At the heart of it all--downtown Sarasota

There's always something cooking downtown

Downtown Sarasota is a cultural and entertainment hub, small enough to walk to most destinations but tight enough to fill your days and nights with entertainment, good eats and decadent drinks.

Within just three square blocks of downtown, almost within sight of Sarasota Bay, is the heart of Sarasota's rich arts scene. The historic Sarasota Opera House is an art deco masterpiece of the 1930s, home to a nationally recognized opera company that pulls talent from across the world. The intimate, 1,000 seat theater inside also hosts the performances of the renowned Sarasota Ballet.

Head around the ivy-covered restaurant next door, then down a block and you'll find the multiple stages of the Florida Studio Theatre, featuring full seasons of beloved classics and edgy new plays, along with improv comedy and live music in their cabaret.

Downtown Sarasota's Main Street is home to the largest array of dining options in the area, with multiple sushi spots, upscale Italian, Peruvian and many, many more (including the best pizza in town). Whether you want a plate of mussels and fries with a limited-edition American craft-brew, or seared local grouper with a California Sauvignon Blanc, not only does downtown have it readily at hand, you'll probably have to choose between several places.

Walk out satisfied from dinner and you'll hear the sounds of music close at hand. Downtown Sarasota's bars and nightclubs make for a lively local music scene, with everything from acoustic jazz to driving rock beats to go with your draft beer or dry martini. If melodic noise isn't your thing, there are also cozy lounges tucked into historic Sarasota buildings -- perfect for a retro-Manhattan -- and chic spots that are masterpieces of modern design. 

Sometimes, vacation or not, you'll need to check the score of the game at one of downtown Sarasota's sports bars. Might as well get a burger and some wings while you're there.

The excitement of downtown Sarasota doesn't die during the day. Beautiful Palm Avenue is lined with galleries and unique shops -- that could take up most of your day. Just south of Main Street is the Towles Court art district, featuring galleries, restaurants and shops tucked into a historic paradise. After eating lunch on the deck of one of Towles Court's restaurants, take a stroll through neighboring Laurel Park and gaze at the Spanish Mediterranean architecture of the area.

Visit the Downtown Sarasota Alliance's home page to learn more about downtown.