Top Wedding Venues in Sarasota, Florida: Where Your Dream Wedding Comes to Life
Sarasota, Florida, known for its breathtaking beaches, cultural richness, and lush landscapes, offers an array of stunning venues for couples seeking to tie the knot. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront ceremony, a historic estate, or a modern luxury venue, Sarasota has the perfect location to bring your wedding vision to life. Here’s a guide to the top wedding venues in Sarasota that cater to every style and budget.
Location: 1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Sarasota, FL
For a luxury wedding experience with impeccable service, The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota is a top choice. Offering both indoor and outdoor event spaces, including the stunning Healing Garden and Grand Ballroom, this venue provides the elegance and sophistication that come with a high-end resort. The hotel overlooks Sarasota Bay, creating a picturesque backdrop for your wedding photos and ceremonies.
- Capacity: Up to 800 guests (Grand Ballroom)
- Highlights: Waterfront views, personalized wedding services, luxury accommodations for guests, and multiple venue options (ballrooms, garden terraces).
Location: 1534 Mound St, Sarasota, FL
If you’re a nature lover, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens offers a breathtaking outdoor venue with lush tropical gardens, vibrant flowers, and waterfront views. The gardens provide an enchanting atmosphere perfect for intimate or mid-sized weddings. Couples can say their vows under towering banyan trees or in front of Sarasota Bay for a naturally beautiful ceremony.
- Capacity: Up to 200 guests
- Highlights: Exotic gardens, bayfront views, lush greenery, and a peaceful, intimate setting.
The Ringling Ca’ d’Zan Mansion
Location: 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL
For a truly magical and historic wedding venue, the Ca’ d’Zan Mansion at The Ringling offers opulence and grandeur. This Venetian Gothic-style mansion, located on Sarasota Bay, was the winter home of John and Mable Ringling and exudes Old World elegance. With stunning architecture, manicured lawns, and beautiful bayfront views, this venue is ideal for couples seeking a fairy-tale wedding.
- Capacity: Up to 300 guests
- Highlights: Historic mansion, sweeping bayfront views, romantic setting, and one of Sarasota’s most iconic landmarks.
Location: 100 Marina View Drive, Sarasota, FL
For a modern and sophisticated wedding, The Westin Sarasota offers stylish indoor and outdoor spaces with panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay. The hotel’s rooftop bar and lounge provide a stunning location for cocktail hours and smaller celebrations, while their Harbor Ballroom is perfect for grand receptions.
- Capacity: Up to 350 guests
- Highlights: Rooftop views, contemporary design, luxury accommodations, and a prime location in downtown Sarasota.
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
Location: 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL
For couples looking for a one-of-a-kind, fun, and educational wedding venue, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium offers an unforgettable experience. Couples can host their wedding surrounded by stunning marine life, including sea turtles, sharks, and coral reefs. The venue provides both indoor and outdoor spaces, perfect for unique ceremonies and receptions.
- Capacity: Up to 250 guests
- Highlights: Unique aquarium backdrop, ocean views, eco-friendly options, and a memorable experience for guests.
Location: 1100 John Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL
For a stylish waterfront wedding, Sarasota Yacht Club offers an upscale yet laid-back atmosphere. With breathtaking views of Sarasota Bay, this venue is ideal for both elegant indoor receptions and outdoor ceremonies on the water. The yacht club’s modern, sleek design and excellent service will impress guests and make your big day unforgettable.
- Capacity: Up to 250 guests
- Highlights: Waterfront views, marina access, and a contemporary, luxurious setting.
Location: 8374 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL
The Powel Crosley Estate, a Mediterranean-style mansion built in the 1920s, is a popular wedding venue known for its historic charm and romantic atmosphere. Located on Sarasota Bay, this mansion offers both indoor and outdoor event spaces, including a grand patio overlooking the water. The estate’s timeless elegance is perfect for couples looking to combine history with beauty.
- Capacity: Up to 275 guests
- Highlights: Historic mansion, waterfront views, and a variety of elegant indoor/outdoor spaces.
The Sarasota Modern, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Location: 1290 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, FL
For a contemporary and trendy wedding venue, The Sarasota Modern is a chic option. Located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, this boutique hotel features minimalist décor, a poolside lounge, and open-air spaces perfect for couples looking to host a modern, stylish event. The hotel’s artistic and laid-back vibe creates a unique atmosphere for your wedding day.
- Capacity: Up to 150 guests
- Highlights: Modern design, poolside event spaces, and a trendy downtown location.
The Resort at Longboat Key Club
Location: 220 Sands Point Road, Longboat Key, FL (just a short drive from Sarasota)
For couples dreaming of a beach wedding, The Resort at Longboat Key Club offers a luxurious oceanfront venue with sweeping Gulf views. The resort provides a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces, from pristine beaches to elegant ballrooms. Perfect for destination weddings, this venue offers the ultimate combination of beachfront beauty and high-end amenities.
- Capacity: Up to 500 guests
- Highlights: Beachfront ceremony options, luxury resort accommodations, and stunning sunset views.
Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection
Location: 1255 N Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL
Art lovers will appreciate the Art Ovation Hotel, a boutique venue in the heart of Sarasota’s cultural district. With contemporary, art-inspired décor and a rooftop terrace, this venue offers a unique, sophisticated setting for both ceremonies and receptions. The hotel’s art-filled ambiance and central location make it an excellent choice for creative couples.
- Capacity: Up to 200 guests
- Highlights: Rooftop terrace, artistic design, and proximity to Sarasota’s art and cultural scene.
Sarasota, Florida is a dream wedding destination, offering everything from luxurious beachfront resorts to charming historic estates. Whether you envision a modern celebration, a nature-inspired garden wedding, or a timeless ceremony in a historic mansion, Sarasota’s top wedding venues can accommodate any style and preference. No matter which venue you choose, the beauty and ambiance of Sarasota will make your wedding day a truly unforgettable experience.
