Best List of Things to Do with Kids on a Vacation in Sarasota, Florida

Planning a vacation with your family can be stressful since you’re likely looking for a place with tons of activities for kids and adults alike to enjoy. Look no further than Sarasota, Florida! There are countless Sarasota things to do with kids, so you’re sure to find something fun no matter what your crew likes to do. Here, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite kid-friendly activities, attractions and best Sarasota family-friendly things to do!

flower cookies and rolling pin

Cookie Cottage

If you’re in town for a special occasion or just feel like treating yourself, head to Cookie Cottage. They can provide all your customized cookies, all made fresh in-house! In addition to cookies, you can also pick up cupcakes, scones, and themed baskets, perfect for any celebration. On top of simply being able to order cookies, you can also bring your kids into Cookie Cottage to participate in a fun decorating class! Themes change weekly, so you can return again and again if you’re staying in town for a while.

shark swimming in aquarium tank

Shark Feeding at MOTE

MOTE Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is easily one of the best Sarasota family-friendly things to do. You and your family will have a blast getting up close and personal with fascinating marine life, but for a truly interactive experience, check out their shark feeding activity! The dedicated staff at the aquarium will guide you and your kids through the process, all while teaching you everything you might want to know about this majestic creature. In addition to sharks, MOTE Marine Aquarium is also home to otters, turtles, manatees, and so much more! 

Be Our Guest

Each of these Lido Key activities is located just minutes away from our Lido Key vacation rentals, giving you somewhere fun and luxurious to stay on your next family vacation. Contact us today to learn more! 

bald eagle catching fish out water

Oscar Scherer State Park

Just 30 minutes outside of downtown Sarasota, you’ll find Oscar Scherer State Park, a fantastic destination for the family that loves nature. This hidden gem provides an oasis in the middle of the urban sprawl of Florida, allowing you to take some time to simply enjoy your surroundings. Go biking or walking down the 15 miles of trail, enjoy fishing or swimming in Lake Osprey, or simply watch the wildlife, including the glorious bald eagle. A visit to Oscar Scherer State Park is the perfect way to leave your phones behind and reconnect with nature. 

hamburger and french fries on display

Bob’s Train

For a delicious meal alongside some fascinating history, bring your family to Bob’s Train. This Sarasota restaurant is situated inside of four actual train cars, making for a simply one-of-a-kind dining experience! You can enjoy a wide range of sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, and more, promising something on the menu for even the pickiest palate. After you eat, you’re welcome to tour the train! You’ll get to see all kinds of incredible artifacts from Florida’s railroad history and can ask any questions you might have to the helpful staff.

colorful beach chairs lined up on beach facing ocean

Beaches of Lido Key

Finally, what would a vacation to Florida be like without spending some time on the beach? While there are plenty of amazing beach destinations located within just a short drive of Sarasota, for a beginner’s guide to Lido Key, we recommend that you make the most of your time on the sand. The Lido Key beaches here are nothing short of pristine, offering breathtaking views of the water and, if you’re lucky, the chance to spot manatees and dolphins in their natural habitats! Of course, there’s plenty of room to spread out your blankets and play some games on the shore, or you can take a dip in the water to cool off.