01 · Family Fun · Sarasota
Family Activities in Sarasota
Family-friendly things to do around Sarasota, from outdoor adventures and splash-pad playgrounds to indoor rainy-day fun, attractions, wildlife and entertainment. Whether you are planning a visit or deciding where to settle down, this guide points you to the real places Sarasota families actually go, with ideas sorted by age and interest.
01 · Family Fun · Venice
Family Activities in Venice
Family-friendly things to do around Venice, from the splash fountain downtown and the shark-tooth hunt on the Gulf shoreline to playgrounds, a 700-foot fishing pier and island parks at sunset. This guide leads with Venice favorites, then lists nearby Nokomis, Osprey and South Venice, then the regional options in Sarasota.
01 · Family Fun · Osprey
Family Activities in Osprey
Family-friendly things to do around Osprey, led by the pine flatwoods and freshwater lakes of Oscar Scherer State Park at the community's heart, with Nokomis and Venice playgrounds and beaches a short drive away.
01 · Family Fun · Nokomis
Family Activities in Nokomis
Family-friendly things to do around Nokomis, from the shaded playground at Nokomis Community Park to the beaches and walkable North Jetty on Casey Key, with Venice's pier and parks a short drive south.
01 · Family Fun · Bradenton
Family Activities in Bradenton
Family-friendly things to do in Bradenton, from the manatee rehabilitation habitat at the Bishop Museum to 14 acres of treetop adventure at TreeUmph!, with miniature golf just across in Lakewood Ranch.
01 · Family Fun · Anna Maria Island
Family Activities in Anna Maria Island
Family-friendly things to do on Anna Maria Island, from the bayfront park at the island's north tip to the skate park at Holmes Beach, the playground at Coquina Beach and sunset cruises from Bridge Street.
01 · Family Fun · Lakewood Ranch
Family Activities in Lakewood Ranch
Family-friendly things to do around Lakewood Ranch, led by the Fish Hole miniature golf course, with TreeUmph!, the Bishop Museum and the paddling lake at Nathan Benderson Park just minutes away.
01 · Family Fun · Siesta Key
Family Activities in Siesta Key
Family-friendly things to do on Siesta Key, led by the quartz-sand shoreline of Siesta Beach with its newly renovated playground, with Turtle Beach's calm bay side and Sarasota parks and gardens nearby.
01 · Family Fun · North Port
Family Activities in North Port
Family-friendly things to do in North Port, from splash pads and an all-abilities playground to the city aquatic center and the wild Myakka River a short drive east.
01 · Family Fun · Englewood
Family Activities in Englewood
Family-friendly things to do in Englewood, from Lemon Bay Park's nature trails and boardwalks to Englewood Beach's boardwalk playground, Stump Pass's unspoiled shoreline and Indian Mound Park's boat ramps.
01 · Family Fun · Port Charlotte
Family Activities in Port Charlotte
Family-friendly things to do in Port Charlotte, from the Charlotte Harbor beach park to the Rays' spring-training complex, Kidstar Park's go-karts and laser tag, and Treasure Lanes bowling.
01 · Family Fun · Punta Gorda
Family Activities in Punta Gorda
Family-friendly things to do in Punta Gorda, from the 2.5-mile Harborwalk and Fishermen's Village to waterfront parks, a wildlife rehab center and playgrounds across town.
01 · Family Fun · Cape Coral
Family Activities in Cape Coral
Family-friendly things to do in Cape Coral, from the slides at Sun Splash to the Cape Coral Museum of History, with Fort Myers museums and parks just across the river.
01 · Family Fun · Fort Myers
Family Activities in Fort Myers
Family-friendly things to do in Fort Myers, from IMAG's aquariums and Science on a Sphere to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Calusa's nature trails and Lakes Regional Park's miniature train.
01 · Family Fun · St. Petersburg
Family Activities in St. Petersburg
Family-friendly things to do in St. Petersburg, from the hands-on Great Explorations museum next to Sunken Gardens to the playgrounds, splash pad and fishing deck at the St. Pete Pier.
01 · Family Fun · Wellen Park
Family Activities in Wellen Park
Family-friendly things to do around Wellen Park, from the community's own Downtown Wellen play park and Blue Heron Park to Venice playgrounds and beaches a few minutes away.
02 · Family Fun · Venice
Family Activities in Venice
Venice is built for family days out: a splash fountain downtown, playgrounds, the eternal shark-tooth hunt and a pier that stays open around the clock. Venice spots come first below, then nearby Nokomis, Osprey and South Venice, then the regional Sarasota options.
