Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)
Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is located on the border of Sarasota and Manatee counties, approximately 6 miles north of downtown Sarasota and 7 miles south of Bradenton. Serving over 2 million passengers annually, SRQ is the primary airport for Florida’s Gulf Coast, offering easy access to popular beach destinations, cultural attractions, and recreational activities in the Sarasota–Bradenton area.
SRQ is served by major U.S. carriers such as American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue, and Allegiant, offering direct flights to a growing number of destinations across the U.S. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, efficient operations, and friendly staff, SRQ provides a stress-free travel experience compared to larger airports. Whether you’re visiting for leisure or business, SRQ’s convenient location and modern amenities make it an excellent starting point for exploring Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Terminals and Services
1. Terminal Layout: Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport features a single terminal with two concourses: Concourse B and Concourse C. The terminal is compact and easy to navigate, with short walking distances between the check-in counters, security, and gates.
- Check-In Area: The check-in counters are located on the ground floor, and the proximity to the security checkpoint ensures a smooth and efficient travel process.
- Concourse B: Handles domestic flights from airlines such as Delta, United, and JetBlue.
- Concourse C: Serves carriers like American Airlines, Allegiant, and Southwest, offering both domestic and seasonal international flights.
2. Amenities and Services: Though SRQ is a smaller airport, it offers a variety of amenities and services to ensure a comfortable travel experience.
- Dining and Shopping: SRQ offers a selection of dining and shopping options. Gulf Breeze Café and Dewar’s Clubhouse provide sit-down meals with a focus on casual American fare, while Chick-fil-A and Starbucks offer quick-service options for travelers on the go. Paradise Gift Shop offers souvenirs, snacks, beverages, and travel essentials.
- Free Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, ensuring that passengers can stay connected while waiting for their flights.
- Pet Relief Areas: SRQ is a pet-friendly airport, with designated pet relief areas both inside and outside the terminal for travelers with pets.
- Special Assistance: SRQ provides wheelchair assistance and accessibility services for passengers with disabilities, ensuring a comfortable and seamless travel experience.
Transportation and Connectivity
1. Ground Transportation: Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport offers several transportation options to help passengers reach their destinations quickly and easily.
- Rental Cars: The Rental Car Center is conveniently located within the terminal, offering services from major car rental companies, including Hertz, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Alamo. Renting a car is a popular option for visitors looking to explore the Gulf Coast at their own pace.
- Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are readily available outside the terminal for passengers who prefer direct transportation. With the airport located just minutes from downtown Sarasota, Bradenton, and nearby beach destinations, rideshare services are an easy and convenient option.
- Shuttle Services: Many nearby hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to and from the airport. Additionally, private shuttle services are available for larger groups or travelers with specific transportation needs.
- Public Transit: While public buses do not serve the airport directly, Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT) and Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) provide bus services throughout the region, connecting travelers to nearby cities.
2. Parking: SRQ offers convenient parking options for short-term and long-term needs.
- Short-Term Parking: Located directly in front of the terminal, short-term parking is ideal for quick visits, passenger pickups, or drop-offs.
- Long-Term Parking: The long-term parking lot provides affordable rates for travelers needing extended parking, and it is within walking distance of the terminal.
- Valet Parking: For added convenience, SRQ offers valet parking services, allowing travelers to drop off their cars directly at the terminal entrance.
Things to Do Nearby for Visitors
Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport’s location makes it an ideal gateway to the many attractions of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Whether you’re in town for a layover or an extended stay, there’s plenty to see and do in the nearby area.
1. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art: Located just minutes from the airport, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is one of the most popular cultural attractions in Sarasota. The museum is part of the Ringling Estate, which includes the Ca’ d’Zan Mansion, the former home of circus magnate John Ringling, and the Circus Museum, which showcases the history of the American circus. Visitors can also explore the lush gardens and grounds surrounding the estate.
2. Lido Key and St. Armands Circle: Just a 20-minute drive from SRQ, Lido Key is known for its beautiful white-sand beaches and tranquil waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Nearby, St. Armands Circle offers a vibrant shopping and dining experience, with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants offering everything from casual fare to fine dining. It’s a perfect destination for beachgoers and shoppers alike.
3. Siesta Key Beach: Siesta Key Beach, located about 25 minutes from the airport, is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the U.S. Known for its powdery, quartz-white sand and turquoise waters, Siesta Key Beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. The beach also features picnic areas, playgrounds, and beachfront cafes, making it a perfect spot for a family day at the beach.
4. Downtown Sarasota: Just a 10-minute drive from the airport, downtown Sarasota is a bustling hub of culture, dining, and entertainment. Visitors can explore the Sarasota Opera House, the Sarasota Ballet, and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, which hosts concerts, plays, and performances throughout the year. The downtown area also features trendy shops, galleries, and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.
5. Bradenton Riverwalk: Located about 15 minutes north of the airport, the Bradenton Riverwalk is a scenic waterfront park along the Manatee River. The Riverwalk offers walking and biking paths, picnic areas, playgrounds, and an outdoor amphitheater that hosts events and performances. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of the river and the surrounding natural areas while exploring this vibrant public space.
6. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens: For nature lovers, the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota is a must-visit destination. Just a 15-minute drive from the airport, the gardens feature a stunning collection of tropical plants, including orchids, bromeliads, and epiphytes. Visitors can take a peaceful stroll through the gardens, explore the rainforest displays, or relax by the waterfront.
7. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium: Located about 25 minutes from SRQ on City Island, the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is a leading marine research facility and aquarium that offers visitors the chance to explore marine life up close. The aquarium features exhibits on sharks, sea turtles, manatees, and coral reefs, as well as interactive touch pools. It’s a great destination for families and anyone interested in marine conservation.
Vicinity of Sarasota Bradenton International
Dining and Shopping at SRQ
1. Dining Options: Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport offers a few dining options for travelers seeking a meal or snack before their flight.
- Gulf Breeze Café: Located inside the terminal, Gulf Breeze Café offers sit-down dining with a selection of American classics, including sandwiches, salads, and burgers.
- Dewar’s Clubhouse: Another sit-down option in the terminal, Dewar’s Clubhouse offers casual fare, including sandwiches, soups, and drinks.
- Chick-fil-A: Located near the gates, Chick-fil-A offers quick-service meals, including its popular chicken sandwiches, nuggets, and salads.
- Starbucks: Travelers looking for coffee, tea, or light snacks can stop by the Starbucks located in the terminal.
2. Shopping: While shopping options are limited at SRQ, travelers can find essentials and souvenirs at Paradise Gift Shop.
- Paradise Gift Shop: This store offers a selection of Florida-themed souvenirs, including beachwear, postcards, and gifts, as well as travel essentials like snacks, drinks, and reading materials.
Important Links (Suggest / Report)
- Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport Official Website
https://flysrq.com/
Find real-time flight information, terminal maps, and parking details. - Parking and Ground Transportation
https://flysrq.com/parking
Learn more about parking options, rental cars, and shuttle services at SRQ. - Things to Do in Sarasota and Bradenton
www.visitsarasota.com
Explore things to do, events, and places to visit in Sarasota and Bradenton.
Additional Details
- Location: 6000 Airport Circle, Sarasota, FL 34243.
- Public Transportation: While public buses do not serve the airport directly, MCAT and SCAT bus services provide transportation throughout the region.
- Parking: SRQ offers short-term, long-term, and valet parking, all located within easy walking distance of the terminal.
- Accessibility: Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport is fully accessible, with services for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance and accessible parking.
