Top Sarasota Cultural Tours

On this self-guided bicycle tour, you’ll discover how an unlikely cast of characters – from a Fig Newton millionaire, to platform divers who dodged sharks – transformed a barrier island into a beloved community. You’ll encounter the island’s famous “mosquito jail” – a 1927 lockup with barred windows but no glass, where biting insects proved more effective than bars at deterring crime. You’ll pedal past the Roser Memorial Church, built by Charles Roser, who created the Fig Newton cookie and the process to make it then sold his creation Nabisco for a million dollars in 1890 Along the way, you’ll learn about the making of Hollywood’s 1948 film On an Island With You, and explore Bean Point where the island’s first homesteader settled in 1892. You’ll also ride past sites devastated by 2024’s hurricanes and discover how this community of 1,000 residents rallied to rebuild.

Immerse yourself in Sarasota's coastal mangrove forests, look out for dolphins and manatees, and practice kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding skills on this immersive, small-group tour. After departing from the Turtle Beach Boat Launch, paddle out on Sarasota Bay and practice with your equipment. Then, head into the mangrove islands of the Jim Neville Preserve for your best chance to see local marine life including dolphins.

Let your local guide, who’s also an actor and songwriter, show you around Sarasota on this cabaret-style tour of the city. Start with free wine or beer in the Trolley Cottage Tiki Bar before setting off in an air-conditioned trolley, with stops at Lido Beach in time for sunset, and Sun King Brewery for some craft beer tasting and a tour.

Increase your chances of spotting manatees and dolphins during an eco-friendly kayak tour of the Lido Key in Sarasota. Ideal for lovers of nature and wildlife, this experience lets you escape the crowds on land and is suitable for both beginner and advanced paddlers. Plus, traveling in a non-motorized vessel means you’re less likely to scare away animals.

Enjoy one of Florida's best beaches at sunset on an electric bike tour. With 5-level pedal assist and an on-demand throttle, the electric bike allows you to put in as much or as little effort as you want as you ride along Siesta Key. All experience levels are welcome. Booking in advance ensures you won't miss out on this small-group tour.

For something different than beaches, discover one of Sarasota's most unique communities on an insider’s tour of Pinecraft, an Amish vacation enclave right on the outskirts of town. Led by a guide with personal connections to the local Amish and Mennonite communities, learn about their roots in Florida, traditional customs, and beliefs. You’ll also have the chance to shop for handmade gifts and sample famous pie at an Amish cafe.

Sarasota has a history unlike most cities—one that’s embedded with tales of the circus and its special performers. Avoid guidebooks and book this Sarasota Circus Secrets History Tour led by a circus historian. Hear stories and commentary about the city’s performing past and its quirky art and culture scene, including tales of showmen and performers of the circus.

Join us on Tuesdays January-April for our NEW Venice, FL Tours! Experience a full day of fun on our 10 AM Venice City Sightseeing Tour or our 1 PM Circus Secrets of Venice tour. Discover the history, landmarks, neighborhoods, natural beauty, and things to do in Venice, FL on the Venice City Sightseeing Tour! Offered in partnership with Venice Florida Tours guides. Tours depart from the Venice Area Chamber of Commerce – 597 S Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL 34285. ALL guests must be ages 10+. Every guest must have a paid ticket in order to board. Tour ticket includes FREE Parking!

Join a tarot reader to explore a side of Sarasota most tourists don’t get to see. From a sound bath at the Crocker Memorial Church with a sound healer to shopping at the Pixie Dust Metaphysical Boutique, your guide will take you through the city on a comfortable trolley, giving a mini tarot and spirit gallery readings on the way.

Discover the delectable highlights of Sarasota's thriving dining scene on this small-group, evening tasting tour. Meet your guide in central Sarasota, and come with an appetite: you'll visit several local restaurants, and will enjoy enough samples to add up to a meal (alcoholic drinks additional expense). As you go, soak up the convivial atmosphere, and learn more about Sarasota's unique culture and culinary offerings.

Sunsets in Sarasota are even more spectacular when viewed from the water. Join the Sharkey’s sunset and illuminated night tour to discover Sarasota’s waterways in a new light. You’ll slide into a glass bottom kayak that’s outfitted with LED lights. Paddle into the mangroves and grass flats, viewing marine life beneath you and astounding plant life around you. Use your lights to spot crabs, stingrays, shrimp and more.

Learn all about Sarasota’s most famous women, including Rose Wilson, Bertha Palmer, and more, on this entertaining group tour, where the guides dress up in period costumes. Easily find your guide and group, then get settled into your air-conditioned vehicle. All the logistics are taken care of, so you just need to show up ready to learn about some influential Sarasota women in a fun way.

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