Top Wedding Venues in Sarasota for Beautiful Photos
Sarasota is home to some of Florida's most stunning wedding venues, offering perfect backdrops for memorable pictures. Here are the top wedding venues in Sarasota where you'll find unmatched beauty, versatility, and inspiration for your wedding day.
Bonus: If you'd like us to help you find the best Sarasota wedding venues for your style and vision, click here to book a complimentary venue discovery phone call with us.
1. The Ringling Museum
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is an iconic Sarasota landmark. With its lush gardens, opulent architecture, and waterfront views, this venue offers a classic and artistic backdrop. From Mediterranean-style courtyards to the grandiose Ca' d'Zan Mansion, there’s no shortage of stunning locations. The Ringling is great for couples who appreciate art, history and beautiful architecture and are seeking a sophisticated and timeless setting.
The best photo spots include:
*Ca' d'Zan Mansion Terrace: Offers panoramic views of Sarasota Bay, providing a romantic waterfront backdrop.
*Mable Ringling's Rose Garden: Featuring vibrant blooms and classical statues which is ideal for intimate portraits.
*Museum Courtyard: Showcases majestic sculptures and grand architecture, great for group shots
2. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
For a lush, tropical feel, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens offers endless greenery, colorful flowers, and serene pathways. With views of Sarasota Bay and unique garden rooms, Selby Gardens is perfect for couples who want a natural, romantic setting.
The best photo spots include:
*Tropical Conservatory: Offers lush greenery and exotic plants creating a vibrant, natural ambiance.
*Mangrove Bay Walk: With waterfront views framed by native mangroves.
*Butterfly Garden: Because who wouldn't want to be surrounded by a few butterflies.
3. Powel Crosley Estate
Built in 1929, this Mediterranean Revival-style mansion exudes historic charm. The waterfront estate has elegant archways, grand staircases, and a beautiful terrace overlooking the bay, making it perfect for timeless, sophisticated wedding pictures. The Powel Crosley Estate is great for couples who enjoy historic elegance and waterfront vistas who want a classic and romantic atmosphere.
The best photo spots include:
*Great Room with Grand Fireplace: Provides a warm, historic indoor setting, protected from the sun and the wind.
*Bayfront Terrace: Overlooks the water making it ideal for sunset ceremonies and portraits.
*Elegant Archways and Staircases: Add a touch of vintage glamour to your wedding photos.
4. The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota
The Ritz-Carlton offers luxury and elegance in the heart of Sarasota. From its opulent ballroom to its private beach access and manicured grounds, every corner of this venue offers opportunities with high-end sophistication. This is a great venue for couples seeking a luxurious, high-end experience with a variety of settings.
The best photo spots include:
*The Lawn Overlooking the Marina: Combines manicured greenery with yacht-dotted waters.
*Grand Staircase in the Lobby: Exudes luxury and grandeur for formal portraits.
*Beach Club on Lido Key: Offers pristine sands and Gulf views which are perfect for sunset photos.
5. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
For an unforgettable, unique wedding experience, Mote Marine Aquarium allows couples to tie the knot surrounded by ocean life. The aquarium’s serene and vibrant backdrops create one-of-a-kind opportunities that couples won’t find anywhere else. The Aquarium is a fun option for couples who love marine life and want an unconventional and memorable setting.
The best photo spots include:
*Shark Zone Tunnel: Creates a dramatic and unique underwater ambiance
*Outdoor Deck Overlooking the Bay: Provides natural light and scenic water views.
*Coral Reef Exhibit: Features marine life as a colorful backdrop.
6. Bakers Ranch
Bakers Ranch, a hidden gem outside Sarasota, is known for its romantic, all-inclusive wedding experiences. With multiple themed areas, including a stunning Love Lock Bridge and a majestic Grand Oaks canopy, this venue offers opportunities for incredible variety for capturing beautiful moments. Bakers Ranch is great for couples who want a rustic-chic wedding with all-inclusive convenience and enchanting outdoor spaces.
The best photo spots include:
*Lock Love Bridge: Symbolizes unity and offers a charming, personalized photo opportunity
*Grand Oak Canopy: Provides a majestic, natural setting with beautiful trees
*Rustic Wooden Swing: Adds a playful and romantic element to your photos.
7. Lido Beach Resort
For beach lovers, Lido Beach Resort offers private access to Sarasota’s pristine sandy beaches. With breathtaking Gulf views and sunsets, this venue is a dream for capturing beachy, romantic moments that celebrate Florida’s natural beauty. Lido Beach Resort is great for beach-loving couples dreaming of a relaxed yet elegant wedding with stunning Gulf vistas.
The best photo spots include:
*Private Beachfront: Captures the essence of a waterfront wedding with the Gulf as the backdrop
*Rooftop Sunset Terrace: Offers panoramic views of the coastline during golden hour
*Palm Lined Pathways: Adds a tropical flair to candid and posed shots
8. Phillippi Estate Park
A local favorite, Phillippi Estate Park combines historic charm with natural beauty. The Edson Keith Mansion and surrounding park offer a scenic, Old Florida vibe with waterfront views, large oaks, and serene gardens—perfect for timeless, natural pictures. This is an option for couples seeking a blend of historic charm and natural beauty in a peaceful, park-like environment.
The best photo spots include:
*Edson Keith Mansion Veranda: Exudes Southern charm with its classic columns and river views
*Shaded Oak Grove: Creates an intimate setting beneath sprawling branches
Gazebo by the Water: Offers a quaint spot for ceremonies and portraits with a waterfront backdrop

What's Next?
Once you've selected a date and venue, you should start looking for the right wedding photographer for you. Â
I'm Stephanie Snow, a wedding photographer that works with fun-loving couples who want authentic, timeless, and natural images so they can relive their wedding forever. Â
I'd love the opportunity to get to know you more! Reach out to me by visiting my Contact Page here or see more about my Sarasota Wedding Services when you work with me.