7 Must-See Sites in Sarasota, Florida

Just several miles from Sarasota is Lake Myakka River State Park, one of Florida’s largest and oldest parks. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, including rare Florida birds like the roseate spoonbill, as well as fish, reptiles and mammals. The park is also home to a massive sinkhole partly encompassed by the Lower Myakka Lake. Extensive hiking trails, campgrounds and scenic drives can also be found here. © Delmas Lehman | Dreamstime.com

A less-intense Gulf-side city compared to Tampa and St. Petersburg, Sarasota embraces a more laidback atmosphere. The city sits on the lagoon on the water and draws visitors for a plethora of events and festivals, including the Sarasota Film Festival, Ringling International Arts Festival, Sarasota Chalk Festival, operas and ballets, and more. © Sean Pavone | Dreamstime.com

You’ll find the official art museum of Florida at the Ringling Museum, spanning 21 galleries covering European paintings, Asian and American art, contemporary pieces, and a collection of Cypriot antiquities. You’ll also uncover a glass pavilion with studio glass art, as well as a conservation lab and historic Asolo Theater. © Lisa Mckown | Dreamstime.com

Sarasota boasts many piers. Currently closed for reparations, Hart’s Landing Pier is Sarasota’s historic bait and tackle spot, a popular fishing location in Sarasota Bay. Over by the John Ringling Causeway Bridge, Tony Saprito Pier is ideal for sunset views and fishing over Sarasota Bay. © Delmas Lehman | Dreamstime.com

While most other beaches in the region are made of up pulverized coral, Siesta Beach’s sand is special; sand is 99 percent quartz and, on the sunniest days, is so reflective it feels cool when walking on it barefoot. The beach is popular among locals and visitors with its expansive and wide stretches and even walking mats for accessibility. © Alkan2011 | Dreamstime.com

Can’t get enough of the sun, sand and sea? Sarasota Beach is another well-known spot, featuring white sands, clear and calm waters, and beach bars. Water sport enthusiasts can also enjoy kayaking and surfing. © Shannon Neal | Dreamstime.com

On the grounds of the former home of Marie and William Selby is the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, a 15-acre preserve spanning collections of more than 20,000 living plants, including bromeliads, 5,500 orchids and more. The gardens are also home to an herbarium, butterfly garden, fragrance garden, edible garden and koi pond. © Erin Westgate | Dreamstime.com