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Top 24 Hotels Near Character House
41 N School Ave Sarasota, FL 34237
Homewood Suites by Hilton Sarasota
For visitors to Sarasota, Homewood Suites by Hilton Sarasota is a quick drive from Character House, a choice that supports a stress-free travel plan.
Homewood Suites situates the Suite Shop® adjacent to reception, ensuring guests can pick up essentials quickly when checking in late. Every suite supplies cookware, stovetops, and dishwashers, supporting long-term convenience for families and business travelers. Outdoor patios with grills and shaded tables offer families a chance to cook meals together and connect casually during extended stays.
A fitness center, breakfast buffet, outdoor grills, and Suite Shop® market provide convenience and variety for extended-stay guests.
Americas Best Value Inn Sarasota Downtown
Within Sarasota, Americas Best Value Inn Sarasota Downtown is a simple drive from Character House, a detail that delivers a simple way to get around.
With prominent desk staffing Americas Best Value Inn keeps check-in lines moving while providing concise local guidance for onward plans. Standard guest rooms place a desk, lamp, and plentiful outlets near the bed so short work sprints and charging happen without interrupting rest. Meeting rooms provide modular layouts, AV hookups, and catering options so briefings and small events proceed smoothly and on time.
From on-site pools and fitness rooms to vending and coffee points, amenities provide quick recovery and refuel options without leaving the property.
Aloft Sarasota
Within Sarasota, Aloft Sarasota is a short drive from Character House, a fact that lets the hotel to feel both convenient and calm.
Aloft greets arrivals with industrial finishes, bold colors, and music accents, creating immediate immersion into a socially vibrant lifestyle. Suites include platform beds, blackout curtains, and climate control, creating restful conditions that refresh travelers for the following day. Re:charge fitness areas highlight treadmills, weights, and televisions, allowing guests to keep wellness goals active without interruption.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, Re:charge fitness gear, Re:fuel snack counters, and self-parking combine to help routines remain reliable during each stay.
The Sarasota Modern a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
The journey from The Sarasota Modern a Tribute Portfolio Hotel to Character House is a quick drive, a perk that contributes to a well-rounded and convenient stay.
Tribute Portfolio highlights local connection with welcome touches inspired by regional flavors, reinforcing neighborhood storytelling. Each guest room supplies ergonomic chairs, ample outlets, and Wi-Fi, supporting professionals with balanced setups for productivity. The pool deck with shaded loungers, towel service, and casual seating provides dependable spaces for families to recharge together.
Amenities such as Wi-Fi, rooftop terraces, valet parking, and restaurants provide reliable convenience across every location daily.
voco Sarasota by IHG
Because voco Sarasota by IHG is a straightforward drive from Character House, guests can simply transition to the next part of their day.
voco hotels offer a locally-inspired welcome treat upon arrival, a thoughtful gesture that gives guests a taste of the destination. A comfortable seating area in every room, with a plush armchair or a sofa, offers a dedicated space for reading, conversation, or repose. Multiple on-site restaurants offer a diverse range of culinary options, from fine dining to casual, family-friendly cafes and grills.
With a concierge to plan activities, a spa for pampering, and a pool for relaxing, the entire family can enjoy the destination.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Sarasota FL
From Embassy Suites by Hilton Sarasota FL, Character House is a straightforward drive, a benefit that keeps the day's main event easily reachable.
Sofa groupings placed near reception in Embassy Suites provide immediate comfort, allowing arrivals to rest briefly before continuing onward. Suites provide digital thermostats, blackout curtains, and flexible lighting, allowing travelers to control comfort precisely. Atrium lounges blending natural light, sofa clusters, and open layouts produce communal areas that encourage guests to socialize comfortably.
Pet-friendly policies, outdoor pools, premium Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and on-site dining ensure travel feels flexible and dependable throughout.
The Westin Sarasota
Because The Westin Sarasota is a simple drive from Character House, guests can enjoy a moment of fresh air before their day begins.
