Unusual things to do

Question

I try to do an unusal thing with my daughter and granddaughter when I visit. Looking for something like a bungee type exercise class( harness),etc..have done riding horses in the ocean, kayaking the mangroves, sunset e-bike tour, getting my one and only monarch butterfly tattoo,and a few other things.Not really interested in museum attractions, as I live right outside the Smoky Mountains, and there are a gazillion types of those things here.Thanks!

Answer

Sarasota and the surrounding Southwest Gulf Coast offer some unique and adventurous activities beyond typical museums and beach outings. Since you’re looking for unusual experiences similar to bungee-type exercises, ocean horseback riding, and e-bike sunset tours, here are several options that could be fun and memorable for you, your daughter, and granddaughter:

Outdoor Adventure Experiences:

Trapeze and Aerial Arts Classes – Some local gyms and studios offer beginner-friendly aerial silks, trapeze, or harnessed aerial workouts for all ages. This is similar to a bungee-style sensation but safe and guided.
Zip-lining and Aerial Adventure Parks – While there aren’t massive zip-line parks directly in Sarasota, nearby areas (like Myakka River State Park) offer canopy tours or adventure parks with obstacle courses in the trees.
Stand-up Paddleboard Yoga – A playful twist on exercise, combining paddleboarding with yoga or core exercises in calm waters around Sarasota Bay.

Water and Wildlife Experiences:

Bioluminescent Kayak Tours – In the summer months, night tours in nearby estuaries reveal glowing water caused by bioluminescent organisms, creating a magical, almost otherworldly experience.
Manatee or Dolphin Eco Tours – Smaller, intimate boat or kayak tours allow you to interact safely with manatees or observe dolphins up close in their natural habitat.
Paddleboard with Sea Turtles – Some guided tours offer safe paddleboarding near sea turtle nesting areas or areas where turtles are often spotted.

Creative and Offbeat Options:

Pottery or Glassblowing Workshops – Local studios offer hands-on experiences to create your own art piece, which can be a fun and tactile bonding experience.
Private Sunset Sail with Sailing Lessons – Rent a small sailboat or join a semi-private charter where you can learn to sail while enjoying a spectacular sunset.
Unusual Fitness Classes – Boutique fitness studios occasionally offer trampoline workouts, aerial fitness, or “anti-gravity” classes, giving that thrill and novelty you’re looking for.

Finally, for a truly unique touch, consider combining a small adventure with a local culinary experience, like a seafood cooking class or a private picnic at an unusual location (hidden beaches or local preserves), making the day memorable in multiple ways.