This is a hands-on science and technology center downtown on Sarasota’s beautiful bay front. However, it is not simply a museum! It offers an array of interactive, hands-on exhibits, as well as educational programs for the community.  It is a place filled with new ideas and experiences, a world where science comes alive.
  

Mote Aquarium
1600 Ken Thompson Parkway
Sarasota, FL 34232
941-388-2451

Explore the sonar of Mote Aquarium, 135,000 gallon shark exhibit, touch pools and much more.

Myakka River State Park
13207 State Road 72
Sarasota, FL 34241
941-365-0100

Florida's unspoiled wilderness is yours to enjoy aboard Myakka Wildlife Tours special Tram Safari.

Pelican Man's Bird Sanctuary
1708 Ken Thompson Parkway
Sarasota, FL 34236
941-388-4444

Florida's largest wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center. Walking tours are available.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens
3701 Bay Shore Road
Sarasota, FL 34234
941-355-5305

Sarasota Jungle Gardens attractions include: Bird and Reptile Shows, Jungle Animals, Kiddie Jungle, Gardens of Christ, Shell Museum and a Gift Shop. Also, acres of beautiful gardens and nature trails.

South Florida Museum
201 10th St. West
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-746-4131

The South Florida Museum is dedicated to educating the community and visitors of all ages about the past, present and future of South Florida.

Beaches

Lido Key

Lido Beach
Lido Beach is located on Lido Key, one half mile southwest of St. Armand's Circle, on Ben Franklin Drive.

South Lido Park is located on Ben Franklin Drive at the southern tip of Lido Key. The park is bordered by four bodies of water; The Gulf of Mexico, Big Pass, Sarasota Bay, and Brushy Bayou.  At a separate facility at the north end of the park, visitors can enjoy a nature trail which includes scenic overlooks and boardwalks.
The southern beach portion of the park offers views of the skyline of downtown Sarasota and the Gulf. It features a picnic area shaded by Australian Pines.  Lido Beach also provides special needs visitors help via these free beach "wheelchairs." Be sure to look for one near the main guard tower.  

Siesta Key

Siesta Beach

Sarasota's Siesta Key beach is known for having the whitest and finest sand in the world. Click on any of the local beaches in the map or the list on the right for more information.

Spring Training

941-954-4464

Ed Smith Stadium

Although not in downtown, Ed Smith Stadium is just a short ride from any downtown location.. The minor league Boston Red Sox team plays summer baseball at Ed Smith Stadium as the Sarasota Red Sox.

Baseball is a Sarasota tradition dating back to 1924, when the New York Giants arrived. They were followed by the Red Sox and then the White Sox. Now,  the Cincinnati Reds take the field annually with games at Sarasota's Ed Smith Stadium. Pitchers and catchers report to the City of Sarasota Sports Complex in February. The Reds take on the Devil Rays for their Grapefruit League home opener March 4. Other highlights of the home schedule include visits by the Red Sox, Indians, and Yankees.