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Destination Downtown Sarasota

welcome to the heart of downtown sarasota

More than 300 Boutiques Specialty Shops Galleries, and Restaurants

Shop Top Local Men's & Womens Fashion

Local Optical & Sunglass Stores

Leading Local Service Providers

Fitness & Beauty: Top Gyms & Spas in Downtown

Art, Gifts,& Home Décor: Creative Treasures

Specialty Stores

Hotels & Real Estate: Explore Downtown Sarasota's Best Stays and Properties

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!ve.

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Shop local
Sarasota Local Businesses

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!

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Le marche
Le Marché Parisian-Inspired Marketplace at Five Points Park on November 2nd offers a perfect opportunity to get a head start on your holiday shopping!
LeMarche
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.
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new years eve

  • Ring in the New Year at Sarasota’s most exciting event: the NYE Pineapple Drop and Block Party! This annual celebration is a must-attend, offering fun and festivities for everyone.
Sarasota New Years Eve Celebration Downtown,
Enjoy time with family at the carnival full of thrilling rides and games and stage performances by Gas House Gorillas and other top entertainers. Savor delicious food sold along the fairway, offering a variety of tasty treats.  The iconic Pineapple Drops at midnight followed by a Fireworks display over the Sarasota bayfront.
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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. 

JD Hamel Park
DOWNTOWN SARASOTA VENDOR PAYMENTS
Sarasota Octoberfest
Where to eat downtown Sarasota

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

fine arts & crafts festival

  • Discover creativity and craftsmanship at the Sarasota Fine Arts and Crafts Festival, held at JD Hamel Park across from the scenic Sarasota Bayfront from January 11-13, 2025. 

Main Street Downtown Sarasota and Gulf Stream Blvd

  • This free event showcases a diverse array of fine arts and handmade crafts by talented local and national artists. Wander through the park and explore unique artworks, intricate crafts, and exquisite creations in a vibrant, outdoor setting. Enjoy the artistic atmosphere and meet the artists behind the works. Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply looking for a delightful day out, this festival offers something for everyone in a stunning, waterfront location.

google reviews of downtown sarasota
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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.
Shop Sarasota Google Reviews. Local Google restaurant reviews.
Joanna
Downtown Sarasota is peaceful, beautiful and very friendly, had a wonderful time strolling around
Shop Sarasota Google Reviews. Local Google restaurant reviews.
Lisa
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
Shop Sarasota Google Reviews. Local Google restaurant reviews.
John Doe

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

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.

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Meet the Board: The Passionate Volunteers Shaping Downtown Sarasota

team of volunteers

At Destination Downtown Sarasota, we are a dedicated nonprofit committed to energizing our vibrant community through impactful events and community representation. Our mission is to organize self-sustaining or profitable events that not only bring people together but also generate the funds needed to support and expand our downtown initiatives. By leveraging the success of these events, we help the association acquire resources, enhance local infrastructure, and foster continued growth in our downtown area. Join us in shaping a thriving Sarasota!

Soto’s Optical

Downtown business owners! We strive to do what's right for the community.

Destination Downtown Sarasota

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