Upon arrival, Westin provides clear sightlines to reception desks and concierge counters, ensuring orientation is smooth and stress-free. Guest rooms combine ergonomic desks, bedside outlets, and strong Wi-Fi, ensuring professionals remain connected during their stay. The Heavenly Spa by Westin features massage rooms, aromatherapy, and hydrotherapy, refreshing guests with restorative wellness rituals.
Guests benefit from Club Lounges, pools, Wi-Fi, and healthy dining, ensuring travel is flexible, balanced, and consistently supported.
The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota
The primary travel benefit of The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota in Sarasota is Character House being an easy drive away, ensuring a simple arrival.
Ritz-Carlton integrates mobile check-in with traditional greetings, ensuring arrivals benefit from both speed and human connection. Suites often include turndown service with refreshed linens and organized spaces, signaling a premium close to the day’s schedule. Club lounges feature dedicated concierge staff, quiet seating, and culinary presentations, supporting premium travelers with privacy and orientation.
Between club lounges (club-only), private boardrooms, business centers, and rooftop venues, travelers find quiet work zones and places to reconnect.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Sarasota Downtown
From the moment you check in at La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Sarasota Downtown, Character House is a simple drive with no traffic, simplifying your itinerary.
Reception counters at La Quinta remain brightly lit and staffed, ensuring arrivals are handled smoothly at all hours of the day. Suites feature sofa beds, expanded living areas, and multiple TVs, making them practical accommodations for extended-stay travelers. Pools with towel service, loungers, and umbrellas deliver versatile spaces that balance recreation with rest across guest stays.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking connect with pools and vending, making travel routines balanced and predictable.
Hampton Inn & Suites Sarasota / Lakewood Ranch
The hotel offers a direct run to Character House, ensuring the commute predictable for guests.
Hampton Inn receptions with sofa clusters give families intuitive regrouping points, allowing them to pause comfortably on arrival. Guest rooms include televisions, sofa seating, and blackout drapes, balancing entertainment with restful conditions for all travelers. Outdoor pools with shaded cabanas, loungers, and towel racks offer recreation, supporting leisure and relaxation in shared spaces.
Self-parking, complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi connectivity, fitness centers, and business rooms provide reliable amenities for all guests.
Regency Inn & Suites
This direct car trip to Character House from Regency Inn & Suites allows guests enjoy a bit of Sarasota before their event.
Regency Inn & Suites often presents efficient arrivals with quick check-in desks, vending options, and nearby parking for smoother routines. Guest rooms often feature plush bedding, climate control, and streaming access, allowing guests to rest while enjoying entertainment. Public areas may highlight breakfast rooms, vending stations, and modest seating that emphasize a simple and consistent guest routine.
Accommodations may present Wi-Fi, vending machines, compact breakfast spaces, and laundry facilities, supporting consistent daily ease.
Super 8 by Wyndham Sarasota Near Siesta Key
Upon leaving Super 8 by Wyndham Sarasota Near Siesta Key, Character House is a simple cross-town drive, simplifying your visit.
Lobby vending areas in Super 8 stock packaged meals, bottled drinks, and snacks, ensuring essentials are available at all hours. Guest rooms present branded toiletries, fresh towels, and showers, reinforcing clarity and comfort across daily guest routines. Business centers furnished with workstations, printers, and Wi-Fi give professionals practical spaces to manage tasks efficiently.
Complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and laundry connect with vending and pools, ensuring comfort for extended stays at each property.
Golden Host Resort - Sarasota
For a stay that requires simple cross-town access, Golden Host Resort - Sarasota is a simple cross-town drive from Character House, making it a convenient base.
At Golden Host Resort - Sarasota, guests often find a warm reception, cozy seating areas, and curated décor reflecting the character of the property. Guest rooms may feature eclectic décor, premium bedding, and curated minibars that reflect a stylish boutique orientation. Facilities may provide intimate lounges, curated cocktail bars, and art-focused décor for a refined and boutique-driven impression.
