Lunch, Art and Exhibits at Sarasota Art Museum

We were recently invited to visit the Sarasota Art Museum.  I had been to a few of their events before, but after our visit I realized what a hidden treasure I was missing!

Did you know that the museum has their very own Bistro? And to my delight, it was quite delicious!  The Bistro features "a Florida farmstand-inspired menu focusing on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients" which can be enjoyed inside the cozy dining room or outside on the patio. It was hard to choose just one item from the menu, but in the end, I went with the Breakfast Sandwich off their Brunch menu (available Saturdays and Sundays from 9AM to 3PM), while my daughter chose the Grilled Chicken Club.  Both were amazing!!  They also have a selection of yummy cocktails, refreshing salads and even ice cream and cookies for dessert.  It's a great lunch spot for the whole family as they also offer a Kids Menu featuring kid favorites like grilled cheese and chicken tenders.  And if the weather is nice and you are sitting at one of the outside tables, there is plenty of room for the kids to run around while you enjoy your lunch. 

After we had full bellies, we spent the next hour or so exploring the museum.  There are three floors of art plus a shop so lots of exploring to be had!  The exhibitions change every few months so there is always something new to see!  

The Sarasota Art Museum also offers a variety of programs for children, teens and adults of all skill levels.  Since it was Saturday, we took advantage of their Family ArtLab program (held every Saturday 1PM to 3PM and included in your price of admission).  There is a different art project every week that corresponds to the current exhibitions in the museum. This week was creating self-portraits.  It's a lot harder than it looks so we decided to focus on one aspect of our faces - our eyes.  Thanks to lots of encouragement and help from the museum staff, I don't think our pictures turned out too bad! All materials were provided, and it was a lot of fun - before we knew it two hours had passed!

Other programs include Wednesday Playdates (10AM to 12PM) and Free Second Sundays (11AM to 5PM).  All programs are included with your museum admission (FREE admission for Second Sundays) and all materials are provided. 

What I especially appreciate about the programs at the Museum is that every time we go, it is a whole new experience of learning.  One day we were sketching live models. One day we were sculpting boats out of clay. One day we were painting ceramic tiles. Each time we go we get to explore a different form of art and different media. Which is perfect for my art-loving daughter!

Sarasota Art Museum is also hosting camps this summer for children ages 7 to 13.  Camps will be held weekly June 3 - July 26 from 9AM to 3PM (extended care available until 5PM).  Get more information and register for a Summer Camp HERE. Registration is now open and space is limited so sign up today!

Museum Exhibition Gallery and Shop Hours:

I was provided free admission to the Museum and two complimentary meals at the Bistro.  All opinions stated are my own.