Things to Do for Kids on Anna Maria Island


Are you looking for things to do for kids while you are on vacation on Anna Maria Island? We have some great suggestions for family fun in the sun here on the beach and around the Sarasota Bradenton Area!

Island Life is Full of Adventure on Anna Maria Island

The playgrounds around the island are great and watching the fishermen on the piers is honest good fun. You can rent a double bicycle up in Anna Maria City and take in Pine Avenue’s cute island boutique vibe or head down to the Marina and check out the big Yachts.  You can even find mini golf on Bridge Street! 


Marine life lovers can take the kids out to find 
sand dollars on the beach.  (If you find any live sand dollars please leave them alone.) You can also go on a boat tour and swim in the Gulf or even fly a kite at the beach!These are all simple and great ways to spend wiling away your vacation days on the island.  Chances are you can be completely happy just bumping around the island on the free trolley and getting off to explore new spots.But, Sometimes you’ll need to venture beyond the island’s shore lines to keep the kids entertained.

Here are some great things to do with the Kids near Anna Maria Island.

Regal Oakmont 8 Movie Theater

Catch the latest Blockbusters at Regal 8 Movie Theater on Cortez Rd in Bradenton.  This theater features 8 cinemas, all with full sized Lazy Boy style reclining seats to take in the big screen.  Get the kids some popcorn and put your feet up for a few hours as you relax in the cool air conditioning.

Bowlero Bowling

Take the whole family for a good old fashioned Bowl!  Bowelro is fully serviced Bowling Alley featuring 64 lanes and a large sports bar to get your food and refreshments.  Bowling is always a great way to distract the kids.  Roll away the day and keep the kids happy!

MOTE Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Give your kids a real look at the marine ecosystem around Anna Maria Island by visiting the MOTE.  The Aquarium is located in Longboat key and is only a 20 minute drive.  The kids will love visiting Hugh and Buffett, the two resident Manatees, and there’s plenty more to explore at Mote.

Robinson’s Preserve

Adventure through miles of nature trails at Robinson’s Preserve in North West Bradenton just over the Manatee Bridge.  You can climb the lookout and look over the vast nature preserve or rent a kayak and navigate the mangrove waterways.  There’s plenty of things to keep the kids busy at Robinson’s Preserve.

Sarasota Children’s Garden

With lots of events to fill your calendar up with and all day open visiting hours, the Sarasota Children’s Garden is a wonderful place to spark your kids’ imagination.  Let the kids loose as they wander the paths and learn about some of the country’s most beautiful plants and wildlife