Sarasota: The Cultural Heart of Southwest Florida
Welcome to Sarasota, where world-class culture meets coastal charm. Known as the Cultural Capital of Southwest Florida, this vibrant city is a dynamic hub of arts, theater, music, fine dining, and architectural elegance—all just minutes from some of the most stunning beaches in the world. RVA Resort Vacations’ team brings deep local expertise, guiding guests to the most popular events happening throughout Sarasota year-round. With a wide selection of accommodations available, they ensure every visitor finds the perfect home-away-from-home to suit their vacation plans.
The city’s rich artistic legacy began with John and Mable Ringling, visionaries who made Sarasota their winter home. Their magnificent waterfront estate, Cá d’Zan, was inspired by the grand palazzos of Venice and remains a testament to their deep love of the arts. Today, their passion lives on through the Ringling Museum of Art, a cultural crown jewel housing one of the most impressive collections in the Southeast.
Sarasota’s circus heritage is woven into the city’s identity, but it’s the enduring commitment to creativity, performance, and expression that truly defines it. From the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall on the bayfront to intimate venues and galleries in the downtown arts district, Sarasota pulses with inspiration.
Surrounding the city, you'll find a chain of idyllic barrier islands—like Lido Key, Siesta Key, and Longboat Key—famous for their powdery white sands, turquoise waters, marine wildlife, and Zagat-rated coastal cuisine. Each island offers its own unique personality, inviting visitors to unwind, explore, and indulge.
Whether you're drawn by ballet, Broadway, beaches, or bistros, Sarasota delivers a cultural experience as vibrant as the sunsets on its shores.
Top Things to Do in Sarasota, Florida:
Arts & Culture
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Visit the world-renowned The Ringling Museum of Art
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Tour Ca’ d’Zan, John and Mable Ringling’s Venetian-style mansion
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Explore contemporary works at Sarasota Art Museum
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Catch a performance at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
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Enjoy live theater at Florida Studio Theatre, Asolo Repertory Theatre, and Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe
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Browse local galleries in the Rosemary Art & Design District
Beaches & Outdoor Fun
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Soak up the sun at Siesta Key Beach – famous for its powdery white quartz sand
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Visit Lido Beach for sunbathing, paddleboarding, and sunset views
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Explore South Lido Park for kayaking, nature trails, and picnicking
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Stroll the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, home to rare orchids and bayfront views
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Wander through Myakka River State Park – perfect for hiking, wildlife spotting, and airboat tours
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Enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride along the Legacy Trail
Shopping & Dining
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Shop and dine at St. Armands Circle – a chic island shopping and dining district
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Visit Downtown Sarasota for boutique shops, rooftop bars, and eclectic restaurants
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Sample local eats at the Sarasota Farmers Market every Saturday
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Try waterfront dining at Ophelia’s on the Bay, Shore, or Owen’s Fish Camp
Family-Friendly Attractions
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Discover marine life at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
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Let the kids play and learn at the Children’s Garden & Art Center
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Take a ride on the Jungle Gardens train and see flamingos and reptiles
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Spend the day at Big Cat Habitat & Gulf Coast Sanctuary
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Book a dolphin or sunset cruise on Sarasota Bay
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Enjoy deep-sea fishing charters from Marina Jack or Siesta Key
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Explore offshore sandbars and snorkeling spots by boat or jet ski