Guests may enjoy laundry service, complimentary coffee, Wi-Fi, and yoga mats, creating a practical rhythm for extended boutique stays.
Flamingo Inn
This practical drive to Character House from Flamingo Inn is a defining feature, as it promotes a relaxed and manageable itinerary.
At Flamingo Inn, arrivals may feature modest furnishings, self-serve beverages, and accessible parking arranged for easy arrivals. Accommodations may include tasteful interiors, hardwood floors, and rainfall showers, reinforcing comfort in a practical guest setting. Shared spaces typically provide vending access, guest laundries, and compact lobbies that reflect the functional focus of budget hotels.
A visit may highlight Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending access, and parking, reinforcing clear and functional travel routines daily.
Quality Inn Sarasota North Near Lido Key Beach
This useful location makes Character House a simple drive from Quality Inn Sarasota North Near Lido Key Beach, ensuring a simple start.
Quality Inn positions charging nooks and small work surfaces near seating so quick emails and itinerary checks fit into arrival routines. Each guest room keeps a luggage bench, dresser surface, and closet space to simplify unpacking and maintain tidy short-stay organization. Indoor pools provide lap lanes, lounge seating, and towel service so guests can reset with a swim between meetings or sightseeing without fuss.
Grab-and-go breakfast options and lobby cafés supply quick fuel so guests depart on tight schedules without compromising a morning meal.
Siesta Inn
This convenient drive to Character House from Siesta Inn is a defining feature, as it makes the stay both simple and enjoyable.
Guests at Siesta Inn may encounter basic reception service, vending machines, and convenient parking options for daily guest use. Rooms may provide compact seating, curated décor, and in-room coffee, helping travelers maintain comfort and routine while away. Facilities may showcase modest breakfast spaces, vending corners, and coin-operated laundry that sustain clarity and convenience daily.
Guests may enjoy Wi-Fi, guest laundry, breakfast areas, and vending corners, sustaining reliable convenience throughout budget-friendly stays.
Days Inn by Wyndham Sarasota Bay
The benefit of a direct drive to Character House turns Days Inn by Wyndham Sarasota Bay into a great hub before the main experience begins.
Bell carts staged near the Days Inn desk shorten the handoff from registration to elevators when several parties arrive together at night. Every guest room sets a work desk, task lamp, and desk-height power beside Wi-Fi, making quick emails and confirmations straightforward. Wayfinding pairs icon signage with room-range boards at elevator banks, making first walks direct to markets, restrooms, and meeting rooms.
An indoor or seasonal pool with towel return plus nearby restrooms and Wi-Fi keeps cooldowns relaxed with short routes back to rooms.
Residence Inn by Marriott Sarasota Bradenton
The hotel's spot an uncomplicated drive from Character House gives Residence Inn by Marriott Sarasota Bradenton guests a direct way to manage their daily schedule.
Grab-and-go stations adjacent to reception desks at Residence Inn provide quick snacks, giving guests immediate care on arrival. Suites provide sofa beds, televisions, and lounge seating, giving families practical areas to relax together during downtime. Lobbies with sofa clusters, community tables, and grab-and-go markets provide comfortable regrouping areas that simplify arrival routines.
Meeting spaces, complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi connectivity, fitness areas, and indoor pools create balance between productivity and rest.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Sarasota Bradenton
This convenient drive to Character House enables SpringHill Suites by Marriott Sarasota Bradenton to serve as a calm starting point before a quick trip to the event.
At SpringHill Suites, hydration points and a nearby market counter soften the shift from transit, helping guests settle without extra steps. Every guest room features blackout curtains, plush Marriott bedding, and climate controls, ensuring travelers achieve quality sleep each night. The business area supplies workstations, reliable Wi-Fi, and printers, ensuring work demands remain on track without leaving the property.
