Locals, it’s our time to shine! The tourists are (mostly) gone, and now Sarasota is all ours to explore without the crowds. From scenic parks and sandy beaches to cultural hotspots and waterfront dining, summer is the perfect season for locals to fall in love with Sarasota all over again.
Here are 10 of the best things to do in Sarasota this summer — whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll, a fun event, or a bite to eat with a view.
1. Bayfront Park
📍 Downtown Sarasota – 5 Bayfront Dr.
Enjoy breezy views of Sarasota Bay, grab a drink at O’Leary’s Tiki Bar or Marina Jack, or take a sightseeing cruise. The park also hosts Sarasota’s 4th of July fireworks — one of the best vantage points in town!
✅ Don’t miss: LeBarge Tropical Cruises & live music at the Blue Sunshine Patio.
2. The Bay Park & Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
The Bay Park offers walking trails, a kayak launch, The Nest Café, and weekly events like outdoor movies and yoga. Nearby Van Wezel hosts concerts and theater camps — and though Friday Fest won’t be back this year, there’s still plenty happening.
✅ Tip: Visit Sunday mornings for free concerts and a relaxing bayfront vibe.
3. City Island
Home to Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, Save Our Seabirds, and two iconic waterfront restaurants: New Pass Grill and The Old Salty Dog. City Island is also the place to catch water ski shows, the annual Labor Day Regatta, and AquaPalooza (May 25).
✅ Bite to try: The “Fully Loaded Salty Dog” hot dog — it’s a local legend!
4. Lido Beach
📍 400 Benjamin Franklin Drive
Less crowded than Siesta Key, Lido Beach is a great spot to sunbathe, swim, or sip cocktails at the Lido Key Tiki Bar (open to the public!). The newly renovated pavilion and the Lido Island Grill make this a summer staple.
✅ Mark your calendar: The Big Gay Beach Party returns June 19–22.
5. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
📍 1534 Mound St. (Downtown) & 401 N. Tamiami Trail (Osprey)
Stroll through tropical gardens, admire stunning bay views, and explore current exhibitions like “George Harrison: A Gardener’s Life” and “Patti Smith: A Book of Days.” Summer events include the All-American Cookout on July 4th.
✅ Local flavor: Dine at The Green Orchid, Selby’s solar-powered restaurant by Michael’s On East.
6. The Ringling
📍 5401 Bay Shore Rd.
Experience world-class art and circus museums, explore the historic Ca' d’Zan mansion, and enjoy gorgeous bayfront grounds. Don’t miss the Summer Circus Spectacular running June 13 to Aug. 9.
✅ Insider tip: Free art museum admission every Monday!
7. Sarasota Opera House
📍 61 N. Pineapple Ave.
Beyond opera, summer brings the Classic Movies at the Opera House series with hits like Beetlejuice and The Birdcage, plus live concerts and the Sarasota Music Festival in June.
✅ Great for: A classy (or quirky) night out without the usual crowds.
8. Siesta Key Beach
📍 948 Beach Rd.
The world-famous quartz-crystal sands are easier to enjoy in the summer. Don’t miss the Sunday drum circle, and enjoy beachside bites at Siesta Beach Eats or head to Siesta Key Village for nightlife and shopping.
✅ Best sunset spot: North end of the beach with a cold drink in hand.
9. St. Armands Circle
Summer means sidewalk sales, car shows, and plenty of room to stroll this charming shopping and dining district. Grab tapas at Columbia Restaurant, play arcade games at Arcade Monsters, or enjoy gelato under the palms.
✅ Events to attend: St. Armands Craft Festival (June 7–8) & Exotic Cars on the Circle (Sept. 6).
10. University Town Center & Nathan Benderson Park
📍 210 N. Cattlemen Rd. & 5851 Nathan Benderson Cir.
Shop, dine, and play all day — UTC is home to PopStroke mini golf, tons of restaurants, and the soon-to-open Mote SEA Aquarium. Benderson Park also hosts rowing events and serene lakeside walks.
✅ Best family outing: Try PopStroke’s mini golf followed by dinner on The Green.
Ready to Rediscover Sarasota?
Sarasota summers are truly special — quieter, calmer, and perfect for making the most of our beautiful hometown. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or connect with your community, there’s no better time to enjoy everything this amazing city has to offer.
