Central Sarasota Travel Guide
Tourist Guide





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.
Activities

Mangrove Tunnel & Manatee Kayak Eco-Tour

Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour

Sarasota - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour

Siesta Key Electric Bike Sunset Tour

HydroCats - 2 Hour CraigCat Sightseeing Tour

Murder Mystery Trolley: Who Killed The Circus Queen?
Our pick of the best Central Sarasota Hotel Deals

The Westin Sarasota
"Our stay was fantastic! Short but sweet with excellent service, killer views with rooftop pool (that serves bevvies and nibbles while you lounge) and bar, and tasty restaurant that served some of the best lobster Mac I’d ever had. We will be back!"
Reviewed on 17 May 2026

Embassy Suites by Hilton Sarasota, FL
"This place is showing its age but still a nice place to stay"
Reviewed on 18 May 2026

The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota

Aloft Sarasota
"This was a very nice hotel for our family of 4 during a baseball tournament. It's just not worth $315 for one night!"
Reviewed on 17 May 2026

Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection
"The room overall looked outdated and was not clean. The chair by the desk had visible stains or dirt spots and did not appear to have been properly cleaned. The bathroom was also not clean, which made the stay uncomfortable and disappointing. The property location is great and the staff is very ..."
Reviewed on 11 May 2026

voco Sarasota by IHG
"Staff was absolutely incredible!"
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Check Central Sarasota hotel availability
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.

Alta Vista
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Alta Vista and surrounding area, you can visit Colonial Village Shopping Center and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.

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 Lido Beach and South Lido Park.

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.
