Top 7 Kid-Friendly Attractions in Sarasota, FL for Families to Explore

Brock E Ruebel • April 23, 2025

Relocating to the city of Sarasota, FL, is a dream for many families—and it’s no surprise why. From pristine beaches to a strong sense of community, Sarasota is one of Florida’s most welcoming cities for newcomers. But what makes it even more special is the abundance of fun, educational, and exciting attractions designed specifically for kids. Whether your little ones are budding scientists, nature lovers, or adventure seekers, Sarasota has something to keep them entertained and engaged.

Exploring these kid-friendly attractions is the perfect way for families to bond, get to know their new hometown, and embrace Sarasota’s vibrant lifestyle. Ready to uncover the best spots for your kiddos? Here are the Top 7 Kid-Friendly Attractions in Sarasota, FL, guaranteed to bring smiles (and maybe a little sand) to your family.

1. The Ringling Museum & Ca' d’Zan

Location: Bayfront Downtown Sarasota

What child wouldn’t love a dose of circus magic? The Ringling Museum is so much more than an art museum—it’s home to the Circus Museum and the historic Ca' d’Zan mansion. Kids can marvel at antique circus wagons, colorful artifacts, and even walk a tightrope in the interactive circus gallery.

Why It’s Awesome for Kids:

  • The Circus Museum is filled with interactive exhibits, costumes, and hands-on activities.
  • Beautiful open grounds to run around and enjoy, complete with gardens and banyan trees.

Who Visits:  Families looking for educational fun mixed with some Sarasota history.

Pro Tip: Check the schedule for family-oriented programs or performances during your visit.

2. Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Location: North Sarasota

For over 80 years, Sarasota Jungle Gardens has been a tropical paradise for kids and adults alike. This lush attraction is home to exotic animals, botanical gardens, and kid-friendly animal encounters designed to spark curiosity.

Why It’s Awesome for Kids:

  • Kids can get up close with parrots or even hand-feed flamingos in the Flamingo Lagoon.
  • Daily animal shows featuring reptiles, exotic birds, and even alligators.

Who Visits: Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and school groups exploring Sarasota’s wilder side.

Pro Tip: Pack sunscreen and comfortable shoes—this tropical gem has plenty to explore!

3. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Location: Lido Key

Underwater explorers will LOVE the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, where kids can discover the wonders of Sarasota’s marine life. With hands-on exhibits, touch tanks, and educational programs, Mote creates an up-close-and-personal look at the beauty beneath the Gulf.

Why It’s Awesome for Kids:

  • Touch tanks where kids can feel stingrays and other sea creatures.
  • Learn about sharks, manatees, and sea turtles in their natural habitats.

Who Visits: Budding marine biologists, curious little ones, and families seeking an educational outing.

Pro Tip: Plan some extra time at the manatee and sea turtle research areas—they’re always a hit.

4. Children’s Garden and Art Center

Location: Downtown Sarasota

A whimsical wonderland awaits at the Children’s Garden and Art Center, where imagination rules. This compact but magical spot is perfect for younger children who can’t wait to explore castles, secret gardens, and interactive zones.

Why It’s Awesome for Kids:

  • Kids can dress up, play pretend in the castle, or hunt for hidden treasures.
  • Fun, hands-on crafts and activities focus on art and creativity.

Who Visits:  Families with little kids and creative minds ready for adventure.

Pro Tip:  The garden is small but packed with interactive fun—perfect for an afternoon visit with young ones.

5. Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary

Location:  East Sarasota

Animal lovers rejoice! Big Cat Habitat is a nonprofit sanctuary that rescues big cats, bears, and other wildlife, offering kids a unique opportunity to learn about these majestic creatures.

Why It’s Awesome for Kids:

  • See lions, tigers, and bears up close in a safe, educational environment.
  • Daily animal demonstrations teach kids about conservation and wildlife preservation.

Who Visits: Families who love animals and are interested in supporting a great cause while having fun.

Pro Tip: Bring water and snacks—it’s a big outdoor space that’s fun to explore at your own pace.

6. Siesta Key Beach

Location: Siesta Key

No Sarasota experience is complete without taking the kids to Siesta Key Beach, consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world. With its powdery quartz sand, shallow waters, and plenty of amenities, this family-friendly beach is a paradise for parents and kids alike.

