Wednesday Walk on Lovely Downtown Venice, Florida

This week's excursion takes us along the streets of downtown Venice. Originally called Horse & Chaise, it was renamed Venice in 1888 because of the canals that are here. The downtown is actually an island as the main canal stretches from one bay to another separating this from the mainland. I've had to wait at the drawbridge several times to get back home when visiting, which we do often because all of the beaches of Venice are on the island.

The slogan here is"The City on the Gulf"

The downtown is 3 larger blocks by 3 smaller blocks and consists mainly of local retail businesses, restaurants, and a large community park with ample parking. Even on a busy day or night, it is easy to find a spot. The park is called Centennial Park and has a gazebo that occasionally hosts live music and performances. This is one of those nights and the purpose of visiting to walk the area.

We arrived early so we could walk around before the concert. They were just starting to set up.

Public restrooms are available and a water fountain for children to play and splash around in.

There was a fundraiser for the Venice Art Center a year ago to place painted/decorated mermaids and seahorses in various locations around the city and downtown.

This one covered in seashells is my favorite 😍

This sign offers a glimpse into some of the city's history.

You can see from this view, facing away from the sign in the above picture, the main street, Venice Avenue. It is lined with palm trees and businesses.

The streets are landscaped with beautiful flowers and statues.

There are also some amazing murals on the walls throughout the downtown.

This one is a dedication to the Founding fathers of the hospital.

Here is a mural that contrasts the Venice of Florida with the original of Italy.

This is a smaller park next to the Venice Theater.

This 3 panel mural has a plaque with a challenge to find the wildlife in the photo with an answer key (not pictured) It makes for a fun activity to try and find them on your own.

In the center of this park is the original plan for downtown.

The front entrance to the theater.

This sign greets you when you enter downtown going west on Venice Avenue just after you cross the bridge.

Opposite view of the bridge.

The Avenue has a median filled with beautiful flora.

The blocks are long but it is easy for pedestrians to cross in the middle without having to go all the way to the corner.

Many of the sidewalks offer tunnels to shelter from rain which happens nearly every day during rhe summer months.

There is also a lot of seating available to stop and rest if needed. Or to sit and enjoy an ice cream or gelato from on of the many creameries.

There are some amazing trees here also.

We made it back to the park. The octagonal structure has flyers of various events and business advertising.

Time to enjoy the show! Tonight showcased a 3 piece Irish band. They sang some really fun songs and had the audience singing too.

I hope you enjoyed the tour of downtown Venice, Florida. Have a wonderful week and we'll see you all next Wednesday 😊