Experience Sarasota, FL
Florida’s Gulf Coast Offers a Variety of Ways to Vacation
Sarasota County, nestled between Lido Key to the south and Longboat Key to the north, stretches along 40 miles of stunning shoreline — just a two-hour flight from MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV).
Start your trip at St. Armands Circle, where history, shopping and fine dining come together. Designed in a unique circular layout inspired by circus wagon wheels, this “Jewel of Sarasota” features tropical landscaping, world-class boutiques and a vibrant arts scene that beautifully blends past and present.
Good to Know
Airport: Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport
(SRQ)
Average Flight Time: 2 Hours 14 Minutes
Book a Trip: allegiantair.com
Just over the bridge from St. Armands Circle lies Lido Beach, a peaceful retreat featuring diverse nature activities ranging from canoeing and fishing to picnics and bird watching. This coastal gem strikes the perfect balance between natural beauty and local charm with something for everyone to enjoy.
Sarasota also boasts the white-sand Siesta Key Beach as a prime location to unwind. With lifeguards, concessions, volleyball courts and a free trolley from downtown Sarasota, it’s an ideal spot to kick back and stay a while. Open your beach chair and relax all afternoon at the award-winning Siesta Beach that offers family-friendly activities and restful opportunities.
For more family-friendly fun, explore Lakewood Ranch. This thriving community offers something for visitors of all ages — whether it’s polo matches at the Sarasota Polo Club, live performances, playgrounds or local events year-round. Enjoy fresh finds at the farmers market or relax to the sounds of local musicians.
Craving a bit more adventure? Englewood Beach is a popular spot for shark tooth hunting, while nearby Venice Beach invites visitors to snorkel or dive around a reef just a quarter mile offshore. Whether you’re searching for thrills or tranquility, the City of Sarasota and neighboring Manatee County deliver it all.
Kayak through mangrove tunnels with manatees or tee off at one of the region’s premier golf courses. No matter how you like to vacation, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is ready to welcome you — and MidAmerica St. Louis Airport is your convenient gateway there.
Where to Stay
Be sure to find the perfect accommodations for your trip. Looking to stay nearby but not in the heart of the Sarasota area? The towns of Osprey and Nokomis both offer close proximity to all the action while holding their own quiet charm. To the north, North Port provides easy access along the scenic Tamiami Trail, the historic 70-mile highway linking Tampa and Miami.
Planning to explore beyond Sarasota? You’re just two hours from Orlando and an hour from Tampa Bay — perfect for a day trip with more possibilities to explore the Sunshine State.
From luxurious beachfront resorts to budget-friendly hotels and cozy vacation rentals, Sarasota has accommodations to suit every style and budget.
Things to Do
Explore a variety of activities and ways to relax in Sarasota. From sinking your toes in the sand to dressing up for dinner downtown, you can do it all on vacation. Spend the day roaming through blooming plants at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens or enjoy Florida’s natural beauty at any one of the nearby state parks, perfect for hiking, wildlife watching or a peaceful escape.
See the city from a new perspective aboard one of Sarasota’s themed trolley tours — sing along on a musical ride, dive into local legends on the Haunted Sarasota Tour or embrace holiday spirit on the Christmas Carol Trolley. No matter the season, you’re bound to be entertained as you learn about the city from a different lens.
Swap the bus for a boat and charter a day on the water to be on the lookout for dolphins and other marine life or simply relax on the waves. Back on land, visit Bayfront Park to catch the sunset or have a picnic to take in the picturesque setting. As evening sets in, the city’s cultural side comes alive. Catch a performance at the Sarasota Opera or the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, where world-class entertainment ranges from Broadway shows to orchestras, ballets and more.
From peaceful mornings in nature to vibrant nights filled with music and art, Sarasota County invites you to experience Florida in unforgettable ways.
Can’t-Miss Events
Be in the know before you go on your next trip. Sarasota County and its neighboring towns are home to year-round special events. Summer kicks off with a free concert series on Lakewood Ranch Main Street, complete with live music, food trucks and activities for the kids. Adults can also share a toast and indulge at the numerous food and wine festivals that carry into the fall.
Film lovers won’t want to miss the Sarasota Film Festival, an annual event that draws filmmakers, actors and fans for screenings, panel discussions and celebrations of budding new talent. Head to Siesta Key for the Crystal Classic Sand Sculpting Festival, where massive, detailed sculptures are crafted entirely from sand and water — right on the beach. Another must see event for art lovers is the annual Chalk Festival, where artists create 3D works along the pavement that come to life with a new theme each year.
When choosing where to fly for your next vacation, consider landing at the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport to make memories along the Florida’s Gulf Coast. A blend of activities for everyone, let MidAmerica St. Louis Airport be your starting point for a Gulf Coast getaway to Sarasota.
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