Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Iconic purple, seashell-shaped venue on Sarasota Bay, hosting Broadway, concerts, and diverse performing arts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free outdoor music on the lawn
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Best Time
Free outdoor music on the lawn
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic purple, seashell-shaped venue on Sarasota Bay, hosting Broadway, concerts, and diverse performing arts.
"A very nice place. Great atmosphere and a superb rock concert."
🚗 Parking & Valet Options
Plenty of parking available, with valet service for $10. Easy to get in and out.
🎶 Check Show Status
Always verify show status due to potential weather impacts.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Distinctive Seashell Architecture
Exterior
Admire the iconic purple, seashell-inspired design by William Wesley Peters. A true Sarasota landmark.
Bayfront Concerts & Events
Outdoor Lawn
Enjoy free 'Friday Fest' concerts on the lawn with bayfront views, featuring diverse musical acts.
Broadway & Touring Productions
Main Auditorium
Experience world-class Broadway shows like 'Hamilton' and 'Beetlejuice The Musical' in a stunning setting.
Diverse Musical Performances
Main Auditorium
From classical with the Sarasota Orchestra to jazz legends and pop icons, catch a wide range of musical talent.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bayfront Views & Vibrant Atmosphere
Check for Schedule Updates
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Valet Options
Plenty of parking available, with valet service for $10. Easy to get in and out.
🎶 Check Show Status
Always verify show status due to potential weather impacts.
🌅 Arrive Early for Views
Walk out to see the waterfront before the show for a relaxing experience.
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Secure your seats for popular shows like 'Hamilton' or 'Beetlejuice' early.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Valet Options
Plenty of parking available, with valet service for $10. Easy to get in and out.
🎶 Check Show Status
Always verify show status due to potential weather impacts.
🌅 Arrive Early for Views
Walk out to see the waterfront before the show for a relaxing experience.
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Secure your seats for popular shows like 'Hamilton' or 'Beetlejuice' early.
🎤 Great Acoustics
Enjoy fantastic sound quality, even from seats further back.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Van Wezel for its vibrant artistic atmosphere, unique architecture, and diverse range of performances, from rock concerts to Broadway shows. The intimate size, excellent acoustics, and bayfront location are frequently highlighted as positives, making it a highly recommended entertainment venue in Sarasota.
"Nice place full of vibrant artistic atmosphere. Famous people on the stage. Interesting cultural events. Plenty of parking space"
George Kolcan
"A very nice place. Great atmosphere and a superb rock concert. So impressed that I will definitely be attending another show soon. I saw Get The Led Out and they were awesome!!!"
Tony
"We returned to this venue to see Leanne Morgan (hysterical!🤣) after an absence of many, many years. The smallness of it was actually a positive attribute to us. Acoustics were great, customer service was excellent, food/bar/restrooms were all good, and the crowd was very manageable. We got there early and were able to walk out and see the waterfront. Parking and leaving after the event was pretty easy. We will return! 👍👍"
SUSAN MILLER
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is located at 777 N Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, Florida. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. Valet parking is also offered for a fee.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Valet parking is also an option for those who prefer it, especially if arriving closer to showtime.
If you are staying in downtown Sarasota, it is a pleasant walk to the Van Wezel, especially to enjoy the waterfront views before a performance.
The closest major airports are Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), approximately a 15-minute drive, and Tampa International Airport (TPA), about an hour's drive away.
While specific routes can vary, checking local Sarasota public transit schedules is recommended for bus routes that may service the area near the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase Van Wezel tickets directly from their official website, vanwezel.org, or at the Van Wezel box office. Keep an eye out for discount ticket opportunities. +1
For inquiries or to purchase tickets by phone, you can contact the Van Wezel box office. It's best to check their official website for the most current contact information.
While not always advertised, checking for special promotions or group rates might yield discount tickets. Some community events, like Friday Fest, are free.
Refund policies can vary, especially in cases of cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances like weather. It's advisable to check the specific terms when purchasing tickets or contact the box office for details.
The Van Wezel often offers season ticket packages or subscriptions, providing access to multiple shows at a potentially discounted rate. Check their website for current season offerings.
🎫 🎶 Onstage Experience
The Van Wezel hosts a wide variety of performances, including Broadway musicals, concerts (classical, jazz, rock, pop), comedy shows, and special events.
The 'best seats' depend on your preference, but generally, seats in the center orchestra or mezzanine offer excellent views and acoustics. Many find the venue's smaller size enhances the experience from most locations.
The sound quality at the Van Wezel is generally praised as fantastic, with clear acoustics even from seats further from the stage. +1
Yes, the Van Wezel often hosts free outdoor concert series like 'Friday Fest' on its lawn, offering live music with bayfront views.
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall has a seating capacity of 1,736, contributing to its intimate atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography & Architecture
Photography policies can vary by performance. Generally, non-flash photography might be permitted during certain parts of a show, but it's best to check with ushers or venue staff.
The Van Wezel is renowned for its distinctive purple, seashell-inspired architecture, designed by William Wesley Peters of Taliesin Associated Architects.
Beyond its architectural significance, the Van Wezel often hosts gallery shows and features local artists, making it a hub for visual arts as well as performing arts.
Absolutely! The unique exterior architecture and the beautiful bayfront location offer excellent photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
The hall was completed in 1970 and its design was inspired by the natural beauty of Sarasota's coastline, aiming to create a visually striking and acoustically sound venue.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For free family fun, the 'Friday Fest' outdoor concerts are ideal, offering a relaxed atmosphere where kids can enjoy live music with beautiful bay views. Arriving early can also provide opportunities for kids to explore the grounds and enjoy the waterfront.
🎶 Music Enthusiasts
+3Don't miss the chance to experience iconic artists like Sarah Brightman or Michael Bolton, or enjoy the energetic performances of bands like Yacht Rock Revue. The intimate setting and excellent acoustics ensure a memorable musical experience.
🎭 Theater & Broadway Fans
Beyond Broadway, you can catch engaging theatrical performances and musicals. The venue's comfortable seating and excellent sightlines make it an ideal place to immerse yourself in the magic of live performance.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Architecture of the Van Wezel
Visitors often remark on the striking visual appeal of the building, noting it as a landmark that enhances the cultural landscape of Sarasota. The distinctive shape and color make it a popular spot for photos, and many attendees enjoy exploring the exterior and its surroundings before a show.
Beyond its iconic look, the architecture contributes to the venue's intimate atmosphere. With a seating capacity of 1,736, the Van Wezel offers a more personal concert-going experience compared to larger arenas, ensuring that audiences feel connected to the performances on stage.
A Diverse Performance Lineup
+1Music lovers can enjoy everything from classical concerts with the Sarasota Orchestra to rock anthems by bands like Yacht Rock Revue and Air Supply, or even the nostalgic sounds of Doo-Wop. The hall also hosts renowned vocalists and comedians, ensuring there's always something exciting happening on its stage.
+9Beyond ticketed events, the Van Wezel frequently offers free community programming, such as the 'Friday Fest' outdoor concert series. These events highlight local talent and provide accessible entertainment options for residents and visitors alike, fostering a vibrant arts scene in Sarasota.
+1Community Events and Local Engagement
+1Furthermore, the hall sometimes hosts events like the Children's Entrepreneurs Market, offering a platform for young business owners to showcase their products. These initiatives underscore the Van Wezel's commitment to supporting local talent and providing diverse cultural experiences for all ages.
The Van Wezel Foundation also plays a crucial role in supporting the hall's mission, often hosting special events that celebrate its legacy and future. These gatherings, sometimes featuring renowned artists, highlight the venue's importance to the cultural fabric of Sarasota.
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