St. Armands Circle
A charming, pedestrian-friendly district on Lido Key, featuring upscale boutiques, diverse restaurants, and a picturesque park.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
St. Armands Circle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, pedestrian-friendly district on Lido Key, featuring upscale boutiques, diverse restaurants, and a picturesque park.
"Really nice to walk around and very vibrant atmosphere especially in the evening."
🚶♀️ Stroll & Shop
Wear comfy shoes! It's a pedestrian paradise with over 130 shops and restaurants to explore.
🍦 Gelato Galore
You'll find many ice cream spots! Settimi's Gelato is a must-try for chocolate lovers.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Circle Park
Center of St. Armands Circle
A charming, palm-lined oasis with Italian statuary, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a moment of relaxation.

Boutique Shopping Spree
Throughout St. Armands Circle
Discover unique fashion, gifts, and souvenirs in a delightful array of upscale and local boutiques.

Culinary Delights
Various restaurants around the Circle
From casual cafes to fine dining, savor diverse flavors with plenty of outdoor seating options.

Art Festivals
St. Armands Circle
Experience vibrant open-air galleries showcasing local and national artists during special events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Stroll
Parking & Peak Times
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll & Shop
Wear comfy shoes! It's a pedestrian paradise with over 130 shops and restaurants to explore.
🍦 Gelato Galore
You'll find many ice cream spots! Settimi's Gelato is a must-try for chocolate lovers.
🅿️ Parking Perks
Paid street parking is available, but free spots are just a block or two away.
🏖️ Beach Access
It's an easy walk to Lido Key Beach from the Circle for a perfect day trip combo.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll & Shop
Wear comfy shoes! It's a pedestrian paradise with over 130 shops and restaurants to explore.
🍦 Gelato Galore
You'll find many ice cream spots! Settimi's Gelato is a must-try for chocolate lovers.
🅿️ Parking Perks
Paid street parking is available, but free spots are just a block or two away.
🏖️ Beach Access
It's an easy walk to Lido Key Beach from the Circle for a perfect day trip combo.
🍽️ Diverse Dining
From Mediterranean at Café on St. Armands to Brazilian pizza at Pizzolo, there's a taste for everyone.
🎨 Artful Encounters
Keep an eye out for art festivals; they transform the Circle into an open-air gallery!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about St. Armands Circle's charming atmosphere, excellent shopping, and diverse dining options, often highlighting its walkability and proximity to Lido Key Beach. While some find prices high, the overall experience is consistently described as vibrant and enjoyable, making it a must-visit in Sarasota.
"Great place to have a dinner or just ice cream/gelato. Many small shops with high prices. Very clean and pretty views. Good amount of restaurants to choose from affordable to $$$. I personally saw at least 6 ice cream places. I do not, why so many. I liked Turkish store with lots of baklava and sweets options. Turkish coffee was amazing.
In the circle paid parking, but plenty of free parking just a block or 2 away."
Vadim Rojevsky
"One of my favorite areas! Such an easy walk to the beach. Amazing shops and restaurant. Fun art festival we stumbled across one weekend. So much character,"
Hannah Ranfranz
"Charming dining and shopping district centered on a picturesque palm-lined circle. We planned to simply stop for a coffee, yet ended up staying thru lunch, shopping, dinner, dessert and more shopping. Plenty of outdoor seating at the many bars and restaurants. Pedestrian-friendly streets coupled plus ample street parking made for a great walkable experience. Street parking off the circle is $1.50 per hour from 10am to 6pm."
Jared McGrath
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Armands Circle is located on Lido Key, just west of downtown Sarasota. If you're driving, you can use GPS navigation to 'St. Armands Circle, Sarasota, FL'. It's easily accessible by car, and many visitors combine a trip here with visits to nearby beaches like Lido Key Beach.
While direct public transport routes to St. Armands Circle might be limited, Sarasota's public bus system (SCAT) serves the general Sarasota area. It's often more convenient to drive or use ride-sharing services to reach the Circle directly.
St. Armands Circle is highly walkable. The main circle and surrounding streets are designed for pedestrians, making it easy to explore shops and restaurants on foot.
Yes, St. Armands Circle is very close to Lido Key Beach, offering a perfect combination of shopping, dining, and beach time. It's also a short drive from other Sarasota attractions like Siesta Key Beach and The Ringling Museum.
Following severe weather events like hurricanes, access to St. Armands Circle and surrounding areas like Lido Key may be restricted due to storm surge and damage. It's advisable to check local news and official city announcements for current conditions and road closures.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, St. Armands Circle itself does not require tickets for entry. It's a public district of shops, restaurants, and a park. You only pay for what you purchase at the establishments or for parking.
