Fun Family Activities in Sarasota

There are a number of family-friendly activities that can be found in Sarasota. From museums to parks, there is something for everyone.

Located near the charming homes for sale in Tuscana, Urfer Family Park is a beautiful destination for hiking and walking. This park features a one-mile nature trail, playgrounds, and picnic areas. This is a fantastic article to read.

Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary

Big Cat Habitat is a non-profit sanctuary that provides a permanent home for rescued exotic animals and birds. Its founder, Kay Rosaire, has more than 30 years of experience working with and caring for these creatures. The sanctuary also offers animal encounters and education about these exotic animals.

Many of the animals at Big Cat Habitat have been rescued from circuses or their owners. They may have been injured, sick, or otherwise unable to perform their natural behaviors in a circus. The staff and volunteers at the habitat work to teach them how to live in a safe environment.

The park is free to enter, but you must pay for parking if visiting during busy seasons. The park’s Bob’s Train is a great place to dine with the kids. This popular restaurant is located in four authentic train cars and serves classic American fares. It is open daily. It is an excellent option for families with children of all ages.

Oscar Scherer State Park

Oscar Scherer State Park preserves and protects Florida’s scrub habitat and is one of the best places to see the endangered Florida Scrub-Jay. The park also preserves tidal blackwater streams, freshwater lakes, and a pristine beach that offers a refreshing swim.

More than 15 miles of off-road trails for hiking and biking traverse the park. The park’s Lester Finley Barrier Free Nature Trail is accessible to those with sight, hearing, or mobility impairments and features a wheelchair-accessible fishing dock along South Creek.

The park is home to native wildlife, including American alligators, otters, and white-tailed deer. Visitors can also spot Eastern cottontail rabbits, raccoons, and Gopher tortoises among the cabbage palms, mangroves, and scrubby flatwoods throughout the park. The park’s Visitor Center has an animal list and other helpful resources. Visitors can camp at 104 sites with electric hookups or set up a tent in the primitive group camping area. The park also has picnic pavilions and a playground. Here is another spot to visit.

Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy

Located on Honore Avenue, Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy is one of the most unique Sarasota attractions. The museum specializes in quirky, whimsical sculptures that are sure to put a smile on everyone’s face. You can also find a number of other interesting exhibits here.

The museum’s founder, Mary Lee, curates her galleries with smiles in mind. She says that humorous artwork is often overlooked by traditional galleries, and her goal is to bring a bit of whimsy to her community.

After strolling through the galleries, you can walk through a lush garden filled with fanciful sculptures. The garden is shaded by bamboo, palm trees, and sturdy oaks covered in verdant philodendron vines. It is an ideal spot for picnicking and relaxing with the family. You can also hike through the park’s peaceful trails. The park’s hiking trail is a great option for families with young children. You can find this trail on the Pacer app.

Bob’s Train

Enjoy a fresh escape from the nonstop Florida heat and take your kids for a stroll on the park’s nature trails. The trail winds through “old Florida” pine flatwoods and leads into an adjacent forest of oak and pine trees with wetlands. The kids will love it and adults can join in on the fun.

Alternatively, you can bring the whole family for a delicious meal at Bob’s Train. This restaurant is housed inside four actual train cars and offers a delightful dining experience. The kid-friendly menu will please even the pickiest of eaters.

The playground at Urfer Park is divided into different sections by age group, so the toddlers won’t be running amok with the grade schoolers. A picnic shelter and restrooms are available near the playgrounds, as well as a short World Trail with fitness stations along a heavily shaded paved path. Lastly, don’t miss out on the opportunity to read about the park’s history at the Albert and Selma Svenhelm Barn. Browse the next article.

 

Driving directions from Illuminate Landscape Design to Urfer Family Park

Driving directions from Urfer Family Park to Sarasota Jungle Gardens