Free breakfast, self-parking, reliable Wi-Fi, and a market pantry combine to create dependable convenience that eases everyday travel demands.
Sleep Inn Sarasota North
From Sleep Inn Sarasota North, Character House is a simple drive, a feature that frames the stay with an initial sense of ease.
Sleep Inn keeps the lobby workflow intuitive with a straight path from entrance to elevators, minimizing backtracking after keys. Each guest room balances a large workspace, a coffee station, a refrigerator and blackout curtains to support routines and restful sleep. The lobby's seating clusters are arranged near outlets and concession corners so device charging and quick snacks happen without extra steps.
With complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, fitness equipment, meeting rooms, accessible parking and laundry, stays blend utility and calm.
Hyatt Place Sarasota / Bradenton Airport
Reaching Character House from Hyatt Place Sarasota / Bradenton Airport is an easy drive, a quality that weaves convenience into the start of any day.
Soft seating clusters and bright lighting at Hyatt Place create comfortable pause points that ease the transition from transit to stay. Guest rooms provide branded bath products, walk-in showers, and soft lighting, refreshing daily routines with comfort and consistency. Lobby seating areas with long communal tables and lounge chairs foster social interaction and relaxed orientation before heading out.
Fitness centers, hot breakfast, and laundry service align with Wi-Fi and pet policies, ensuring routines stay intact during travel.
Kompose Boutique Hotel
Upon leaving Kompose Boutique Hotel, Character House is a direct run, simplifying your visit.
Guests at Kompose Boutique Hotel may be welcomed with artisanal touches, intimate seating, and staff offering personalized attention on arrival. Accommodations often include unique furnishings, artisanal design details, and spa-style bathrooms for a refined guest retreat. Amenities often highlight stylish bars, artisanal coffee shops, and curated lounges that reflect boutique character and orientation.
A stay often presents family-friendly meals, pet allowances, Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities, ensuring balance across varied guest needs.
Courtyard by Marriott Sarasota Bradenton Airport
This convenient drive to Character House from Courtyard by Marriott Sarasota Bradenton Airport is a central aspect, as it facilitates a smooth and easy visit.
Courtyard reinforces attentiveness with infused water and beverage stations, rituals that provide relaxation after long travel days. Every suite offers rainfall showers, stocked toiletries, and curated lighting, spa-like refreshment that keeps routines consistent. In the Bistro, Starbucks® coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and soft seating create rituals that help mornings feel dependable and smooth.
Guests benefit from valet parking, meeting facilities, indoor pools, and Starbucks® coffee, amenities that balance comfort daily.
Hampton Inn & Suites Sarasota / Bradenton-Airport FL
For guests in Sarasota, Hampton Inn & Suites Sarasota / Bradenton-Airport FL keeps Character House a simple cross-town drive, a spot that makes for an unhurried start to the day.
Community tables throughout Hampton Inn lobbies support connection, helping colleagues or companions coordinate travel plans together. Each suite provides rainfall showers, premium bath products, and bright vanities, creating dependable spaces for daily refreshment. Lobby areas with community tables, sofas, and natural light create hubs that support relaxed interaction and group coordination easily.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast buffets, meeting spaces, indoor pools, and laundry service deliver dependable support during every stay.
