Top 10 things to do in Sarasota and Bradenton Area

Top 5 things to do in Sarasota

1. Relax on Siesta Key Beach, America’s Best Beach



Spend the day on the sugar-white sands of Siesta Key Beach. Build sandcastles and paddle in the crystal clear waters of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Siesta Key was recognised as the winner of the 2015 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards for Beaches, ranking number one in the US and 25th in the world.

2.       Shopping and Dining at St. Armands Circle



Head to St. Armands Circle on Lido Key and explore the elegant boutiques, galleries, cafes and restaurants.  With more than 130 locally owned outlets, the picturesque hub offers a unique shopping and dining experience for visitors.

3.       The Ringling



The Ringling is the centre stone of Sarasotas art scene and circus heritage. John and Mable Ringling brought the circus to Sarasota in 1927 and created a legacy that continues to this day. The estate houses their personal collection of Baroque masters, the Ca d’Zan 1920’s Venetian Gothic mansion and the Circus Museum.

4.       Hunting for Shark’s Teeth on Venice Beach



Venice Beach is known as the ‘Shark Tooth Capital of the World’. Sift through the sand and shells to discover fossilised sharks teeth that are over 10 million years old.

5.       Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium



Meet the fish. And the scientists. The working aquarium gives you an up-close and educational experience, with a variety of marine animals and fish, including two touch tanks and a 135,000 gallon shark habitat. You can also witness scientific research in action, in the viewable working laboratories.

Top 5 things to do in Bradenton Area

1.       Meet Snooty



Meet Snooty, the world’s oldest living manatee, at the Parker Manatee Aquarium at the South Florida Museum. The Aquarium has housed 28 manatees with Snooty as part of the rehabilitation program.

2.       Take a stroll along the Bradenton Riverwalk



Overlooking the Manatee River, the Riverwalk is a 1.5 mile long park in Downtown Bradenton Area.  From botanical walks and open lawns, perfect for picnicking on, to a family fun zone and amphitheatre - the Riverwalk features something for everyone.

3.       Go Ape at TREEUMPH!



For an active treetop adventure, head to TreeUmph!, the elevated adventure course. Tackle wobbly bridges, hanging nets, bungee swings and even Tarzan ropes.

4.       Visit Pine Avenue



Known as “The Greenest little Main Street in America”, Pine Avenue on Anna Maria Island has that old Floridian charm and is home to quaint little shops and galleries.

5.       Shop ‘til you drop



Find impressive savings at Ellenton Premium Outlets. You’ll want to save some room in your suitcase as you can get up to 65% off of your favourite designer brands including: Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, Nike and many more.