In Venice
Centennial Park
The heart of downtown Venice: lawns and waterside benches, the free Children's Fountain splash pad, gazebo concerts and open sunset views across the water.
Venice Fishing Pier at Brohard Park
A 700-foot Gulf pier at Brohard Park, free and open 24 hours. No fishing license is required; city rules allow one line per angler, no shark-fishing gear, and no swimming within 150 feet of the pier.
Caspersen Beach Park
Venice's longest natural Gulf beach and the classic shark-tooth hunting spot, with a beachside playground. Access is currently foot and bike only: the Harbor Drive lot stays closed after the 2024 storms, and the Venetian Waterway Park trail is the way in.
Humphris Park
Venice Island park with the Gulf on one side and the bay on the other, a favorite for sunset and fishing. The South Jetty walkway has been closed since the 2024 storm damage, but the park itself remains open.
Shamrock Park and Nature Center
Two playgrounds, boardwalk nature trails and the nature center along the creek.
Venezia Park
A shaded neighborhood park with playground equipment and green space.
Venice Art Center
Classes and camps for young artists, plus changing gallery exhibitions.
Nearby · Nokomis, Osprey & South Venice
Nokomis Community Park
A shaded community park with play equipment sized for all ages.
Woodmere Park
The Venice-side county park with playgrounds, ballfields, open space and a dog park.
North Jetty Park
On the Nokomis side of Casey Key: free parking, restrooms, a bait shop and an open, walkable North Jetty over the Gulf.
Oscar Scherer State Park
Old-Florida state park of pine flatwoods and freshwater lakes with hiking, biking and paddling trails just north of Venice.
Nokomis Beach
Sarasota County's oldest public beach at the north end of Casey Key: lifeguards, a fishing pier and the free sunset drum circle.
Regional · Sarasota
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
A working marine research center with a public aquarium, manatees and a stingray touch pool.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Rescued and resident animals, daily shows and a flamingo lagoon in tropical gardens.
Sarasota Children's Garden
A whimsical nature-play garden with themed areas and art projects built for little ones.
Bayfront Park and Marina
Downtown Sarasota park with a pirate-themed playground, an interactive splash pad and marina walkways.
02 · Family Fun · Osprey
Family Activities in Osprey
Osprey is quiet, rural and water-close, and its family life is centered on the outdoors. Oscar Scherer State Park leads the local list, followed by nearby Nokomis and Venice parks and beaches, then the regional options in Sarasota.
In Osprey
Oscar Scherer State Park
Pine flatwoods and freshwater lakes with family hiking, biking and paddling trails.
Nearby · Nokomis & Venice
Nokomis Community Park
A shaded community park with play equipment sized for all ages.
Caspersen Beach Park
Venice's wild Gulf beach and classic shark-tooth hunting spot, with a playground and foot-and-bike access while the parking lot is repaired.
Nokomis Beach
Sarasota County's oldest public beach with lifeguards, a fishing pier and the sunset drum circle.
Regional · Sarasota
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
A working marine research center with a public aquarium, manatees and a stingray touch pool.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Rescued and resident animals, daily shows and a flamingo lagoon.
Siesta Beach
The famous quartz-sand beach with a lifeguard-protected swim area and a beachside playground.
02 · Family Fun · Nokomis
Family Activities in Nokomis
Nokomis keeps things low-key and outdoorsy: a shaded community park, an old county beach and the Casey Key shoreline with an open, walkable jetty. Nokomis spots come first, then nearby Venice and Osprey, then the regional Sarasota options.
In Nokomis
Nokomis Community Park
A shaded community park with play equipment sized for all ages.
North Jetty Park
On the Casey Key side of Nokomis: free parking, restrooms, a bait shop, a beach and an open, walkable North Jetty over the Gulf.
Nokomis Beach
Sarasota County's oldest public beach at the north end of Casey Key: lifeguards, a fishing pier, a bay-side kayak launch and the free sunset drum circle.
Nearby · Venice & Osprey
Centennial Park
Downtown Venice lawns, the Children's Fountain splash pad and sunset views across the water.
Venice Fishing Pier at Brohard Park
A free, 24-hour Gulf pier with no license required; city rules allow one line per angler.
Caspersen Beach Park
The classic shark-tooth hunting beach with a playground; foot-and-bike access while parking is repaired.
