Sarasota is known as Florida’s Cultural Coast, and it’s not for nothing. Here you’ll find galleries galore, premium performances, and captivating street art everywhere you go. Here are our top picks for discovering your artistic side in Sarasota County.

An absolute must-see is the home of circus entrepreneur John Ringling, and his wife Mable, known as The Ringling. The 66-acre estate is home to Ca’d’Zan, the Venetian Gothic-style mansion, the Circus museum full of posters, costumes, wagons, a human cannon and more, the Museum of Art with fascinating collections from around the world and classical sculptures in the grand courtyard, the Bayfront Gardens which are just as awe-inspiring as the works of art in the house and museums, and the Historic Asolo Theatre.

Sarasota is somewhat of an open-air gallery thanks to the multiple murals and street art dispersed throughout the area. These murals, created by local artists celebrate Sarasota’s history and people, like “Sarasota’s Heroes’ depicting the key workers that kept the area running during the pandemic, and the tribute to the Native American inhabitants of the area on Central Avenue. You can even find a colourful recreation of Michelangelo’s David. 

Catch a show during your stay at any of the area’s incredible performance venues, from Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe in downtown Sarasota, and contemporary Florida Studio Theatre offering a range of productions, to the highly praised Sarasota Ballet, and the Sarasota Orchestra.