Best Local Parks for Fall Picnics and Outdoor Fun

September 2nd, 2025 by Wagner Realty

Local Parks Sarasota

With more than 175 parks to choose from between Sarasota and Manatee Counties, outdoor fun is always just minutes away. Our real estate agents share some of the top parks for fall outings around Sarasota and Bradenton.

Myakka River State Park - 13208 State Route 72, Sarasota, FL 34241
Experience the full range of Mother Nature's autumn glory when you visit Myakka River State Park, not far from Sarasota homes for sale. The Myakka River, namesake and backbone of the park, is Florida's first designated under the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act. The 58-square-mile grounds also include land-based sights such as wetlands, woodlands, and wildflower-covered prairies. Watch for appearances of deer, alligators, birds, and other wildlife. Leashed dogs are welcome. Park hours are 8 a.m. - sunset daily. Admission is $6 per vehicle and $2 per pedestrian or cyclist.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens - 1534 Mound St., Sarasota, FL 34236
The spectrum of vivid colors on display at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens can light up any day. In 1973, founder Marie Selby shared her passion for gardening by bequeathing her property as a public facility. Explore the Butterfly Garden, Succulent Garden, Tidal Lagoon, and other distinct themed areas on your own or via guided tours. Immerse yourself in a full day with a boat ride and tours of both the downtown and Historic Spanish Point campuses. Two onsite dining options, upscale Green Orchid and casual Selby House Cafe, are available. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $28 for adults and $12 for ages 5-17.
Lake Manatee State Park - 20007 State Road 64 E., Bradenton, FL 34212
Coming in at a compact three miles in length, Lake Manatee State Park demonstrates the principle of quality over quantity. The park's location along the lakefront allows opportunities for fishing, boating, paddling, and swimming (but note that no lifeguards are on duty). Join the family and Fido for a ride on the 2.5-mile paved cycling trail, or if you prefer a different set of wheels, there are 2.3 miles of off-road cycling terrain. Picnic tables and grills are just a short distance from the lake, along with a reservable pavilion for family reunions and other gatherings. Park hours are 8 a.m. - sunset daily. Admission is $5 per vehicle and $2 per pedestrian or cyclist.
Bradenton Riverwalk - 452 3rd Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34205
Whether you're looking for activity or just a pleasant spot to relax, the Bradenton Riverwalk fits the bill. In the 1980s, the area down the street from Bradenton homes for sale was developed as Anthony T. Rossi Waterfront Park. After substantial expansions and improvements were made, the Riverwalk officially opened in October 2012. Amenities include a riverside walking path, a beach volleyball court and ballfields, a skateboard park, playgrounds, a dog park, and a spacious lawn for picnics. Concerts and musical events are held at the 400-seat Mosaic Amphitheater. The Bradenton Riverwalk is accessible 24/7.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park - 2523 Cocoanut Ave., Sarasota, FL 34234
New picnic tables and BBQ grills, along with a reconstructed main pavilion, are some of the recent upgrades to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park. This pet-friendly park displays several works of art, with the most prominent being the dramatic bust honoring the late civil rights leader. In addition to amenities such as a fitness center, the park offers free WiFi so you can take your office outdoors for a day. Hours are 5 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.

Is buying or selling a home one of your fall projects? Contact us for more information.

Categories: Sarasota-Manatee

Tags: Sarasota, FL, Local amenities, Bradenton FL, Bradenton Beach FL, Bradenton, FL, Local businesses, Sarasota County, Outdoor Fun, Outdoors and Recreation, downtown Sarasota, parks and recreation, parks, music in the park

Related Markets: Bradenton, Bradenton Beach, Sarasota

Matthew Faul Cell: (941) 345-3255 Email: mattfaul@wagnerrealty.com

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Best Local Parks for Fall Picnics and Outdoor Fun

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