Sarasota is one of the coastal cities in the American state of Florida. The city offers a wide-ranging mix of fine dining and culture, stunning beach resorts, amazing circus shows, as well as a host of shopping choices for the shopaholics. Visit the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art which pays tribute to the family behind the most famous circus of the United States of America called the Ringlings. If you are an art lover, you will definitely appreciate the world’s most versatile ensemble of Rubens canvasses and fantastic creations by Old Masters. Also, explore a majestic Venetian Gothic palace in the city with 56 rooms called Ca’ d'Zan Mansion. Or better yet, stay in a mansion rental for a luxurious experience. In case you are planning to visit the city with that special person in your life, check out these romantic things to do in Sarasota, Florida.
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1. Go for a romantic dinner tour
You and your loved one can enjoy the delicious cuisine of Sarasota. Book a tour where you and your partner can enjoy a unique culinary experience, as well as, a romantic evening out or simply wish to socialize with your family and close friends. Alternatively, go for a walking tour across downtown Sarasota. Get immersed in an exciting culinary journey and learn a lot about this city.
Book Tours : Downtown Walking Food Tour in Sarasota
2. Take a romantic stroll through Bayfront Park
Located in proximity to Ringling Bridge, Bayfront Park has provided many romantic experiences in Sarasota to couples who love taking leisurely strolls. This park in downtown Sarasota has been beautifully decorated with big shady trees along a beautifully paved walkway, thus making the place perfect for indulgent moments. You can relish a cozy lunch at O'Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill and enjoy live performances on all days of the week. The park is also an excellent spot to enjoy the Floridian sun with your partner.
Another romantic thing to do in this park is to watch the innumerable fishing boats sailing on the water while sitting on one of the several benches that face the sea. The atmosphere here is extremely peaceful and serene and is immensely popular with couples of ages.
The Bayfront Park
Address: 301 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, United States
Website: The Bayfront Park
Opening hours: 7am - 11pm (daily)
3. Buy some flowers at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
If you want to get a dramatic shot clicked in front of beautiful flowers along with your partner, there is no other place like Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Earlier it was the home of Willian and Marie Selby. The couple owned the famous Selby Oil Company, that later merged with a Texas-based company and came to be known as “Texaco” in 1946. After the demise of the couple, their home was converted into a botanical garden and opened for the public. This was done in accordance with the execution of the will of Marie Selby. Bring a smile on your loved one’s face by buying him/her some flowers from this site.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Address: 900 S Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
Website: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
4. Enjoy some light moments at McCurdy's Comedy Theatre
The mid-sized and unassuming showroom in Sarasota serves drinks and delicious bar bites and also features brilliant stand-up comedians. You just cannot afford to miss McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre if you are in town with your girlfriend or boyfriend and are looking for some comic relief. The institute is known for showcasing some of the finest comedy performances as well as classes. The bar area here is excellent and you can choose your favorite beverage while waiting for the show to start. Avail the valet service if you plan to drive down to the venue.
McCurdy's Comedy Theatre
Address: 1923 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
Website: McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre
Opening hours: Tue: 11am - 5pm; Wed, Thu & Sun: 6.30pm - 8.30pm; Fri - Sat: 6pm - 11.30pm (closed on Mon)
5. Admire the wildlife at Myakka River State Park
One of the most ancient and largest parks in Florida, Myakka River State Park was named so after the Myakka River. It comprises vast wetlands, pinelands, prairies, and hammocks. The park also has wildlife in abundance including several rare species of birds such as roseate spoonbill that can be only seen in the state of Florida. Outdoorsy visitors can also come here and indulge in different kinds of outdoor activities with their dear ones. These include biking, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. However, one of the most romantic things to do here is to go for horseback riding with your loved one. This fun activity is ideal for various levels - beginners, as well as, advanced.
Myakka River State Park
Address: 13208 State Rd 72, Sarasota, FL 34241, United States
Website: Myakka River State Park
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
6. Practice birding at Celery Fields
This vast wetlands site is perfect for bird watching and features ponds, trails, and an observation mound. Also, Celery Fields offers several outdoor activities including fishing, biking, and walking. The spot is also an ideal site for passive recreation and wildlife watching. It is a popular tourist spot in the region for outings and field trips. Celery Fields also happens to be the primary collection zone for stormwater of Sarasota County, thus enabling it to provide the dual purpose of recreation and public safety.
