Located in the area once known as The Pinewoods, the city of South Venice has a long history dating back to the mid-to-late 1800s. In its early years, the area was an attempted agricultural location, but never a very successful one. Instead, lumber and logging became staples of the stretch of land that would become South Venice, and a sawmill was built in the nearby town of Woodmere.
Starting in the 1920s, the Nocatee Freight Company opted to build a railroad that wound its way through the area. This railroad shipped the area's lumber around the country, and turpentine also became a major export during this freight era. Unfortunately, in the 1920s and '30s, the town of Woodmere was destroyed by fire, and hurricanes laid waste to much of the local area.
During this time, refugees were common, and fishing and hunting became important staples for those made homeless by the recent disasters. The area remained this way until the 1950s, during the era of Florida’s most dramatic population boom. Two brothers, Warren and Arthur Smadbeck, opted to purchase the land and begin development and land sales. All of the lots sold within two years. Out of this land, 1,600 feet of the Gulf beach was dedicated to residents, including the bridges connected to the recently named South Venice Subdivision. Following these developments, South Venice began to thrive, and more came to make the city their home. The continuous beachfront areas became popular with tourists and began to develop a small-town vibe.
The Florida State Fair - Held annually in February, this is an event for enjoying food, music, and more. The fair lasts 11 days and has been taking place in Tampa for more than 40 years.
Downtown Venice Craft Festival - This festival is held for two days in late January each year. During this time, you can explore vendors with a wide variety of goods, including jewelry, ceramics, and more. You can also find incredible homemade sauces and food options to try.
Sun Fiesta - Held annually in October, this is one of the biggest festivals in the area. It is a three-day event with live music, food, and other vendors. Typically, this event is held in Centennial Park, and there is a kids' corner with a bounce house and games for younger children to enjoy.
About 234 miles from South Venice, you'll find Biscayne National Park. This national park covers 172,000 acres and is only accessible by boat or plane. Because of the watery nature of the park, it is a place that divers and snorkelers adore. You will also be able to swim with dolphins as a fun family activity.
Everglades National Park is a unique location that is only 142 miles from South Venice, making it a great day trip. Many avian species call this park home, so bird watchers will want to bring a pair of binoculars. Airboat tours make exploring the park simple, but you can also hike accessible trails in the area.
Located 70 miles west of Key West and 167 miles from South Venice, Dry Tortugas National Park was named long ago for the sea turtles that are so prevalent in this area. The park is a series of offshore islands, so water activities are easily enjoyed there. If you like to fish, take a canoe, kayak, or larger boat out on the water to explore. Snorkelers and divers will want to delight in the area's coral reefs.
Oscar Scherer State Park offers both fresh and saltwater fishing. There are also 15 miles of trails that can be enjoyed on a bike or by taking a simple hike through the woods. While hiking, you might spot some of the more than 200 species of birds that call this park their home.
Lake Manatee State Park is a park for those who adore swimming and fishing in a lake. The water is beautiful, with plenty of wildlife living in the area, and in the spring, you will find wildflowers growing along the shore.
Myakka River State Park is an area with wetlands, pines, and prairies. Canoeing and kayaking can be enjoyed on the river while you attempt to catch some fish. There are also plenty of trails to explore by foot in the park.
About 45 miles from South Venice, De Soto National Memorial rests on land discovered by Spanish Conquistadors in the 16th century. While the gold they sought is nowhere to be found, there's plenty to do in this national memorial, including kayaking, fishing, and even an escape room.
The Iwo Jima War Memorial Replica can be found in Cape Coral, Florida, which is about 66 miles from South Venice. This smaller replica of the original memorial in Arlington, Virginia still displays the valor of soldiers in World War II. The monument was created on the 75th anniversary of the famous battle.
Buchan's Landing Historic Site can be found in Englewood, just less than nine miles from South Venice. The historic site honors the early families that came to this part of the state, including Pete Buchan and his wife. This couple rented their home to families arriving in the early 1900s.
When exploring South Venice, FL there are multiple nearby RV parks and campgrounds. One campground that's about 44 miles away is the Tides RV Resort. This is a 55-plus community with full hookups and 389 RV spaces.
In Riverview, Florida, which is 65 miles away, you'll find Hidden River RV Resort. Riverview has 300 sites for RVs and has full hookups.
Situated about 87 miles from South Venice is Caladesi RV Park, which is another excellent option. This smaller RV park is found in Palm Harbor. Pets are allowed in the campground, and there's also a heated pool.
Motorhomes are divided into Class A, B, and C vehicles. On average expect to pay $185 per night for Class A, $149 per night for Class B and $179 per night for Class C. Towable RVs include 5th Wheel, Travel Trailers, Popups, and Toy Hauler. On average, in South Venice, FL, the 5th Wheel trailer starts at $70 per night. Pricing for the Travel Trailer begins at $60 per night, and the Popup Trailer starts at $65 per night.
Do you need to be a certain age to rent an RV in South Venice?Yes. The minimum age is 25 to be eligible to get an RV Rental in South Venice from RVshare.
Does RVshare have emergency roadside assistance?Yes. Every RV rental booked through RVshare receives 24/7 emergency roadside assistance.
Does RVshare offer one way RV rentals in South Venice?Yes. Prior to renting any RV, check with the owner since not all will offer this particular option.