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!
Beach Adventures
1. Siesta Key Beach:
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.
Fun Fact: Siesta Key Beach’s fine sand has earned it multiple accolades, including the title of #1 beach in the U.S. by TripAdvisor and Dr. Beach. Its soft, cool texture is legendary among beachgoers worldwide.
2. Lido Key Beach:
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.
Fun Fact: Developed in the 1920s by circus legend John Ringling, Lido Key Beach is a serene getaway with a historic touch, perfectly paired with the charm of nearby St. Armands Circle.
Engaging Museums
3. The Ringling Museum:
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.
Fun Fact: The Ringling Museum boasts over 10,000 circus artifacts, making it one of the largest collections of circus memorabilia in the world.
4. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium:
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.
Fun Fact: Mote has been a leader in marine research for nearly 70 years and actively rescues and rehabilitates marine animals like dolphins and sea turtles.
5. Children’s Garden & Art Center:
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.
Fun Fact: The garden is filled with hidden treasures and interactive sculptures that bring out the childlike wonder in visitors of all ages!
Outdoor Parks and Nature Trails
6. Myakka River State Park:
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.
Fun Fact: Myakka River State Park is home to Florida’s first canopy walkway, giving visitors a unique perspective of the forest.
7. Sarasota Jungle Gardens:
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.
Fun Fact: The flamingos at Sarasota Jungle Gardens are so friendly they’ll eat right out of your hands!
Entertainment and Fun Zones
8. Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary:
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.
Fun Fact: The sanctuary has been rescuing exotic animals for over 35 years, playing a vital role in wildlife conservation in Sarasota!
9. Bounce Down Under:
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.
Fun Fact: At over 11,000 square feet, Bounce Down Under is the largest inflatable play center on Florida’s Gulf Coast!
10. Escape Rooms Unlocked:
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.
Fun Fact: Escape rooms originated in Japan and have since become a global phenomenon, now brought to Sarasota with some of the most creative scenarios on the Gulf Coast!
Family Dining Spots
11. The Old Salty Dog:
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.
Fun Fact: The Old Salty Dog gained national attention on the Travel Channel’s Man v. Food for its iconic Salty Dog dish!
12. Owens Fish Camp:
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.
Fun Fact: Owens Fish Camp pays homage to Florida’s fishing history and is inspired by real-life fish camps in the Everglades.
13. Sweetberries Frozen Custard:
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.
Fun Fact: Frozen custard’s extra creamy texture comes from its added egg yolks. Sweetberries makes theirs fresh daily, ensuring every scoop is a delight!
Seasonal and Annual Events
13. Sarasota Chalk Festival:
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.
Fun Fact: The Sarasota Chalk Festival introduced 3D pavement art to the U.S., earning a global reputation as a pioneering event in street art.
14. Suncoast Science Festival:
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.
Fun Fact: Hosted by the Suncoast Science Center, the festival showcases local innovation and highlights Sarasota’s contributions to the global STEM community.
15. Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sand Sculpting Festival:
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.
Fun Fact: Siesta Key’s quartz sand, known for its cool texture and sculpting properties, has helped the Crystal Classic gain international acclaim as a premier sand art event.
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.