Oscar Scherer State Park
Pine flatwoods, freshwater lakes and family hiking and paddling trails just north of Nokomis.
Regional · Sarasota
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
A working marine research center with a public aquarium, manatees and a stingray touch pool.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Daily animal shows and a flamingo lagoon in tropical gardens.
Sarasota Children's Garden
A whimsical nature-play garden built for little hands.
02 · Family Fun · Bradenton
Family Activities in Bradenton
Bradenton families can watch manatees in rehabilitation at the Bishop, climb through the trees at TreeUmph! and then head to Lakewood Ranch for miniature golf. Bradenton spots come first, then nearby Lakewood Ranch, then the regional Sarasota options.
In Bradenton
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
The largest natural history museum on Florida's Gulf Coast, with the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat, a planetarium, the Mosaic Backyard Universe and a Sea Biscuit submarine replica.
TreeUmph! Adventure Course
14 acres of aerial adventure courses and ziplines in the trees, kid-friendly for ages roughly 7 and up.
Nearby · Lakewood Ranch
Fish Hole Miniature Golf at Lakewood Ranch
Two 18-hole courses of Florida-themed miniature golf on the Lakewood Ranch side of the corridor.
Regional · Sarasota
Myakka River State Park
One of Florida's oldest and largest state parks, with a scenic drive, boat tours and miles of trails along the Myakka River.
Mote Science Education Aquarium
Marine-life exhibits, touch experiences and teaching labs at University Town Center.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Daily animal shows and a flamingo lagoon in tropical gardens.
02 · Family Fun · Anna Maria Island
Family Activities in Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island family life is beach-first and low-key: a four-acre bayfront park with grills and showers, a rebuilt skate park, a beachside playground at Coquina Beach, miniature golf and dolphin cruises. Island spots come first, then nearby Bradenton, then the regional Sarasota options.
In Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Bayfront Park
At the north tip of the island, four acres of lawns with playgrounds, picnic tables with grills, restrooms and showers, calm shallow water and wide views of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
Holmes Beach Skate Park at City Field
The town's rebuilt in-ground skate park at City Field, free for skaters and riders.
Coquina Beach
The island's southernmost beach with lifeguards, a playground, picnic tables and restrooms.
The Fish Hole Miniature Golf
Eighteen holes of miniature golf a block off the Gulf in Bradenton Beach.
Paradise Boat Tours
Bay cruises and sunset trips leaving from the Bridge Street pier in Bradenton Beach.
Nearby · Bradenton
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
Manatee rehabilitation habitat, planetarium and hands-on exhibits on the Manatee River.
TreeUmph! Adventure Course
14 acres of aerial courses and ziplines, kid-friendly for ages roughly 7 and up.
Regional · Sarasota
The Ringling
Art galleries, the Ca' d'Zan mansion and the circus museum on a grand bayfront estate.
Mote Science Education Aquarium
Marine-life exhibits and touch experiences at University Town Center.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Daily animal shows and a flamingo lagoon in tropical gardens.
02 · Family Fun · Lakewood Ranch
Family Activities in Lakewood Ranch
Lakewood Ranch's family scene is neighborhood parks plus quick drives to big-ticket fun: miniature golf on Rodeo Drive, treetop courses, a science museum and a lakeside paddling park. Lakewood Ranch spots come first, then nearby Bradenton and Sarasota, then the regional guide.
In Lakewood Ranch
Fish Hole Miniature Golf at Lakewood Ranch
Two 18-hole courses of Florida-themed miniature golf, a Lakewood Ranch staple for family nights out.
Nearby · Bradenton & Sarasota
TreeUmph! Adventure Course
14 acres of aerial courses and ziplines in the trees, kid-friendly for ages roughly 7 and up.
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
Manatee rehabilitation habitat, a planetarium and natural history exhibits on the Manatee River.
Nathan Benderson Park
A 600-acre park around a lake with a playground, a long paved trail and kayak and paddleboard rentals, right at the Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota border.
Regional · Sarasota
Siesta Beach
The famous quartz-sand beach with a playground and lifeguard-protected swimming.
Mote Science Education Aquarium
Marine-life exhibits and touch experiences close by at University Town Center.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Daily animal shows and a flamingo lagoon in tropical gardens.
02 · Family Fun · Siesta Key
Family Activities in Siesta Key
Siesta Key's family draw is the beach itself: 99 percent quartz sand, gentle surf, a lifeguard-protected swim area and a recently renovated playground at Siesta Beach. Siesta spots come first, then nearby Sarasota parks, then the regional attractions.
