Imagine taking your furry friend out for a day of fun and adventure in the beautiful parks of Sarasota/Bradenton. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect pet-friendly spot. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you! In this article, we will explore the top pet-friendly parks in Sarasota/Bradenton, where you and your four-legged companion can enjoy a leisurely stroll, play fetch, and soak up the sunshine. Whether you’re a local looking for a new place to explore or visiting the area with your pet, this guide will help you find the perfect park for a pawsome day out. You and your furry friend are in luck! Sarasota and Bradenton are home to some of the most pet-friendly parks in the area. Whether you’re looking for a place for your pup to run and play or a serene atmosphere for a peaceful stroll, these parks have it all. Let’s explore the top ten pet-friendly parks in Sarasota and Bradenton.
1. Sarasota Dog Park
Location
Sarasota Dog Park is conveniently located at 17th Street and North Tuttle Avenue in Sarasota. It’s easily accessible and offers ample parking for visitors.
Features
This park boasts a vast expanse of 17 acres dedicated solely to dogs. It features separate fenced areas for large and small dogs, allowing for a safe and enjoyable experience for both. There are also shaded areas, water stations, and picnic tables for pet owners to relax and socialize.
Activities
Sarasota Dog Park is the perfect place for your pup to socialize and burn off some energy. With plenty of space to run, play, and explore, your furry friend will have a tail-wagging good time.
2. Bradenton Riverwalk
Location
Bradenton Riverwalk is situated along the picturesque Manatee River in downtown Bradenton. You can easily access it from Downtown Bradenton, Old Main Street, or the Riverwalk Village.
Features
This riverfront park offers stunning views and a beautiful paved trail that stretches for 1.5 miles. There are also restrooms, water fountains, and benches along the way for you and your furry friend to rest and take in the scenery.
Activities
The Bradenton Riverwalk is a great spot to take your pet for a leisurely stroll or a brisk walk. Enjoy the river views while your pup sniffs out the exciting scents and explores the surroundings.
3. Bayfront Park
Location
Bayfront Park is located in downtown Sarasota, right on the waterfront. It’s easily accessible from Main Street and offers parking nearby.
Features
This charming park spans 32 acres and offers breathtaking views of Sarasota Bay. It features a large green space, walking paths, benches, and picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
Activities
Bring your pet to Bayfront Park for a walk or a game of fetch on the open grassy areas. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and watch the boats go by. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your furry friend with the sparkling water as the backdrop!
4. Arlington Park and Aquatic Complex
Location
Arlington Park and Aquatic Complex is located at 2650 Waldemere Street in Sarasota. It’s easily accessible and offers ample parking for visitors.
Features
This park offers a wide range of amenities for both pets and their owners. It features a large open field, shaded picnic areas, a playground, and even a swimming pool. There are also water fountains and pet waste stations throughout the park.
Activities
Take your pet for a walk or let them romp around in the large open field at Arlington Park. If you want to cool off, head over to the Aquatic Complex and enjoy a swim with your furry friend.
5. Patriot Plaza
Location
Patriot Plaza is located at 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle in Sarasota, adjacent to the Sarasota National Cemetery. It’s easily accessible and offers convenient parking.
Features
This park is a stunning tribute to our nation’s veterans and offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere. It features beautifully landscaped grounds, intricate sculptures, and shaded seating areas. There are also water features and walking paths throughout the park.
Activities
Patriot Plaza is a great place to take your pet for a peaceful walk or to simply enjoy the tranquil surroundings. The park’s serene environment provides a perfect backdrop for reflection and relaxation.
6. Neal Preserve
Location
Neal Preserve is located at 12301 Manatee Avenue West in Bradenton. It’s easily accessible and offers ample parking for visitors.
Features
This 120-acre preserve offers a diverse range of habitats, including tidal marshes, mangrove forests, and salt flats. It features a network of trails, boardwalks, and observation towers that allow visitors to explore and observe the local wildlife.
Activities
Explore Neal Preserve with your pet and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you. Take a leisurely stroll along the trails, keeping an eye out for birds, reptiles, and other wildlife. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views!
7. South Lido Park
Location
South Lido Park is located at 190 Taft Drive in Sarasota. It’s easily accessible and offers ample parking for visitors.
Features
This park is renowned for its pristine beach and tranquil atmosphere. It offers gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico and features sandy beaches, picnic areas, and restrooms. There’s also a beautiful nature trail that winds through the park.
Activities
Take your pet for a relaxing walk along the beach or explore the nature trail at South Lido Park. Your furry friend will love splashing in the water and digging in the sand. Bring a frisbee or a ball to play a game of fetch on the expansive beach!
8. DeSoto National Memorial Park
Location
DeSoto National Memorial Park is located at 8300 DeSoto Memorial Highway in Bradenton. It’s easily accessible and offers ample parking for visitors.
Features
This historical park commemorates the landing of Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto in Florida. It offers lush green spaces, picnic areas, and waterfront views along the Manatee River. There’s also a visitor center where you can learn about the park’s history.
Activities
Explore the trails at DeSoto National Memorial Park with your pet and learn about the area’s rich history. Let your furry friend sniff out the scents and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the park’s natural surroundings.
9. Robinson Preserve
Location
Robinson Preserve is located at 1704 99th Street NW in Bradenton. It’s easily accessible and offers ample parking for visitors.
Features
This 482-acre preserve offers a diverse range of natural habitats, including wetlands, mangrove forests, and salt marshes. It features a network of trails, observation towers, and kayak launches that allow visitors to explore and appreciate the local ecosystem.
Activities
Embark on an adventure with your pet at Robinson Preserve and immerse yourselves in nature. Walk along the trails, keeping an eye out for birds and other wildlife. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak and explore the mangrove tunnels with your furry companion by your side.
10. Myakka River State Park
Location
Myakka River State Park is located at 13208 State Road 72 in Sarasota. It’s easily accessible and offers ample parking for visitors.
Features
This expansive state park spans over 37,000 acres and offers a variety of natural habitats, including wetlands, prairies, and hammocks. It features hiking trails, picnic areas, a lake for fishing and boating, and even a canopy walkway for a unique and immersive experience.
Activities
Explore the vast wilderness of Myakka River State Park with your pet by your side. Hike along the trails, rent a canoe or kayak to explore the lake, or simply relax and enjoy a picnic amidst the stunning natural surroundings. Your furry friend will love the sights, sounds, and scents of this beautiful park.
These pet-friendly parks in Sarasota and Bradenton offer a range of options for you and your furry companion to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a place to play, explore, or simply relax, these parks have something for everyone. So grab your four-legged friend, leash up, and head out to one of these pet-friendly parks for a day of fun and adventure!