Bayfront Park

If you live in Sarasota and haven’t made this your go-to Sunday spot, you’re missing out. The water feature keeps the little ones busy while you actually get to sit down — there are decent shade trees and picnic tables close enough that you’re not hauling everything across a field. The bay views are legitimately good here, especially in the late afternoon when the light hits the water right before sunset. Kids from around 2 to 12 seem to get a lot out of it, and the open grass gives older ones room to run while toddlers splash around. Toss in the walking path along the waterfront and easy restroom access, and honestly it’s hard to beat for a low-effort family afternoon in this part of town.