Central Sarasota Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Central Sarasota
Popular places to visit
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.
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.
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
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
Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour
Our pick of the best Central Sarasota Hotel Deals
The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
Excellent staff. Wonderful details. Love the shuttle to the amazing private beach club
Reviewed on 11 Jan 2026
The Westin Sarasota
Very nice rooms, good amenities. Pool and poolside bar/restaurant were very nice.
Reviewed on 16 Jan 2026
Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection
Clean room, loved the nespresso, , the towels and robe were fantastic.
Reviewed on 16 Jan 2026
Embassy Suites by Hilton Sarasota, FL
Great room. Great location.
Reviewed on 8 Jan 2026
The Sarasota Modern, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Great stay!
Reviewed on 12 Jan 2026
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Sarasota Downtown
Yes very nice
Reviewed on 16 Jan 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.
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.
