8 Fun Things to Do with the Kids in Sanford, FL
— Before Back to School Hits!
Dive Into Local History at the Sanford Museum
Small, free, and full of cool local history — this museum offers trains, riverboats, sports, and even early pioneer life. Sanford Museum
Sanford Museum – Free For Visitors
Splash Pad + Picnic at Fort Mellon Park
Cool off at the splash pad, then enjoy a shaded picnic and playground time with Lake Monroe views. Fort Mellon Park – near the Sanford Riverwalk.
Fort Mellon Splash Pad – City of Sanford
Family Bike Ride on the Riverwalk
Ride Sanford’s scenic Riverwalk along the southern shore of Lake Monroe. Perfect for some active family fun before the backpacks come out. Bike and e-bike rentals available.
Cycling on the Sanford Riverwalk
DIY Food Party at Home
Stock up on local goodies from Sanford’s farmers market or a downtown grocer, then let the kids build their own ice cream sundaes! Sanford’s Market Place at Magnolia (downtown farmers market) Hollerbach German Market.
Fresh Local Fruits at Sanford Marketplace at Magnolia
Free Movies the Ritz Theater
Sizzlin’ Summer Cinema is lighting up the Ritz Theater every Wednesday at 6 PM! Enjoy fan-favorite, family-friendly movies on the big screen through August 27.
Family movie day at the Ritz Theater
Get Artsy at the Jeanine Taylor Folk Art Gallery
Browse colorful, whimsical art; some weekends include free kid-friendly crafts or demos. Jeanine Taylor Folk Art
Painting from Jeanine Taylor Folk Art Gallery
Wild Time at Central Florida Zoo
Home to over 350 animals, lush gardens, and even a splash pad to cool off. Perfect for a day of family fun, wild adventures, and unforgettable encounters! Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens – minutes away from downtown Sanford.
Llama and Young Boy at Central Florida Zoo
Back-to-School Bookshop Adventure
Get the kids excited for the school year with a visit to two charming bookstores! At Maya Books & Music, explore shelves of gently loved reads & music, quirky finds, and fun vintage treasures. Just steps away, Spellbound offers a curated selection of new and used books and gifts for all ages.
Maya Books & Music – Sanford Local Shop
Looking for the best way to stay connected in Sanford?
Explore local Sanford Facebook Pages to stay up to date on events, activities, and businesses in our vibrant community. From festivals and food trucks to new shops and live music — there’s always something happening in Historic Downtown Sanford.