Siesta Key Info

For the more adventurous vacationer, Siesta Key is a perfect starting point to visit hundreds of nearby activities!  Please see some of our more popular attractions below to help select your itinerary.

What to do in Sarasota:

• Siesta Key Village, Ocean Blvd.

This quaint collection of shops and restaurants is usually the first stop for most Siesta Key visitors.  In addition to being located only a bike-ride from most resorts, the Village boasts many weekend music events.

• Pelican Man’s Bird Sanctuary, 1908 Ken Thompson Pkwy.  941-388-4444

This place is for the birds! (Literally)  The Pelican Man (Dale Shields), along with over 300 volunteers operates Sarasota’s fastest growing attraction.  This sanctuary cares for over 5,000 birds a year, and is a permanent home to over 300 birds that cannot survive in the wild. President Bush has awarded a Point of Light award to Dale for his work with these majestic creatures.

• Mote Marine Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy,  941-388-4441

This hands-on aquarium has lots to offer including a stingray petting tank, boat tours and a new one-of-a-kind shark experience!  Located in the aquarium, is a Marine Laboratory, which is supported by visitor admission.

• Sarasota Jungle Gardens, 3701 Bay Shore Rd,  941-355-5305

For the nature lovers or families, Jungle Gardens is a must-see!  From the daily bird and reptile shows, to the kiddie jungle, there is something for everyone at Jungle Gardens.  If you are looking for Florida wildlife, make this attraction a stop on your tour.

• Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd,  941-359-5700

Your admission provides tours of the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Circus Museum and the Ringling family’s Mansion.  You can see works of art by Van Dyck, Velazquezand Tom Thumb’s walking stick all in one visit.

• G. Wiz, 1001 Blvd. Of the Arts,  941-906-1851

Sarasota’s very own Gulfcoast Wonder & Imagination Zone.  Great for the kids (and the “kid at heart” too).  This science center provides fun while learning for everyone.

• Main Bookshop, 1962 Main St.,  941-366-7653

Every book lover needs to see the largest publisher’s overstock bookshop in the U.S outside ofNew York City.  Prices range 40%-90% below publishers’ prices.  Enjoy the warm, friendly atmosphere and cuddle up with a good book (or one of their resident kitties.)

What to do near Sarasota:

• Bishop Planetarium/Parker Aquarium, 201-10th St. W, Bradenton, 941-746-STAR

This planetarium provides an awesome laser-light show on weekend nights in the 200- seat auditorium.  For the day-goers, the aquarium boasts Snooty, at 50 years old, he is the oldest manatee born in captivity.

• Myakka River State Park, State Rt. 72 (14mi. E of Sarasota)  941-365-0100

This 29,000-acre park offers fishing, canoeing, nature trails, bird walks, camping and airboat tours.  This park is home to hundreds of plant, animal and bird species.

• Warm Mineral Springs, Route 41 (North Port)  941-426-1692

Could it be the original “Fountain of Youth”?  You be the judge!  This 2½-acre spring is 87 degrees year round and is an actual archaeological site.  Bring your bathing suit!

• Gamble Plantation and Mansion, U.S. 301 (east of Bradenton)  941-723-4536

Sample some of Florida’s history at the 1850’s sugar cane plantation built by Major Robert Gamble.  See the Southern style mansion and period furniture.

Day Trips:

• Busch Gardens-TAMPA, 3000 E. Busch Blvd,  813-987-5082

Hope you like roller coasters, because Busch Gardens has quite a few of them!  Everything you are looking for in a theme park. Shows, dining and much more.

• Adventure Island-TAMPA, McKinley Ave, (Across from Busch Gardens),  813-987-5600

One of Florida’s best water parks, Adventure Island is conveniently located across the street from Busch Gardens.  Boasting over 15 water attractions, you’re sure to get wet!

• Walt Disney World/Epcot Center/MGM Studios/other Disney Attractions, Orlando,  407-824-4321

All of your Disney attractions are located in the Orlando region.  See all of your Disney friends!

• Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure, Orlando,  407-363-8000

Ride the movies at Universal Studios, then ride the rides at Islands of Adventure!

• Sea World, ORLANDO,  407-351-3600

Excellent aquatic shows will fill your day at this park!