Activities for Seniors in Sarasota

In the past 10 years, Sarasota County has increased its senior citizen population by five percent, which brought their total senior population up to 35%.

That growth is expected to continue, and it shouldn’t be a surprise. Sarasota County offers a ton of outdoor amenities for its senior population that lures retirees to this charming beachside destination.

If you're interested in working with seniors and older adults in the Sarasota area, consider becoming a Papa Pal companion caregiver. The role of a Papa Pal varies from day to day. Some Papa Pals lend a hand around the house and help with errands, housekeeping and gardening. Others offer company on a walk around the neighborhood or provide transportation to help seniors and older adults enjoy everything their community has to offer. It’s a great part-time job for friendly people.

Since the founding of the Friendship Centers and SCAN, seniors now have an empowering community to rely on. Both programs open the doors for newcomers to create an environment that keeps the senior population safe, active, and independent.

There are 16 well-kept parks and preserves for seniors to walk, bike, stretch, and even horseback ride. Many of their parks have paved trails, making the walks easier and accessible, even to those with disabilities.

Be adventurous and take a riverboat tour at Myakka River State Park in Venice, and look out for the alligators, herons, snook, and turtles. Enjoy a guided nature walk through South Lido Park or Legacy trail and learn more about the plants, birds, and wildlife.

Don’t forget to relax on Siesta Key beach any day of the week. At any local beach, this county provides beach wheelchairs available at every lifeguard stand for no additional cost.

Make sure you visit Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and Sarasota Jungle Gardens for a beautiful landscape treat.

Go searching along the rocks for the biggest shark tooth at Caspersen Beach down off Harbor Drive. The Ringling is a must-see because of its constantly changing, family friendly Exhibits and Programs.

Get a senior citizen discount at The Celery Fields and bring a lunch to enjoy a picnic on top of the hill overlooking the scenery. Because this county is small, it is easy to visit many attractions in each city and feel like you’re at home.

Life is more fun in Sarasota County because it’s home to some of the best wildlife sanctuaries, environmental experiences, and live entertainment.

Head over to the Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary right next to the Celery Fields and play with the monkeys and lions, or stick to the traditional petting zoo.

Next, go to the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium where you can get an up-close-and-personal experience with over 100 different species of aquatic wildlife.

Learn your Sarasota history at Ca d’Zan Mansion, which was a winter home of American circus owner John Ringling and his wife Mable. The beautiful mansion sits on the water and has preserved artifacts and art from the 20s.

Watch a spring training baseball game at Ed Smith Stadium, home of the Baltimore Orioles.

Learn how to Paddle Board at Sarasota Paddle Boarding and explore mangroves tunnels while watching for manatees and dolphins to swim around you in their natural environment.

Walk around the Sarasota Classic Car Museum and check out the Paul McCartney’s beloved Mini Cooper or John Lennon’s 1965 Mercedes Benz.

Soak in the Warm Mineral Springs in North Port for a relaxing day, and of course, make sure to read a book and tan on Venice beach.

With many restaurants on the water, this county has a lot of charm and romance to its seniors. For the best feeling of romanticism visit Siesta Key Island and enjoy a festive atmosphere and great food.

Go to the Central Sarasota Farmers Market and enjoy nothing but locally and regionally sourced food, art, and entertainment. This is a great place to mingle with local farmers and learn about a range of topics including health, children’s education, community issues, cooking, and more.

Learn about the history of Drum Circle Distilling with a free senior tour, and then enjoy some of their handcrafted coconut rum.

Finish at Venice for the best waterfront view of the Gulf while dining. You can even go for a swim after your meal!

Sarasota County is well-known for its art and culture and considered one of the top places in Florida to experience it. With plenty of theaters, ballet, museums, and galleries there is no surprise as to why.

Because this county is influenced heavily by the circus man himself, John Ringling, there is a large Venetian & Mediterranean influence visible in its architecture.

Sarasota County is truly a center of art both live and still. When visiting, make sure to check these off of your list:

This is a historic venue opened in 1926 that has hosted the likes of Will Rogers and Elvis Presley. They also offer discounted tours to senior citizens.

True to its name, this delightful art museum is whimsical in every way. This is also a free exhibit, though donations are encouraged.

The Sarasota Orchestra is a major contributor to the arts community in Sarasota County. They offer world-class live performances, music lessons, and host a 3-week long, annual music festival.

The Ringling is more than just a circus. Their museum offers beautiful exhibitions and program that change throughout the year. Visit their website to see what’s happening now, and take advantage of their senior citizen special.

The Sarasota Ballet is now enjoying its 27th season of performances. It is internationally acclaimed for the beautifully composed performances.

The Van Wezel is host to many of the previously mentioned groups. It is truly an eclectic theatre where you can witness events ranging from comedy to opera to Broadway musicals.

This Festival was ranked in the top 10 of all Film Festivals in the world in 2016. Continuously in the top 10% of national Festivals, SFF is truly top-tier offering some of the best independent films to the public.

If helping seniors and older adults to enjoy some of these fun places in Sarasota sounds good to you, consider becoming a Papa Pal. You can choose to help others with transportation, so they can benefit from all the area has to offer.

When you work part-time as a Papa Pal, you can support your community in myriad ways and make a meaningful difference. Click here to learn more.