As planners ponder ways to respond to the new normal of meetings and events, mid-sized destinations like Sarasota, Florida are at the forefront of viable options that should be considered.
Beyond Sarasota County’s (Florida) 35 miles of coastline lies a haven of arts & culture, eclectic events, and exquisite dining. From personalized attention, to ease of access, to providing unique experiences, mid-sized destinations can provide the ideal mix of efficiency and exclusivity a planner needs to respond to the increasing demands of enhanced safety and smaller gatherings.
Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)
Here, groups can enjoy the intimacy of a small destination with big-city flair and offerings. It begins at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, where three non-contact thermal temperature screening kiosks for travelers are the newest enhancement to their “Fly Safe” program. This, coupled with a less-congested airport experience, provides a greater sense of security immediately upon arrival. SRQ Airport provides nonstop flights from over 40 cities including New York, Chicago, Washington D.C. and Atlanta, making it a convenient destination.
Transportation
Navigating through the city is as seamless as the airport. Planners are relieved of the challenges of transportation, as our easily accessible city allows for logistics to be managed efficiently and even offer the added convenience of access by foot or brief shuttle between several venues.
Variety in accommodations
Planners can choose a mix of hotels, resorts, and unique venues—or a combination of all three—for an exciting meeting or incentive. The variety of choices includes 60,000 sq. ft of indoor/outdoor space at The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota; the trendy, downtown Art Ovation Hotel with rooftop pool and bar; or the recently renovated Lido Beach Resort, offering 6,000 sq feet of beachfront meeting space.
Arts, culture, and unique attractions
Here, events and activities go hand in hand with arts and culture. From The Ringling, to Marie Selby Botanical Gardens to Mote Aquarium, we have the memorable venues you need to keep your group busy. Our world-class restaurants can also host exquisite dining events, like curated chef creations at Duval’s Fresh. Local. Seafood. in Downtown Sarasota.
Personalized service from the Visit Sarasota County team
Our commitment to personalized experiences includes groups supplemental meetings marketing services, sponsorships, and on-site personnel for events. Our popular incentive program offers cash rebates for groups meeting with us for the first time, or groups who haven’t met in our area for at least three years.
The “new normal” for meetings has inspired several ideas, options, and opportunities. Sarasota County is proud to offer groups a creative balance of big-city amenities and small-town charm. From value to luxury or somewhere in between, we have the perfect meeting space for your group. Whether it is a buy-out of an entire venue – or if you are looking for something more affordable, we can imagine it and help you bring it to life!
New 360 tours
New in 2021, Visit Sarasota County can now provide free virtual tours of the spaces that make our destination so distinctive from the convenience of your computer! Visit Virtual Tours for Meeting and Sports | Visit Sarasota to peruse a robust collection of 360 videos that will walk you through potential meetings spaces within the charming towns and districts that make up this Coastal County!
About Meetings in Sarasota County
Sarasota County is a Gulf Coast beach destination, about an hour south of Tampa, Florida. Our meetings team can be reached at (941)-955-0991 or by visiting SarasotaMeetings.com.
