Fun Things to do in Sarasota with Kids
- Last Updated: September 27, 2023
- Lande
We usually end up visiting Florida at least once a year, whether it’s for the Orlando theme parks or a quick getaway to a nearby vacation spot. We stayed for 4 nights and 5 days in Sarasota. There are many fun things to do in Sarasota with kids and it’s quite budget-friendly too.
Where to stay
We went on the trip with two other families and stayed in a spacious 4-bedroom house. The house was clean, modern, and had a wonderful outdoor area. The pool outside was a perfect size for all of us to have fun in. Although the neighborhood wasn’t right next to any main attractions, everything was just a short drive away. I always like renting a house when we travel with other families because it gives us a big living room and dining room to hang out together.
What to do
We decided to rent a boat, and it turned out to be a hit with the kids. I would recommend going for a Pontoon or Tritoon with shade. The boats were incredibly clean, and they provided us with a quick lesson on how to operate them and where we could go. We made a stop at a small beach and docked at Anna Maria Pier. It was a delightful experience – we enjoyed the food stalls on the pier, did some shopping, and even walked to another beach for a relaxing time.
Siesta Beach left a lasting impression on me as one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve visited in Florida. The sand was incredibly soft and white. They have places you can buy food and drinks along the beach.
For some exciting adventure, we visited the TreeUmph! Adventure Course. They have a course specifically designed for children, which the little ones and the moms thoroughly enjoyed. Meanwhile, my son tackled the adult course, and I couldn’t have been prouder of his accomplishment. I’m not sure I could have done it myself.
We made a stop at MOTE Marine Laboratory and Aquarium to explore the fascinating underwater world and learn about marine life conservation efforts. There was a captivating virtual reality experience that immersed you in the ocean, along with numerous engaging hands-on exhibitions.
We also explored St. Armand’s Circle, a charming beach town perfect for leisurely walks. It’s filled with numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. We ended up coming here a couple of times to enjoy meals and desserts.
What to eat
The house had a full kitchen kitchen so we often cooked and grilled at home.
Speaks Clam Bar– A modern restaurant in St. Armand’s Circle. They offer a menu that’s enjoyable for both kids and adults, featuring pasta and seafood.
Gelato-go Bakery– A must-visit for their tasty gelato. Just be prepared for a wait, as there’s usually a line.
The City Pier Grill and Bait– Located on the Anna Maria Pier, we found fantastic fried seafood and fresh fish sandwiches. They also offer beer for sale.
Anna Maria Oyster Bar– An incredibly family-friendly restaurant that offers generous portions of delicious seafood dishes.
Things to do in Sarasota with Kids: Helpful Tips
Renting a car is essential for getting around. The flights are cheaper flying into Tampa than Sarasota. We flew into Tampa International Airport and rented a car from there. The drive from Tampa to Sarasota is about 1 hour.
If you’re searching for places to work out, they have F45 and Orange Theory where you can work out as a guest.
If you forget any travel essential for your trip, don’t worry. You can find plenty of major retail stores where you can get whatever you need.