Are you looking to explore beyond the beautiful city of Sarasota, FL? Embark on exciting day trips from Sarasota FL to discover the diverse attractions and natural wonders that Florida has to offer. From pristine beaches to charming historic towns, there is no shortage of adventures waiting just a short drive away. Join us as we guide you through the best day trip destinations near Sarasota FL, providing you with unforgettable experiences and lasting memories.
St. Petersburg
Travel tips
- Distance from Sarasota FL to St. Petersburg: 35 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour
- How to get there from Sarasota FL: You can take the Greyhound bus from Sarasota Greyhound Station to St. Petersburg Greyhound Station. Alternatively, you can take the Amtrak train from Sarasota Amtrak Station to Tampa Union Station, then transfer to a bus or taxi to reach St. Petersburg.
- Click for Google maps directions: St. Petersburg
Exploring St. Petersburg: Things to do
St. Petersburg, known for its vibrant arts scene and beautiful waterfront, is a must-see destination for visitors to Florida’s Gulf Coast. One of the top attractions in St. Petersburg is the Salvador Dali Museum, which houses the largest collection of Dali’s works outside of Spain. Art enthusiasts will also appreciate the Chihuly Collection, showcasing the stunning glass art of Dale Chihuly.
For nature lovers, a visit to the Sunken Gardens is a must. This historic botanical garden features lush tropical plants, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant flamingos. Stroll along the scenic waterfront of St. Petersburg and enjoy the views of Tampa Bay, or take a leisurely bike ride along the Pinellas Trail.
Foodies will delight in the diverse culinary scene of St. Petersburg, with an array of restaurants offering everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local craft beers at one of the many breweries in the area.
Whether you’re interested in art, nature, or gastronomy, St. Petersburg offers something for everyone. Plan a day trip to this charming city and discover all that it has to offer.
Tampa
Travel tips
- Distance from Sarasota FL to Tampa: 60 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour
- How to get there from Sarasota FL: You can take the Greyhound bus from Sarasota Greyhound Station to Tampa Greyhound Station. Alternatively, you can take the Amtrak train from Sarasota Amtrak Station to Tampa Union Station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Tampa
Exploring Tampa: Things to do
Tampa is a vibrant city on Florida’s Gulf Coast that offers a diverse range of activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the top attractions in Tampa is the world-renowned Busch Gardens, a thrilling theme park that combines exciting rides with up-close animal encounters. For those interested in history, the Tampa Bay History Center provides a fascinating look into the region’s past.
Nature lovers will appreciate a visit to the beautiful Tampa Riverwalk, a scenic pathway that winds along the Hillsborough River and offers stunning views of the city skyline. Sports enthusiasts can catch a Tampa Bay Buccaneers football game at Raymond James Stadium or cheer on the Tampa Bay Lightning hockey team at Amalie Arena.
Foodies will delight in Tampa’s culinary scene, which features a mix of international cuisines and fresh seafood. Don’t miss the chance to sample some authentic Cuban sandwiches or indulge in a delicious bowl of seafood gumbo.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing day by the water, Tampa has something for everyone. Plan your day trip from Sarasota to Tampa and discover all that this dynamic city has to offer.
Siesta Key
Travel tips
- Distance of Siesta Key from Sarasota FL: Approximately 7 miles
- Time to get there: Around 20 minutes by car
- How to get there from Sarasota FL: Take the Tamiami Trail southbound until you reach Siesta Key. There are no specific bus or train stations directly to Siesta Key.
- Click for Google maps directions: Siesta Key
Exploring Siesta Key: Things to do
Siesta Key is a must-see destination for those seeking pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The main attraction of Siesta Key is its world-renowned Siesta Beach, known for its powdery soft sand that never gets hot, making it perfect for barefoot walks and beach lounging. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and picnicking at this award-winning beach.
Apart from the beach, Siesta Key offers a range of water activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking in the calm Gulf of Mexico waters. Nature lovers can explore the mangrove tunnels at nearby Turtle Beach or go birdwatching at the Jim Neville Marine Preserve.
For those interested in shopping and dining, Siesta Key Village is a quaint area filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can stroll around the village, grab a bite to eat, or shop for souvenirs to take back home.
In the evenings, watching the sunset at Siesta Beach is a magical experience not to be missed. The sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors as the sun dips below the horizon, creating a picturesque backdrop for romantic walks along the shore.
Overall, Siesta Key offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for a day trip from Sarasota.
Anna Maria Island
Travel tips
- Distance from Sarasota FL: Approximately 20 miles
- Time to get there: Around 45 minutes by car
- How to get there: You can drive to Anna Maria Island from Sarasota by taking the Gulf Drive route. There are also shuttle services available for a convenient ride.
- Click for Google maps directions: Anna Maria Island
Exploring Anna Maria Island: Things to do
Anna Maria Island, with its pristine beaches and charming atmosphere, is a must-see destination for those seeking a relaxing getaway. The island offers a laid-back vibe that is perfect for unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast.
One of the top activities on Anna Maria Island is spending a day at the beach. With soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, the beaches here are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking. Don’t miss out on catching a stunning sunset over the Gulf of Mexico – it’s a sight to behold.
