Family Fun

Let's play pickleball! This paddleball sport that's sweeping the nation is a mix between tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Played either one-on-one or two-on-two, pickleball is great for players of all ages and skill levels. Our REALTORS® love playing pickleball, and we know you will too! Grab a few friends and learn to play this exciting sport at one of these courts.

1. Colonial Oaks Park — 5300 Colonial Oaks Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34232
   Enjoy a day outdoors at the sprawling 23-acre Colonial Oaks Park. A perfect place to relax and enjoy Florida's warm weather, this park features a dedicated pickleball court for you to grow your game. Colonial Oaks Park is surrounded by Sarasota homes for sale, enabling you to spend time playing pickleball and picnicking throughout the year!
   
   
2. Bayfront Park — 4052 Gulf Of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key, FL 34228
   When searching for Longboat Key homes for sale, let us direct you to one of the many community parks in town, such as Bayfront Park. This local park offers many opportunities to participate in recreational sports, including pickleball! Bring your pickleball paddle and stop by this local park. Hours of play are from 7 am - 10 pm. 
   
   
3. Longwood Park — 6050 Longwood Run Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34243
   Another fantastic indoor and outdoor recreational facility near many of our Sarasota homes for sale, Longwood Park has everything adults, kids, and even dogs need to enjoy fun in the Florida sun. This dog-friendly park has a pickleball court, baseball field, tennis court, and playground, among other great amenities.  
   
   
4. Lakewood Ranch Park — 5350 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Bradenton, FL 34211
   One benefit we love about our Lakewood Ranch homes for sale is that these beautiful properties are within a short distance to amazing green spaces like the Lakewood Ranch Park. Open from sunrise until nearly midnight, Lakewood Ranch Park provides nearly the entire day for you to practice your pickleball skills on their courts. With eight hard-court tennis courts that feature lighting, there is plenty of room for you and your group of friends to have your own pickleball tournament.
   
   
5. Palmetto Tennis Courts — 1500 W. 10th St., Palmetto, FL 34221
   If you're already an avid tennis player looking at Palmetto homes for sale, you've surely heard of the nearby Palmetto Tennis Courts. Open for play from sunrise to sunset. They're also the perfect place to challenge your friends and family to a game of pickleball. Reservations are not required, so feel free to pop in at any time for a game!
   
   
6. John H. Marble Park — 3675 53rd Ave. E., Bradenton, FL 34203
   One of the coolest parks near our Bradenton homes for sale is John H. Marble Park. Whenever you visit for a game of pickleball on one of their two tennis-lighted hard courts, take a moment to explore their other amenities. Bocce ball, a pool, and even a remote control race track are available to use at your leisure. 

Would you like to live close to these wonderful pickleball courts so you can pay every day? Contact us and we'll show you the best homes available in the Sarasota and Manatee area.

Living near the beautiful beaches of Sarasota and Manatee provides endless entertainment for family members of all ages, and allows you to enjoy activities that bring the whole family together. Combing the beach for seashells is a family activity that has been enjoyed for centuries, in part because of all you can create with those shells after you finish beachcombing. Our real estate agents are here to provide some inspiration for family fun, with our guide to seashell crafts.

1. Seashell Wind Chime
   A seashell wind chime is a fun, easy project for family members of all ages, and all you'll need to get started is some string, shells, and a piece of driftwood that you found on the beach. If you need supplies, they're easy to find on the beaches close to Sarasota homes for sale. Just tie each length of string to the driftwood, add shells, beads, or any decorations that you'd like, then hang it somewhere the whole family can enjoy it.

2. Create a Clamshell Wreath
   Creating a clamshell wreath is one of the more time-consuming projects on the list, but the payoff is more than worth it. Plus, it's fun! For this project, you'll need a wreath form, glue, and a whole lot of cleaned clamshells.

3. Seashell Candles
   Whether you create the candle yourself with wax, a wick, and scented oils or use a store-bought tealight, you'll find that the right seashells can make excellent candle holders. For larger candles, you can place the candle inside of a mason jar, then use shells and other items you found at the beach to decorate the jar.

4. Souvenir Jars from Your Favorite Beaches
   Is there a particular beach near Bradenton homes for sale that holds special significance for your family, or a day of beachcombing that you would like to remember? Creating a souvenir jar with shells, sand, and other items that you found on the beach is a fun, family activity. 

5. Seashell Necklaces
   Kids love bringing a piece of the beach with them wherever they go, and seashell necklaces are very easy to make. For a simple necklace, all you need is a string and a shell. Grab some glitter, glue, and other decorations for crafty kids who want to customize their necklaces.

6. Clamshell Creatures
   Clamshell creatures are easy to create and make great decorations for the rooms of younger kids. You'll need some brightly colored paint for each clamshell and some googly eyes. You can add more decorations, but even the simple version will be a hit with the kids.

