Best Outdoor Activities in Siesta Key

"Only minutes from downtown Sarasota and BLVD Sarasota, the Sarasota Jungle Gardens are one of the easiest ways for locals to access area history. As a relic of Sarasota’s tourism boom from the 40’s to the 50’s, the Sarasota Jungle Gardens combines an older approach with a modern touch. As the name indicates, the gardens showcase exotic animals from across the world alongside tropical flora of all kinds."

"The Sarasota Jungle Gardens, which opened in 1939, is a popular tourist attraction that features a gorgeous botanical garden and animal shows."

"As soon as you see the bright blue waters and white sand beaches of this park, you’ll instantly be at peace. Take some time to ride a paddleboard across the waters, search for shells on the beach, or lie back and enjoy catching up on your suntan!. Wildlife abounds here, so keep an eye out for pelicans, especially at Brushy Bayou!"

"Explore Florida's ecosystems with a day of hiking or bicycling around the nature trails at De Soto National Memorial park or take a 45-minute Trail Walk with one of the Park Rangers from the Visitor Center to learn about the rich history and heritage of the grounds. The De Soto National Memorial is home to the living history Camp Uzita; a ten-table picnic area; several small beaches; and The Cove, an anchorage for small pleasure boats. Admission to the De Soto National Memorial is free to the public, but donations are accepted."

"Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ebyabe used under CC BY-SA 3.0. Located in Manatee County, DeSoto National Memorial Park is a place that was established to commemorate the landing of Hernando de Soto in 1539, a Spanish explorer and conquistador who made landfall in Tampa Bay along with his army of soldiers. Aside from that, it was also built to remember the Europeans’ first exploration of the southern United States."

"Now that you have four great restaurant options to get you started on your vacation, what else can you do to fill your vacation days?. You know about the famous, white sand beaches on the island and the easy drive to downtown Sarasota art’s district. But did you know about Siesta Key Village?"

"Have a circus-themed afternoon by heading over to Payne Park after a visit to the Ringling. This park is home to a big-top play structure that all kids will love. Known as the Circus park kids, imagination will go wild as they explore the fun, unique features of this one-of-a-kind Sarasota park."

"If any place embodied Sarasota’s artsy, playful spirit, it would be Payne Park!. Formerly the site of a baseball stadium and field from 1924 to 1989, this park now hosts walking trails, a playground, a tennis center, and even a disc throwing golf course!. BLVD Sarasota is now under construction!"

"John & Rebecca Neal Park features the City's only Community Gardens site. The City's newest waterfront park also has a kayak launch into Wares Creek. Kayaking in Wares Creek is recommended for those without much kayak experience, as the water is shallow."

"Ca' d'Zan, (Venetian for "House of John"), is the waterfront residence built for Mable and John Ringling. The mansion was designed by architect Dwight James Baum with assistance from the Ringlings, built by Owen Burns, and was completed in 1926. It is designed in Venetian Gothic style."

"This is the place number one to get a delicious smoothie or a juice made with organic fruits and vegetables. They also offer a lunch menu and breakfast menu with so many great options, you will find it hard to choose. Be sure to try the pecan honey salad or the spinach salad!"