Indoor Activities in Sarasota
Museums, arcades, theatres, and rainy day activities for when you want to stay cool in the Sarasota area.
Homeowners, this one's for you—browse vendors and ideas for your next renovation, repair, or refresh project. Free with online registration.
Ten days of independent film spanning narratives, documentaries, shorts, and Florida filmmakers. The 28th annual festival opens with Deep Water, with Q&As and special events mixed in throughout.
- Every Tuesday
Preschool Storytime at the Lakewood Ranch Library
Picture books, songs, rhymes, and movement activities for ages 3–5, designed to build kindergarten readiness skills. Room capacity is 40, so grab a number when you arrive. Registration required.
- Every Wednesday
Toddler Storytime at Lakewood Ranch Library
Stories, songs, rhymes, and movement activities for ages 18 months to 3 years. Room capacity is 40, so grab a number when you arrive. Registration required.
- Every Monday
Baby Storytime at the Lakewood Ranch Library
Stories, songs, rhymes, and sensory play for babies from birth to 18 months and their caregivers. Room capacity is 40, so grab a number when you arrive.
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
A brand new, three-story aquarium featuring sharks, manatees, sea turtles, and interactive research exhibits — built by actual marine scientists.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Sarasota's iconic purple seashell-shaped performing arts hall on the bayfront, hosting Broadway tours, concerts, comedy acts, and the Sarasota Orchestra.
The Mall at UTC
Sarasota's premier shopping destination with 150+ stores and restaurants including Macy's and Dillard's, plus a kids' play area and year-round events.
Asolo Repertory Theatre
One of Florida's premier professional theaters performing on the Ringling campus with a mix of classics, new works, and musicals year-round.
Florida Studio Theatre
Sarasota's contemporary theatre with five intimate stages in the heart of downtown, known for new plays, cabarets, improv, and its popular Winter Fest.
McCurdy's Comedy Club
Sarasota's go-to comedy club featuring touring national headliners and local talent, with a full bar and intimate showroom setting.
Sarasota Art Museum
Contemporary art museum housed in a beautifully converted old high school, with rotating exhibitions and a solid bistro. Free on second Sundays.
Livingston's Amusements
A family entertainment center with go-karts, mini golf, bumper boats, an arcade, and batting cages — classic fun for kids and families.
Arcade Monsters
A retro arcade bar with 100+ classic and modern arcade games, pinball machines, craft beer, and a nostalgic vibe. Great for date nights and rainy days.