If you’re looking for a fun, warm-weather vacation, Sarasota is a family-friendly destination that offers tons of activities for kids and adults. Located on the Gulf Coast and lined with clean, white beaches, Sarasota, FL is perfect for a family vacation. Here are five things to do in Sarasota that will make you want to book it for your next vacation destination.
Circus magnate John Ringling built his winter home in Sarasota, and the city takes care to preserve its place in history. Visitors can purchase tickets to tour Ca d’Zan, Ringling’s over-the-top opulent mansion.
The Ringling Circus Museum boasts “the world’s largest miniature circus,” a 44,000-piece replica of the actual Ringling Brothers’ Circus. Kids will enjoy the museum’s hands-on area where they can practice their favorite circus stunts.
For an outdoor activity, kids can burn off energy at Payne Park. The big circus-themed playground offers plenty of shade where parents can take a break while kids play.
The state of Florida has more golf courses per capita than anywhere else in the U.S., so a trip to Florida is the perfect opportunity to work on your golf game. The Laurel Oak golf course near Sarasota offers two different courses, as well as different programs, groups, and lessons. They even have a U.S. Kids Golf Academy so the little ones can practice their golf game, too. It’s a fun way for the whole family to enjoy the Florida sun.
Sarasota offers a variety of tours where visitors can get a better look at Florida’s unique ecosystem. Kayak Eco Tours is a fun way to get some exercise and a closer look at Florida’s marine life. Kayakers can expect to see manatees, dolphins, and alligators up close and personal.
For a less active tour, Sarasota offers a wealth of cruises for sightseeing. Dolphin cruises, sunset, and nature cruises are all available for a relaxing boat ride with beautiful views.
The Mote Aquarium is one of Sarasota’s best family activities. The family can view sharks, jellyfish, and sea turtles. Kids can get hands on with starfish and stingrays. The Mote Aquarium is a fun and educational trip for parents and kids and a great way to experience more of Sarasota’s Gulf habitats.
Sarasota is home to Siesta Key Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the country. The beach is known for it’s fine, white sand. In most places, beach sand is made from pulverized coral, but Siesta Key’s sand is 99% quartz, giving it a sugar-like texture.
For travelers looking for a quieter and more exclusive coastal experience, staying at a Resort in Casey Key offers a peaceful alternative to busier beach destinations. Located just south of Siesta Key, Casey Key is known for its secluded shoreline, upscale accommodations, and relaxed atmosphere. It’s an ideal option for visitors who want to enjoy pristine beaches, stunning sunsets, and a more private Gulf Coast getaway while still being close to Sarasota’s attractions.
The warm, sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico are perfect for swimming, especially with kids— they’ll never complain the water is too cold. There’s a pavilion on the beach where you can purchase any forgotten beach supplies as well as a cafe for food, drinks, and ice cream. When the kids tire of the water and sand, they can spend some time in the playground.
Siesta Key Beach is a beautiful spot for family fun time, and a trip to Sarasota wouldn’t be complete without a visit.
