Plan Your Equestrian Escape: Horse Shows & Venues in Sarasota

Expert equestrians and horse lovers flock to Sarasota for its nationally recognized show facilities, which host events such as Grand Prix show jumping, dressage, polo and carriage driving. Spectators are welcome, and it’s a great way to experience this beloved local pastime and get immersed in the area’s rich horseback riding culture. Discover three of the best places to watch horse shows in Sarasota.

Fox Lea Farm

Established in 1983 by David and Linda Aldrich, Fox Lea Farm in Venice has grown from a small family-run operation to a highly regarded international horse show facility. The farm hosts more than 40 events annually, including the Venice Equestrian Tour, a nine-week United States Equestrian Federation-recognized hunter/jumper tour. The series includes daytime competitions from Wednesday through Sunday, and on Friday nights, Show Jumping Under the Stars. This Olympic-level event features towering jumps and adrenaline-pumping feats of speed and agility.

More than $1 million in prize money is awarded to competitors throughout the year, drawing elite athletes to the area. In fact, the economic impact of Fox Lea Farm’s equestrian events makes it one of the top contributors to sports tourism in Sarasota County.

Know Before You Go

Spectators can watch events every show day from 9 a.m. to the end of the event. Parking is free, and admission is just $10 per person. Gates open hours before the shows start, and early birds get the best views. See the Fox Lea Farm event calendar to plan your visit.

Sarasota Polo Club

Sarasota Polo Club at Lakewood Ranch is legendary in its history, size and dedication to the “sport of kings.” With more than 75 playing members and over 50,000 polo spectators, the polo club is an institution in the Sarasota equestrian scene. The grounds span 170 acres and seven Bermuda grass polo fields, plus an extensive tailgating area.

Polo features two teams of four riders vying to move the ball downfield and through the goal for a score. Games last approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, with a 20-minute halftime. The polo club is kid-friendly, with a playground open throughout the match, and dog-friendly for well-behaved pups.

Know Before You Go

Matches are held every Sunday at 1 p.m., but gates open at 10 a.m. for tailgating. Polo tailgating is a culture in itself, with themes like English Tea Party and Hollywood Glamour. We recommend arriving early to check out the decorated tailgating tents and elaborate outfits. Bleacher seats start at $20 per person, and shade isn’t guaranteed, so bring a handheld umbrella and a seat cushion for comfort. See the Sarasota Polo Club season schedule to plan your visit.

TerraNova Equestrian Center

In Myakka City, the picturesque TerraNova Equestrian Center hosts all levels of equestrian competition, home to six state-of-the-art arenas and a gorgeous cross-country course. Yearly events include dressage — a mesmerizing display of rhythm, balance, and partnership between horse and rider — as well as jumping and combined driving shows. If you’re competing, you can stay on-site at the RV campgrounds, just steps from the show ring.

Know Before You Go

Spectators can visit on Saturdays and Sundays during competition weeks. General information is free and includes parking and ringside seating. Kids are welcome, and they’ll love exploring Tiny Town, a tech-free playground area. See the TerraNova Equestrian Center competition calendar to plan your visit.