15 Things To Do With Kids In Sarasota, Florida
Looking for the ultimate family getaway? Sarasota, nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast, is the perfect destination for parents and kids alike. Known for its stunning beaches, cultural attractions, and family-friendly vibe, this vibrant city offers a little something for everyone.
But Sarasota isn’t just about outdoor adventures. Dive into the city’s rich cultural offerings, like the circus-themed exhibits at the Ringling Museum or hands-on activities at the Children’s Garden & Art Center. With calm turquoise waters, year-round sunshine, and activities tailored for all ages, Sarasota is more than just a vacation spot—it’s a place where lifelong memories are made.
So grab your sunscreen, pack your sense of wonder, and get ready to explore the magic that makes Sarasota a top destination for families!
1. Siesta Key Beach:
📍 Location: 948 Beach Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242
💡 Fun Fact:
The sand here is 99% quartz crystal—so soft and white, it stays cool even under the blazing sun.
Siesta Key Beach is a Sarasota gem that’s earned its reputation as one of the best beaches in the world. Renowned for its powdery white sand, composed of 99% quartz, this beach stays cool underfoot even on the hottest Florida days, making it perfect for barefoot strolls and sandy playtime. Families are drawn to its calm, shallow waters, ideal for young swimmers and splash-filled fun.
Packed with family-friendly amenities, Siesta Key Beach offers picnic pavilions, a playground, lifeguards, and plenty of parking, ensuring a hassle-free day by the water. Kids can hunt for unique seashells or join a game of beach volleyball, while parents enjoy the serene backdrop of swaying palm trees and turquoise waves. As the day winds down, the beach transforms into a breathtaking canvas of vibrant sunset hues—a spectacle you don’t want to miss.
🔎 Important Info:
- Hours: Open daily, 6 a.m. – midnight
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible mats and beach wheelchairs available
- Parking: Free, large public lot (fills fast on weekends)
- Amenities: Lifeguards, restrooms, playground, picnic areas
- Tips: Arrive early for a good spot and don’t miss the Sunday evening drum circle!
2. Lido Key Beach
📍 Location: 400 Benjamin Franklin Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236
💡 Fun Fact:
This beach offers the rare combo of soft sand and easy access to upscale shops and cafés at St. Armands Circle.
Lido Key Beach offers a peaceful escape from the bustling crowds of Siesta Key while still delivering all the beauty Sarasota beaches are known for. Its soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and family-friendly atmosphere make it an ideal spot for a relaxing or adventurous day by the sea.
Little ones can safely splash in the gentle waves, while older kids and parents can explore the nearby mangroves of Ted Sperling Nature Park by kayak or paddleboard. With amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, and a snack bar, Lido Key Beach ensures a stress-free outing for families.
Nature enthusiasts will love spotting dolphins and manatees close to shore, while St. Armands Circle—just a short walk away—provides great options for post-beach dining, ice cream, and boutique shopping.
🔎 Important Info:
- Hours: Daily, 5 a.m. – 11 p.m.
- Accessibility: Accessible restrooms and pathways
- Parking: Free lot and limited street parking
- Amenities: Restrooms, showers, shaded picnic areas
- Tips: Walk north to find quieter spots; bring binoculars for dolphin watching
3. The Ringling Museum
📍 Location: 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
💡 Fun Fact:
Once the winter home of circus king John Ringling, the grounds now host world-class art, lush gardens, and even a Venetian-style mansion.
A blend of art, history, and family entertainment, The Ringling Museum is one of Sarasota's crown jewels. Kids will love the Circus Museum, featuring vintage costumes, dazzling wagons, and a stunning miniature circus model that brings the magic of the big top to life.
Parents and art lovers can enjoy the Museum of Art, showcasing a world-class collection of European paintings and sculptures, while the Venetian-style Ca' d'Zan Mansion wows visitors with its opulent design and breathtaking views of the bay.
Take a stroll through the estate's beautiful Bayfront Gardens or join a seasonal workshop or event for added fun. The Ringling offers a little something for everyone, making it a must-visit during your Sarasota stay.
🔎 Important Info:
- Hours: Daily, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (closed on major holidays)
- Accessibility: Fully ADA accessible, wheelchairs available
- Parking: Free on-site lot
- Amenities: Café, museum store, guided tours
- Tips: Don’t skip the Circus Museum—it’s interactive and fun for all ages
4. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium:
📍 Location: 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236
💡 Fun Fact:
Mote is a working research lab and home to sea turtles, sharks, and rescued manatees.
For an engaging and educational experience, visit the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. Home to an array of marine creatures—from playful sea otters and manatees to fascinating sharks and jellyfish—it’s a family favorite in Sarasota.