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Character House Local Area Guide
Welcome to the guide for Character House, a distinctive venue situated in Sarasota, Florida. This guide is crafted for event planners, visiting groups, and anyone looking to maximize their experience around this unique location. Here, you'll find practical insights into navigating the area, understanding the flow of events, and discovering nearby amenities. Prepare to plan your visit with confidence, from arrival to departure, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable time in Sarasota.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Character House (Sarasota, FL)
Character House is nestled in the heart of downtown Sarasota, a vibrant urban core known for its arts, culture, and waterfront attractions. Its location at 41 N School Ave places it strategically within easy reach of major thoroughfares like U.S. Route 41 (Tamiami Trail) and State Road 780 (Fruitville Road), facilitating access from all directions. Parking is available through nearby city garages and on-street meters, though it’s advisable to arrive early, especially during peak event times or tourist seasons. The nearest major airport is Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), approximately a 15-20 minute drive north, depending on traffic. For those arriving from further afield, Tampa International Airport (TPA) is about an hour's drive north. Public transportation options are available, including Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) bus lines that service the downtown area, and rideshare services are readily accessible. Smart arrival tactics often involve utilizing city parking garages like the Palm Avenue Garage or the State Street Garage, which offer ample space and are within a short walk of Character House. Planning to arrive 30-45 minutes before an event allows for parking, security checks, and a relaxed entry into the venue.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Character House
The immediate vicinity of Character House features a dense cluster of hotels catering to various budgets and preferences, many within walking distance. The downtown Sarasota area offers a range of accommodations, from boutique inns to larger hotel chains, making it convenient for guests attending events. While many hotels are walkable, some groups prefer the short drive from resorts located slightly further out, particularly those closer to the beaches or Siesta Key. Downtown Sarasota is a popular choice for teams and groups due to its central location and abundance of dining and entertainment options. Demand for accommodations typically spikes significantly around major community events, festivals, or during the peak winter tourist season. Practical booking tactics include reserving rooms well in advance, especially for weekend events or during holidays, and utilizing map filters to identify properties within a 1-mile radius. Flexibility with dates can sometimes unlock better rates, and checking for venue-specific hotel packages may also offer savings.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is a 15-20 minute drive away, offering convenient access.
- Arrive 30-45 minutes early to navigate parking and secure a relaxed entry into Character House.
- Stroll along Main Street for shops, cafes, and art galleries within a 10-minute walk from the venue.
- Explore The Ringling Museum of Art for a dose of culture and history during inclement weather.
- Gather at The Gator Club, a historic downtown bar, for post-event socializing and refreshments.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Plan to arrive at Character House approximately 30 to 45 minutes before your scheduled event start time. This buffer is crucial for navigating downtown Sarasota's traffic and securing parking, particularly in the city garages or metered street spots. Familiarize yourself with the nearby parking options like the Palm Avenue Garage or the State Street Garage, both within a short walk. Once parked, allow a few minutes to walk to the venue entrance. Upon arrival at Character House, you’ll typically proceed through a check-in or security process, after which you can find your designated seating or gathering area. This early arrival ensures you can settle in without feeling rushed, locate restrooms, and perhaps grab a pre-event beverage if available.
During the Event
Once inside Character House, familiarize yourself with the layout and the location of essential facilities such as restrooms and any refreshment stations. If your event involves multiple sessions or breaks, note the timing carefully to manage your transitions effectively. Keep track of your belongings and be mindful of designated pathways to avoid congestion. During intermissions or breaks, you might step outside for fresh air or visit the nearby shops and cafes along School Avenue or Main Street, but always ensure you are aware of the time to return promptly. Movement within the venue should be smooth; observe signage and staff directions to navigate between different areas if applicable, ensuring you don’t miss any part of the program.
Post-Event & Departure
As your event concludes at Character House, take a moment to gather your belongings and be patient as crowds begin to disperse. If you parked in a garage, be prepared for a potential short wait as many vehicles depart simultaneously. Consider a brief stroll through the downtown area if time permits, or head directly to your vehicle to avoid the peak exit rush. Rideshare services will likely experience high demand immediately following an event; booking your pickup in advance or walking a few blocks away from the main exit can sometimes expedite your departure. Enjoy a relaxed exit by not rushing, perhaps planning a nearby spot for a post-event debrief or a quiet drink before heading back to your accommodation.
