
6-9pm
Location: Chaz 51 Steakhouse
(941) 484-6200

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Live Music 6pm - 9pm

Don has performed and recorded with the Indianapolis Jazz Orchestra and was the principle trumpet player for Indianapolis Civic Theater orchestra for 10 years. He also performed with his own bands which consisted of a seventeen piece big band, a rock band with a 6 piece horn section and various configurations of small jazz groups all under the banner of Blue Thunder Entertainment.
Don Smith
19
Apr

MVP Beach Party!

We're meeting at the beach for a day of games and good times! We hope to see you there! UBER! Don’t forget sunscreen & water!

MVP Beach Party!

MVP Beach Party!

Saturday Apr 19 2025
10:00 am thru 1:00 pm
Location: Siesta Key Beach

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We're meeting at the beach for a day of games and good times! We hope to see you there! UBER!


Don’t forget sunscreen & water!

MVP Beach Party!
19
Apr

Zacko’s 2025 Killin It Sandbar Bday Party

Just setting the date for now. More details as the date gets closer.

Zacko’s 2025 Killin It Sandbar Bday Party

Zacko’s 2025 Killin It Sandbar Bday Party

Saturday Apr 19 2025
11:00 am thru 2:00 pm
Location: South Lido Beach

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Just setting the date for now. More details as the date gets closer.

Zacko’s 2025 Killin It Sandbar Bday Party
22
Apr

Beetlejuice

SARASOTA PREMIERE!He earned his stripes on Broadway . . . now the ghost-with-the-most is coming to Sarasota!It’s showtime! Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, ...

Beetlejuice

Beetlejuice

Tuesday Apr 22 2025
7:30 pm thru 10:00 pm
Location: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

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SARASOTA PREMIERE!

He earned his stripes on Broadway . . . now the ghost-with-the-most is coming to Sarasota!

It’s showtime! Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, this hilarious musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. With an irreverent book, an astonishing set, and a score that’s out of this Netherworld, Beetlejuice is “SCREAMINGLY GOOD FUN!” (Variety). And under its uproarious surface (six feet under, to be exact), it’s a remarkably touching show about family, love, and making the most of every Day-O!

DISCLAIMER: Recommended for ages 13+. Contains strong language, mature references, and a lot of the crazy, inappropriate stuff you would expect from a deranged demon.

Beetlejuice
24
Apr

LEAF BY OSCAR Cigar Dinner at Cafe Gabbiano

LEAF BY OSCAR Cigar Dinner at Cafe Gabbiano Thursday, APRIL 24th, 6pm Ticket: $135.00Cocktail Reception - drinks & hors d'oeuvres•3 'Leaf' cigars•3 course dinner ...

LEAF BY OSCAR Cigar Dinner at Cafe Gabbiano

LEAF BY OSCAR Cigar Dinner at Cafe Gabbiano

Thursday Apr 24 2025
6pm
941 925 4747

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LEAF BY OSCAR Cigar Dinner
at Cafe Gabbiano

Thursday, APRIL 24th, 6pm

Ticket: $135.00

Cocktail Reception - drinks & hors d'oeuvres
3 'Leaf' cigars
3 course dinner with wine
After dinner bourbon tasting
Great Leaf deals on the night

Reception sponsored by
BMW of SARASOTA & LAMBORGHINI SARASOTA
LEAF BY OSCAR Cigar Dinner at Cafe Gabbiano
25
Apr
-
27 Apr

Suncoast Boat Show

The Suncoast Boat Show returns April 25-27, 2025 marking 43 years of presenting an extraordinary selection of sportfishing, powerboats, and motor yachts. This premier ...

Suncoast Boat Show

Suncoast Boat Show

Friday Apr 25 2025 - Sunday Apr 27 2025
10:00 am thru 6:00 pm
Location: Marina Jack Sarasota, Florida

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The Suncoast Boat Show returns April 25-27, 2025 marking 43 years of presenting an extraordinary selection of sportfishing, powerboats, and motor yachts. This premier boat show on the Gulf Coast of Florida takes place in water and on land at Marina Jack along 65,000 square feet of dock space. See various boat types and styles all in one place, and enjoy in a festive atmosphere with food, drinks, music, and much more.


Join Viage Group to view their exceptional selection of BENETEAU powerboats up close.


Boats on Display:
- Swift Trawler 41
- Gran Turismo 32
- Antares 12
- Antares 11 Fly
- Flyer 10


**Boats on display are subject to change**

Suncoast Boat Show
27
Apr
-
28 Dec

DJ Paul Ruffin

Live Music 4pm - 8pmAn outstanding DJ from Chicago area for more than 30 years. He is re-nowned for R&B, Jazz, Old School and line dance music. Paul has entertained at ...

DJ Paul Ruffin

DJ Paul Ruffin

Sunday Apr 27 2025 - Sunday Dec 28 2025
4-8pm
Location: Chaz 51 Steakhouse
(941) 484-6200

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Live Music 4pm - 8pm
An outstanding DJ from Chicago area for more than 30 years. He is re-nowned for R&B, Jazz, Old School and line dance music.

Paul has entertained at functions for fraternities and sororities. He has also played at The Grove, Latin Quarters, and the Floridian, just to name a few.

DJ Paul Ruffin
29
Apr

Arrival From Sweden: The Music of ABBA

Founded in 1995 by Vicky Zetterberg-Norbäck and ABBA's Rutger Gunnarsson, ARRIVAL from Sweden is renowned globally for their authentic ABBA tribute show, "The Music of ...

