Discover the 14 Best Things to do in Sarasota with Kids

Welcome to Sarasota, FL – a sun-kissed paradise where the weather is wonderful, the circus is still alive, the beaches are pristine, and the fruit is always fresh.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly destination that offers everything from picturesque beaches to unforgettable adventure opportunities, Sarasota, Florida, is a must-visit destination. I’ll cover the best things to do in Sarasota with kids, what airports are most convenient, whether you’ll need a car, where to stay, and more! Read to the end, I saved a favorite for last!

1. Siesta Key Beach

Frequently named the best beach in America, it tops the list of things to do in Sarasota with kids.

If you’re looking for a beach with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand that is perfect for building sandcastles and playing beach games, you can’t miss Siesta Key Beach. This charming destination is family-friendly and offers everything you need to make magical memories together. My top tip for visiting with kids? Get there early. Siesta Key Beach is known for its beauty and can often get crowded later in the day.

Are you a beach lover? Check out this list of America’s best hidden beaches.

2. Mote Marine Lab & Aquarium

This is the perfect attraction for any family who enjoys discovering the wonders of marine life. Mote Marine Lab & Aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine animals, ranging from sea turtles to dolphins, and offers a range of interactive exhibits, presentations, and hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages. 

For the best experience, plan to spend at least half a day exploring Mote Marine Lab & Aquarium, and check the schedule for daily activities and animal encounters.

Pack a picnic, there is a great space for a mid-visit lunch.

3. Lido Key Beach

Lido Key Beach is another beach that is perfect for families with young children. It offers warm, calm waters and a wide range of activities, from kayaking to paddleboarding. If you plan to stay for the day, you’ll find plenty of amenities, including showers, restrooms, and food concessions.

Rent a cabana for the day! It’s a great way to have a little shade and relax in comfort.

4. Shop at Detwiler’s Farm Market

We make it down to the Sarasota area about once per year to visit my in laws. When I’m back at home in Wisconsin, I daydream of their strawberries and decadent chocolate cake. My family has flown some up to me a few times now.

Kids will also love the donut fryer and (at some locations) the pineapple slicing self-service machine! And even if it isn’t one of the things you do WITH kids, it’s still a fabulous market to stock up on produce and snacks for the beach.

There are multiple store locations in the area, but the most central is at 2881 Clark Rd, Sarasota, FL.

5. Selby Gardens

Exploring nature is a must on any family vacation itinerary, and Selby Gardens is the perfect place to do just that while you’re staying in the city.

Here, you’ll discover over 15 acres of lush gardens, including a butterfly garden, koi pond, and more. Selby Gardens offers endless opportunities for beautiful family photos.

6. Circus Performances

Many circus performers call Sarasota home and perform at the Sarasota Circus School. Kids will love watching the gravity-defying acrobatics, breathtaking aerial performances, and daring feats of strength. If you want to get the most out of your visit, check the schedule and book your tickets in advance. We thoroughly enjoyed the holiday performance put on by the Sailor Circus Academy.

No visit to Sarasota would be complete without experiencing the city’s rich circus history. Some kind of circus activity should absolutely be on your list of things to do in Sarasota with kids.

7. Ringling Art Museum and Mansion

The Ringling Art Museum and Mansion is another testament to Sarasota’s storied past. Once the opulent residence of John and Mable Ringling, today it serves as a museum showcasing an extensive collection of European, American, and Asian art.

Visiting the Ringling Art Museum and Mansion is a perfect activity for families wanting to explore the intersection of art, history, and culture. From the grand architecture of the mansion to the impressive artworks inside, there’s plenty to captivate adults and older children.

For younger kids who might not yet appreciate fine art, the beautifully manicured gardens offer a space to stretch their legs and enjoy some outdoor play.   Before leaving, make sure to capture a family photo on the steps of the beautiful mansion.  

Being from Wisconsin where we have the Ringling Brothers’ Summer Camp (near Wisconsin Dells), it was fun seeing this aspect of Ringling history.

8. Payne Park’s Circus Playground

Bursting with color, the Payne Park Circus Playground is the perfect place to let your little ones burn off some extra energy. 

9. Ride the Trolley

A trolley ride is both convenient and one of the top things to do in Sarasota with kids! They’ll love they ride. With so much to see and do, it is the perfect way to take in all the sights and sounds of this beautiful city, without worrying about traffic and parking.

The Trolley is called the “Bay Runner” and has an app for easy tracking.

