Oscar Scherer State Park
"Venice residents and visitors use the park for camping, biking, and wildlife viewing without a long drive. It is a convenient stop before or after time on the Gulf Coast."
A scenic Sarasota-area park known for scrub habitat, paddling, camping, and wildlife watching.
DeSoto Site Historic State Park
"Venice visitors may stop here while exploring the Gulf Coast, especially if they want a scenic, educational detour inland."
A small historic park on the Manatee River marking the landing site of Hernando de Soto’s expedition.
Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park
"Venice visitors often make the drive south for fishing and kayaking in a less developed coastal setting. The preserve provides a strong contrast to the city’s beach-focused recreation."
A vast coastal preserve of mangroves, estuaries, and wildlife along Charlotte Harbor.