
There's no doubt about it – Sarasota has some of the best beaches in Florida.
Our REALTORS® love the beach, but the weather doesn't always cooperate. What's a family to do when hitting the coast isn't in the cards?
Luckily, there are plenty of options for fun and family bonding. World-class museums, cultural institutions, and attractions for kids abound. Any of them makes for a full day of memories that last a lifetime.
Here are some ideas for Sarasota fun when it's not a beach day:
- Crowley Museum & Nature Center – 16405 Myakka Road, Sarasota, FL 34240
Crowley Museum & Nature Center is a unique interactive experience open each Thursday through Sunday. It includes a self-guided nature trail that winds through pine flatwoods, oak, swampland, and the famous Sawgrass Marsh. There's also a museum where youngsters get the chance to explore how life looked in Florida's rugged pioneer days.
- Marie Selby Botanical Gardens – 900 S Palm Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236
Did you know you can explore a botanical garden with over 6,000 orchids near Sarasota homes for sale? The stunning, lush grounds of the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens are a delight for all ages. Kids will love exploring the children's rainforest garden or picking up their own plant to take home at the plant shop.
- Tree Umph! Adventure Course – 21805 East State Road 70, Bradenton, FL 34202
Are you ready for adventure? Tree Umph! Adventure Course is waiting with all-ages action, including courses for kids and adults. Add excitement to Lakewood Ranch homes for sale as you thrill to the best in zip line entertainment. Alone or in groups, you'll explore 14 acres of daring, innovative games. There are events for guests as young as seven years.
- Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium – 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236
Even though you aren't headed to the beach, you can still learn about the seas and the fish that live there! The Mote Aquarium & Laboratory features over 100 species of marine animals in their massive aquarium. Just down the road from Bird Key homes for sale, the interactive exhibits and viewable working labs at Mote Aquarium & Laboratory offer hands-on learning for all ages.
- Historic Spanish Point – 337 N. Tamiami Trail, Osprey, FL 34229
Step back into a different time when you venture over to Historic Spanish Point near Osprey homes for sale. Explore the outdoor archaeological and historic museum. Make the most of your time there by booking one of their tours and learn about the grounds from the knowledge tour guides or attend one of their many events on the grounds!
- Manatee County Agricultural Museum – 1015 6th Street West, Palmetto, FL 34221
An educational day awaits you a short drive from the best Palmetto homes for sale. The top-ranked Manatee County Agricultural Museum is a must-see. With multiple events every month, the program is bursting with memorable experiences. The Living Wax Museum, Heritage Days Walking Tours, and much more will expand the minds of visitors at any age.
- Florida Railroad Museum – 12210 83rd Street East, Parrish, FL 34219
All aboard! If you have kids that love all things train-related, this museum is the perfect place to take the family when it's not a beach day. The Florida Railroad Museum features the railroad line that was the first to be built in Manatee County. After viewing Parrish homes for sale, stop by and ride this historic railroad line for yourself!
- Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum – 402 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria, Florida 34216
Florida has a rich history and the staff at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum are dedicated to presenting and preserving that history. Down the road from Anna Maria homes for sale, this museum opened in 1992 and has been giving visitors a glimpse of historic Florida. While admission is free for this museum, donations are appreciated!
"Fun" might not be the first word that comes to mind when you think about a home search, but Wagner Realty makes it a breeze. Our in-depth experience with Florida real estate smooths the path and gets you to closing fast. To get started, contact us today – rain or shine.