Things to Do Near Character House
Walkable
Main Street
Stroll down Main Street, the vibrant heart of downtown Sarasota, just a short walk from Character House. This bustling thoroughfare is lined with an eclectic mix of boutiques, art galleries, bookstores, and charming cafes. It's the perfect place for a leisurely walk to soak in the local atmosphere, browse unique shops for souvenirs, or enjoy a coffee break. Many of the galleries showcase local artists, offering a glimpse into Sarasota's thriving arts scene. The street’s energy picks up in the evenings, with many restaurants and bars becoming lively gathering spots.
Downtown Sarasota · 0.2 miVan Wezel Performing Arts Hall
A distinctive landmark on Sarasota Bay, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is easily accessible from Character House. Known for its vibrant purple exterior, this venue hosts a wide array of performances, including Broadway shows, musical concerts, dance performances, and comedy acts. Even if no show is scheduled during your visit, the building's architecture and waterfront location offer a pleasant visual experience. Check their schedule for potential evening entertainment that complements your event, providing a sophisticated cultural option nearby.
901 N Tamiami Trail · 0.8 mi5–15 Minutes Away
The Ringling
Just a short drive from downtown, The Ringling is a must-visit cultural institution in Sarasota. It encompasses the historic John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Circus Museum, and beautiful bayfront gardens. Explore the opulent Ringling family mansion, Ca' d'Zan, and marvel at the extensive collection of art. The expansive grounds provide a serene escape, perfect for an afternoon of exploration and appreciating history and fine arts. Allow at least a few hours to fully experience the diverse attractions here.
5401 Bay Shore Rd · 2.8 miSt. Armands Circle
A short drive across the causeway to St. Armands Key, this upscale shopping and dining destination offers a sophisticated outdoor experience. St. Armands Circle is renowned for its designer boutiques, art galleries, and a wide selection of restaurants and cafes set within a beautiful, European-inspired pedestrian-friendly environment. It's an ideal spot for leisurely window shopping, enjoying a fine meal, or simply people-watching. The atmosphere here is relaxed yet elegant, making it a popular choice for an afternoon excursion.
St Armands Cir · 3.5 miBeyond the Event: Beyond the immediate downtown core, Sarasota offers miles of pristine beaches like Siesta Key and Lido Key, renowned for their powdery white sand. The area also boasts numerous parks and nature preserves, providing opportunities for outdoor activities like kayaking, birdwatching, and cycling. Exploring these diverse attractions can easily fill several days, offering a perfect complement to any event held at Character House.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Character House
Inside & Adjacent
The Gator Club
Step into a piece of Sarasota history at The Gator Club, a beloved downtown establishment just blocks from Character House. This classic bar offers a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for casual drinks and conversation. Known for its well-crafted cocktails and friendly service, it's a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking for a pre-event gathering place or a post-event unwind, The Gator Club provides a relaxed setting with a touch of old-school charm and live music on select nights.
1490 Main St · 0.2 miBavaria Restaurant
Located conveniently near Character House, Bavaria Restaurant offers an authentic taste of German and European cuisine. This charming spot provides a cozy dining experience with a menu featuring traditional dishes like schnitzel, bratwurst, and various European specialties. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking hearty and flavorful meals in a relaxed setting. The restaurant's inviting ambiance makes it suitable for both casual lunches and more intimate dinners, offering a distinct culinary experience within walking distance.
1221 Main St · 0.2 miNearby Gathering Spots
The Rosemary
Situated in the Rosemary District, a short distance from Character House, The Rosemary is a popular spot known for its American cuisine with a creative twist. The restaurant boasts a lively atmosphere, an impressive cocktail menu, and a variety of dishes appealing to diverse palates. It’s an ideal location for groups looking for a vibrant dining experience with options ranging from small plates to full entrées. The neighborhood setting adds to its appeal as a local favorite for an evening out.
412 Cleveland Ave · 0.6 miSiesta Key Oyster Bar (SKOB)
While technically on Siesta Key, Siesta Key Oyster Bar (SKOB) is a renowned spot for fresh seafood and a lively atmosphere, just a short drive from downtown Sarasota. Famous for its extensive oyster selection and classic Key West-inspired vibe, SKOB offers a true taste of coastal Florida. It’s a fantastic place for groups to enjoy delicious food, refreshing drinks, and often live music, making it a perfect destination for a casual yet memorable dining experience. The energy here is always high, embodying the spirit of a beachside gathering.
5238 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key · 4.2 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Libby's Sarasota
Libby's Sarasota offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on contemporary American cuisine and a well-curated wine list. Located a short drive from Character House, it provides an elegant setting for special occasions or elevated business dinners. The menu features innovative dishes crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients, complemented by excellent service. It’s a prime choice for those seeking a refined meal in a stylish ambiance, perfect for impressing guests or celebrating a successful event.
1901 S Tamiami Trail · 1.5 miIndigenous Restaurant
Indigenous Restaurant champions a farm-to-table philosophy, focusing on sustainable, locally sourced ingredients to create inspired American cuisine. This award-winning establishment provides an intimate and upscale dining environment, making it ideal for those seeking a memorable culinary journey. The menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest available produce and seafood. It’s an excellent option for discerning diners looking for creative dishes and exceptional quality in a refined setting, just a short drive from the venue.
2399 Tamiami Trail S · 2.0 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Downtown Sarasota parking can be challenging during festival weekends; utilize the city garages for more reliable availability.
- Weekends, especially during season (November-April), see increased traffic; allow extra travel time for shorter distances.
- Reservations are highly recommended for popular restaurants, particularly for dinner on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.
- Public art installations are scattered throughout downtown; take time to explore them as you walk between locations.
- Consider catching a sunset view from the Sarasota Bayfront, a short walk from many downtown amenities.
Weather & Seasons at Character House
- Winter: Winter in Sarasota offers mild and comfortable temperatures, typically ranging from the low 50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit. It's the most popular time to visit, so expect pleasant days perfect for exploring downtown and nearby attractions. Pack light layers, including a sweater or light jacket for cooler evenings, and comfortable walking shoes. Sunscreen is advisable year-round due to strong Florida sun.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings warming temperatures, climbing from the 60s into the 80s Fahrenheit, with increasing humidity. This is a beautiful time to be outdoors, though occasional spring showers can occur. Light clothing is ideal, and a light rain jacket or umbrella might be useful for unexpected brief downpours. The transition into early summer means warmer days and a higher chance of afternoon thunderstorms.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer in Sarasota is characterized by heat and high humidity, with temperatures frequently in the high 80s and 90s Fahrenheit, often feeling hotter with the humidity. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and can be intense but often pass quickly. Stay hydrated, wear breathable fabrics like cotton and linen, and plan outdoor activities for the cooler mornings or late afternoons. Sun protection is essential.
- Fall season: Fall offers a welcome respite from summer heat, with temperatures gradually cooling from the 80s into the 70s Fahrenheit. Humidity decreases, making it a very pleasant time to visit for outdoor events and exploration. Light long sleeves or a sweater may be comfortable for evenings. This season is ideal for enjoying the city's attractions without the intensity of summer heat or the peak crowds of winter.
- Rain & snow: Snow is virtually non-existent in Sarasota. Rain, however, is common, especially during the summer months in the form of brief, intense thunderstorms. These typically occur in the afternoon and can impact outdoor plans. Be prepared for potential rain by packing a compact umbrella or light rain jacket. Even during rain, indoor attractions like museums and restaurants remain accessible and enjoyable.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary venue: Character House
- Neighborhood: Downtown Sarasota
- Nearest airport: SRQ (Sarasota-Bradenton Int'l)
- Parking: City garages & metered street parking
- Walkable district: Yes, downtown Sarasota
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Publix nearby
- Pharmacy: CVS or Walgreens downtown
- Urgent care: Sarasota Urgent Care
- Downtime: Stroll waterfront parks
- Pro tip: Book accommodations and dining well in advance during season.

