Let's Go Rollerblading at Venetian Waterway Park
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Strap up your rollerblades and zip down 10 miles of paved path at the Venetian Waterway Park in Venice. With five miles of trails on either side of the Intracoastal Waterway, this park delivers plenty of beautiful sights, including the stretch from downtown Venice on the north end to Caspersen Beach on the south end. Developed by Venice Area Beautification Inc., the park includes several other amenities to enjoy, as well, including a playground, fitness stations and observation areas to soak in the views of boats sailing or dolphins swimming.
Level up your exercise routine from a simple walk in the neighborhood to a thrilling ride on wheels.
Where
303 E. Venice Ave., Venice.
When
The park is open from dawn to dusk daily, including the walking trails. This means you can rollerblade looking out at the sunset, or in the mid-afternoon while boats are sailing by on the Intracoastal.
Rollerblading at Venetian Waterway Park.
Image: Courtesy Photo
What to Bring
Rollerblades are a necessity, but if you don't own a pair, find fun skates online or at a sporting goods store. You'll want a helmet, and if you're a beginner, some elbow and knee pads. This trail is not always in the shade, so be sure to cover up and pile on the sunscreen.
What to Expect
Rollerblading is a great way to shed calories in a fast-paced, fun way. If you are new to the sport, start off slow and stop at the benches and rest stops along the path. If you consider yourself a blading pro, cruise down the trail without having to worry about stopping or running into other pedestrians, since the path is eight feet wide.
The park has several parking spots and observation areas where you can see many different views of the city. The trail connects downtown Venice to Caspersen Beach, with views of both locations, and connects with the Legacy Trail, which begins at the historic Venice Train Depot. Wildlife such as dolphins, manatees, scrub jays and maybe even bobcats can be spotted while on your way. When you've finished rollerblading, stop for a snack or picnic lunch at a park table, or drive down to the beach and cool off with a swim.