The rest of these ideas are a bit outside of Sarasota, but well worth the drive:

10. Pick Your Own Fruit

If you’re looking for a fun outdoor activity with your family, we suggest visiting one of the local orchards to pick delicious fruits (or vegetables).

We had a fantastic experience picking our own oranges at Dooley Groves which was 45 minutes north of Sarasota.

Honeyside Farms is located in Bradenton, FL about a 40 minute drive from the city. The most up to date information on their organic farm can be found on their Facebook page.

With so much variety in the fruit crops, this is one of my favorite things to do in Sarasota with kids year over year.

11. Myakka State Park

If you want to explore the great outdoors, Myakka State Park is the perfect place for your family to explore. It’s 30 minutes outside of Sarasota.

There are so many beautiful birds, a tree-top canopy boardwalk, playgrounds, and you can nearly be guaranteed to spot an alligator. The state park Activity Booklet is a great guide for kids!

12. Search for Shark Teeth – Venice Beach

Do your kids love sharks and all things ocean? Then take them on a shark teeth search adventure at Venice Beach! Here, you’ll find plenty of dark sand that’s the perfect place to search for shark teeth fossils that have been washed up on shore. All you need is a keen eye, patience, and some luck.

Make sure to bring a small sifter for the best results, check out our reel below on how we find them!

13. Day Trip to Legoland

Just 90 minutes drive from Sarasota you can thrill your kids with a day at Legoland. Here are our top tips for a first time visit.

Insider tip: Subscribe to the free Lego Life magazine and you’ll get a coupon for a free kid’s ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket.

First Timer Legoland Tips: Here are our favorite Legoland tips.

14. Day trip to Weeki Wachee Springs State Park

Talk about blowing my kids’ minds. There are live, performing mermaids right in a crystal clear spring swimming along side the fish and manatee.

Seasonally, mermaids perform their rendition of “The Little Mermaid” story for a jaw-dropped crowd. You do not want to miss this show!

As soon as you purchase your tickets at the front gate, ask for the schedule. Plan your animal presentation and boat cruise around the mermaid show. Give yourself 30 minutes before the show to get in line.

FAQ about Things to Do in Sarasota with Kids

Is Sarasota a good place for families?

Absolutely! Sarasota is a kid-friendly city that offers a wide range of activities for families. From the beautiful beaches to the museums and theme parks, there is never a shortage of things to do in Sarasota. The city is safe, clean, and has a laid-back vibe that is perfect for families with young children.

Is it better to stay in Siesta Key or Sarasota?

Siesta Key is a popular destination for families with children, thanks to its stunning beaches, family-friendly attractions, and variety of accommodation options. However, Sarasota offers a wider range of activities and attractions, so it may be more suitable for families looking to explore the city. Ultimately, the decision of where to stay will depend on your preferences and budget. If you prefer a more relaxed and beach-focused vacation, then Siesta Key is a great choice. If you will have a car and want to explore the city’s surrounding areas (while saving money) then staying in Sarasota is a better option.

What is the best time of year to visit Sarasota, Florida?

Sarasota has a warm and sunny climate year-round, making it a perfect vacation destination any time of the year. However, the best time to visit Sarasota is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Winter is also a popular time to visit, as it offers a break from the cold weather in other parts of the country.

What airports are near Sarasota? Do I need a rental car to visit Sarasota?

Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport is the closest airport to Sarasota, with direct flights from many major cities in the US. Other airports near Sarasota include Tampa International Airport and Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers. While you can get around Sarasota using public transportation or ride-sharing services, it’s highly recommended to rent a car to fully explore the city and its surroundings, especially if you are traveling with young children.

Where can I rent gear in Sarasota for babies?

If you are traveling with a baby, you may need to rent gear such as strollers, car seats, or cribs. There are several companies in Sarasota that offer baby gear rentals, including ABC Baby and Beach Rentals and Bundle of Joy rentals. These companies offer a variety of baby gear rentals and can deliver them directly to your accommodation, making it easy and stress-free for parents.

Closing Thoughts on Things to Do In Sarasota With Kids

Sarasota, Florida is a must-visit destination for families with young children, you are sure to have an unforgettable vacation in this sunny and vibrant city.

These 14 family-friendly attractions, from coming face to face with a giant sea turtle at Mote to discovering Sarasota’s circus heritage, offer something for everyone as things to do in Sarasota with Kids.

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