The Circle is always accessible, but individual shop and restaurant hours vary. Most shops are open from around 10 AM to 6 PM, with restaurants often staying open later into the evening. It's best to check the specific hours for any establishment you plan to visit.
The central park area of St. Armands Circle is a public space and is free to enter and enjoy. It's a lovely spot for a stroll or to relax amidst the greenery and statuary.
Occasionally, St. Armands Circle hosts special events like art festivals or holiday markets. While the Circle itself remains free to access, some specific events might have associated costs or require tickets for entry to certain areas or activities.
Many restaurants in St. Armands Circle accept reservations, especially for dinner or during peak seasons. It's recommended to call ahead or check their websites for booking information to avoid disappointment.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
St. Armands Circle boasts a wide variety of shops, from high-end fashion boutiques and jewelry stores to art galleries and specialty gift shops. You can find everything from clothing and accessories to home decor and unique souvenirs.
While some restaurants are upscale, there are also more affordable options available, including cafes, ice cream parlors, and casual eateries. You can find a range of price points to suit different budgets.
Popular spots include Café on St. Armands (Mediterranean-inspired), Shore (known for fresh seafood), and Flambé (a new restaurant focusing on bold flavors). Many places offer great outdoor seating for enjoying the atmosphere.
Absolutely! Beyond the well-known brands, St. Armands Circle features local boutiques and specialty stores offering unique items. You might find local art, handmade crafts, or regional delicacies like baklava from Turkish stores.
Many restaurants and bars in St. Armands Circle offer happy hour specials, typically in the late afternoon or early evening on weekdays. It's a great way to enjoy drinks and appetizers at a lower price while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
The picturesque park with its Italian statuary is a prime photo spot. The charming architecture of the shops, colorful storefronts, and the general ambiance of the circle make for great shots. Drone footage also captures the unique circular layout beautifully.
Yes, the pedestrian-friendly nature of St. Armands Circle makes it easy to walk around and capture photos of the various establishments. Many restaurants have attractive outdoor seating areas perfect for a quick snap.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is welcome. However, commercial photography or videography might require permits. Drone usage may also have specific regulations, so it's always best to be mindful of your surroundings.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. However, the Circle is also vibrant in the evening when lights come on, creating a different, charming atmosphere.
During art festivals, it's generally acceptable to take photos of the artwork for personal enjoyment. However, always ask the artist for permission before photographing their work, especially if you plan to share it widely online.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a visit that includes a stroll through the charming park and a short walk to Lido Key Beach for some sand and sun. Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. Keep an eye out for any family-oriented events or festivals that might be happening during your visit.
💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
☀️ Beach Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Shopper's Paradise
Some establishments may have unique offerings, like Turkish stores with baklava and sweets, or boutiques showcasing local art and crafts. The presence of both well-known brands and independent retailers creates a dynamic shopping environment that appeals to a wide range of tastes and budgets.
Culinary Exploration
Popular choices include Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at Café on St. Armands, fresh seafood at Shore, and innovative flavors at Flambé. For those with a sweet tooth, the Circle is famous for its numerous ice cream and gelato shops, with Settimi's Gelato being a notable mention. Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a romantic dinner, or a family-friendly meal, St. Armands Circle offers a delightful culinary journey.
Happy hour is also a popular draw, with many bars and restaurants offering specials on drinks and appetizers in the late afternoon. This provides a great opportunity to experience the vibrant evening ambiance of the Circle without a full meal commitment.
The St. Armands Experience: Beyond Shopping and Dining
St. Armands Circle is also a gateway to the beautiful Lido Key Beach, just a short walk away. This makes it easy to combine a day of shopping and dining with sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the Gulf Coast scenery. The proximity to the beach adds another layer of appeal, making it a versatile destination for a full day's outing.
Furthermore, the Circle frequently hosts vibrant art festivals and craft marketplaces, transforming the area into an open-air gallery. These events offer a chance to discover unique artwork, meet local artists, and immerse yourself in Sarasota's creative culture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit