I recently had a surprisingly wonderful long weekend in Sarasota. It is a great road trip pick for couples, families- even a weekend with your friends. It’s a hassle-free 2 1/2 hour drive from Orlando.
I am excited to share this weekend in Sarasota itinerary with you and see what you do with it!
Where to stay for your weekend in Sarasota
The Arts District
This area is full of restaurants, art galleries, and stores that should satisfy everyone! It is immaculately manicured and full of the perfect mix of old and new.
We stayed in a Marriott though it was a new brand we haven’t had the pleasure of experiencing yet: The Art Ovation. And it definitely deserves a standing ovation!
While the city district grabs your attention from the roads; this hotel grabs you by the nose!
Let me tell you…..the smell in this hotel is amazing. I hope it’s what heaven smells like. Ladies, do not wait in the car while he checks in.
Go inside and sit on the fancy benches in the open and airy lobby and breathe deep.
Lose yourself in the funky and welcoming lounge music coming out of the speakers.
Your weekend in Sarasota starts now!
I went into the lobby store to see if I could buy it.
I really did.
It smells that good!
What to expect from your hotel this weekend in Sarasota
The Art Ovation has a modern and impressive personality. It is deceptively large and well equipped.
The bathroom in the rooms are so fancy! It was one of my favorite parts, next to the the soft robes in the closet!
The breakfast is AMAZING!! They have the most perfect outdoor dining area, but inside the restaurant is also lovely.
It does come with a destination fee of $28 per room. It did have a lot of inclusions though.
What’s included in the fee?
Bike {I was a little upset with this one…the hotel only has 4 bikes to offer and 2 were in the shop} needless to say the cute little wheels are hard to claim unless you are an early riser. The area is so bike able so if you really want to do this i suggest bringing your own. I will next time!
Complimentary in Room Instrument Rental {The only other slight issue in my book….it was a ukulele on the counter top. This is not a perk, Marriott. Cute, but doesn’t get a check for any value!}
Shuttle (3 mile radius) {Totally awesome, totally worth it}
WiFi {Ok, but a given for Marriott rewards members at most levels}
2 Beach Chair rentals & Portable Cooler {Very nice for out of state visitors, again….bring your own. They have lots of ice!}
Self-Parking {Easy parking with a convenient walkway between the hotel and parking garage}
Chandra Says: Drive all the way up to the rooftop early am…sunset…for a nice view!!
Art/Wine Toast {Try to fit this in before heading out for the evening}
Daily Arts Immersion Program These are ongoing in the lobby and are very VERY cool! There is random live art being created right there in the lobby and left on display. It is like being privy to an artist’s studio.
During this weekend in Sarasota, I ventured out early each day for coffee in the cutest coffee shop that is located under the walkway to the hotel. Called Buddy Brew, they have an adorable puppy icon for their logo and wonderfully made coffee. It was a unique place to sit and watch Sarasota wake up.
Enjoy the best weekend Sarasota has to offer with this sample itinerary:
Arrival Evening
ART Paint Night I think a work of art, created by you in the arts district of Sarasota is the perfect souvenir!
Chandra Says: Eat dinner by 9pm. This town closes down early!
Day 1
Early bike ride (or walk) Bayfront Park
The Ringling Circus Museum {You must get house upgrade.}
Start at the restaurant for dessert. They have delectable offerings, and it should be a dessert first kinda day.
Hotel lobby art experiences
Catch a show at the Florida Studio Theatre theater {right across the street}
Dinner at Element {Late night hours exception} I don’t normally give dining recommendations, but this was a great experience!
Day 2
Pool Hangout {The hotel boasts a rooftop pool that will surprise you with its understated glamour} The hot bartenders don’t hurt either.
Night drive to view the sunset Siesta Key to Longboat Key
This would be a good day to do a dolpin tour. If this is a family trip for you, this tour company is great!
Day 3
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens deserves a visit on the way home. If you are an Orlando resident and member of Leu Gardens you can get in with your membership!!
There is actually so much more to the love about the town of Sarasota and this area of Florida!
The Treasure Coast really has the best sunsets in Florida.
There is so much Florida history surrounding this place that it begs for a return visit!
What did I miss on this weekend trip in Sarasota?
What can you not wait to visit?
Until next time,
Chandra Says: Girl, Get Going!
Join the Conversation | Comment Below!
Share | Is there someone in your life that should read this?
Go ahead…make my day! Forward this to someone you love!
Subscribe | Enter your details and get special delivery of this blog to your inbox!