Blessed with one of the sweetest stretches of white sand in the United States, Sarasota deserves its reputation as one of Florida's cherished getaways for snowbirds. Most families are content to whisk away their hours on the broad beach, which serves as a welcome-mat for the Gulf of Mexico waters. Yet, once you arrive at this relaxed seaside enclave in southwest Florida, you'll realize there's so much more for the entire family.
Sarasota is home to a slew of family-friendly attractions like the touch tank at Mote Aquarium, the aptly named science museum, G.WIZ, the flamingos at Sarasota Jungle Gardens, and shopping and dining at the boutique stores and restaurants at St. Armands Circle. Then there are the natural wonders like the orchids and vast selection of palm trees found at Selby Gardens and the canopy walkway that rides atop the Everglades-like wilderness of Myakka River State Park.
With more airlines flying directly into the Sarasota Airport, you no longer have to make the hour-long trek north from Fort Myers to arrive at this laid-back city by the sea. Though spending the first day and night in Fort Myers is always fun, especially if you happen to be a Boston Red Sox fan. The club plans to unveil its new spring training facility in 2012, complete with its own version of the Green Monster, the famous green-colored, left-field wall found at Fenway Park.
Sarasota and Fort Myers, Florida Family Vacations
Sarasota and Fort Myers, Florida Family Vacations
Families will love:
- One of the sweetest stretches of white-sand beach in the United States
- A slew of family-friendly attractions including the Mote Aquarium and G. WIZ science museum
- Gentle ocean waves
Written by Stephen Jermanok
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