Looking for a place where kids can burn off energy, discover wildlife and maybe even spark a lifelong love of nature? Megan Eidel, Sarasota County’s Parks, Natural Areas, and Trails (PNT) Manager, and the PNT team shared their top recommendations for family-friendly outdoor adventures around Venice. Among Eidel’s personal favorites are North Jetty Park, Shamrock Park and Nature Center, and South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve, each offering its own blend of scenery, wildlife and opportunities to explore.
What are the best parks for families?
“There are so many,” Eidel said, but a few stand out. Shamrock Park and Nature Center combines a popular playground with paved and natural trails, a nature center and access to the Venetian Waterway Park trail system. It’s an easy choice for families looking to mix playtime with exploration.
For kids on wheels, Venetian Waterway Park and The Legacy Trail offer miles of paved pathways perfect for biking. Along the route, trailheads provide water, restrooms and convenient stops, including the Venice Train Depot, where children can enjoy a train-themed playground.
Senator Bob Johnson’s Landing offers scenic views of the Myakka River along with an accessible boardwalk and interpretive displays that introduce visitors to the area’s history and ecology.
Families seeking a true wilderness experience should head to Carlton Reserve. At more than 25,000 acres, Sarasota County’s largest natural area features trails for every skill level and the feeling of stepping far away from everyday life.
The good news? Eidel says Sarasota County’s parks really are for everyone. Whether families want a playground, an easy paved walk or a more immersive outdoor adventure, there’s an option for every age and ability.
Where can kids see wildlife?
Shamrock Park and Nature Center is home to several protected species, while the Venice Area Audubon Rookery remains one of the county’s premier birdwatching destinations.
Throughout local parks and preserves, families may spot gopher tortoises, countless bird species, squirrels, alligators, snakes and an abundance of native plants. During summer, butterflies and wildflowers add even more color to the experience, and many parks include educational kiosks explaining the habitats and wildlife visitors are likely to encounter.
Best trails for beginners?
For families just getting started, Eidel recommends choosing shorter loops with amenities. Shamrock Park and Nature Center, Woodmere Park and Scherer Thaxton Preserve all offer manageable walks with nearby restrooms.
Before heading out, pack water, wear sunscreen and closed-toe shoes, and pay attention to the weather to stay safe and comfortable.
Hidden gems worth discovering?
Scherer Thaxton Preserve often flies under the radar but packs plenty into one destination, including an easy loop trail, fishing pier, kayak launch, stocked pond and restrooms.
South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve rewards visitors with beautiful coastal scenery and peaceful trails, while Curry Creek Preserve offers ample parking, a kayak launch and a surprisingly tranquil natural escape tucked into the heart of Venice.
Turning a walk into a learning experience?
The best family hikes aren’t measured in miles. Instead of focusing on distance, Eidel encourages parents to slow down, observe and listen. Reading interpretive signs, researching a park before visiting and asking children questions about what they see can transform a simple walk into an adventure.
Families can also use Sarasota County’s free Agents of Discovery app, which lets children complete interactive missions while learning about local parks and wildlife.
Above all, Eidel’s advice for raising nature lovers is refreshingly simple: just get outside. Children have to experience nature before they can appreciate it, and those early experiences often inspire a lifelong desire to value and protect the natural world.
The benefits extend far beyond individual families. Sarasota County’s parks and preserves provide environmental education, safeguard important habitats, improve quality of life and help ensure future generations understand the value of protecting the county’s natural resources.
PET-FRIENDLY PICKS
Exploring with a four-legged family member? Eidel recommends Woodmere Park and Brohard Dog Park for their designated off-leash areas where dogs can run and socialize safely.
Shamrock Park, Sleeping Turtles Preserve North and The Legacy Trail are also excellent choices, offering scenic walks and amenities such as dog waste stations and water bowls. The Legacy Trail’s connected network of trailheads makes it especially well suited for longer outings.
Just remember that dogs must remain on leashes no longer than six feet unless they are in a designated off-leash area. Cleaning up after pets and respecting wildlife and fellow visitors helps keep these beautiful spaces enjoyable for everyone.
VENICE WELCOMES ITS NEWEST PARK
Looking for a new place to play, walk, exercise or spend time with the dog? The City of Venice recently celebrated the opening of Northeast Venice Park, the first new city park since 2017.
This 4.8-acre park offers something for all ages, including eight outdoor pickleball courts, a fitness trail, walking path, two shaded playgrounds, and separate areas for large and small dogs.
Young visitors can climb and explore alongside whimsical playground features named “Cordy” the Crane and “Myrtle” the Turtle.
Funded through Sarasota County impact fees, Northeast Venice Park is located at 3560 Laurel Road E. and is open daily from sunup to sundown.
Northeast Venice Park is a beautiful new 4.8-acre green space designed for recreation and connection.