Venice is a popular vacation destination and a wonderful place to live that boasts a friendly, small town atmosphere.

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Wheeler Real Estate of Venice (941) 496-8700

A turn-of-the-century refuge for winter tourists because of the area's wonderful subtropical climate, it now beckons young professionals, families and older adults to its laid-back lifestyle.

The city, situated on Florida's Cultural Coast, has leisure activities that impress visitors and locals alike. Venice is also one of the first planned communities in the country. Its landscaped parks, tree-lined boulevards and historic buildings featuring Italian Renaissance and Coastal Mediterranean-style architecture create its Old World charm.

The city offers a range of housing from modern apartment communities to single-family homes in well-established neighborhoods that are close to schools, shopping and recreational opportunities.

Several buildings, such as the Venice Depot, Triangle Inn and Hotel Venice, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Numerous architectural gems gracing the city's downtown streets house trendy boutiques, quaint sidewalk eateries and one-of-a-kind galleries offering a variety of flavors and styles. After a colorful tropical sunset, patrons relax to melodious sounds emanating from beachside cafes and music venues. You can enjoy live performances by the Venice Symphony and the award-winning community theater company.

The Venice Art Center hosts periodic shows featuring works by local and national artists in a variety of media. Many of these activities are within walking distance or a short-drive of popular neighborhoods.

Owning or renting a home in Venice affords numerous opportunities to benefit from the great outdoors. Residents enjoy swimming, fishing and boating.

A number of offshore wrecks and reefs are popular snorkeling and diving locations because of the abundant variety of sea life they attract. Boardwalks and nature trails enable you to explore the diverse local ecosystem and view wildlife in their natural habitat. Venice is also a prime bird watching location.

In addition to a gazebo hosting free outdoor concerts, Centennial Park is the setting for a farmers market and an arts and crafts fair.

Whatever your skill level, you can play a number of challenging holes at one of the several top-ranked golf courses.

With miles of undeveloped white sandy beach as the backdrop, Venice offers residents the chance to explore coastal habitats. You can also enjoy shopping, dining and a variety of cultural activities.

Residential opportunities include condominiums, townhouses and remodeled historic homes designed to meet almost every lifestyle and budget. Over 80 percent of residents own their own home. The amenities and relaxed lifestyle of this tranquil Florida community make Venice an ideal spot to live, work and play.