In Siesta Key
Siesta Beach Park
The famous 99 percent quartz-sand beach with a lifeguard-protected swim area and a newly renovated beachside playground.
Turtle Beach
A quieter Old Florida beach on Siesta Key's bay side with a playground, a kayak launch and picnic areas.
Nearby · Sarasota
Sarasota Children's Garden
A whimsical nature-play garden with themed areas and art projects for little ones.
Payne Park
A city park with the circus-themed Circus Park playground, a splash area, trails and a skate park.
Regional · Sarasota
The Ringling
Art galleries, the Ca' d'Zan mansion and the circus museum on a grand bayfront estate.
Mote Science Education Aquarium
Marine-life exhibits and touch experiences at University Town Center.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Daily animal shows and a flamingo lagoon in tropical gardens.
02 · Family Fun · North Port
Family Activities in North Port
North Port families get a 25-acre community park with a splash pad, an all-abilities playground and the city aquatic center, with Myakka River State Park up the road. North Port spots come first, then nearby Venice and Wellen Park, then the regional Sarasota options.
In North Port
Atwater Community Park
A 25-acre park with a playground, a free zero-entry splash pad, ballfields, batting cages and open lawns.
Boundless Adventures Playground
A city playground designed for children of all abilities, with ramps and inclusive equipment.
North Port Aquatic Center
Competition pool plus a water-play area with slides and a family splash zone. Water-play hours are seasonal: in fall the water park runs on weekends only, and it closes for the winter, so confirm the current schedule with the city.
Nearby · Venice & Wellen Park
Centennial Park
Downtown Venice lawns, the Children's Fountain splash pad and sunset views.
Caspersen Beach Park
The classic shark-tooth hunting beach with a playground in Venice.
Downtown Wellen Play Park
The nature-inspired playground at the heart of Downtown Wellen.
Myakka River State Park
Alligators, wading birds, boat tours and miles of trails on the Myakka River east of North Port.
Regional · Sarasota
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
A working marine research center with a public aquarium, manatees and a stingray touch pool.
Big Cat Habitat
A rescue sanctuary for big cats and other rescued animals, with shows on select days.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Daily animal shows and a flamingo lagoon in tropical gardens.
02 · Family Fun · Englewood
Family Activities in Englewood
Englewood is an outdoorsy, low-key family town: a 210-acre nature park on Lemon Bay, a Gulf beach with a playground and boardwalk, an unspoiled state park beach at Manasota Key's tip and a historic mound park with ramps and seawall fishing. Englewood spots come first, then nearby Venice and Nokomis, then the regional Sarasota options.
In Englewood
Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center
A 210-acre Sarasota County nature park with 1.7 miles of Lemon Bay shoreline, walking paths, boardwalks and a nature center.
Englewood Beach at Chadwick Park
Englewood's main Gulf beach with a 900-meter boardwalk, a playground, volleyball courts and picnic pavilions.
Stump Pass Beach State Park
An unspoiled Gulf beach at the southern tip of Manasota Key with hiking, shelling and fishing; parking is limited, so arrive early.
Indian Mound Park
A historic park on Lemon Bay with boat ramps, fishing from the seawall, a short trail and picnic pavilions.
Nearby · Venice & Nokomis
Caspersen Beach Park
Venice's wild Gulf beach and classic shark-tooth hunting spot with a playground.
Venice Fishing Pier at Brohard Park
A free, 24-hour Gulf pier at Brohard Park, about 13 miles north of Englewood.
Nokomis Beach
Lifeguards, a fishing pier and the sunset drum circle on Casey Key.
Regional · Sarasota
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
A working marine research center with a public aquarium, manatees and a stingray touch pool.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Daily animal shows and a flamingo lagoon in tropical gardens.
Siesta Beach
The famous quartz-sand beach with a lifeguard-protected swim area.
02 · Family Fun · Port Charlotte
Family Activities in Port Charlotte
Port Charlotte families get a harborfront beach with a fishing pier, the Tampa Bay Rays' 82-acre spring-training home, a family entertainment center and a 24-lane bowling alley. Port Charlotte spots come first, then nearby Punta Gorda, then regional Fort Myers and Sarasota.
In Port Charlotte
Port Charlotte Beach Park
A sandy swim and picnic beach along Charlotte Harbor with picnic areas, a playground, a boat ramp and a fishing pier; paid parking applies.
