Robinson Preserve:
Consisting of more than 682 acres of restored coastal wetland is managed by the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources division. There are numerous ways to explore the preserve, with a 40-foot tall observation tower, a Visitor's Center, 2.5 miles of paved trail, and kayak launches. You can find a growing number of returning wildlife, including wood storks, bald eagles, white pelicans, and least terns.
DeSoto National Memorial Park:
Paying tribute to an early Conquistador, this memorial carries natural destinations and cultural artifacts for visitors to view. There are natural fishing areas and plenty of wildlife to spot including armadillos, turtles, iguanas, bald eagles and ospreys.
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature:
Containing a large number of exhibits that display the history of Florida's gulf coast, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature contains a planetarium and the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat.