Situated along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Sarasota, is home to enthralling museums, gorgeous gardens, fine-dining restaurants, as well as a diverse choice of lures, which makes it a fun destination for families, kids, individuals as well as families. Below are some of the fun things to do in Sarasota, FL.

The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art

The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art is located along Bay Shore Road, in the stunning city of Sarasota. The museum is named for Ringling Bros. and the Barnum & Bailey Circus, the co-founder of a popular city circus. This one-of-a-kind destination offers visitors an array of fun activities to indulge in, tapping into the little child in everyone.

As you get into the Museum’s inside, you will be greeted by classical art (both original pieces and reproductions) as well as top-notch architecture. The art featured here comes from various eras such as the Renaissance, the Greek as well as the Roman eras. Getting here transports you back in time; you no longer feel like you are in present-day Florida. Be sure to take up the 45-minute tours for a compete experience.

Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium

The Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is found on City Island, in Sarasota’s Ken Thompson Parkway. Initially, it was established as Cape Haze Marine Laboratory back in 1955. It retained this name until 1967 in a bid to honor William Mote, Lenore R. Mote and Betty Mote Rose. The Lab part located in Sarasota specializes in the research work of marine nature. The aquarium portion remains open to the public, and it features over 100 marine animal species, both native and foreign ones. The animals here include jellyfish, rays, manatees, otters, eels, sea horses, sharks, and many more.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

These gardens are found along South Palm Avenue and they border Sarasota Bay. Visiting the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is one of the greatest treats that you can give yourself when you visit Sarasota. Extending for 7 acres, the Marie Shelby gardens sit on the grounds where the former home of William and Marie Selby were once located. These gardens have a special focus on the collection and presentation of epiphytes such as orchids and bromeliads, as well as heir ecosystems. Here, you will find the world’s most diverse bromeliads collection. The gardens feature over 20,000 plants representing 6,000 plant species. The different habitats featured here include live oaks, bamboo, succulents, mangroves and tons of other habitats.