Group Getaways: Downtown Hotels for Your Next Big Bash

Sarasota is a top destination for group travel, with its vibrant cultural scene, picturesque skyline, bayfront parks and warm hospitality. Whether you're planning a wedding, meeting, corporate retreat for team building or just a big ol' bash with friends, you'll need a hotel that can accommodate your entire crew and itinerary. 

Here are just a few group-friendly hotels in or near downtown Sarasota that will make your next big event go off without a hitch!

Hyatt Regency Sarasota

This hotel recently underwent a total interior transformation—with 294 refreshed guest rooms and contemporary Florida common areas. Located just on the outskirts of downtown on Sarasota Bay, the hotel's stunning views overlook the water and private 32-slip marina in case people from your party are come by boat. The Hyatt also offers four different event spaces: the Palm Terrace, perfect for receptions, banquets and conventions; The Florida Room, great for poolside hangs and low-key cocktail hours; the Sarasota Ballroom, offering almost 10,000 square feet and is one of the largest convention center venues in the state, accommodating anywhere from 750 to 1,200 guests; and the Boardroom, a state-of-the-art space for up to 24 guests and all the modern amenities you'd need for an executive meeting of the minds.

The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota

Your guests will be treated like royalty with The Ritz-Carlton's top-notch service and amenities. Offering an impressive 60,000 square feet of versatile event space, both indoors and out, this luxurious destination is ideal for hosting events of all sizes and types—from product launches to large weddings. The 12,000-square-foot grand ballroom provides an elegant setting, while the picturesque Lawn at The Ritz-Carlton Beach Club offers a romantic backdrop for a sunset ceremony. Other notable venues include outdoor waterfront spaces, beautifully manicured fairways and a spacious 26,000-square-foot indoor conference center. With 14 distinct event rooms and 8 breakout rooms, couples and planners can choose the perfect space to fit their vision. Meanwhile, the hotel's top-tier event planning team ensures that every detail is taken care of.

The Westin Sarasota

Located at the gateway of the John Ringling Bridge and downtown Sarasota, head to the coastal-chic Westin, where 255 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites await. The hotel offers more 21,000 square feet of market-leading meeting facilities—including 7 event rooms, 12 breakout rooms and the capacity to accommodate 520 guests in its largest space. Creative touchpoints can be found throughout the meeting spaces to boost morale amongst your group. Impress clients with views of Sarasota in the Coral Bay meeting room with it's floor-to-ceiling windows, or mingle with colleagues by hosting a networking happy hour 18 stories up on the pool deck with the panoramic views of Sarasota Bayfront at The Roof Top Bar & Eats. For the lovebirds, have your destination wedding in the Triton Ballroom in a chic banquet layout. The expert catering team can create a custom menu for your bespoke event while the booking side can provide exclusive rates on a room block. 

Embassy Suites Sarasota

Directly across the street, find a classic Hilton hotel that historically blends business with leisure like no other. Walking distance to downtown's theaters, restaurants/bars and shops, this all-suite hotel features 180 spacious guest rooms. With 3,646 square feet of versatile event space with waterfront views and a variety of meeting rooms—including the Ringling Ballroom, Pool Terrace, Bayview, Snooty Boardroom, and more—host your corporate event or incentive trip of up to 200 people. Embassy Suite's experienced event staff can help with everything from menu planning and seating arrangements to A/V equipment and special room block rates.

voco Sarasota

Experience the vibrant energy of downtown Sarasota at voco Sarasota, a newly branded and refurbished IHG hotel. Located on the fringes of the growing Rosemary District across from The Bay Park, voco is an ideal spot for off-hour team building, networking or outdoor activities. While this stylish hotel is on the smaller side—with 95 guest rooms and event space accommodating up to 50 people, this makes it a great venue for more boutique events and intimate meetings. Host a retreat, a birthday bash or a family reunion to reconnect or celebrate whatever the occasion. The hotel's 3 fully equipped versatile rooms total 1,166 square feet and feature natural lighting, catering services and expert planning resources. This hotel also happens to offer a free shuttle and is the closest hotel to Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport. 

EVEN Hotel Sarasota-Lakewood Ranch

Located a bit further outside of downtown Sarasota, this IGH hotel is still only 7 miles from the airport and offers 128 wellness-focused guest rooms. For a venue further from the city bustle, opt for EVEN's flexible meeting spaces, designed to accommodate various private events and functions. With 2,566 square feet of meeting space—including the Osprey, Manatee, and Heron rooms—the hotel provides a convenient and productive setting for corporate events, training sessions, and social gatherings. The hotel's event spaces are equipped with modern amenities and technology, including Wi-Fi, office supplies, updated A/V equipment, dry-cleaning pickup and custom on-site catering service to ensure a seamless and successful event. 

What to Expect From Our Group-Friendly Hotels:

• Spacious meeting rooms and event spaces
• Professional event planning and coordination services
• Comfortable accommodations for your entire group
• Delicious catering options to satisfy your guests' tastes
• On-site amenities like pools, fitness centers, transportation services and restaurants
• Convenient location near downtown Sarasota, beaches and attractions

Book Your Next Group Trip to Sarasota:

Whether you're planning a wedding reception, corporate retreat or just a fun weekend with friends, Sarasota has group transportation services and fantastic hotel options for your party size and needs. Browse even more of our group-friendly meeting hotels and start planning your next big bash today!

Need help planning and booking everything for your group? Please contact Shantel Norman, Group Sales Manager for more information.