Explore Sarasota's Public Art on a Private Trolley Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the tour is primarily onboard the trolley with minimal walking.
Overview
Join Discover Sarasota Tours for a private 90-minute trolley ride through vibrant public art scenes featuring over 50 sculptures and murals, including the famous “Unconditional Surrender.” Experience the city’s rich arts culture with expert guide Jerome Chesley.
Public Art Tour
90 minutes in peak season • Ages 10+
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 90-minute trolley tour through Sarasota’s vibrant art scene, guided by expert Jerome Chesley. Discover over 50 stunning public sculptures, murals, and statuary, including iconic pieces like “Unconditional Surrender.” Experience the city’s artistic legacy in charming neighborhoods and uncover hidden gems that make Sarasota a true arts mecca.
Explore Sarasota’s Public Sculptures, Murals & Statuary!
Duration
90 minutes
About
Sculpture and statuary have long been an integral part of Sarasota’s cultural legacy. Recently, many new murals have appeared downtown. On this 90-minute air-conditioned trolley tour, you’ll visit more than 50 of the city’s public art sculptures, statuary, and murals in the charming neighborhoods located in and around downtown Sarasota. Sit back and relax as painter and public art expert Jerome Chesley helps you see the city through new eyes!
Discover beautiful and provocative public art installations you may have never noticed before. Admire Jorge Blanco’s “Bravo” on the roundabout at Ringling Boulevard and Orange Avenue. Pass by Seward Johnson’s iconic Sarasota Bayfront sculpture, “Unconditional Surrender,” a larger-than-life recreation of the famous photograph taken on V-J Day in Times Square. Visit the Rosemary Design District to catch a glimpse of all the recently installed murals along buildings and walls. Learn about Ringling’s vision and sculptures throughout the Burns Court Neighborhood.
Ready to learn more about what makes Sarasota a true arts mecca? See all this and more on this unforgettable Public Art Tour!
Departure/Return Location
1826 4th Street in Sarasota (behind The Breakfast House off Fruitville)
Arriving
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before the tour leaves, to check in and visit our gift shop while you wait to board. Trolleys leave at your scheduled time. If you don't arrive within 5 minutes of departure time, we reserve the right to resell your ticket.
Parking
FREE on-site parking is available!
Things to Note
- This is a non-stop tour and you should expect to be seated for the whole trip.
- No coolers or personal alcohol are allowed on our tours. No alcoholic beverages are allowed on the trolley.
- Visit the Trolley Cottage Gift Shop, offering unique Sarasota merchandise while waiting to board.
- We also offer group tours of 20 or more for any regular tour—or let us create a custom tour for your group!
Adventure Tips
Book in advance
Private tours fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so reserve your spot early.
Arrive early
Arriving 10-15 minutes before the tour start ensures a smooth boarding process and better seating options.
Wear sun protection
Florida sun can be strong even during short tours, so bring sunscreen and a hat for comfort.
Bring a camera
The tour offers unique photo opportunities of striking public art and urban landscapes—don’t miss capturing them.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great Blue Heron
- Eastern Grey Squirrel
History
Sarasota’s public art reflects its history as a cultural hub since the 1920s, influenced by the Ringling Brothers Circus legacy.
Conservation
Efforts are in place to preserve outdoor artworks and promote eco-friendly tourism practices within Sarasota’s city limits.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from Florida’s strong sun during the outdoor portions of the tour.
summer specific
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the 90-minute tour, especially during warmer months.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture stunning photos of Sarasota’s unique public art and vibrant murals.
Light Jacket
Comfortable for cooler mornings or evenings during the winter months.
winter specific