Charlotte Sports Park
The Tampa Bay Rays' 82-acre spring-training home with practice fields, batting cages and a kids play area.
Kidstar Park
Go-karts, laser tag, blacklight miniature golf, a play gym and an arcade under one roof.
Treasure Lanes
A 24-lane bowling center with a game-zone arcade, an easy rainy-day family outing.
Nearby · Punta Gorda
Laishley Park
A 17-acre waterfront park with a 400-foot fishing pier, a fountain and community events through the year.
Fishermen's Village
Shops, restaurants, ice cream, bike rentals and boat rides over Charlotte Harbor.
Regional · Fort Myers & Sarasota
IMAG History & Science Center
Aquariums, animal exhibits, interactive STEM displays and Science on a Sphere in Fort Myers.
Edison and Ford Winter Estates
The winter homes and gardens of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford on the Caloosahatchee.
02 · Family Fun · Punta Gorda
Family Activities in Punta Gorda
Punta Gorda is compact and walkable: the Harborwalk and Fishermen's Village anchor the waterfront, Laishley Park hosts events and fishing, the Peace River Wildlife Center educates, and neighborhood parks hold the playgrounds. Punta Gorda spots come first, then nearby Port Charlotte, then regional Fort Myers.
In Punta Gorda
Punta Gorda Harborwalk
A 2.5-mile walkway along Charlotte Harbor with benches, views and easy stroller miles between downtown and the marina.
Fishermen's Village
Shops, restaurants, ice cream, bike rentals and boat rides with sweeping water views over Charlotte Harbor.
Laishley Park
A 17-acre waterfront park with a 400-foot fishing pier, a fountain and community events through the year.
Peace River Wildlife Center
A nonprofit wildlife rehabilitation center at Ponce de Leon Park where families can meet resident native birds; the education center and gift shop are open daily 11am to 4pm.
Bissett Park
A neighborhood park with playground equipment and open lawn.
Carmalita Park
A community park with playground equipment in Punta Gorda's historic district.
Bailey Brothers Park
A downtown Punta Gorda park with playground equipment and green space.
Nearby · Port Charlotte
Port Charlotte Beach Park
A sandy Charlotte Harbor beach with a playground, boat ramp and fishing pier.
Charlotte Sports Park
The Tampa Bay Rays' spring-training home with practice fields and a kids play area.
Regional · Fort Myers
IMAG History & Science Center
Hands-on science and history center with aquariums and 3D movies in Fort Myers.
Edison and Ford Winter Estates
The winter homes and gardens of two inventors on the Caloosahatchee.
02 · Family Fun · Cape Coral
Family Activities in Cape Coral
Cape Coral families lead with the water park and the local history museum, then cross the Caloosahatchee for Fort Myers museums, a nature center and a regional park. Cape Coral spots come first, then nearby Fort Myers, then the regional guide.
In Cape Coral
Sun Splash Family Water Park
Cape Coral's family water park with water slides, a lazy river and splash areas for all ages.
Cape Coral Museum of History
Local history exhibits on the canal city's story in a riverside setting.
Nearby · Fort Myers
IMAG History & Science Center
Aquariums, animal exhibits, interactive STEM displays and Science on a Sphere.
Lakes Regional Park
279 acres of lakes and parkland with miniature train rides and paved and unpaved walking trails.
Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium
Nature trails, live animal exhibits and a planetarium.
Regional · Fort Myers
Edison and Ford Winter Estates
The winter homes and gardens of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford on the Caloosahatchee.
02 · Family Fun · Fort Myers
Family Activities in Fort Myers
Fort Myers families get a hands-on science and history center, the winter estate of two inventors, a nature center with a planetarium and a 279-acre regional park with a miniature train. Fort Myers spots come first, then nearby Cape Coral, then the regional guide.
In Fort Myers
IMAG History & Science Center
Aquariums, animal exhibits, interactive STEM displays, 3D movies, Science on a Sphere and a daily stingray feeding.
Edison and Ford Winter Estates
A 20-plus-acre historic estate and botanical garden on the Caloosahatchee, with the winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.
Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium
Nature trails, live animal exhibits and a planetarium.
Lakes Regional Park
279 acres of lakes and parkland with miniature train rides and paved and unpaved walking trails.
Nearby · Cape Coral
Sun Splash Family Water Park
Cape Coral's water park with slides, a lazy river and splash areas across the river.
Regional · Beyond Fort Myers
Fort Myers sits at the southern edge of this guide's coverage. For family options to the north along the Gulf Coast, jump to the full guide below.
