Day trips from Sarasota, FL
From Sarasota, Florida
10 Amazing Destinations
Perfect for day trips
Sarasota, Florida, is a fantastic base for exploring the diverse attractions of the Sunshine State. From historic towns and vibrant cultural sites to stunning natural landscapes and relaxing beaches, there's no shortage of exciting day trips within driving distance. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, these destinations offer a variety of experiences that cater to different interests and preferences. Pack your bags, grab your friends, and get ready to discover the best of what Florida has to offer!
1. St. Augustine
As the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine is a treasure trove of history and culture. Explore the iconic Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress that offers stunning views of the city and the Matanzas River. Stroll through the historic district, where you'll find beautifully preserved colonial architecture, charming shops, and delicious restaurants. Don't miss the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where you can learn about the city's indigenous history and enjoy a scenic walk along the waterfront.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Castillo de San Marcos
- ✓Historic District
- ✓Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
- ✓St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
2. Naples
Known for its upscale shopping, beautiful beaches, and stunning sunsets, Naples is a perfect day trip destination from Sarasota. Spend the morning exploring the Naples Pier, where you can fish, enjoy the views, or simply relax and watch the world go by. In the afternoon, head to the Naples Botanical Garden, a 170-acre oasis featuring a variety of themed gardens and lush landscapes. For a taste of local culture, visit the Artis–Naples, a performing arts center that hosts a wide range of concerts and events throughout the year.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Naples Pier
- ✓Naples Botanical Garden
- ✓Artis–Naples
- ✓Fifth Avenue South for shopping and dining
3. Crystal River
Crystal River is a nature lover's paradise, offering a unique blend of wildlife, water activities, and historic sites. Start your day at the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, where you can kayak or paddleboard through the crystal-clear waters and spot manatees in their natural habitat. Next, visit the Crystal River Archaeological State Park, home to the ancient Temple Mound Complex and the Crystal River Indian Mounds. For a taste of local history, explore the Crystal River Preserve State Park, which features a variety of hiking trails and scenic overlooks.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
- ✓Crystal River Archaeological State Park
- ✓Crystal River Preserve State Park
- ✓Kings Bay for water activities
4. Tampa
Tampa is a vibrant city with a rich history and a diverse range of attractions. Start your day at the Tampa Riverwalk, a scenic path that winds along the Hillsborough River and offers stunning views of the city skyline. Next, visit the Tampa Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art. For a taste of local history, explore the Ybor City Historic District, where you'll find beautifully preserved buildings, charming shops, and delicious restaurants. Don't miss the Tampa Bay History Center, which offers a fascinating look at the region's past.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Tampa Riverwalk
- ✓Tampa Museum of Art
- ✓Ybor City Historic District
- ✓Tampa Bay History Center
5. Clearwater
Clearwater is a popular beach destination known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Start your day at Clearwater Beach, where you can relax on the sand, swim in the ocean, or try your hand at water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking. Next, visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, a world-class facility dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine animals. For a taste of local history, explore the Clearwater Historic Village, which features a variety of historic buildings and exhibits.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Clearwater Beach
- ✓Clearwater Marine Aquarium
- ✓Clearwater Historic Village
- ✓Pier 60 for shopping and dining
6. Miami
Miami is a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse cultural attractions. Start your day at South Beach, where you can relax on the sand, swim in the ocean, or try your hand at water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking. Next, visit the Wynwood Walls, an outdoor museum featuring vibrant street murals by global artists. For a taste of local history, explore the Art Deco Historic District, which features beautifully preserved buildings from the 1930s. Don't miss the Perez Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art.
What to See & Do:
- ✓South Beach
- ✓Wynwood Walls
- ✓Art Deco Historic District
- ✓Perez Art Museum
7. Gainesville
Gainesville is a charming college town known for its vibrant arts scene, historic sites, and natural attractions. Start your day at the Florida Museum of Natural History, which houses an impressive collection of exhibits on Florida's natural history. Next, visit the Harn Museum of Art, which features a diverse collection of art from around the world. For a taste of local history, explore the Matheson History Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the region's past. Don't miss the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, which features a variety of themed gardens and lush landscapes.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Florida Museum of Natural History
- ✓Harn Museum of Art
- ✓Matheson History Museum
- ✓Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
Available Tours:
8. Cedar Key
Cedar Key is a charming coastal town known for its stunning sunsets, historic sites, and natural attractions. Start your day at the Cedar Key Museum State Park, which features a variety of historic buildings and exhibits. Next, visit the Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge, which offers a unique blend of wildlife, water activities, and scenic views. For a taste of local history, explore the Cedar Key Lighthouse, which offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding waters. Don't miss the Cedar Key Scenic Highway, which features a variety of scenic overlooks and historic sites.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Cedar Key Museum State Park
- ✓Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge
- ✓Cedar Key Lighthouse
- ✓Cedar Key Scenic Highway
9. Dunedin
Dunedin is a charming coastal town known for its stunning beaches, historic sites, and natural attractions. Start your day at Honeymoon Island State Park, which features a variety of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Next, visit the Dunedin Historic District, which features a variety of historic buildings and exhibits. For a taste of local history, explore the Dunedin Causeway, which offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding waters. Don't miss the Dunedin Fine Art Center, which features a variety of exhibits and events throughout the year.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Honeymoon Island State Park
- ✓Dunedin Historic District
- ✓Dunedin Causeway
- ✓Dunedin Fine Art Center
10. St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg is a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches, vibrant arts scene, and diverse cultural attractions. Start your day at the Dalí Museum, which houses an impressive collection of works by the famous surrealist artist. Next, visit the St. Petersburg Museum of History, which offers a fascinating look at the region's past. For a taste of local history, explore the St. Petersburg Pier, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Don't miss the Salvador Dalí Museum, which features a variety of exhibits and events throughout the year.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Dalí Museum
- ✓St. Petersburg Museum of History
- ✓St. Petersburg Pier
- ✓Salvador Dalí Museum
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