7. Seashell Centerpiece
   If your family loves the beach, then a seashell centerpiece can be a great way to bring a taste of your favorite place into your home. An especially large clamshell makes for a perfect base, allowing you to add shells, decorations, and even a plant. You can also use a bouquet of fake flowers in a vase for your centerpiece, and add seashells accent the look.

Whether you're searching for beautiful shells, taking a refreshing dip in the water, or just relaxing with your toes in the sand, there's nothing like living by the beach. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the area.

With the kids at home for the foreseeable future and many public spaces closed indefinitely, many parents will need a helping hand keeping their children entertained during this difficult time. Our REALTORS® understand that, while having fun is a great distraction, children still need to spend adequate time learning and growing while out of school. Thankfully, these seven educational websites offer great ways to keep your kids entertained and academically engaged while at home.

1. Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute Webcams
   With the weather warming up, a trip to the zoo would be a perfect no-school activity for children. Unfortunately, all Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo are closed until further notice, but that doesn't mean that children can't check in on their favorite animals. The National Zoo has webcams set up throughout the zoo that give a live glimpse into the areas where many animals live. 
   
   
2. San Diego Zoo Live Cams
   The San Diego Zoo is one of the most famous zoos in the world, and you don't have to visit in person to see why. They've set up nearly a dozen live webcams that your kids can stream right at home. Take a trip to Africa and watch the baboons and penguins. View the koalas of the Outback, the apes of the Lost Forest, and the polar bears of the Northern Frontier. Go on an exciting digital safari to see giraffe, burrowing owls, elephants, tigers, and condors. 
   
   
3. Google Arts & Culture
   Google is ready to open your children up to the art and cultures of the world. Their free online Arts & Culture program lets kids explore famous landmarks and streets, view high-definition artwork from renowned artists, and examine artifacts from pre-history to present day.
   
   
4. Online Tours of the Louvre
   There are few museums in the world as highly regarded as the Louvre, and now you can visit without buying a plane ticket to Paris! The Louvre offers virtual tours online where your children can explore Egyptian Antiquities, Remains of the Louvre's Moat, and the Galerie d'Apollon.
   
   
5. Children's Museum Houston
   While the Louvre is a fascinating facility, younger kids may enjoy activities and videos created by the Children's Museum Houston. Make learning fun and hands-on without leaving your home with their extensive video database.
   
   
6. Scholastic Learn at Home Virtual Program
   In light of recent events, Scholastic is devoting its efforts to maximizing learning potential for children who are currently out of school. Their Learn at Home online program contains resources for parents, teachers, and students aged preschool through grade six and above. They post day-to-day projects featuring cross-curricular content to keep their minds growing.   
   
   
7. Space Foundation
   Take a trip with your kids (and Snoopy) out of this world with some fun lesson plans created by the Space Foundation. This free downloadable STEM curriculum is perfect for kids in grades K-8. 

Are you looking for a way to stay entertained at home? Why not browse some of our Bradenton homes or Sarasota homes for sale? Many of these stunning properties feature high-definition photographs and even virtual tours. Contact us to learn more.

There's no doubt about it – Sarasota has some of the best beaches in Florida.

Our REALTORS® love the beach, but the weather doesn't always cooperate. What's a family to do when hitting the coast isn't in the cards?

Luckily, there are plenty of options for fun and family bonding. World-class museums, cultural institutions, and attractions for kids abound. Any of them makes for a full day of memories that last a lifetime. 

Here are some ideas for Sarasota fun when it's not a beach day:

1. Crowley Museum & Nature Center – 16405 Myakka Road, Sarasota, FL 34240
   Crowley Museum & Nature Center is a unique interactive experience open each Thursday through Sunday. It includes a self-guided nature trail that winds through pine flatwoods, oak, swampland, and the famous Sawgrass Marsh. There's also a museum where youngsters get the chance to explore how life looked in Florida's rugged pioneer days.
2. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens – 900 S Palm Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236
   Did you know you can explore a botanical garden with over 6,000 orchids near Sarasota homes for sale? The stunning, lush grounds of the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens are a delight for all ages. Kids will love exploring the children's rainforest garden or picking up their own plant to take home at the plant shop. 
3. Tree Umph! Adventure Course – 21805 East State Road 70, Bradenton, FL 34202
   Are you ready for adventure? Tree Umph! Adventure Course is waiting with all-ages action, including courses for kids and adults. Add excitement to Lakewood Ranch homes for sale as you thrill to the best in zip line entertainment. Alone or in groups, you'll explore 14 acres of daring, innovative games. There are events for guests as young as seven years.
4. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium – 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236
   Even though you aren't headed to the beach, you can still learn about the seas and the fish that live there! The Mote Aquarium  & Laboratory features over 100 species of marine animals in their massive aquarium. Just down the road from Bird Key homes for sale, the interactive exhibits and viewable working labs at Mote Aquarium & Laboratory offer hands-on learning for all ages. 
5. Historic Spanish Point – 337 N. Tamiami Trail, Osprey, FL 34229
   Step back into a different time when you venture over to Historic Spanish Point near Osprey homes for sale. Explore the outdoor archaeological and historic museum. Make the most of your time there by booking one of their tours and learn about the grounds from the knowledge tour guides or attend one of their many events on the grounds!   
6. Manatee County Agricultural Museum – 1015 6th Street West, Palmetto, FL 34221
   An educational day awaits you a short drive from the best Palmetto homes for sale. The top-ranked Manatee County Agricultural Museum is a must-see. With multiple events every month, the program is bursting with memorable experiences. The Living Wax Museum, Heritage Days Walking Tours, and much more will expand the minds of visitors at any age.
7. Florida Railroad Museum – 12210 83rd Street East, Parrish, FL 34219
   All aboard! If you have kids that love all things train-related, this museum is the perfect place to take the family when it's not a beach day. The Florida Railroad Museum features the railroad line that was the first to be built in Manatee County. After viewing Parrish homes for sale, stop by and ride this historic railroad line for yourself!
8. Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum – 402 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria, Florida 34216
   Florida has a rich history and the staff at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum are dedicated to presenting and preserving that history. Down the road from Anna Maria homes for sale, this museum opened in 1992 and has been giving visitors a glimpse of historic Florida. While admission is free for this museum, donations are appreciated! 

