The Bay Park

Sarasota’s new sanctuary near downtown

Hailed as the crown jewel of Florida’s Suncoast, Sarasota is a diverse and lively community boasting a plethora of fun and exciting things to do. Last fall, Sarasota’s new public park, The Bay, made its debut during a 10-day celebration filled with activities and events welcoming the first phase of its development – a 15-acre green space of alluring natural beauty along Sarasota Bay.

Nestled between the famed Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and the picturesque Boulevard of the Arts, the park features a larger-than-life Ibis playground, Common Ground lawn, Mangrove Bayou Walkway, an award-winning concession pavilion and shade structure, an open-air reading room, an ADA-accessible paddle launch and the Fountain Garden.

From sunrise to sunset, The Bay is bustling with free and fun activities for every lifestyle and season. Yogis bask in the radiance of the sunlight while practicing healthy stretching and breathing techniques at the weekly Namaste at The Bay with Jessica DuBose. Near the waterfront, Zumba enthusiasts burn calories with high-energy dance moves at Zumba at The Bay with Ya’el Campbell. CoreSRQ at The Bay offers an exercise series that provides holistic remedies for the mind, body, and soul, such as Bootcamp, Prime +, low-impact resistance training for active seniors and beginners, Cardio Fusion, tai chi and Pickleball for New Players.

Zumba at The Bay is one of many places to enjoy moves and grooves. Sunday afternoons have a new swing thanks to the soulful vocals of popular vocalist, studio musician and concert performer Jennifer Real, host of the weekly outdoor music event, Sundays at The Bay. Local jazz, marimbas, guitar and gospel artists entertain the audience with toe-tapping, head-bopping music selections. Notable performers include the critically acclaimed Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe and Celtic punk rock band Clover’s Revenge.

In addition to music and movements, The Bay offers rest and relaxation while exploring its natural elements during the Walking in Wonder and Ride & Paddles guided tours. Walking in Wonder offers a tranquil stroll through the mangrove fest, wildflower meadow and along the shore while admiring the sights and sounds of the native plants and animals. Afterward, the kayaks await you for a two-hour exploration of The Bay’s restored mangroves and north and south park areas. Lastly, Meditation Mondays in the Mangroves allows you to begin your week with peaceful and positive vibes.

The Bay has received widespread accolades and recognitions, including the American Society of Landscape Architects Design Award, the Boston Society of Landscape Architects Award of Merit, the Florida Public Relations Associations Award of Distinction and the Florida Public Relations Association’s State Award.

Formed in 2019, the non-profit Bay Park Conservancy will implement a master plan approved by the Sarasota City Commission to redevelop the 53-acre bayfront into a hub for free programs and events and an array of activities and recreational uses. The $150 million redevelopment project will take 7-10 years over three more phases to complete.

If you have not yet visited The Bay, head out to this beautiful bayfront gem to discover its beautiful natural landscape and array of delightful events and programs.