Family Friendly

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Discover where to eat, shop and play at Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch.

Waterside Place leads with the kind of the laid-back Florida lakeside vibes that make you want to stay awhile. Built around the beautiful Kingfisher Lake, this newly developed town center of Lakewood Ranch has blossomed as a vibrant community and entertainment hub and escape from Sarasota's more busy beach towns. 

2025
July
Close out the season with Greg Bickley as Rocket Man in this spectacular Elton John tribute, complete with flamboyant costumes and all your favorite hits.
Riverview Performing Arts Center

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Traveling Sarasota on a budget isn’t a compromise. There are still endless opportunities to experience the beauty and charm here without emptying your wallet. 

Sun-soaked beaches. Cultural delights. Natural wonders. All of these pleasures and more await for the budget-conscious traveler who finds themself in Sarasota. While much of Florida’s Gulf Coast is known for its opulence and luxury, it's entirely possible to explore this slice of paradise without breaking the bank.

2023
October

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From haunted trails to dog-wear contests, jump on some Halloween costume ideas that will make you the star of the show at Sarasota's top Halloween events.

Halloween in Sarasota is not just about candy and jack-o'-lantern – it's a celebration of creativity and community spirit. With many spooktacular, family-fun events happening throughout the region, it's the perfect time to go all out and let your inner ghoul or goblin shine. 

2023
September

family dining at sunset at fins overlooking venice fishing pier

Trying to find a place in Sarasota that works for both your kids and your appetite? Check out these adult- and kid-friendly restaurants that will make vacation dining fun and easy. 

Going out to eat with little ones does not necessarily need to be all hot dogs, chicken fingers and French fries. Sarasota boasts plenty of dining establishments with the best of both worlds—offering something wonderful for both parents and children.

2021
March

Girl running through water at Payne Park

From the scientist to the artist, the comedian to the adventurer, Sarasota has something for kids of all ages and interests.

In every city, there are those tucked-away tidbits of awesomeness that the locals know to do. Perhaps not the most obvious or Trip Advisor-advertised, but the places and activities the people who live there learn about as the years pass. For those who don’t have years to spend learning them, here you go - 20 great local Mom-approved hidden gems for kids in Sarasota.

2021
March

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Here are five places away from the beach in Sarasota County with a little bit for the parents, a little bit for the children, and a whole lot of happy for everyone.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens 

mom and daughter walking through botanical gardens in sarasota

For Adults

2021
February

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There is plenty of family fun to be had in Sarasota County. Enjoy a list of 11 activities featuring wildlife, physical activities and natural entertainment.

As any parent will tell you, on a vacation with children, it's clear who's running the show. Sure, you're the adult "making the decisions," but let's be honest: if the kids aren't happy, nobody's happy. That's why it's important to have a full arsenal of kid-friendly activities at your disposal.

2021
January