Kids will be thrilled by the interactive touch tanks, where they can safely meet stingrays and starfish, while exhibits like "Sea Turtles: Ancient Survivors" and "Coral Reefs: Nurseries of the Ocean" teach visitors about marine conservation.
Extend the adventure by taking a guided eco-tour or renting a kayak to explore Sarasota’s vibrant waters, rich with wildlife.
🔎 Important Info:
- Hours: Daily, 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with rental available
- Parking: Free lot onsite
- Amenities: Café, gift shop, touch tanks, educational programs
- Tips: Check the feeding schedule for manatees and rays—it’s worth the wait
5. Children’s Garden & Art Center:
📍 Location: 1670 10th Way, Sarasota, FL 34236
💡 Fun Fact:
This whimsical garden was built for creativity and play, with a pirate ship, fairy garden, and art stations.
The Children’s Garden & Art Center is a whimsical wonderland where creativity and imagination run wild. Designed with kids in mind, it features themed gardens like pirate ships, fairy houses, and a Dragon Maze, offering endless opportunities for exploration.
Kids can climb, discover, and engage in hands-on art workshops, while parents relax in shaded seating areas. Seasonal events like scavenger hunts and costume parades add even more magic to the experience, making it a delightful destination for the whole family.
🔎 Important Info:
- Hours: Tue–Sun, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (closed Mondays)
- Accessibility: Limited accessibility due to natural terrain
- Parking: Free small lot and street parking
- Amenities: Picnic area, indoor playroom, art supplies
- Tips: Wear water shoes and expect to get a little messy—kids love it!
6. Myakka River State Park:
📍 Location: 13208 State Rd 72, Sarasota, FL 34241
💡 Fun Fact:
One of Florida’s oldest and largest parks, it’s known for its canopy walkway—Florida’s first!
Nature-loving families will find adventure at Myakka River State Park, one of Florida’s oldest and largest state parks. With activities like hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting, the park offers a mix of relaxation and excitement.
The canopy walkway, a suspended bridge 25 feet above ground, provides stunning treetop views, while guided airboat tours through the wetlands offer close encounters with alligators and native birds. Picnic areas and playgrounds make it a perfect day trip destination for families.
🔎 Important Info:
- Hours: Daily, 8 a.m. – sunset
- Accessibility: Visitor center and restrooms accessible; some trails are not
- Parking: $6 per vehicle entry fee
- Amenities: Boat tours, hiking, biking, camping, birdwatching
- Tips: Visit in early morning to catch wildlife and avoid heat
7. Sarasota Jungle Gardens:
📍 Location: 3701 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34234
💡 Fun Fact:
You can hand-feed flamingos here—a rare and unforgettable photo op!
Sarasota Jungle Gardens combines lush tropical beauty with interactive animal encounters. Spanning 10 acres, the gardens are home to exotic birds, reptiles, and mammals. Kids can feed flamingos, hold a baby alligator, or pet farm animals at the zoo.
The beautifully landscaped paths are perfect for a relaxing stroll, while live animal shows entertain and educate visitors of all ages. With picnic spots and a café, it’s a family-friendly Sarasota gem.
🔎 Important Info:
- Hours: Daily, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Accessibility: Fully accessible paths and facilities
- Parking: Free lot
- Amenities: Animal shows, petting zoo, café, gift shop
- Tips: Bring your camera and check showtimes upon entry
8. Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary
📍 Location: 7101 Palmer Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34240
💡 Fun Fact:
Founded by a circus family, this nonprofit sanctuary is home to rescued lions, tigers, and bears—oh my!
The Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary is a must-visit for animal enthusiasts, offering an up-close experience with majestic big cats like lions, tigers, and ligers, as well as bears, birds, and primates. This family-run nonprofit focuses on conservation and education, hosting engaging live animal demonstrations that entertain while teaching visitors about wildlife.
Interactive experiences, such as feeding opportunities, add a hands-on element to your visit. The sanctuary's shaded grounds and picnic areas make it a comfortable outing for families.
🔎 Important Info:
- Hours: Wed–Sun, 12 – 4 p.m.
- Accessibility: Most areas are accessible
- Parking: Free onsite parking
- Amenities: Educational talks, shaded seating, restrooms
- Tips: Donations go a long way here—consider a backstage tour or feeding experience
9. Bounce Down Under
📍 Location: 935 N Beneva Rd #802, Sarasota, FL 34232
💡 Fun Fact:
This Aussie-themed indoor inflatable park was inspired by the founders’ travels to Australia.
For indoor family fun, Bounce Down Under is the ultimate spot. This Australian-themed inflatable playground features bouncy castles, obstacle courses, slides, and a designated toddler zone, ensuring entertainment for kids of all ages.