Jump to all family activities02 · Family Fun · St. Petersburg
Family Activities in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg is a city built for families on the water: a hands-on children's museum, a historic botanical garden, and a pier district with a playground, splash pad and a dedicated fishing deck, plus miles of waterfront parks. St. Petersburg spots come first; the city covers most bases locally, so the nearby and regional tiers stay honest and lean.
In St. Petersburg
Great Explorations Children's Museum
A hands-on children's museum next to Sunken Gardens, open Monday through Saturday 10:30am to 4pm and Sunday 12pm to 4pm.
Sunken Gardens
A century-old botanical garden with flamingos, waterfalls and winding paths, open Monday through Saturday 10am to 4:30pm and Sunday 12pm to 4:30pm.
St. Pete Pier
A 26-acre pier district with the Glazer Family Playground, a splash pad, Spa Beach and a dedicated fishing deck along Tampa Bay.
North Shore Park
A bayfront park with a large playground, a small beach, restrooms and wide-open water views.
Nearby · Beyond St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg's own neighborhoods cover most of the family bases here. For verified family options beyond the city, jump to the full guide below.
Regional · Beyond the Bay
The full guide below covers the Gulf Coast corridor from Sarasota through Fort Myers for longer family day trips.
Jump to all family activities02 · Family Fun · Wellen Park
Family Activities in Wellen Park
Wellen Park is a new community, and its family scene is still growing: a nature-inspired play park in Downtown Wellen and the community's first public park, with Venice and North Port playgrounds, beaches and the aquatic center a short drive away. Wellen Park spots come first, then nearby Venice and North Port, then the regional Sarasota options.
In Wellen Park
Downtown Wellen Play Park
A nature-inspired playground at the heart of Downtown Wellen, the community's main family play space.
Blue Heron Park & Bark Park
Wellen Park's first public park, with about two miles of trails, bird-watching areas and a dog park.
Nearby · Venice & North Port
Centennial Park
Downtown Venice lawns, the Children's Fountain splash pad and sunset views.
Venice Fishing Pier at Brohard Park
A free, 24-hour Gulf pier with no license required, a short drive southwest.
Atwater Community Park
A 25-acre park with a playground and a free zero-entry splash pad in North Port.
North Port Aquatic Center
Competition pool plus a seasonal water-play area with slides; confirm current water-park hours with the city.
Regional · Sarasota
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
A working marine research center with a public aquarium, manatees and a stingray touch pool.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Daily animal shows and a flamingo lagoon in tropical gardens.
Sarasota Children's Garden
A whimsical nature-play garden built for little hands.
Discover
Browse Family Activities
Choose a category to jump straight to that kind of family fun below.
01 · Outdoor Adventures
Outdoor Adventures
Tramp through state parks, paddle the mangroves and follow boardwalks over restored wetlands. These are the big outdoor, active spots families return to again and again.
Myakka River State Park
One of Florida's oldest and largest state parks, with a scenic drive, boat tours and miles of trails along the Myakka River.
Best for: All ages
Oscar Scherer State Park
Old-Florida state park of pine flatwoods and freshwater lakes with hiking, biking and paddling trails just south of Sarasota.
Best for: All ages
Celery Fields
Restored wetlands with walking trails and boardwalks, one of the region's top birding spots and an easy family nature walk.
Best for: All ages
Ted Sperling Nature Park
The classic Lido Key mangrove tunnel paddle, with a family-friendly nature walk and kayak launches off the bay.
Best for: School age and up
Urfer Family Park
A county park with a mile-long nature trail through pine flatwoods, a boardwalk over wetlands and playgrounds for all ages.
Best for: All ages
02 · Indoor & Rainy-Day Fun
Indoor & Rainy-Day Fun
When the rain moves in, Sarasota still has plenty to do indoors: aquariums, museums, trampoline parks, arcades and escape rooms keep families entertained for hours.
Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA)
Sarasota's science education aquarium at University Town Center, with marine-life exhibits, touch experiences and teaching labs.
Best for: All ages
The Ringling
Art museum, the Ca' d'Zan mansion and the circus museum on a grand bayfront estate, with family programs throughout the year.
Best for: All ages
Sarasota Art Museum
Contemporary art museum set in the historic Sarasota High School building, with rotating exhibitions that intrigue older kids and teens.
Best for: School age and up
Sky Zone Sarasota
A trampoline park with wall-to-wall jumping surfaces and family-friendly jump time for burning off energy indoors.
