Sarasota is a fantastic destination for families. It offers a blend of fun and educational experiences for kids.
From beautiful beaches to interactive museums, Sarasota has it all. The city is packed with attractions that will keep your little ones entertained and engaged. Whether your family loves outdoor adventures or prefers indoor activities, Sarasota provides a perfect mix.
Discovering the best spots in this vibrant city will create unforgettable memories for your kids. In this blog post, we will explore the top things to do in Sarasota with kids. Get ready for an exciting journey filled with laughter, learning, and lots of fun!
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Outdoor Adventures
Explore Sarasota with kids through fun outdoor adventures. Visit beautiful beaches, discover nature trails, or enjoy family-friendly parks. Experience unforgettable moments together.
Parks And Playgrounds
Sarasota offers many parks and playgrounds. Kids love the swings and slides. Payne Park has a large playground. Urfer Family Park has trails and play areas. Bayfront Park is near the water. It has a fun splash pad. It’s perfect for hot days. Parents can relax on benches. Everyone enjoys these places.
Nature Trails
Nature trails are great for exploration. Myakka River State Park offers long trails. Kids can see birds and alligators. Celery Fields is another spot. It has hills to climb. Trails are easy to walk. Oscar Scherer State Park has many paths. It’s a fun place to hike. Children enjoy the fresh air.

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Beach Activities
Sarasota offers fun beach activities for kids. Build sandcastles, splash in the waves, and search for seashells. Enjoy a family day under the sun.
Sandcastle Building
Building sandcastles is so much fun. Kids can use buckets and shovels. They can make towers and moats. The beach has soft sand. This makes it easy to shape. Let kids use shells and sticks for decoration. They will love creating their own castles. Sandcastle building is a great way to spend time.
Water Sports
Kids enjoy water sports at the beach. They can try paddleboarding. It helps them balance on the board. Kayaking is another option. Kids can paddle in shallow waters. Snorkeling is also exciting. They can see fish and underwater plants. These activities are safe and fun for kids. Always keep an eye on them for safety.
Educational Experiences
Explore the amazing museums in Sarasota. The Ringling Museum has cool art and fun activities. Kids will love the interactive exhibits. There is also the Sarasota Classic Car Museum. See old cars and learn about their history.
The South Florida Museum has a planetarium and aquarium. Kids can see stars and fish. The Mote Marine Laboratory is fun too. Learn about sea animals. Touch stingrays and watch sharks.

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Animal Encounters
Explore the wonders of the sea at Sarasota’s aquariums. Kids can see colorful fish and playful dolphins. They will love the touch tanks. These let them feel starfish and small sea creatures. Learning about marine life can be fun and exciting.
Visit wildlife sanctuaries to see amazing animals. Children can meet rescued birds and animals. It’s a safe place for animals to live. They can watch birds fly and hear them sing. Sanctuaries teach kids about protecting nature.
Arts And Crafts
Art studios in Sarasota are fun for kids. They can paint and draw. Kids love to use many colors. Some studios offer classes. These classes help kids learn new skills. They can make new friends too. Art studios are a safe place for kids to be creative.
Craft workshops let kids make cool things. They can work with paper, beads, and glue. Some workshops teach kids to sew. Others may teach pottery. These activities keep kids busy. They also learn to follow directions. Craft workshops are great for building hand skills. They are also fun and relaxing for kids.
Interactive Entertainment
Escape rooms are great fun for kids. They solve puzzles and find clues together. It teaches teamwork and critical thinking. Escape rooms have different themes. Choose a favorite to make it more exciting. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon.
Arcades offer a variety of games. Kids can play video games, win tickets, and get prizes. Many arcades have classic games like Pac-Man. Some also have new and exciting games. It’s a fun place for kids to explore and enjoy. Parents can join in too!
Foodie Family Fun
Enjoying meals together can be fun. Sarasota offers many family-friendly restaurants. You can find places with kids’ menus and high chairs. Some restaurants even have play areas. One popular spot is Gecko’s Grill & Pub. They serve a variety of foods. Everyone can find something to love. Yoder’s Restaurant is another great choice. They have delicious pies and comfort food.
Food festivals are a treat for families. Kids can try new foods. Parents can enjoy local dishes. Forks & Corks is a top event. It features foods from local chefs. Another fun festival is the Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival. Here, you can enjoy fresh seafood and live music. These festivals offer a chance to eat and have fun together.

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Seasonal Events
Sarasota offers many fun activities for kids during seasonal events. Enjoy outdoor festivals, parades, and special holiday celebrations. Visit parks and museums with kid-friendly exhibits.
Holiday Celebrations
Sarasota offers many holiday celebrations for families. Enjoy the Christmas lights at Selby Gardens. Visit the holiday parades downtown. Participate in the New Year’s Eve fireworks at Marina Jack. These events are fun and exciting for kids.
Summer Camps
Summer camps in Sarasota are great for kids. They can join sports camps to play soccer or basketball. Arts camps offer painting and drawing activities. Science camps teach kids about nature and experiments. These camps keep kids active and learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sarasota Fun For Families?
Yes, Sarasota is fun for families. Enjoy beaches, museums, parks, and kid-friendly attractions. It’s a great destination for all ages.
What Areas To Stay Away From In Sarasota?
Avoid staying in Newtown and parts of North Sarasota. These areas have higher crime rates compared to others. Research and choose safer neighborhoods.
What Is There To Do In Siesta Key For Kids?
Kids can enjoy the beautiful Siesta Beach, explore the playgrounds, visit the Mote Marine Laboratory, and kayak in the mangroves.
What Is The Best Month To Visit Sarasota, Florida?
The best month to visit Sarasota, Florida is March. The weather is warm, and events like the Sarasota Film Festival occur.
Conclusion
Sarasota offers many fun activities for families with kids. From beautiful beaches to exciting museums, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy a day at the park or explore nature trails. Don’t forget to visit the local aquarium and zoo. These experiences create lasting memories for your family.
Plan your trip soon. Sarasota awaits with open arms and endless adventures.