Why It’s Awesome for Kids:

  • Shallow waters make it ideal for younger children to splash and play safely.
  • Ample space for sandcastle building, kite flying, or running along the shore.

Who Visits: Families looking for a relaxing beach day under the Florida sun.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to snag parking and set up in the shade for an all-day beach outing.

7. Payne Park’s Circus Playground

Location:  Central Sarasota

Payne Park is a family favorite in Sarasota, thanks to its Circus Playground inspired by the city’s rich circus heritage. Featuring colorful, climbable circus-themed structures, it’s an absolute blast for kids of all ages.

Why It’s Awesome for Kids:

  • Slides, swings, and circus tents to climb and explore—perfect for burning off energy.
  • A shaded splash pad provides a fun way to cool off in Sarasota’s warm weather.

Who Visits:  Families with active kids who love outdoor play.

Pro Tip: Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch in one of the park’s shaded seating areas after playtime.

Watch Your Kids Thrive in Sarasota

Moving to Sarasota with kids means adventures await around every corner. From feeding flamingos at Jungle Gardens to splashing in the waves at Siesta Key, the city’s attractions help families create moments they’ll never forget. Plus, with so many parks, beaches, and exciting places to visit, kids in Sarasota have the perfect environment to learn, grow, and just be kids.

Relocating with a family doesn’t have to be stressful. Let Happy Helpers Moving take care of your move, so you can spend more time exploring everything Sarasota has to offer. With their expertise, you’ll be settled into your new home in no time, ready to explore these amazing kid-friendly spots.

Welcome to your new family adventure in Sarasota! It’s time to make memories together—one fun-filled outing at a time.

