Sarasota with Kids
By Carson B. · Updated November 6, 2026
Start with Mote SEA for hands-on marine science, then Big Cat Habitat or Sarasota Jungle Gardens for animals. Nokomis Beach has a playground, and The Bishop Museum in Bradenton is the rainy-day backup.
Animals
Mote SEA connects a working marine lab's research to hands-on exhibits. Big Cat Habitat is a conservation-minded animal experience, and Sarasota Jungle Gardens has flamingos, reptiles, shows, and a petting zoo.
Beach and outdoors
Nokomis Beach has a playground and concessions. Siesta Beach has lifeguards and the famous sand, and Robinson Preserve adds canopy walks and kayak launches. Oscar Scherer State Park is an easy place to see wildlife on a short hike.
600+ acres of coastal trails, kayak launches, and canopy walks in NW Bradenton
Something different
Sarasota BMX on Tuttle Avenue is America's oldest continuously running BMX track, since 1974. Hunsader Farms east of Bradenton has u-pick and the fall Pumpkin Festival. Manatee Village Historical Park makes history easy, and The Bishop Museum handles the science.
A family farm east of Bradenton with a produce market, u-pick, and the fall Pumpkin Festival
Science and natural-history learning in Bradenton
Feeding everyone
Rodizio Grill turns dinner into a show. Baker & Wife, Percocco's, and Cafe Evergreen all make the family-friendly list, and doughnuts at Parlor rarely fail.
Family events coming up
Saturday Night Under the Lights
Sat, Nov 7 · 6:00 PM
Bradenton Motorsports Park · Bradenton
$20 (kids 12 & under free)
Wellen Park Night Market & Dueling Pianos
Thu, Nov 12 · 6:00 PM · 2 dates
Downtown Wellen Park · Venice
Free
Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sandsculpting Festival
Fri, Nov 13 · 10:00 AM · 4 dates
Siesta Beach · Siesta Key
ArtSELF for Generations
Sat, Nov 14 · 10:00 AM
The Ringling Education Center MakerSpace · Sarasota
Free; ticket required
Questions
Is Sarasota good for families?
Yes. Mote SEA, Big Cat Habitat, the beaches, and the Bishop Museum are all strong family outings.
What's the best beach in Sarasota for kids?
Nokomis Beach has a playground and concessions. Siesta Beach has lifeguards and soft sand.