Parents can unwind in the café area while kids burn off energy in a clean, climate-controlled environment. With its bright and welcoming atmosphere, Bounce Down Under is ideal for rainy days, birthdays, or just some extra fun.
🔎 Important Info:
- Hours: Vary; check online (usually open daily late morning to early evening)
- Accessibility: Designed for kids; some seating for adults
- Parking: Free plaza parking
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, snack bar, parent lounge
- Tips: Great for rainy days; don’t forget socks (they’re required!)
10. Escape Rooms Unlocked
📍 Location: 4084 Bee Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL 34233
💡 Fun Fact:
Sarasota’s highest-rated escape room includes original, locally designed challenges—not franchised themes.
Families with older kids and teens will love the challenges at Escape Rooms Unlocked. These themed escape rooms offer intricate puzzles and immersive storylines, from haunted mansions to high-stakes heists. It’s a fun way to test teamwork and problem-solving skills while racing against the clock.
The attention to detail in set designs and the suspenseful atmosphere make this a unique, engaging activity for groups of all sizes.
🔎 Important Info:
- Hours: Daily, by reservation
- Accessibility: Most rooms wheelchair accessible (call ahead to confirm)
- Parking: Free lot
- Amenities: Group-friendly, private bookings, themed rooms
- Tips: Book the "Cabin in the Woods" room for the perfect blend of creepy and clever
11. The Old Salty Dog:
📍 Location: 1601 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236
💡 Fun Fact:
Featured on Man v. Food, their famous beer-battered hot dog is a local legend.
The Old Salty Dog is a Sarasota dining favorite, combining waterfront views with a menu of delicious seafood and American classics. Known for its famous “Salty Dog,” a deep-fried hot dog wrapped in batter, this casual spot offers plenty of kid-friendly options alongside freshly caught seafood and tropical cocktails for adults.
With locations on Siesta Key, City Island, and Venice, families can enjoy the laid-back ambiance and scenic outdoor decks while spotting dolphins or manatees.
🔎 Important Info:
- Hours: Daily, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
- Parking: Free lot
- Amenities: Waterfront dining, casual pub fare, kid-friendly
- Tips: Sit outside for sunset views and dolphin sightings
12. Owens Fish Camp
📍 Location: 516 Burns Ln, Sarasota, FL 34236
💡 Fun Fact:
This beloved Southern seafood shack sits under a centuries-old banyan tree gifted by the Edison family.
Owens Fish Camp in downtown Sarasota is a dining gem that combines rustic charm with Southern hospitality and fresh, locally sourced seafood. The cozy, old-Florida ambiance—complete with eclectic decor, a backyard swing, and live music—makes it a favorite for families and foodies alike.
The menu features Southern classics like shrimp and grits, fried oysters, and generous fish camp-style platters. Don’t forget to try their homemade pies for dessert! The outdoor backyard area provides a relaxed space for kids to play while parents soak up the vibrant atmosphere under twinkling lights.
🔎 Important Info:
- Hours: Tue–Sun, 4:30 p.m. – close
- Accessibility: Some outdoor seating may be on gravel; call ahead
- Parking: Street parking or valet
- Amenities: Live bluegrass, outdoor seating, fresh oysters
- Tips: No reservations—go early or expect to wait (and sip wine while you do!)
13. Sweetberries Frozen Custard
📍 Location: 2881 Clark Rd, Sarasota, FL 34231
💡 Fun Fact:
Known for their ultra-creamy custard and rotating “flavor of the day” that locals follow religiously.
For a sweet ending to your Sarasota adventures, Sweetberries Frozen Custard is the ultimate stop. Known for its creamy, freshly made frozen custard, this local favorite offers rotating flavors, from chocolate and vanilla to creative seasonal specials. Their famous “concretes,” which mix custard with toppings like cookies or fresh fruit, are a must-try.
The family-friendly outdoor seating area makes it a perfect place for kids to enjoy their treats while parents relax in the Florida sunshine. Sweetberries also serves light savory fare like salads and sandwiches, making it more than just a dessert destination.
🔎 Important Info:
- Hours: Daily, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Accessibility: ADA accessible with indoor/outdoor seating
- Parking: Free lot
- Amenities: Frozen custard, sandwiches, pet-friendly patio
- Tips: Try the custard sandwich—it’s a local favorite
14. Sarasota Chalk Festival:
📍 Location: Varies – typically held in Venice or downtown Sarasota
💡 Fun Fact:
This festival showcases 3D pavement art from world-renowned chalk artists—it literally pops off the street!
