Bay Front Park Sarasota

Relaxation & Recreation - Explore Sarasota's Bayfront Park

by Celeste Lipford and Terry Lipford - last updated on 1/14/2025

Bayfront Park in Sarasota, Florida, has a rich history that reflects the city's commitment to creating public spaces for recreation and cultural activities. The concept of a bayfront park and municipal auditorium was first conceived in 1935. In 1936, the municipal government obtained a 37-acre parcel from a private company that owed taxes on the site. Citizens, politicians, and city employees began efforts to secure a federal Works Progress Administration (WPA) grant for the center. The federal government granted $131,000 toward the project, and work began in July 1937. The Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, designed in the Art Deco and Moderne styles by Chicago architects Thomas Reed Martin and Clarence A. Martin, opened on February 24, 1938. The building was part of an 11-acre recreational complex, originally called the Civic Center or Bayfront Park.

In the 1960s, the area underwent significant development to enhance its appeal as a public space. A marina basin was created by dredging and filling an 11-acre peninsula, known as Island Park, which was completed in February 1964. This development included a restaurant, shops, a snack bar (now O'Leary's Tiki Bar & Grill), an updated pier, and marine facilities. However, the initial lessee defaulted on its lease in September 1967, leading to a period of disrepair.

In recent years, there have been efforts to further develop and enhance the bayfront area. The Sarasota Bayfront Master Plan lays the groundwork to transform a 53-acre, city-owned site on the stunning "Cultural Coast" of Florida into a more inclusive and vibrant public space.

Over the years, Bayfront Park has evolved into a center of cultural and community life for both residents and visitors. Various artworks enhance the park, and amenities such as benches, swings, playgrounds, and splash parks invite people to relax and enjoy the beautiful Sarasota Bay.

Bayfront Park Amenities

• Aquatics
• Dog Friendly (on-leash only)
• Water Fountains
• Fishing
• Food & Beverage
• Kayak / Canoeing
• Picnic Tables
• Playground
• Public Art
• Rental Venue
• Restrooms
• Transportation
• Walking Path
• Water Feature

Bayfront Park Hours

Summer Hours (Memorial Day to Labor Day): 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily, weather permitting.

Winter Hours (Labor Day to Oct. 31 & Apr.1 to Memorial Day): 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily, weather permitting.

Closed: Easter, Independence Day & Nov. 1 – March 31