Nathan Benderson Park

"I walk this park five out of seven days a week. I walk the Cattleman side from the South parking lot to the row tower and back. The shell path is a nice walk which leads to the side walk. I’m hoping they put the shells back as they got kind of crushed during the construction. There are restrooms on each end of the park, which is a bonus. There is also a playground filled with really cool playset accessories for kids to enjoy. There are many events here which offer both residents and seasonal Floridians options. The wildlife viewing is absolutely amazing. I see all kinds of birds turtles, snakes and even alligators, either laying on the shore, or in the water. They won’t bother you if you don’t bother them. The people who walk, run, bike, roller blade and scooter here are super friendly with either a wave or a spoken hello. I recognize some of the same people as I think some of us are creatures of habit and walk the same time daily. I feel comfortable walking here. It’s a great place to start your day or unwind after a long one. I remember when Nathan Benderson Park was just a vision and now it’s world class rowing park. It’s one of the best additions to our fine city!!!"

"Nathan Benderson Park is a fantastic place for both serious athletes and casual visitors. I have experienced the park as a competitor, doing a triathlon here with two of my daughters, and also as a visitor with my wife. In both contexts, the park impressed us. It is all fairly new, very well maintained, and clearly designed for people who enjoy being outdoors. The paved trails are great for walkers, runners, cyclists, and inline skaters, and the open views across the water make every loop enjoyable. The lawns, playground, restrooms, and other facilities are clean and well cared for. As a race venue, it works beautifully, with plenty of space and a real sense of energy. As a park for a quiet walk, birdwatching, or just spending time outside, it is just as enjoyable. We also saw many birds during our visits, including little blue herons, tricolored herons, elegant terns, and ospreys. The combination of water, open space, and wildlife makes the park much more interesting than a standard recreation area. One unusual touch is the music played through outdoor speakers along the paths. It gives parts of the park a lively atmosphere, though people looking for complete quiet may prefer the less busy areas. Overall, Nathan Benderson Park has something for almost every outdoor enthusiast: walkers, runners, cyclists, skaters, rowers, birders, and families with young children. It is one of Sarasota’s best public spaces, and we always enjoy coming back."

"Wow. That's all I can say to describe this venue. Wow. I began my rowing career in 2012, and I grew up alongside the incredible facility at Nathan Benderson Park. My first year racing there, the park was a sand lot, baking in the scorching sun, with stakeboats holding the sterns at the start. Through the years, I've grown with the facility, and I am delighted to say that this is now a world-class rowing venue. I have no notes. Through countless visits rowing and coaching, I am happy to say that no matter how many times I travel to NBP, I am ALWAYS excited to go, and absolutely buzzing to bring others with me. This is my favorite location to show members new to the sport what the best-of-the-best looks like, and I am so grateful to have experienced this park grow through the years!"