Get a Free Quote

By Brock E Ruebel August 15, 2025
Moving can be a daunting task, and when you throw peak season into the mix, it often comes with a hefty price tag. Peak moving season, typically spanning from late spring through early fall (May to September), sees a surge in demand for moving services, leading to higher costs. However, a tight budget doesn't have to derail your plans for a smooth transition. This will show you how to move during peak season without breaking the bank, offering practical tips and strategies to save money every step of the way. Navigating a peak season move on a budget requires careful planning, smart decisions, and a willingness to explore various cost-saving avenues. From optimizing your packing process to choosing the right moving services, there are numerous ways to keep expenses in check. What Makes Peak Season Moving More Expensive? Peak season moving is more expensive primarily due to increased demand and limited availability of moving resources. During these months, students are relocating for college, families are moving before the new school year begins, and favorable weather conditions make moving more appealing. This surge in demand allows moving companies to charge higher rates due to the basic economic principle of supply and demand. According to industry reports, moving costs can increase by 20-30% during peak season compared to off-peak times. When exactly is Peak Moving Season? Peak moving season generally runs from May through September. Specifically, the busiest times are typically weekends, especially the first and last weekends of the month, and holidays like Memorial Day and Labor Day. Avoiding these absolute peak days can significantly impact the cost of your move. How Far in Advance Should You Book a Mover During Peak Season? You should book your mover at least 8-12 weeks in advance during peak season to secure better rates and ensure availability. Waiting too long can lead to limited options, higher prices, and the possibility of not finding a reputable mover when you need one. Happy Helpers Moving Co. recommends booking as early as possible to lock in your desired dates and avoid last-minute surcharges. Can Flexible Moving Dates Save You Money? Yes, being flexible with your moving dates can lead to significant cost savings. Moving on a weekday (Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday) rather than a weekend, or choosing a date in the middle of the month, can often result in lower rates. Moving companies are generally less busy during these times and may offer discounts or more competitive pricing. Consider if a slight shift in your schedule can translate into considerable savings when you're looking to move during peak season on a budget.
By Brock E Ruebel August 11, 2025
Moving can be an exciting new chapter, but the thought of packing delicate and cherished items often brings a wave of anxiety. From antique porcelain to valuable glassware, ensuring your fragile possessions arrive at your new home in one piece is paramount. Improper packing is a leading cause of damage during a move, turning excitement into exasperation. This will walk you through everything you need to know about how to pack fragile items safely, from gathering the right supplies to mastering specialized techniques for various delicate objects. By following these expert tips, you can approach your move with confidence, like a Piano Moving knowing your precious instrument is well-protected. What Supplies Do You Need to Pack Fragile Items Safely? To pack fragile items safely, you need a specific set of high-quality packing supplies designed to provide maximum protection. Having all your materials ready before you begin will make the process more efficient and effective. Essential supplies include sturdy moving boxes, preferably double-walled for extra durability, and various cushioning materials like bubble wrap, packing paper (newsprint can stain), foam peanuts, and furniture blankets. You'll also need strong packing tape, scissors or a utility knife, and markers for labeling. For very delicate or valuable items, consider our experienced team specializes in specialty moving service , items that require special attention, custom crates or specialized padded containers. Investing in good quality supplies is a small price to pay to protect your valuable possessions during transit. How Do You Prepare Fragile Items Before Packing? Preparing fragile items before packing is crucial to prevent damage during transit. This initial step sets the foundation for secure packing. Begin by thoroughly cleaning each item. Dust and grime can cause abrasions, especially on delicate surfaces. For items like glassware or ceramics, ensure they are completely dry before wrapping to prevent mildew or damage to packing materials. For electronics, unplug all cords, coil them neatly, and secure them with ties. Take photos of complex wiring setups for easier reassembly later. Disassemble any items that can be safely taken apart, such as lamps with removable shades or delicate shelves, wrapping each component separately. This reduces bulk and minimizes points of vulnerability. What Are the Best Packing Materials for Fragile Items? The best packing materials for fragile items offer superior cushioning and protection against impacts and movement. With professional packing services , you can enjoy a smooth transition and choosing the right material for each item is key. Bubble Wrap: Ideal for wrapping individual items like ceramics, glass, and small electronics. The air-filled bubbles provide excellent shock absorption. Packing Paper/Newsprint: Versatile for wrapping, crumpling as void filler, and interleaving between plates. Use unprinted newsprint to avoid ink transfer. Foam Peanuts/Loose Fill: Excellent for filling empty spaces in boxes, providing cushioning and preventing items from shifting. Furniture Blankets/Moving Pads: Perfect for larger fragile items like mirrors, artwork, or delicate furniture, offering a thick layer of protection. Corrugated Cardboard Sheets: Can be cut to size to create dividers within boxes or to reinforce the sides of boxes. Specialty Boxes: Dish pack boxes with cell dividers are designed specifically for dishes, glasses, and other kitchenware, providing individual compartments. According to a survey by the American Moving & Storage Association, approximately 1 in 4 moves involves some form of damage. Proper packing materials are your first line of defense against becoming part of that statistic. How Should You Pack Plates and Dishes for Moving? Packing plates and dishes correctly is vital to prevent chipping, cracking, or breaking. They require a layered approach to ensure their safety. For plates, use plenty of packing paper. Place a stack of 3-4 plates together, wrapping each individual plate with a sheet of paper before wrapping the entire stack with 2-3 more sheets. For added protection, always pack plates on their edge, never flat, in sturdy dish pack boxes. This distributes pressure more evenly and reduces the risk of breakage during transport. Fill any empty spaces with crumpled packing paper or foam peanuts to prevent shifting.
By Brock E Ruebel July 4, 2025
Tampa, FL, is a city on the rise, and one of the most exciting prospects is the new construction homes popping up throughout the area. As the city expands, neighborhoods are evolving with new architectural designs and modern amenities that cater to diverse lifestyles. Overview of Tampa's Real Estate Market Growth The real estate market in Tampa, Florida has seen significant growth over recent years, driven by the city's appealing combination of vibrant culture, economic opportunities, and attractive climate. In 2022, Tampa was ranked as one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, highlighting its rising population and housing demand. Why New Constructions are Booming in Tampa Several factors contribute to the boom in new construction homes: Desirable Location: Proximity to beaches, business districts, and cultural centers makes Tampa an ideal place for new residents. Economic Growth: With a thriving job market, Tampa attracts individuals and families looking for new career opportunities. Infrastructure Development: Investments in public transportation and road networks support the city's growing communities.