Destination Downtown Sarasota

welcome to the heart of downtown sarasota

More than 300 Boutiques Specialty Shops Galleries, and Restaurants

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA EVENTs

First Friday

First Friday Downtown Sarasota from 4-7 PM

Experience the allure of downtown Sarasota at our 1st Friday “Sip & Shop” event, happening from October 4, 2024, to April 4, 2025. Every first Friday of the month from 4 PM to 7 PM, join us for an evening filled with shopping, sipping, and dining delights. 

Come visit your favorite merchants and shop owners along the 1300-1500 blocks of Main Street, as well as 1st & 2nd Streets, Pineapple, Palm Ave., Central Ave., and Lemon Ave. See you there!

Shop local

Behind every successful downtown are the hardworking merchants who make it happen. So let’s give a big shoutout to these incredible folks, whose time, passion, and expertise keep our downtown district vibrant and thriving!  Here’s where to SHOP!

seafood & music festival

Join us for the Sarasota Seafood and Music Festival, a vibrant celebration taking place at JD Hamel Park along the picturesque Sarasota Bayfront from Friday, January 3rd, at 4 PM through Sunday, January 5th.

live music

Friday, Jan. 3rd: Naughty Naughty Girl from 5:30PM to 7:30PM and Chaz Collins from 8PM to 10PM. 

Saturday, Jan. 4th: Mike Tozier from 11AM to 1PM, The Boomers from 1:30PM to 3:30PM, Yaya Diamond from 4PM to 6PM and Cross Creek Fire 6:30PM to 8PM, Chris Anderson from 8:30PM to 10PM.  

Sunday, Jan. 5th: One Night Rodeo from 11AM-1PM, Big Night Out from 1:30PM to 3:30PM, Brian Byrd from 4:00PM to 6:00.  Bands and time are subject to change.

This free event features a fantastic lineup of live music to kick off the weekend, along with a mouthwatering array of fresh seafood, refreshing beer, wine, and drinks. Families are welcome, with plenty of fun activities for kids, including a rock wall and engaging games. Stroll through a walkable shopping area brimming with arts and crafts vendors. Don’t miss this opportunity to savor great food, enjoy live entertainment, and explore unique local crafts in a stunning waterfront setting

Held at Five Points Park, this Parisian-inspired marketplace features a curated selection of unique gifts, artisanal goods, and festive treats. With charming booths and an inviting atmosphere, you’ll find everything you need to make your holiday season special, all while enjoying the ambiance of a European market right in downtown Sarasota.

Le marche

Le Marché Parisian-Inspired Marketplace at Five Points Park on March 8th offers the perfect opportunity to get a head start on your holiday shopping.

Downtown Sarasota is beautifully positioned along the Sarasota Bayfront, offering a stunning blend of urban vibrancy and natural beauty.

In addition to its natural allure, the Bayfront’s proximity to downtown ensures that the area is a lively hub of activity. The downtown district features a mix of boutique shops, art galleries, fine dining establishments, and entertainment venues, all enhanced by the scenic backdrop of the bay.
The Bayfront area is characterized by its expansive green spaces, including parks and promenades, which offer direct access to the sparkling waters of Sarasota Bay. These areas are ideal for outdoor activities such as jogging, picnicking, and enjoying the serene waterfront atmosphere. The proximity to the bay also means that downtown Sarasota benefits from stunning sunsets and a refreshing coastal breeze.
Sarasota is beautifully positioned along the Sarasota Bayfront, offering a stunning blend of urban vibrancy and natural beauty. This prime location provides residents and visitors with picturesque waterfront views, making it a popular spot for leisurely strolls, dining, and cultural activities.

HOLIDAY PROMOTIONS & MERCHANT EVENTS

google reviews of downtown sarasota

La pase super bien la actividad quedó perfecta buena música, buen servicio de comidas gracias bendiciones
Shop Sarasota Google Reviews. Local Google restaurant reviews.
Daniel
Downtown Sarasota has to be one of the best weekend places visit if your looking for great breakfast spots and quarkie little shops. At night time there is a wonderful selection of restaurants to choose from. Definitely a must visit spot.
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Joanna
Downtown is just plain fun .. plan a visit to an event , farmers market , shopping excursion, open house tour, or just simply having a cup of tea / coffee, Just take a moment to witness everything good we have in our backyard
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John Doe
Downtown Sarasota is peaceful, beautiful and very friendly, had a wonderful time strolling around
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Lisa

Come enjoy bustling streets, lively events, and a sense of belonging that fills the air.

join today!