"Fun" might not be the first word that comes to mind when you think about a home search, but Wagner Realty makes it a breeze. Our in-depth experience with Florida real estate smooths the path and gets you to closing fast. To get started, contact us today – rain or shine.

Even though there's no snow in sight, the many holiday craft fairs returning to town are making it feel a lot like Christmas. Our REALTORS® are excited to complete our shopping lists by visiting a handful of the spectacular holiday craft fairs in Manatee and Sarasota Counties. If you're looking for one-of-a-kind gifts for that special someone, head to one of these festive fairs.

• Art & Design Show Sarasota — Robarts Arena 3000 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34237 | Dec 6 — 8
  The historic Sarasota craft show returns! Art & Design Show Sarasota makes its way back into the Robarts Arena for visitors to find gifts for the serious art collectors in their lives. The preeminent destination for everyone from interior decorators and art enthusiasts to those who appreciate a great looking piece of décor for their home, Art & Design Show is free to enter. Browse the street fairs located just outside of the venue too and consider making appointments to browse the Sarasota homes for sale in the area.
  
  
• Mixon's Harvest Craft Fair — Mixon Farms 2525 27th St. E., Bradenton, FL 34208 | Nov 23
  Harvest Festival Craft Fair at Mixon Fruit Farms is the best way to kick off harvest season. This free event features more than 60 unique vendors, live entertainment, delicious food, and chances for you to win exciting prizes. Fun for the whole family, kids can make crafts while you cross a few items off of your shopping list. If you'll be in the area looking at Bradenton homes for sale, making an entire afternoon of the event by touring the farm after you're done at the craft fair.
  
  
• Bradenton-Sarasota Home + Holiday Show — Bradenton Area Convention Center 1 Haben Blvd, Palmetto, FL 34221 | Nov 15 – 17
  Have you got your eye on a few Palmetto homes for sale? Then head over to the Bradenton-Sarasota Home + Holiday Show and pick out a few pieces of décor as an early holiday gift for yourself. This is the ultimate one-stop-shop for anyone looking for great gifts. The art show will showcase fine masterpieces that are perfect for the art lover in your life. The event will also feature wine tasting for adults and a kid zone full of fun activities.
  
  
• Atomic Holiday Bazaar — Municipal Auditorium 801 N. Tamiami Trl., Sarasota, FL 34236 | Dec 14 – 15
  Do you have someone on your holiday gift list that isn't easy to shop for? Then stop by the Atomic Holiday Bazaar for delightful irregular goodies! This indie craft fair not far from Lido Key homes for sale has unique items on display. They've recently expanded their selection, so be sure to visit the Bay Front Room to view more items.
  
  
• Lido Beach Holiday of the Arts 2019 — Lido Beach 400 Benjamin Franklin Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236 | Dec 7 – 8
  Located close to many Longboat Key homes for sale, head over to Lido Beach and watch the beach transform into an outdoor gallery. Lido Beach Holiday of the Arts 2019 is the perfect opportunity to stock up on handmade art from local artisans. Give one of a kind gifts for everyone on your list when you attend this holiday festival. 
  
  
• Holiday Gift Expo & Cookie Fest — Bradenton Area Convention Center 1 Haben Blvd, Palmetto, FL 34221 | Dec 1
  What's better than a holiday craft show? A holiday craft show with cookies! Not far from Parrish homes for sale, be sure to head over to the Bradenton Area Convention Center on December 1 for the Holiday Gift Expo & Cookie Fest. Get locally made gifts for those on your list and holiday cookies for you to enjoy while shopping.

Are you looking for a place to keep all of your new crafts and décor? Contact us today, and we'll help you find a great home in Sarasota or Manatee County.