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.
Top hotels in Downtown Sarasota
Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection
"Room was very spacious, including the bathroom, amazing view from the room, whenever we ran into a problem staff was super nice and quick to fix anything. Room was super clean and even the rest of the building too. We ordered in dining breakfast, it was excellent!"
Reviewed on 21 Jun 2026
Aloft by Marriott Sarasota
"First off I can truly appreciate dogs stay free. The staff was welcoming and informative. The rooms were clean and the kitchen selection of food was tasty. We wil def return"
Reviewed on 23 Jun 2026
Kompose Boutique Hotel
"Best hotel shower ever! Water pressure was amazing! Rain style shower head. Full size pillows were great."
Reviewed on 22 Jun 2026
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound
"We stopped by the front desk to let them know that our air conditioner was not working. By the time we got back from dinner, maintenance had already replaced the unit."
Reviewed on 22 Jun 2026
Golden Host Resort - Sarasota
"Unique decor"
Reviewed on 23 Jun 2026
Tropical Beach Resorts
"I absolutely loved our little getaway we were able to take to paradise. Cannot wait to plan another trip back!"
Reviewed on 22 Jun 2026
Check Downtown Sarasota hotel availability
Where to stay in Downtown Sarasota
Lido Key
Traverse a winding woodland path and spend the afternoon on this island’s secluded beaches before ending at a beachside bar to enjoy a spectacular sunset.
South Sarasota
While visiting South Sarasota, you might make a stop by sights like The Landings and Coconuts Family Entertainment Center.
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.
Palmer Ranch
While there might not be top attractions in Palmer Ranch, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Stoneybrook Golf & Country Club and Turtle Beach.
Gulf Gate Estates
Pristine beaches and ample dining options are well-reviewed features of Gulf Gate Estates. Make a stop by top sights like Gulf Gate Golf Club while you're exploring the area.
