After checking out Venice’s historic downtown district and other destinations on the island, take one of three bridges crossing the Intracoastal Waterway. There’s more shopping, dining, parks and attractions just a short drive away! Fun Venice fact: In the late 1960s, the Intracoastal Waterway was excavated as a man-made channel that ultimately divided Venice and turned a section of it into an “island.”
EXPLORE MAINSTREET PARTNERS
Shopping
Dining
Golf
THINGS TO DO
Looking for a unique experience? Venice is home to Fox Lea Farm, a 50-acre horse show facility that hosts 40+ equestrian events annually. Spectators can watch show jumping competitions and grab a bite to eat at the onsite cafe.
Watch a croquet game at Wellfield Park or try it for yourself during one of Sarasota County Croquet Club’s weekly “Sunday Funday” free introductory lessons (registration required).
For 30 years, Troll Music has provided Venice’s musical community with quality instruments, lessons and repairs. Troll also brings an array of musical styles and musicians to its listening room stage for an intimate concert experience. Tickets are available here.
For something artsy, take a class at The Artistic Flip Flop, Cottage Art and Gift Gallery, or Erlenbach Jewelry and Design Studio. You don’t want to miss visiting the Venice Gallery and Studio of Clyde Butcher featuring his renowned black-and-white landscape photography, as well as works by Niki Butcher. Events offered throughout the year give visitors a behind-the-scenes glimpse of Clyde’s large‑format printing process in his 2,000 square foot darkroom.
Just over the Venice Avenue bridge on the mainland (East Venice Ave) are the historic Venice Train Depot and Circus Train Car, Rollins W. Coakley Railroad Park, Legacy Trail, Legacy Park and Venice Urban Forest. At the depot, take a docent-led tour and learn more about Venice’s interesting circus history or hit the paved trail for a leisurely bike ride. Bicycles can be rented from Florida Bike & Beach and Bicycles International.
For nature experiences beyond the beach, head to the Venice Area Audubon Society’s Rookery for lively bird watching. Sleeping Turtles Park North and Snook Haven Park offer a glimpse of “Old Florida” along the Myakka River. Explore the nature center and trails at Shamrock Park in south Venice.
More mainland and South Venice parks (scroll down on parks page)
Explore more in Venice:
Downtown District
Around the Island