Visiting or living in Sarasota, FL, with that special someone? Then, do not miss the most romantic things to do in Sarasota, Florida (USA) and its surrounding areas.
Watch the Sunset in Siesta Key
Sunset at Crescent Beach
Let’s get the obvious suggestion out of the way. Watching a sunset with the person you love is sweet. Watching a sunset with the person you love in Siesta Key, well, that’s magical. Make ‘Siesta’ a stop before or after dinner, and make sure to check the sunset times here. Thinking about staying in Siesta Key for more than an evening? Check out How to Experience Siesta Key Like a Local.
Tip: For fewer crowds, go to Crescent Beach instead of Siesta Beach.
Book a Paint Night
Photo by Kelli Tungay on Unsplash
Take a bottle of wine with you, arrive a little early, and get ready to paint. Have a friendly competition over who is painting better, and have some fun. My husband and I had a great experience at Painting with a Twist in the Lakewood Ranch area. Unfortunately, this location closed, but there is also one in Sarasota. Check them out here.
Tip: To get a more ‘private’ lesson, call in advance to know how many people have booked the session you are interested in or go from Monday through Wednesday.
Enjoy the outdoors on Myakka River State Park.
Myakka River State Park
If you and your significant other enjoy hiking, kayaking, gators and/or bird spotting, this is the place for you. No season is the same at Myakka River State Park, and during Spring and Fall, it is charming. Read more about Myakka River State Park Here.
Go to Music on Main in Lakewood Ranch
Photo by Errico Boccia on Unsplash
Music on Main is a free concert series and block party in Lakewood Ranch. It happens on the first Friday of each month, and the great thing about it is that you can combine it with dinner, shopping, and movies. Click here for more information.
If you are already in the area, don’t miss 20 Things to do in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. There are some romantic ideas here too!
Tip: Be there early. Finding parking can be a hassle sometimes.
Visit the Cà d’Zan (House of John)
View from the tower in the Cà d’Zan
This 30-room mansion was inspired by the Venetian Gothic palaces and was once the winter retreat and office for John Ringling. If the last name sounds familiar, it is because of Ringling’s influence in Sarasota and the Circus World. John Ringling is also known as the Circus King, once President of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus.
The mansion, now turned museum, reflects the extravagant taste of John and his wife, Mable. Every room has a different theme and lavish items from all around the world. After the mansion’s tour, stroll through the gardens and enjoy the views of the Gulf.
Tip: Ca’ d’Zan docent-led tours at the Ringling Museum are scheduled throughout the day (timed entry), and its price varies depending on how many floors it includes. Click here for more information about Ringling Museum Admissions and Tours.
There’s also an excellent restaurant on-site, Muse.
Forgot to share a delicious dinner I had a few weeks ago at Muse @TheRingling. It is missing the wine pairing and the lemon bar, which were also great. The menu was from @VisitSarasota Savor Sarasota, but you can still find these items on the menu. pic.twitter.com/OY3L1ip8St
— Sheila Berrios (@goldenagetrips) June 26, 2019
Stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
If the last picture still didn’t convince you, check out the list of Best Luxury Hotels for Boomers 2018, where I talk more about why The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is one of the ultimate weekend experiences in the area.
Are you looking for other romantic places to stay in Florida? Don’t miss a list of the Most Romantic Hotels in Florida.
Enjoy a Picnic
Photo by Agence Producteurs Locaux Damien Kühn on Unsplash
If you want to impress your significant other, order a cheese and charcuterie box from Artisan Cheese Company in Downtown Sarasota. Choose a lovely spot to eat & drink, and enjoy!
See and buy some flowers at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.
View of the Sarasota Bay from the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Take some time to visit the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Its collection of bromeliads and orchids is one of the biggest in the world, and the views you have of the Sarasota Bay from the garden cannot be beaten. There is always something going on, from art displays to exciting lectures, so keep up to date by clicking here.