Arrival From Sweden: The Music of ABBA

Arrival From Sweden: The Music of ABBA

Tuesday Apr 29 2025
7:30 pm thru 10:30 pm
Location: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

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Founded in 1995 by Vicky Zetterberg-Norbäck and ABBA's Rutger Gunnarsson, ARRIVAL from Sweden is renowned globally for their authentic ABBA tribute show, "The Music of ABBA." This 10-12 piece band has sold out arenas worldwide, performed with over 120 symphonies, and appeared on numerous TV and radio shows. Their meticulous renditions of ABBA's iconic hits, including "Dancing Queen" and "Mamma Mia," are so precise that they rival the originals. Notably, they received an unreleased ABBA song, "Just A Notion," and are celebrated for their spectacular costumes and exceptional musicianship. Widely hailed as the ultimate ABBA experience, ARRIVAL from Sweden remains unmatched in delivering the essence of ABBA's music.

Arrival From Sweden: The Music of ABBA
02
May

Illusionist Rick Thomas - Mansion of Dreams

MANSION OF DREAMS is the crowning achievement of the multi-award-winning Master Illusionist Rick Thomas. Stunning magic, extreme comedy, exquisite dancers and an ...

Illusionist Rick Thomas - Mansion of Dreams

Illusionist Rick Thomas - Mansion of Dreams

Friday May 2 2025
7:00 pm thru 10:00 pm
Location: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

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MANSION OF DREAMS is the crowning achievement of the multi-award-winning Master Illusionist Rick Thomas. Stunning magic, extreme comedy, exquisite dancers and an inspiring story are woven into one of the most amazing production ever to be seen on stage and television today!

High honors include the coveted “Magician of the Year” by the Academy of Magical Arts and Magic’s highest recognition "Illusionist of the World" by the World Magic Awards. Thomas has also been featured on numerous national television specials including the NBC series "The World’s Greatest Magic", Masters of Illusion on the CW, MTV, FOX, TLC, Animal Planet, the History Channel and his own special on ABC.

Now witness for yourself the most intriguing, innovative and mind-blowing grand illusions in the world. Mansion of Dreams is breath-taking…and it is right here in Van Wezel!

Illusionist Rick Thomas - Mansion of Dreams
08
May
-
10 May

Be Fabulous Music & Arts Pride Fest 2025

2025! Come out and celebrate your pride with us! For 15 incredible years, we've brought our community together, using the arts as a catalyst for social change and a ...

Be Fabulous Music & Arts Pride Fest 2025

Be Fabulous Music & Arts Pride Fest 2025

Thursday May 8 2025 - Saturday May 10 2025
2:30 pm thru 10:00 pm
Location: Five Points Park

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2025! Come out and celebrate your pride with us!
For 15 incredible years, we've brought our community together, using the arts as a catalyst for social change and a source of healing. Formerly known as the Harvey Milk Festival, we've evolved into the Fabulous Arts Foundation. Our goal remains steadfast: to support LGBTQ+ artists and inspire others. We are moving back to the heart of Downtown Sarasota, Florida to be more accessible.Day 3 of Be Fabulous MusicAnnouncing speakers and more performers in January.Join us at Be Fabulous in the heart of Downtown Sarasota, Florida. We've got an exciting lineup, including art exhibitions, performances, dance, music, and a vibrant vendor market.Events during Be Fabulous Music & Arts Pride Fest:May 8 Opening Night Art ExhibitionMay 9 Performance (Theatre)May 10 Music Pride FestAfter Party Drag performers and Dj TBASponsorship and vendor opportunities available!We hope everyone will come out and celebrate with us. Let's make this Pride unforgettable! #FabulousArtsPride #iamfabaf
Be Fabulous Music & Arts Pride Fest 2025
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Florida - the Capitol of Vitamin C!

Believe it or not, Florida produces more than 70% of oranges in the United States.

Famous for its stunning weather, white sand beaches, and beautiful clear springs, Florida is known as a sunny paradise. It is actually known as one of the most-visited destinations in the world, and we are here to help you plan the most perfect vacation.

Also known as the Sunshine State, Florida beaches are home to 80% of loggerhead turtles in the United States, so be aware of turtle nesting season which runs from June until September! And if you’re lucky, maybe you’ll even be around to see some of these sweet infant turtles hatch and make their way to the shoreline.

Florida got the nickname “Sunshine State” in 1970 due to its year-round warm climate. The average temperature ranges from 65 to 77 degrees. Other than being called the Sunshine State for its’ sunny weather, Florida actually got its name from Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León, who named it “La Florida”, which means “land of flowers”.

Florida is also the only state that borders both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. In this case, wherever you are in Florida, you’re never more than 60 miles away from a beach! Talk about a dreamy destination spot.

Small-town charm and big-city experiences - all wrapped up in Florida. Enjoy beaches, a spring break extravaganza, a summer you won't forget, or just come and see what all the Florida fuss is about!

Download the Full Florida Guide

Insider tips in Sarasota
What to do and where to go!

Top10 Sarasota businesses are personally tested and selected by our city scout team and our readers.
They represent our personal opinion and experiences.

We show everything from awesome lodging, to outstanding restaurants & unique dining experiences,
health & beauty, attractions & activities, shopping, nightlife & dancing, golf & tennis, ...