For nature lovers, a visit to the Robinson Preserve is a must. This expansive nature reserve features hiking trails, kayak launches, and diverse wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching and exploring the local ecosystem.
Foodies will delight in the island’s dining scene, which offers a variety of restaurants serving fresh seafood and local specialties. From beachfront cafes to upscale dining establishments, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Exploring the quaint shops and art galleries in the island’s charming villages is also a popular pastime. You can pick up unique souvenirs, handmade crafts, and local artwork to remember your trip by.
Overall, Anna Maria Island is a hidden gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and local charm. Whether you’re looking to unwind on the beach, explore nature reserves, or indulge in delicious cuisine, this island has something for everyone.
Fort Myers
Travel tips
- Distance from Sarasota FL: Approximately 75 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 hours by car
- How to get there: Take I-75 S from Sarasota and continue on this route until you reach Fort Myers. Alternatively, you can also take a Greyhound bus from Sarasota to Fort Myers. The nearest train station is in Tampa, so you would need to transfer to a bus or rental car to reach Fort Myers.
- Click for Google maps directions: Fort Myers
Exploring Fort Myers: Things to do
Fort Myers, a vibrant city on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is a must-see destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. One of the top attractions in Fort Myers is the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, where visitors can explore the historic homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, as well as beautiful botanical gardens.
For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is a must. This sanctuary is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including migratory birds, manatees, and alligators. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, kayaking, and hiking along the refuge’s scenic trails.
Art lovers will appreciate the vibrant arts scene in Fort Myers, with galleries, museums, and public art installations scattered throughout the city. The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center and the Art of the Olympians Museum are popular stops for those interested in contemporary art and cultural exhibitions.
If you’re looking for a relaxing day by the water, head to Fort Myers Beach, where you can soak up the sun on white sandy beaches, swim in the clear Gulf waters, or enjoy water sports like paddleboarding and parasailing. Don’t miss the opportunity to catch a breathtaking sunset over the Gulf of Mexico from the iconic Fort Myers Pier.
With its mix of history, nature, art, and outdoor activities, Fort Myers offers something for every type of traveler, making it a must-see destination in Southwest Florida.
Naples
Travel tips
- Distance of Naples from Sarasota FL: Approximately 135 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2.5 hours by car
- How to get there from Sarasota FL: You can drive to Naples via I-75 S or take a Greyhound bus from Sarasota to Naples. The nearest train station is in Tampa, so you would need to transfer to a bus or taxi to reach Naples.
- Click for Google maps directions: Naples
Exploring Naples: Things to do
Naples, Florida, is a must-see destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and relaxation. Known for its pristine beaches and upscale shopping and dining options, Naples offers a diverse range of activities for visitors.
One of the top attractions in Naples is the Naples Pier, a historic landmark that provides stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and is perfect for a leisurely stroll or fishing. Nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby Everglades National Park, where they can spot wildlife such as alligators and exotic birds on airboat tours.
For art and culture lovers, the Naples Art District is a hub of galleries and studios showcasing local artists’ works. The Baker Museum at Artis—Naples is another cultural gem, featuring a collection of contemporary art and performances by renowned artists.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like kayaking in the mangroves, biking along scenic trails, or playing golf at world-class courses. The Naples Botanical Garden is a serene oasis with lush tropical plants and themed gardens to explore.
Foodies will delight in Naples’ culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants offering fresh seafood, farm-to-table cuisine, and international flavors. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample the famous key lime pie, a local favorite dessert.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore nature, indulge in shopping, or savor delicious meals, Naples has something for everyone. Plan a day trip to Naples from Sarasota and experience the charm and beauty of this vibrant coastal city.
Orlando
Travel tips
- Distance from Sarasota FL to Orlando: 132 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 2 hours
- How to get there from Sarasota FL: You can take a Greyhound bus from Sarasota Greyhound Station to Orlando Greyhound Station. Alternatively, you can drive via I-4 E.
- Orlando
Exploring Orlando: Things to do
Orlando, known as the “Theme Park Capital of the World,” is a must-see destination for travelers of all ages. Home to world-renowned attractions such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, Orlando offers a diverse range of activities that cater to every interest.
For thrill-seekers, a visit to Universal Studios Florida is a must. Experience the magic of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, ride adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, and immerse yourself in the world of your favorite movies and TV shows.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, head to Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando. Take a leisurely swan boat ride on the lake, explore the farmer’s market on Sundays, or simply relax and enjoy the scenic views of the city skyline.
For nature lovers, a trip to the Harry P. Leu Gardens is a must. Explore 50 acres of beautiful gardens featuring tropical and subtropical plants, stunning floral displays, and peaceful walking paths.
Don’t miss out on the vibrant culinary scene in Orlando. From food trucks to fine dining restaurants, the city offers a diverse array of dining options to satisfy every palate. Be sure to try local favorites such as Cuban sandwiches, key lime pie, and fresh seafood.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Orlando has something for everyone. Plan your visit to this dynamic city and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
