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.

End your day with a front-row seat to one of Longboat Key’s most spectacular sights: the sunset over the Gulf. Climb aboard LeBarge Tropical Cruises for a festive evening complete with live music, tropical cocktails, and open-air seating. For a more intimate outing, Key Sailing Charters offers private sails on a 41-foot yacht, where you can lounge on deck and watch the colors shift across the water.

Stay active with a full calendar of group fitness classes designed to energize and inspire. From yoga on the beach and Pilates in the studio to high-energy zumba classes and water fitness in the pool, each class is led by certified instructors and is tailored to all fitness levels. It’s a chance to recharge, reset, and start your day strong.

Click here to see our Fitness Schedule.

Explore the island’s quiet beauty on two wheels with complimentary bike rentals from the resort. Cruise along the scenic Gulf of Mexico Drive, where wide, flat bike paths make for a relaxed ride. Meander through nearby neighborhoods, stop at Bayfront Park for a shaded break, or venture farther to discover charming coastal pockets along the way. It’s an easygoing, open-air way to experience the rhythm of the island.