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Five Toddler-Approved Parks and Playgrounds Near Siesta Key
Sarasota is one of the most family-friendly vacation destinations, making it perfect for bringing along the little ones. While the beaches and pools are not to be missed while spending time near Florida’s breathtaking Gulf Coast, toddlers and young children might need a change of scenery, a break from the water, or a safe place where they can run, explore, and be kids. Luckily, your friends here at Best Western Siesta Key are always ready with recommendations and new places to visit around town. Today, we are sharing our favorite playgrounds and parks to take toddlers, kids, and even your furry friends to help them burn off steam while they have fun.
Siesta Key Beach
Located near the pavilion on Siesta Key Beach, the Siesta Key Beach Public Beach Park is perhaps the most conveniently located playground. Since it’s so close to the beach, you don’t have to end your beach day early, and other members of your group can hang back and still enjoy the sun, sand, and surf without splitting up. At the same time, you and the kids can find some shade and safe places for them to climb, slide, and meet other kids. Then, as soon as you’re ready, you can head back to the sand for a nap on the beach or a dip in the water.
Nathan Benderson Park
If you are familiar with Sarasota and the mall at UTC (University Town Center), you probably have a good idea of where Nathan Benderson Park is. Right across the stress from the mall’s south entrance is another large and colorful waterfront playground, complete with a jungle gym. You can also find a trail that allows bikers, rollerbladers, skateboarders, runners, walkers, and even pets to enjoy a 3.4-mile loop around the park. After the kids are finished playing, you can choose from various restaurants and dessert shops to properly refuel.
Ashton Trailhead
Located along the infamous Legacy Trail is the Ashton Trailhead playground. This is another lovely location where furry friends are welcome, and bikers, skaters, runners, and walkers come to take a quick break from the trail. The fenced-in playground has multiple slides, swings, monkey bars, etc. Picnic tables, convenient parking lot, clean bathrooms, and water fountains make this park the perfect spot to bring the family and children while you rest.
Potter Park
More shade, trees, and things for toddlers to climb on can be found at Potter Park. In addition to a playground and park for small children, tennis courts, basketball courts, fields, trails, pavilions, and picnic tables fill Potter Park. No matter how old your kids are, they are sure to have a good time, which makes this park a fantastic bring a lunch and spend a few hours hanging out. You can even invite the dog and enjoy the great outdoors with everyone.
Red Rock Park
On the smaller side, Red Rock Park might just be ideal for younger children and toddlers to enjoy. Here, you can also plan a picnic with your four-legged friends and the family. Trees, pavilions, and sunshades provide many places for you and the little ones to seek shade, and bathrooms are located at the park, too. Red Rock Park is a short 3.5 miles away from Best Western Siesta Key and less than one mile from Walt’s Fish Market, a local favorite seafood restaurant.
Between Siesta Key and Sarasota, you are sure to find an extensive list of toddler-approved playgrounds and more parks, nature trails, museums, and fun attractions for the whole family. If you have something specific in mind that you quite can’t find, just ask us! Here at Best Western Siesta Key, we are happy to share our expertise to ensure your vacation and stay here is nothing less than perfect.