Experiences

St. Armands Circle in downtown Sarasota is home to more than 130 boutiques, galleries, and restaurants – all encircling a central park dotted with statues from the original Ringling collection. But the Circle isn’t just about browsing and dining – it’s a window into local history. You’ll find traces of its circus roots woven throughout, including vintage Ringling memorabilia and bronze plaques that celebrate legendary performers.

There’s no better way to slip into the rhythm of the Gulf than from the water itself. Just minutes from your door, you can launch a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and set off across the calm, crystalline bays of Lido Key. Paddle through quiet mangrove tunnels where egrets perch in the branches above and manatees glide below, or trace the shoreline for sweeping views and hidden coves.

Each spring, Sarasota becomes a hotspot for America’s favorite pastime as Major League Baseball teams head south for Grapefruit League play. Just a 10-minute drive from the hotel, you can catch the Baltimore Orioles at Ed Smith Stadium, where palm trees edge the outfield and peanuts and Cracker Jack still rule the stands. It’s a chance to see big-league players up close, soak in the warm weather, and enjoy a game-day atmosphere that’s as relaxed as it is exciting.

There’s something timeless about a day spent fishing on the Gulf – and in Sarasota, it’s elevated by year-round sunshine, calm waters, and expert local guides. Outfitters like Sarasota Bay Fishing Charters make it easy to embark on a tailored experience, whether you’re chasing tarpon offshore or casting lines in the quieter shallows of Sarasota Bay. These guided trips provide all the gear and know-how, so you can simply show up and enjoy the thrill of the catch—or the peace that comes with waiting for one.

From up-close animal encounters to hands-on conservation education, Sarasota offers outdoor adventures that spark curiosity at any age. At Sarasota Jungle Gardens, stroll shady tropical trails where flamingos roam freely, and kids can hand-feed lorikeets or meet a rescued alligator. Just a few miles away, the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium brings the wonders of the Gulf to life with touch tanks, sea turtle rehab tanks, and fascinating exhibits on marine science and sustainability.

Catch a stirring performance by the Sarasota Opera, known for its dramatic productions and meticulously restored 1920s theater, or experience the Sarasota Orchestra, where acclaimed musicians bring classical masterpieces and contemporary compositions to life. With a year-round calendar of concerts, recitals, and seasonal events, the city draws talent from around the world, delivering cultural moments that linger long after the final note.

Watch the sun descend over the Gulf on a sunset cruise with LeBarge Tropical Cruises, or Key Sailing Charters.

Keep up with your workouts over the holidays with our fitness classes!

Click here to see our Fitness Schedule.