Things To See

Places we enjoyed in Sarasota Florida

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If you’re considering a trip to Sarasota, Florida, it’s a must-see place that should be at the top of your list. I recommend Sarasota, Florida as your next holiday spot, whether it’s a weeklong family trip or a weekend getaway with friends. There are many places in Sarasota, Florida that you should not miss out on if you want to have a fun and memorable vacation.

Must-visit places in Sarasota, Florida

Whether you’re visiting Sarasota for a week or only for the weekend, there are several places in Sarasota, Florida you should see and experience firsthand.

Aloft Sarasota

We made the perfect decision by staying at Aloft Sarasota on our visit to Sarasota. The hotel is in a terrific location, and we were quite pleased with the exceptional services and amenities.Aloft hotel in Sarasota Florida

After spending the day exploring different places in Sarasota, Florida, we spent every evening by the pool on the 8th level. We were also able to enjoy the panoramic views. Overall, our stay in Aloft Sarasota was an enjoyable and memorable experience, and would highly recommend the hotel to those planning to visit Sarasota soon.

The Ringling

The Ringling is one of the must-see places in Sarasota, Florida. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, The Ringling is the perfect place to immerse yourself in arts and culture, appreciate nature, and learn about how the circus industry began in the United States. Aside from housing the most important artistic and cultural collections in the United States, The Ringling has something for everyone. We spent the day seeing all The Ringling’s must-see sites, getting wonderful photos, and learning about the history.Ringling Museum in Sarasota Florida

St. Armand’s Circle

St. Armand’s Circle is one of the unforgettable places in Sarasota, Florida you shouldn’t miss out on. We enjoyed exploring and window shopping at the enchanting circle of more than 140 upscale stores and restaurants set within an island tropical paradise.St Armand Circle in Sarasota Florida

Venezia Italian Restaurant

When it comes to homemade Italian cuisine, make sure to drop by Venezia Italian Restaurant. During our stay, we were able to enjoy a sumptuous lunch and truly enjoyed the pizza. Located in St. Armand’s Circle.Venezia Italian Restaurant

Candy Barrel

If you have sweet tooth cravings, you might find something from an array of candy such as chocolates, sugar candies, lollipops, gum, jawbreakers, and licorice, to name a few. We came across this candy store while exploring and couldn’t resist the selection and bought some of our favorites. Located in St. Armand’s CircleCandy Barrel in Sarasota Florida

Settimis Gelato

While exploring Sarasota, we were able to find a gem – Settimis Gelato. The cute spot offers an array of homemade gelato with several popular flavors. We tried the Coconut, Birthday, and Espresso flavors and they were flavorful. Located in St. Armand’s CircleSettimis Gelato in Sarasota Florida

Lido Key Beach

Just nearby St. Armand’s Circle is the scenic Lido Key Beach. The beach is accessible from Benjamin Franklin Drive with access to the beach and entrances at several points.lido key beach in sarasota florida

We took a leisurely drive down Benjamin Franklin Drive, admiring the beauty of residences, hotels, and condos along the shore.

Caragiulo’s Italian American

When it comes to Italian American cuisine, Caragiulo’s Italian American is one of Sarasota’s most popular dining establishments.Caragiulo's Italian American in sarasota florida

The restaurant is close to the Aloft Hotel. Even though it was already late, we were fortunate to come across this establishment. A gentleman emerged from the bar area and smiled at us. We had shrimp scampi linguine and spaghetti with meatballs for dinner. The restaurant has a nice vibe and is a place I would strongly suggest and return to if I were in the area.

Caragiulo’s Italian American is open seven days a week from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday and until 10:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Siesta Key Village

Siesta Key Village is one of the must-see places in Sarasota, Florida. It’s a charming little town with a bustling appeal that’s perfect for a stroll. You’ll appreciate the numerous businesses, art shows, and restaurants.

Siesta Key Village also holds several festivals, including Siesta Fiesta. If you wish to go exploring, choose comfortable walking shoes.Siesta Key Village in Sarasota Florida

Daiquiri Deck Siesta Key Village

We discovered Daiquiri Deck Siesta Key Village while visiting Siesta Key Village. It was a great setting for our lunch, with live music setting the mood as we enjoyed the tasty dishes. I love the guava and orange IPA with fish tacos and coconut shrimp.Daiquiri Deck Siesta Key Village in Sarasota Florida

Siesta Key Beach

Siesta Key Beach, named the best beach in the United States, is a must-see destination in Sarasota, Florida. Your visit to Sarasota isn’t complete unless you swim at this location. We parked in the public parking space, which was convenient and made it easy to get to the beach. The water was warm during our visit, and it was a memorable moment.Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota Florida

El Melvin Cocina Mexicana

We heard some Spanish music on our way back to Aloft looking for a spot to eat, and it was the live music that led us to El Melvin Cocina Mexicana.El Melvin in Sarasota Florida

It’s the perfect setting for a fantastic dinner, a casual sip, or to spend the night dancing. El Melvin Cocina Mexicana serves classic Mexican meals with a modern twist for brunch, lunch, and dinner, as well as a wide range of tequila and margaritas.

We sat outside and enjoyed our delicious lunch, as well as nachos and churros for dessert and the opportunity to dance. I would strongly suggest El Melvin Cocina Mexicana and would return in the future.

Marina Jack

It was Father’s Day and to celebrate the wonderful occasion, we were looking for a spot to have lunch and enjoy the water views of Sarasota Bay.Marina Jack in Sarasota Florida

Marina Jack was an excellent location because of its simple parking, delicious food, and breathtaking views. We had fish tacos and Caesar salad for lunch, followed by key lime pie for dessert.

Marina Jack is available for lunch daily and is the ideal place to unwind and savor excellent food while viewing Sarasota’s intercoastal waterway. I highly recommended the Marina Jack as one of the must-try dining spots in Sarasota, Florida if you’ll be coming soon.

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Final thoughts

After spending two nights in Sarasota, all I can say is that it was truly a memorable experience. Bring your family or friends if you want to enjoy all the places Sarasota, Florida has to offer and make amazing memories. While planning your trip, you should look at several of the best Sarasota hotels to choose one that provides the best comfort at a great price. So, what are you holding out for? Head over to Sarasota soon.

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