Top family attractions in Sarasota

If you're planning a family trip to Sarasota, you're in for a treat—and not just the kind with sprinkles from Olaf’s Ice Cream. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a longer beachside escape, Sarasota is packed with things to do that kids (and grownups) will love. As locals, we know the best spots to keep everyone happy, sun-kissed, and maybe even learning something along the way.

Here’s our roundup of the top family attractions in Sarasota—from animal encounters to nature adventures:

🐠 1. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

A must-visit for curious kids and ocean lovers alike. You’ll see sharks, sea turtles, manatees, otters, and more—all while learning about marine science in fun, hands-on ways. Touch tanks and behind-the-scenes tours are always a hit.

📍 City Island, near St. Armands Circle

🦩 2. Sarasota Jungle Gardens

This old-Florida gem lets kids hand-feed flamingos, meet reptiles, and enjoy tropical bird shows. It’s been around since 1939, and it’s just as magical today.

📍 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

🎨 3. The Ringling Museum & Circus Museum

This is not your average museum day. The Circus Museum lets kids walk the tightrope (literally), while the Ringling’s gardens and historic Ca’ d’Zan mansion make for a beautiful, culturally rich experience the whole family can enjoy.

📍 Bayfront area, Sarasota

🌿 4. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

The Ann Goldstein Children’s Rainforest Garden is a lush, interactive space with waterfalls, swinging bridges, and secret paths. It’s like stepping into a real-life jungle adventure.

📍 Downtown Sarasota

🐅 5. Big Cat Habitat & Gulf Coast Sanctuary

This non-profit animal sanctuary is home to rescued lions, tigers, bears (yes, really), and more. It’s a great spot to learn about animal conservation while getting up close with incredible creatures.

📍 Palmer Blvd, Sarasota

🌳 6. Myakka River State Park

For families who love the outdoors, Myakka is a dream. Go hiking, rent bikes, take an airboat tour, or climb the canopy walkway for views you won’t forget. Bonus: you might spot an alligator or two.

📍 East of Sarasota, about 20–30 min drive

🎭 7. The Children’s Garden & Art Center

Imaginative, quirky, and perfect for younger kids. Think: fairy gardens, pirate ships, dress-up play, and art stations under the trees. It’s creative, low-tech, and wonderfully whimsical.

📍 10th Street, Sarasota

🎠 8. Payne Park

A circus-themed playground with plenty of shade, green space, and a splash pad nearby. If you’re in downtown Sarasota and need a break, this is your spot.

📍 Downtown Sarasota

🌼 9. Urfer Family Park

Pack a picnic and head to Urfer. There’s a huge playground, walking trails through nature, and elevated boardwalks where you might catch a glimpse of turtles or herons.

📍 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota

🧪 10. Suncoast Science Center / Faulhaber Fab Lab

Perfect for older kids or a rainy day, this STEM-focused center offers workshops, classes, and hands-on exhibits that encourage creativity, problem solving, and tech exploration.

📍 South Sarasota

Final Thoughts

Sarasota is more than just beautiful beaches—though we’ll never say no to a beach day. With nature, animals, art, and science all within easy reach, it’s the kind of place where family memories come easy.

So whether you’re feeding flamingos or watching the sunset from Siesta Key, know that you picked a pretty great place to explore together.