Best for: School age and up
Arcade Monsters
A big retro-and-modern arcade near St. Armands Circle with a huge lineup of games and pinball.
Best for: All ages
Escape Room Sarasota Area
Team-based escape rooms at venues like Escapology and Escape Reality make a clever rainy-day or older-kid outing.
Best for: Teens and up
03 · Attractions & Experiences
Attractions & Experiences
The marquee Sarasota attractions that belong on every family list: museums, botanical gardens, a jungle garden, a wildlife sanctuary and a sail on the bay.
The Ringling
Art galleries, the Ca' d'Zan mansion and the circus museum set on 66 acres of bayfront gardens and grounds.
Best for: All ages
Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA)
Marine science, live exhibits and interactive learning at the new aquarium at University Town Center.
Best for: All ages
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
A tropical garden and wildlife park with bird shows, animal feedings and hands-on encounters.
Best for: Younger kids and up
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Sarasota's waterfront botanical garden with lush plant collections and a children's rainforest.
Best for: All ages
Big Cat Habitat
A rescue sanctuary for big cats and rescued animals, with shows and keeper talks on select visiting days.
Best for: School age and up
Sarasota Children's Garden
A whimsical play-and-learn garden with themed play areas, ponds and art projects built for little ones.
Best for: Younger kids
LeBarge Tropical Cruises
Classic sailing cruises on Sarasota Bay with live narration, a relaxed family-friendly way to see the water.
Best for: All ages
04 · Parks & Playgrounds
Parks & Playgrounds
Sarasota is full of excellent public playgrounds, from splash pads downtown to a circus-themed playground and a lakeside park in the east.
Bayfront Park
A downtown city park with a pirate-themed playground and an interactive splash pad right beside the bay.
Best for: Younger kids
The Bay (Bayfront Park Conservancy)
A 53-acre waterfront park with the Ibis Playground, nature paths, a mangrove bayou walkway and free family programs.
Best for: All ages
Payne Park
A city park with the circus-themed Circus Park playground, a splash area, walking trails, lakes and a free skate park.
Best for: All ages
Urfer Family Park
Two playgrounds sized for different ages, a nature trail, a boardwalk and open fields for games.
Best for: All ages
Nathan Benderson Park
A 600-acre park around a man-made lake with a lakeside playground, a long paved trail, kayaking and paddleboarding.
Best for: All ages
Siesta Beach
A beachside children's playground near the concession area at one of the most highly ranked beaches in the U.S.
Best for: All ages
Turtle Beach
A quieter Old Florida beach on Siesta Key with a beachside playground, a kayak launch and picnic areas.
Best for: All ages
05 · Water & Beach Activities
Water & Beach Activities
From the gentle quartz-sand surf of Siesta to kayak tours through the mangroves, the water is the heart of a Sarasota family day out.
Siesta Beach
Powdery quartz sand, gentle surf, lifeguards, concessions and a beachside playground, widely ranked among the best beaches in the country.
Best for: All ages
Turtle Beach
A quieter stretch of Siesta Key with a playground, picnic areas and a kayak and canoe launch into the bay.
Best for: All ages
Siesta Key Watersports
Kayak and paddleboard rentals plus guided paddles on the calm waters around Siesta Key.
Best for: School age and up
Fun Boat Tours
Eco-tours, dolphin runs and island hops leaving from Siesta Key Marina.
Best for: All ages
Sarasota Bay Explorers
Marine-science guided boat tours of Sarasota Bay run with Mote Marine, great for curious kids.
Best for: School age and up
LeBarge Tropical Cruises
Sailing cruises on Sarasota Bay with live narration, a relaxed family outing on the water.
Best for: All ages
Nathan Benderson Park
Bring kayaks or stand-up paddleboards, or rent from the on-site facility, and paddle the calm 400-acre lake.
Best for: School age and up
06 · Animals & Nature
Animals & Nature
Kids who love animals have no shortage of options: marine life at Mote, parrots and reptiles at Jungle Gardens, rescued big cats, and birds by the thousands at Celery Fields.
Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA)
See sharks, rays, sea turtles and hundreds of marine species in hands-on, science-focused exhibits.
Best for: All ages
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Bird shows, animal feedings and up-close encounters with resident birds, reptiles and mammals.
Best for: All ages
Big Cat Habitat
A rescue sanctuary where big cats and other rescued animals live, with educational shows on select days.
