Taste of Downtown Sarasota: History and Tasting Walking Tour
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Our most popular tour and it often sells out! Guided by a local expert, you will walk and learn fascinating facts, folklore, culture, famous founders and current residents, the food scene and current events.
The emphasis of this tour is on the unique history, culture and lifestyle of Sarasota! Light bites are experienced along the route for quick introductions to some of the popular spots.
This is a group activity that requires a minimum of 4 guests to operate! For corporate groups, please inquire-those require advanced planning and more detailed information.
Available options
Taste of Downtown Sarasota
Professional tour guide: Guided walking tour led by an area expert who brings his/her own personality to the experience. This is not a scripted tour. <br/>Duration: 3 hours: tours last 3-3.5 hours, depending on size of group, and pace of walking<br/>tastings from restaurants: light bites/water (server gratuity/sales tax included). Sodas/tea/coffee/alcoholic beverages can be purchased by guests<br/>downtown Sarasota: Generally a perimeter tour through several blocks of downtown w/ stops for talking points & food samplers. Around 1.5-2 miles
What's included
History of the city, landmarks, popular spots & art/culture
Personal Tour Guide
Scenic Walk
Helpful insight into the lifestyle of this unique city, things to do, a relaxed and fun time!
Sampler plates/tax/server gratuity at each stop
Private tours available-inquire
Detailed itinerary
1
This tour is for you if you are looking for a unique culinary experience, a romantic night out, or to just have fun socializing with friends and family. Our 3.5-hour walking tour of Downtown Sarasota is a combination of food, fun and folklore that intertwines local history, art, and culture, along with a few diverse sampler plates, creating a culinary journey to remember! Some treasures along the way: Miramar, 1st train depot, speakeasys, Orange Blossom Hotel, 1st skyscraper, and more!
What's not included
Gratuities for your tour guide (recommend 15%-25% of purchase price). Will be added to private tours
Beverages not included (water IS)
Parking fees or transportation-pls arrange for a ride if drinking alcohol
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
75 reviews
5★
64
4★
8
3★
3
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.7
114 reviews
5★
94
4★
11
3★
3
2★
4
1★
2
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please consult with your medical advisor-this is a walking tour
No smoking or vaping is allowed during a tour-some guests may have allergies, asthma, autoimmune conditions
Meeting point
Meet at the State Street Garage entrance next to A Sprig of Thyme.
Important notes
Present redemption ticket to tour guide at meeting point
About Sarasota
Sarasota, known as The Cultural Coast, is a vibrant city on Florida's Gulf Coast. It offers a unique blend of beautiful beaches, world-class performing arts, and a rich history, making it a diverse and appealing destination for all types of travelers.
Top Attractions
Siesta Key Beach
Siesta Key Beach is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the United States. It offers powdery white sand, clear turquoise waters, and a variety of amenities.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
The Ringling Museum
The Ringling Museum is a comprehensive art and history museum complex featuring the works of John and Mable Ringling, the circus magnate and his wife. The museum includes a circus museum, an art museum, a historic house, and beautiful gardens.
Museum
2-3 hours
$25 for adults, discounts for seniors and children
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a 15-acre botanical garden and research facility specializing in epiphytic plants, particularly orchids and bromeliads. The gardens feature a variety of themed areas, including a rose garden, a palm garden, and a children's garden.
Nature
1-2 hours
$20 for adults, discounts for seniors and children
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Sarasota Jungle Gardens is a 20-acre botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary featuring a variety of exotic plants, birds, and animals. The gardens offer a unique opportunity to see wildlife up close, including flamingos, lemurs, and alligators.
Nature
1-2 hours
$20 for adults, discounts for seniors and children
Sarasota Opera House
The Sarasota Opera House is a historic theater and the home of the Sarasota Opera. The theater hosts a variety of performances, including opera, concerts, and special events. The building itself is a beautiful example of Art Deco architecture.
Cultural
2-3 hours for a performance
Varies by performance, typically $25-$150
Must-Try Local Dishes
Grouper Sandwich
A local favorite featuring fresh grouper, a type of fish commonly found in the Gulf of Mexico, served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.
Lunch
Gluten-free options available
Key Lime Pie
A classic Florida dessert made with key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust.
Dessert
Vegan and gluten-free options available
Stone Crab
A Florida specialty featuring stone crab claws, typically served chilled with mustard sauce.
Dinner
Gluten-free options available
Citrus Salad
A refreshing salad made with a variety of Florida citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines, often served with a honey-lime dressing.
Appetizer
Vegan and gluten-free
Popular Activities
Kayaking
Paddleboarding
Snorkeling
Scuba Diving
Beachcombing
Sunbathing
Spa treatments
Yoga
Best Time to Visit
November to April
This is the most popular time to visit Sarasota due to the pleasant weather and numerous outdoor activities. It's also the peak season for cultural events and festivals.
15-27°C
60-80°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (UTC-5)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Sarasota is generally a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less touristy areas
Getting there
By air
- Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport • 5 miles (8 km)
By bus
Sarasota Greyhound Station
Getting around
Public transport
SCAT offers affordable and reliable bus service with multiple routes and schedules. The system is easy to use with clear signage and helpful drivers.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Sarasota
Siesta Key
Southside Village
The Rosemary District
Day trips
Myakka River State Park
25 miles (40 km) • Full day
Myakka River State Park is a large and diverse state park offering a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. The park is home to a variety of animals, including alligators, birds, and deer.
Venice
20 miles (32 km) • Half day to full day
Venice is a charming coastal city known for its historic downtown, beautiful beaches, and world-class fishing. The city offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, as well as a variety of outdoor activities.
Lake Okeechobee
100 miles (160 km) • Full day to overnight
Lake Okeechobee is the largest freshwater lake in Florida and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, as well as birds and other wildlife.
Festivals
Sarasota Film Festival • April
Sarasota Jazz Festival • October
Sarasota Chalk Festival • November
Pro tips
- Visit Siesta Key Beach early in the morning for the best parking and fewer crowds
- Explore the historic downtown area on foot to discover local shops, cafes, and galleries
- Check the schedule for the Sarasota Farmers Market and other local events and festivals
- Rent a bike or scooter to explore the city and surrounding areas
- Try local specialties like stone crab, grouper, and key lime pie
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
