Robarts Arena

Robarts Arena is a multipurpose complex located in the picturesque city of Sarasota, USA. This venue is a key hub for community events in the region, offering guests over 1,400 square meters of flexible space for a wide variety of occasions.

Thanks to its versatility, the arena regularly hosts sports matches, concerts, trade shows, and formal ceremonies. Following a major recent renovation, the building now features modern climate control systems and updated lounge areas, ensuring a comfortable experience for the nearly five thousand spectators the facility can accommodate at once.

Today, Robarts Arena remains a vital cultural and entertainment center. It is a place where the energy of the sports stands meets the professional atmosphere of exhibitions, creating a unique environment for residents and visitors of sunny Florida.

To check the current event schedule or inquire about venue rentals, you can contact the administration directly. The venue team is always ready to provide up-to-date information for guests and organizers. Below are the primary contact details.

There is always something interesting happening at this venue, so the first thing to do is check the event calendar. You might find yourself at an exciting gun show, a large-scale home expo, or a classic sporting event. During fair days, the place is buzzing with activity: you can sample traditional street food, visit interactive booths, and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a true American celebration.

Modern amenities are provided for visitors: updated food courts offer a variety of snacks, while comfortable seating in the auditorium ensures an excellent view of the floor. If you are looking for a place for family leisure, Robarts Arena is an excellent choice, offering a safe and friendly environment for guests of all ages.

Reaching this popular destination is easy, as it is located at 3000 Ringling Blvd, near the eastern gateway to the downtown area. If you are traveling by private or rental car, look for the intersection with Fruitville Road—the arena offers ample parking, making your visit as convenient as possible.

For those who prefer public transportation, Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) buses stop within walking distance. If you are arriving from another part of the region, taxis or popular rideshare services like Uber and Lyft can deliver you from any point in the city in minutes. The drive from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) takes only about 20 minutes.

Robarts Arena was built in 1966 and has since become an integral part of the region's cultural life. It is situated on a fairground site spanning over 20 hectares, managed since 1947 by the Sarasota County Agricultural Fair Association (SCAFA). According to the agreement, the land remains under the association's control as long as agricultural fairs are regularly held here.

Over its decades of operation, the building has hosted a wide variety of events, from major martial arts competitions to performances by world-class stars. In recent years, the facility has undergone a series of significant upgrades. For example, following Hurricane Irma in 2017, the air conditioning system was fully modernized, ensuring an ideal indoor climate even in the midst of the Florida heat.

Interestingly, the revenue from fairs and rentals is reinvested entirely into the maintenance and development of the complex, making it a sustainable and independent community asset. During natural disasters, the arena often serves as a base for recovery crews, solidifying its status as an essential socially significant center.

When planning your visit, consider the specific nature of the event you intend to attend. For a themed exhibition, concert, or sports competition, you will typically need between 2 to 4 hours. This is usually enough time to browse the exhibits, grab a snack, and enjoy the main program.

However, if your visit coincides with the annual county fair, it is worth setting aside half a day or even a full day. The scale of events both outdoors and inside the arena is so large that you will likely want to spend more time here, sampling local delicacies and enjoying the attractions.

The venue's administration office is open for visitors from 09:00 to 17:00 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. Please note that the office is officially closed on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

It is important to keep in mind that the timing for specific events, exhibitions, and shows is set individually and often falls outside of regular office hours. It is recommended to check the exact start times for events on the official website before planning your trip.

Exploring the surroundings of Robarts Arena can significantly enrich your trip to Sarasota. There are many interesting locations near the fairgrounds—from quiet green parks to educational science centers.

You can spend the morning watching marine life or take a stroll through historic districts to feel the spirit of Old Florida. Below is a table of nearby attractions worth visiting.