Best for: School age and up
Celery Fields
Restored wetlands that are a magnet for wading birds and waterfowl, with boardwalks and trails for easy wildlife viewing.
Best for: All ages
Myakka River State Park
See alligators, wading birds and Florida wildlife from the trails and the lake boat tour.
Best for: All ages
07 · Games, Bowling & Entertainment
Games, Bowling & Entertainment
When the family wants games, bowling and a bit of friendly competition, Sarasota delivers with bowling alleys, arcades, a trampoline park and escape rooms.
Lucky Strike Sarasota
A modern bowling and entertainment center with lanes, food and a lively atmosphere.
Best for: All ages
Arcade Monsters
A sprawling arcade near St. Armands Circle packed with retro cabinets, pinball and modern games.
Best for: All ages
Livingston's Amusements
A family amusement center with arcade games and activities in south Sarasota.
Best for: All ages
Sky Zone Sarasota
Bounce across wall-to-wall trampolines with dedicated jump areas and games.
Best for: School age and up
Payne Park Skate Park
A free, non-supervised concrete skate park with street sections, a bowl and vert ramps for skaters and BMX riders.
Best for: Teens and up
08 · Teens & Older Kids
Teens & Older Kids
Older kids and teens want action, challenge and a little independence. Sarasota has paddling, rowing, trampolines, skate parks and team-based escape rooms.
Nathan Benderson Park
A world-class rowing lake with kayak and paddleboard rentals, a long trail and an adventure camp in the summer.
Best for: Teens
Myakka River State Park
Long trails, the lake boat tour and a scenic drive for teens who like to keep moving outdoors.
Best for: Teens
Sky Zone Sarasota
High-energy trampoline jumping, dodgeball and free-jump time with friends.
Best for: Teens
Payne Park Skate Park
A free concrete skate park with street features, a bowl and vert ramps.
Best for: Teens
Sarasota Bay Explorers
A hands-on marine-science boat tour that appeals to teens curious about the bay and its wildlife.
Best for: Teens
Escapology Escape Rooms
Team-based, timed puzzle rooms that put teens and families to the test together.
Best for: Teens
09 · Younger Kids
Younger Kids
For toddlers and little ones, the best Sarasota outings are bright, gentle and hands-on: splash pads, whimsical gardens, jungle animals and big safe playgrounds.
Sarasota Children's Garden
A whimsical, nonprofit nature-play garden with themed play areas, ponds and art projects made for little hands.
Best for: Toddlers & young kids
Bayfront Park
A pirate-themed playground and an interactive splash pad, both great for little ones on a warm day.
Best for: Young kids
The Bay (Bayfront Park Conservancy)
The Ibis Playground was designed for children of all ages and abilities, with shade and easy paths.
Best for: Young kids
Payne Park Circus Park Playground
A circus-themed playground with a splash area, climbing elements, slides and music makers.
Best for: Young kids
Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA)
Bright, colorful marine exhibits and touch experiences that fascinate little ones.
Best for: Young kids
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Friendly bird shows, animal feedings and gentle paths make this a favorite for small children.
Best for: Young kids
The Mall at UTC Play Area
A free indoor soft-play area for young children inside The Mall at University Town Center.
Best for: Toddlers & young kids
10 · Free & Low-Cost Fun
Free & Low-Cost Fun
Some of the best Sarasota family days cost nothing at all: the beaches, the parks, the wetlands and the Saturday farmers market.
Siesta Beach
Powdery white sand and gentle surf with free public access, lifeguards and a playground.
Best for: All ages
Turtle Beach
A quieter, free public beach with a playground and picnic areas.
Best for: All ages
Payne Park
A free city park with a splash area, playground, trails, lakes and a skate park.
Best for: All ages
Bayfront Park
A free downtown park with a pirate-themed playground and an interactive splash pad.
Best for: All ages
The Bay
A free 53-acre waterfront park with the Ibis Playground, nature paths and free family programs.
Best for: All ages
Celery Fields
Free boardwalks and trails over restored wetlands, one of the region's best birding spots.
Best for: All ages
Sarasota Farmers Market
A Saturday morning downtown market with fresh produce, food and crafts, free to stroll and browse.
Best for: All ages
11 · Family Events
Family Events & Happenings
Festivals, markets, holiday celebrations and family-friendly happenings across the Gulf Coast live in our Events guide, which is kept current and verified throughout the year. Open the Events guide and choose the FAMILY filter to see family events happening now.
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Family Living Updates
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