Nathan Benderson Park

If you’re local, you already know Benderson is basically Sarasota’s backyard — and it’s genuinely great for toddlers when the playground area is open. The lake views alone make it worth the trip, and parking is never the headache it is everywhere else in this town. The walking and bike paths loop around nicely, so you can let the little ones stretch their legs without worrying about traffic. Honestly one of the better spots in the area for a low-stress morning out with a one or two-year-old.