Sarasota Family Travel

What to know before you to go plan a great trip.

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Where to stay:

The Westin Sarasota is a perfect nest. We booked a suite that had a nice separation between the pull out sofa bed with its own TV and a master with a door in between. Comfy beds and the rooms are quiet. Great location, nice fitness center – but you can also ask the front desk for a wellness bag with resistance bands and other workout in your room tools. Great pool with incredible views. Room service is available with good options for you and the kids. Rooms do offer refrigerators and they have pack and play/cribs to loan(call ahead to guarantee one). Walking distance to perhaps the most beautiful playground we have ever seen.

Cityside Sarasota offers long and short term rentals if you are looking for a longer visit. Kid and pet friendly. Easy on site parking, local shuttle service, concierge, rooftop pickleball, heated pool, gym, Saturday breakfast, dog park, and walking distance to all the area offers.

The Ritz Carlton Sarasota is a perfect posh spot for a quick couples weekend. The spa is marvelous, dining 5 star and beach access can’t be beat.

Where to play:

You could spend weeks in beautiful Sarasota and not have a dull day. Just walking around downtown will keep you entertained with cute shops, art in public places, a fabulous toy store and more.

These are our must visits.

The new Bay Park Conservancy is a stunning family friendly public park. You can splash in the waterfront, enjoy the beautiful Ibis playground (please more public spaces take note!) enjoy walking, take in a show at the amphitheater, enjoy a picnic, take a paddle or kayak trip.

Tour the 66-acre estate of John and Mable Ringling – yes that Ringling. The circus was a HUGE deal and so were they. The estate features beautifully maintained grounds that includes the Circus Museum (Kids will LOVE it), Ca’ d’Zan their beautiful and historic home, a fantastic garden with playground, and a most impressive art collection.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens is an absolute Old Florida most see. Over 10 acres with 200+ local and exotic amimals species calling it home. Don’t miss your change to feed the flamingos!

A Kayak Tour is perfect for a warm day.. The mangroves off Lido Key are one of the most popular kayaking spots in Sarasota for both locals and visitors. It’s no wonder why. . Paddling your kayak through the mangrove tunnels will make you feel like you’re in a scene from a movie. Don’t forget the hat and sunblock!

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens just underwent a major facelift. Your kids will delight in the playground and beautiful spaces to explore and run. Their new restaurant offers garden to table options for everyone and is net positive energy. Pretty amazing! Don’t miss the gift shop, we fond all kinds of gifts and. learning toys.

The Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is rally incredible. Aside from the amazing conservation work they do, it is an engaging experience where kids (and adults) can pet rays, touch starfish, watch otters play and jellyfish glow.

Where to dine:

Arts and Central was our absolute favorite find. The menus are presented as a souvenier you make take home, and you will want to as they feature different artisits each month. The food and service are top notch too!

Wink Wink is just a stroll away from The Embassy Suites and you will be delighted. The locally sourced International fare is fun and a bit cheeky!

1592 Woodfire Grill is a delightful spot to enjoy. The menu is entirely prepared on a woodier grill. Service is quick and food is a crowd pleaser.

Did we miss any great spots? Let us know in the comments or email us.