Downtown Sarasota Travel Guide
Sarasota
Visit Downtown Sarasota
Popular places to visit
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.
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.
Lido Beach
Nothing says holiday like spending a lazy day at Lido Beach, a popular beach in Sarasota. Wander the picturesque gardens or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
St. Armands Circle
Consider this area as a circular outdoor mall. Like any mall, you can shop, dine, browse or just people-watch. Unlike most malls, this one never closes to walkers.
Mall at University Town Center
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Mall at University Town Center during your trip to Sarasota. Attend a sporting event or discover the beautiful sunsets in this family-friendly area.
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
See hungry sharks and delicate seahorses at this research aquarium that specializes in the sea life that flourishes on Florida’s central west coastline.
Things to do
Mangroves, Manatees, and a Hidden Beach: Kayak Tour
HydroCats - 2 Hour CraigCat Sightseeing Tour
Amish Experience Trolley Tour: Bridges to Understanding
Siesta Key, FL - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour
Top hotels in Downtown Sarasota
Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection
Excellent location, clean rooms, helpful and friendly desk staff. Valet parking costs $45/day so we opted for the city lot across the street. The hotel lends beach chairs and towels, a nice amenity, and the roof bar is great. Not quite a luxury hotel, but a good choice in Sarasota if the budget ...
Reviewed on 2 Jan 2026
Aloft Sarasota
You need to have big signs that direct you to the roof and pool. not just "Splash" also...hallways are too gloomy and dark. Great front desk service and valet.
Reviewed on 2 Jan 2026
Kompose Boutique Hotel
I stay here often and sometimes for extended times like over a week. Staff the last few years have been wonderful and welcoming. But lately… not so much. Signs say no smoking, but there are always people outside by the doors smoking. It once felt like a true “home away from home” to now people bragging ...
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
Tropical Beach Resorts
This is the third time I've stated Tropical Beach Resorts, and it has been amazing every time. The rooms are great, the grounds are so lovely and well maintained, the new pool is fantastic, and the beach is gorgeous. Can't wait to go back again someday!
Reviewed on 4 Jan 2026
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound
Everyone was efficient, helpful & friendly.
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
Carlisle Inn
Large rooms
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
Check Downtown Sarasota hotel availability
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Sarasota
Central Sarasota
Gardens, art galleries and theatres highlight some of the noteworthy features of Central Sarasota. Make a stop by Sarasota Opera House or Marina Jack while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
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.
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.
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.
Pinecraft
While there might not be top attractions in Pinecraft, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Ed Smith Stadium and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.