Celery Fields
Address: 6893 Palmer Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34240, United States
Website: Celery Fields
7. Appreciate art at Sarasota Art Museum
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Housed in a historic Sarasota High School building, the Sarasota Art Museum is a contemporary art museum that offers a captivating space and a diverse range of artistic expressions. Visiting this art museum is the perfect thing to do in Sarasota for couples who are naturally interested in or good at art.
Roam through thoughtfully curated galleries showcasing contemporary artworks from local and international artists. Experience a dynamic blend of exhibitions, featuring various mediums, styles, and themes that provoke thought and spark creativity. Engage with interactive installations, attend artist talks, or participate in workshops to deepen your understanding of art and its significance in society. The museum’s stunning architecture and design provide a visually stimulating backdrop for the artworks, creating a truly immersive experience.
Appreciate art at Sarasota Art Museum
Address:1001 South Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34236
Website: Sarasota Art Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 11am - 5pm
8. Watch a performance at The Circus Arts Conservatory
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Experience the magic and wonder of the circus at The Circus Arts Conservatory in Sarasota. This renowned institution celebrates the rich history and artistry of circus performance, showcasing captivating shows that will leave you in awe.
Witness breathtaking acrobatics, daring aerial feats, and mesmerizing acts performed by talented circus artists from around the world. Be enthralled by the skillful displays of balance, strength, and grace as performers showcase their incredible talents. From high-flying trapeze acts to daring tightrope walkers, each show is a testament to the artistry and dedication of the circus performers.
Watch a performance at The Circus Arts Conservatory
Website: The Circus Arts Conservatory
9. Bike through the keys of Sarasota
Immerse yourself in the pure ocean breeze and stunning sunshine with your partner as you embark upon an unforgettable bike ride through Sarasota as well as its neighboring beaches. There is an option to take your pick from different types of comfy cruiser-style bicycles. There is also the flexibility to rent a bicycle for several days all through your stay meaning that it is possible to tweak your sightseeing itinerary. The tour will be a great opportunity to explore the local beaches and downtown Sarasota by bicycle with your partner.
Book Tours : Sarasota Downtown Bike Rental
10. Experience the mesmerizing flora and fauna
If you love nature and are willing to take your partner on a tour through the greens, an eco-tour on a kayak should be a great option. You can select from an afternoon or morning departure time based on your convenience and move around mesmerizing estuaries and mangrove tunnels of scenic Sarasota Bay. You can also catch a glimpse of friendly manatees, a kind of sea mammal in their natural habitat.
11. Lunch out at St. Armands Circle
Find your way through the town experiencing some of the best eateries at St. Armands Circle. Here you can also get acquainted with the history of one of the country’s most elegant retail areas. Far from the bustling mainland, distinctly separated by Sarasota Bay, the unique beauty and history of St. Armands offers a memorable experience for locals as well as tourists from different parts of the world.
Book Tours : St Armands Circle Stroll and Taste Tour
12. Plan for a sunset dinner cruise on Marina Jack II
Nothing gets more romantic than a date night in Sarasota where the sunset is looming in the background. One of the excellent ways to catch the golden hour in style is to book a sunset cruise. Sail with Marina Jack II and enjoy a comfy sunset dinner cruise as you sail through the Gulf of Mexico and the inter-coastal waters. You’re sure to enjoy mesmerizing views, great food, and outstanding service.
Marina Jack II is set in Downtown Sarasota and docked just behind the restaurant called Marina Jack. It features air-conditioned salons, as well as an outdoor open-air deck so that you can fully enjoy sailing through the Gulf of Mexico and views are not restricted. After all, every seat here offers a perfect view of the sea.
Marina Jack II
Address: 2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
Website: Marina Jack II
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 12pm - 8.30pm; Sun: 1pm - 8.30pm
Enjoy a romantic vacation in Sarasota, Florida
If you are planning to go on a romantic vacation with the most special person in your life, visiting Sarasota can be one of your best bets. There is so much to see and do here that picking up the best spots can be a bit overwhelming for you. Take a close look at the best romantic things to do in Sarasota, Florida, to enjoy an unforgettable vacation.
Frequently asked questions about the romantic things to do in Sarasota, Florida
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