A Dream Destination
Venice is a town full of historic charm and character, thanks to its Italian Renaissance-style architecture along Venice Avenue, where you can take a relaxing stroll from our hotel to the town center for browsing the local boutiques and gift shops. Stop to enjoy a meal at one of the many fine dining venues or small cafés while tropical breezes carry your cares away. The Island is also host to a number of special events throughout the year, including art shows, music festivals and green markets.
With so much to do right here, you may find yourself spending your entire getaway within a few blocks of the Inn. But if wanderlust strikes, our hotel is just 40 minutes from Sarasota, an arts and cultural hot spot where you can enjoy opera, theatre, concert events, the famous Ringling Museum of Art and Ca' d'Zan, the historic waterfront home of John and Mable Ringling.
The City of Venice was incorporated in 1927, but its European-inspired name came from settler Frank Higel in 1888, who felt the area reminded him of the canal city in Italy where he had lived as a boy. In the 1960s, Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey Circus moved its winter headquarters from nearby Sarasota to Venice. That same decade brought the construction of the Intracoastal Waterway, effectively making Venice its own island sanctuary. Named one of Coastal Living's “Best Places to Live on the Coast,” we invite you to explore all Venice has to offer.
Venice Theatre: Venice Theatre is one of the largest community theaters in the United States, but that doesn't take away from its intimate, welcoming atmosphere. A huge variety of shows are constantly rotating with actors of all ages whose talent is nothing short of amazing. A night at the theatre is a great place to enjoy a relaxing evening out.
Venice Fishing Pier: Venice has countless spots along the coast to fish. A local favorite is the Venice Fishing Pier. No matter how large the crowd, there's always room for a few more fishermen or sightseers. If baiting a hook isn't up your alley, it's also a great place to catch some of the most beautiful sunsets in all of Florida!
The Legacy Trail and Venetian Waterway Park: Nothing is more refreshing than Florida sunshine, fresh air, and the occasional wildlife spotting. Walk or bicycle down any of the numerous quiet paths in The Legacy Trail and Venetian Waterway Park and enjoy a no-traffic, no-fuss day. Venice is an award winning bike community and the newly opened Legacy Trail showcases why. Take a short bike ride on this paved trail or ride directly to Sarasota through beautiful Florida habitats.
Deer Prairie Creek: Enjoy Florida and all of its natural beauty in this large nature preserve featuring pine flatwoods and the winding Myakka River. Take a walk or bike through Deer Prairie Creek to discover such native Florida residents as deer, turkey, hogs, and alligators. Take a relaxing ride on horseback with a professionally guided tour for a once- in-a-lifetime Florida experience!
Shark Teeth: Venice is the Shark Tooth Capital of the World! Keep an eye out for prehistoric fossilized shark teeth while you're collecting shells – they can often be found washed up on the beach or buried in the sand. Shark teeth can be found any time, but your best chances are after a storm when the changing tides and waves uncover them.
Shopping & Dining: A trip to Venice isn't complete without a stroll downtown through the historic shopping district. With a mix of antique shops, specialty boutiques, designer stores, art galleries, gift shops plus an indoor mall, it won't be hard to find that perfect piece – or pieces – to showcase as a souvenir of your Venice getaway. When you're ready to relax and restore with a bite to eat, downtown Venice offers an array of delectable choices in fine dining and casual fare.
Spa & Wellness: Floridians are no strangers to relaxation and what better way to calm the nerves and get in vacation-mode than with a relaxing massage or soothing spa service? There are numerous wonderful spas and wellness studios in the Venice area from which to choose.