The Sarasota Chalk Festival transforms city streets into an open-air art gallery each fall, featuring stunning chalk masterpieces and 3D illusions by artists from around the globe. Families can watch artists work live, creating breathtaking designs on the pavement, while interactive zones let kids try their hand at chalk art.
The festival also offers food vendors, live music, and hands-on activities, making it a fun-filled day for all ages.
🔎 Important Info:
- Dates: Usually in November
- Accessibility: Street event with paved access; accessible bathrooms provided
- Parking: Paid and free lots nearby; shuttle options vary by year
- Amenities: Food trucks, music, art booths
- Tips: Bring sunglasses and sunscreen—it’s all outdoors
15. Suncoast Science Festival
📍 Location: Usually at The Mall at University Town Center (UTC), 140 University Town Center Dr, Sarasota, FL 34243
💡 Fun Fact:
This STEAM festival attracts more than 10,000 attendees with hands-on exhibits from NASA, Mote Marine, and more.
The Suncoast Science Festival celebrates STEM innovation with interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and hands-on activities that inspire curiosity and learning for all ages. From robotics and marine biology to space exploration, the festival offers something for every budding scientist or engineer.
Parents will love the blend of education and entertainment, while kids enjoy building models, testing experiments, and exploring groundbreaking science in action.
🔎 Important Info:
- Dates: Typically held in spring (April)
- Accessibility: Fully accessible venue
- Parking: Free mall parking
- Amenities: Food vendors, restrooms, exhibits for all ages
- Tips: Ideal for kids—expect crowds and lots of sensory stimulation
16. Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sand Sculpting Festival
📍 Location: Siesta Key Beach, 948 Beach Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242
💡 Fun Fact:
This internationally recognized competition features artists sculpting sand into jaw-dropping works of art—with just 24 hours to do it.
The Siesta Key Crystal Classic transforms Siesta Key Beach into a gallery of jaw-dropping sand sculptures, crafted by world-class artists. Visitors can watch live sculpting demonstrations, marvel at intricate creations, and even join sculpting workshops.
Beyond the art, the event features live music, food vendors, and a marketplace, making it a vibrant family outing.
🔎 Important Info:
- Dates: Annually in November
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible mats, scooters available
- Parking: Free beach lot (fills fast); shuttle service available
- Amenities: Live music, food court, kids’ area, merchandise
- Tips: Go early in the festival to watch sculptors in action, and come back for the judging
Conclusion
Sarasota is a dream destination combining vibrant culture, family-friendly fun, and stunning natural beauty. From the iconic Siesta Key Beach to wildlife adventures at the Big Cat Habitat, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this Gulf Coast gem. Families will love the mix of sandy shores, engaging museums like The Ringling, and unique attractions like the Children’s Garden & Art Center. Adventure seekers can explore Myakka River State Park, while foodies savor Sarasota’s renowned seafood at iconic restaurants.
So pack your essentials, plan your adventures, and get ready for an unforgettable experience. Sarasota is waiting to share its story with you!
Looking for an accommodation? Karta has some amazing deals on Sarasota vacation rentals for you.
FAQs About Sarasota
1. What is Sarasota weather like year-round?
Sarasota enjoys a tropical climate, with warm, sunny winters and hot, humid summers. The best weather is from November to April, with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring Sarasota’s attractions.
2. What are the best Sarasota beaches for families?
Siesta Key Beach and Lido Key Beach are top picks for families. Siesta Key is known for its soft, white sand and shallow waters, while Lido Key offers a tranquil atmosphere and easy access to nearby St. Armands Circle.
3. How far is Sarasota Airport from the city center?
Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is just about 10 minutes from downtown Sarasota, making it a convenient option for travelers arriving in the area.
4. What are the top Sarasota restaurants for families?
Great options include The Old Salty Dog for waterfront dining, Owens Fish Camp for Southern charm and seafood, and Sweetberries Frozen Custard for a sweet treat everyone will love.
5. What are the must-see Sarasota events?
The Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sand Sculpting Festival, Sarasota Chalk Festival, and Suncoast Science Festival are some of the most popular annual events, offering fun and entertainment for all ages.
6. Is Sarasota a good destination for shopping?
Absolutely! St. Armands Circle is perfect for boutique shopping, while The Mall at University Town Center and Sarasota’s downtown area offer a mix of luxury brands and unique finds.
7. Are there family-friendly hotels in Sarasota?
Yes, Sarasota offers a range of family-friendly accommodations, from beachside resorts on Siesta Key to vacation rentals through platforms like karta.com. Many options include pools, kid-friendly amenities, and convenient locations.
8. What are the best outdoor activities in Sarasota?
Explore the canopy walk at Myakka River State Park, feed flamingos at Sarasota Jungle Gardens, or kayak through mangroves near Ted Sperling Nature Park for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
