places to visit in myakka!

Experience Old Florida at Crowley Museum & Nature Center in Sarasota. Immerse yourself in pioneer history and artifacts as you explore the museum, pioneer cabin, Tatum House, blacksmith shop, working sugar cane mill and more.  The Children’s Discovery Path nature trail offers hands-on learning opportunities. Explore our trails and see native wildlife.

Myakka Elephant Ranch currently has one of the largest elephant habitats in the United States today on 30 acres spotted with lovely trees offering plenty of shade. The 80,000 gallon watering hole is one of their favorite spots on hot days. Fun for the whole family - check the website in advance to book your visit and plan your VIP tour & spa experience!

 Dakin Dairy Farms has been a vital part of the Manatee County community for over two decades. The Dakin family has been milking cows in Manatee County, Florida since 1973. Stop by the Dakin Dairy Café, Farm Market and check out the website to book a tour - and make sure to purchase something delicious & sweet - we recommend the ice cream!

Visit Hunsader Farms and the Farm Market to purchase fresh produce,  jams, jellies, honey, and pickled vegetables. After the U-pick, playground, Tiny Town & Petting Zoo, stop by the the ice cream shop & the Country Club barn for ice cream, gifts, t-shirts, antiques, and crafts. Plan a visit during the annual Pumpkin Festival, a favorite for locals & tourists!

The Herrmann Family has owned and operated Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzans in Myakka City, Florida, since 1962. The Lipizzan is one of the most famous, yet endangered, breeds in the world. 

In 1962, the Herrmann family brought their Lipizzans to the United States and are now in the sixth generation of Herrmann riders.

The vineyard boasts an assortment of fruit bearing trees along with 7.5 acres of beautiful vineyard, open to the public and guests are encouraged to come and explore the property, walk through the vines and feel free to sample some grapes, check out the wine selection and of course, contact them for any weddings or events.

The majestic Myakka River flows through 58 square miles of one of Florida’s oldest and largest parks. The Myakka River is Florida’s first state-designated wild and scenic river, and it flows through unspoiled wetlands & and pinelands that make up Myakka River State Park. Enjoy boating, fishing, canoeing and kayaking on the water & hiking and cycling to explore miles of trails and backroads.

The lake offers freshwater fishing from boats or from the park's fishing docks. A boat ramp provides access to the lake for boating (less than 20 horsepower), canoeing and kayaking. The campground amenities include a restroom facility with showers, a large picnic area, a covered pavilion, and a playground. Hiking the trails is like taking a step back in time, providing a glimpse of the Real Florida.

A unique attraction in a natural Florida setting, “Bearadise Ranch” is home to the famous Welde family bears. Established in 1926 to educate and generate public awareness for habitat preservation and conservation for all bear species. Educational presentations are part of the tour offering plenty of photographic opportunities for the nature lover or bear enthusiast.

TreeUmph! Adventure Course opened in Bradenton, Florida in 2012. With over 10 football fields of challenging terrain and hundreds of aerial adventure games - guests can fly through a dense forest from tree to tree on crazy-fun obstacles that defy gravity. Experience one of the most unique attractions in Florida!

Prospect Riding Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization on 10 beautiful acres of ranch land in Myakka City, Florida offering both therapeutic and recreational horseback riding and activities. All the proceeds from our recreational riding go to support our therapy riding program. Contact PRC to plan your next visit!

The Lemur Conservation Foundation was founded in 1996 by Penelope Bodry-Sanders. In 1997, she set up camp on 30 acres in Myakka City, Florida to begin engaging supporters and fulfilling our mission to save and protect endangered lemurs. The reserve has since expanded to 130 acres. Click below to learn more!