Bicentennial Park
2730 Gulf of Mexico Drive

Many cyclist and walkers know this lovely, one acre garden spot just off the bike path on the corner of Gulf of Mexico Drive and Bay Isle Road, west of Town Hall.

The park was first established through the efforts of the town’s Bicentennial of the Constitution Committee and maintenance of the park has been a special project of the Longboat Key Garden Club. The native setting and beautiful beds of annuals make for a scenic resting spot. The park has been designated by the state as a Florida Model garden.

Joan M. Durante Community Park
5550 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

This 18 acre park is located on Sarasota Bay two miles from the north end of Longboat Key.

The award-winning new wetland and coastal dune forest represents a major public/private success story, with participation from local, State and Federal government agencies and a private donor. New wetlands had to be created and restored, while invasive exotic vegetation had to be removed.

New dune areas were created using fill taken from the newly created wetland areas. As the vegetation matures, the park will represent an unique oasis for both wildlife and man in an urbanized area.

Leffis Key

Located on the bay side of Anna Maria Island across from Coquina Beach
This is a pristine, shallow water habitat, the 17 acre project includes the creation of tidal lagoons, a foot bridge and boardwalks for public access with plantings and signage. It is a beautiful paradise for taking a stroll and viewing wildlife in their natural habitat.

Myakka River State Park
(14 miles east of U.S. 41 on State Road 72)
Myakkariver.org

You are likely to catch a glimpse of an alligator or any of the more than 200 species of birds found in this 28,865 acre State park. Bring your binoculars, camera or sketchbook and take a ride on the world’s largest airboat or ride the open air train to experience Florida as it looked to its first settlers.