Nathan Benderson Park
Description
Nathan Benderson Park, previously known as North Metro Park and Cooper Creek Park, is a 600-acre park in the U.S. state of Florida, owned by Sarasota County. It incorporates a 400-acre artificial lake in northern Sarasota County, directly south of the Manatee County county line, west of Interstate 75.
Ratings
Description
Nathan Benderson Park, previously known as North Metro Park and Cooper Creek Park, is a 600-acre park in the U.S. state of Florida, owned by Sarasota County. It incorporates a 400-acre artificial lake in northern Sarasota County, directly south of the Manatee County county line, west of Interstate 75.
Posts
Very nice scenic and modern area. Great place for a long walk, jog, biking, or to take the kids to the playground. It has a very smooth bike trail along a man made lake complete with bicycle repair stations. Apparently, it also serves as an official professional row boat racing area. It is completely modern, and the playground is very nice for toddlers up to pre-teens. I also believe that fishing is allowed as well. It's just a stone throws away from the University Mall, so it's a great place to stop by after or before a trip to the mall. Highly recommend if you're in the mood for a long g walk, ride, or just some place to take the kids.
It's a beautiful green space to enjoy nature in whatever way you please. Bring your dogs, kids, friends, loved ones - everyone can appreciate a little green in their day to boost their mood. Facilities are spread out along the paved paths. At some points, the paths split so you can go on the less traveled one if it's getting a little crowded. My husband loves to come here to rollerblade. We saw a heron catch a snake and eat it whole, too! Wildlife is all around. You'll see the rowers and swimmers practicing here as well. The parking extends along the paths, so you don't have to park just at the beginning right after you turn off the street.
Really enjoyed walking my dogs here. The scenery is beautiful. There are picnic tables, benches, dog waste stations, bathrooms, a playground and plenty of room to walk, run, bycical, roller skate or to do whatever. You can come out and watch the rowing competition and the Sarasota Circus has a tent next to the park and the UTC mall is right there. You have many food choices if you get hungry. Another great thing is that it's right off of I-75. For me this is great because I drive in from Myakka City. Tge only issue is the gator that lives in the water near the picnic areas. Be aware and safe especially if you have children or pets.
Great place for light to moderate bicycling, jogging, and running. This was our first time visiting Benderson Park and there's quite a few things to do. The scenery is awesome for sunsets and sunrises. The tower was pretty cool to climb all the way to the top. Next, the layout reminds me of Denny's kids menu maze with twists and turns from one start to finish. The playground has plenty of slides and climbing to keep the kids occupied. Parking was good since it's off-season for rowing events. It's definitely a must see while visiting Sarasota with UTC mall right around the corner makes it for a fun filled day.
This park is great for exercise! But, the East side near the highway has no trees and is in full sun. The West side is better and I will typically ride my bike up and down the paved trails on that side. It also has a nice crushed shell trail through the pine trees. However the last time I jogged through there, a few days ago, the smell of the pine trees was obliterated by the stench of dog feces. It might be a good idea to supply poop bags and/or put up a couple signs that people walking their dogs should clean up after them.
Reviewing specifically the kids playground: this place is awesome for the very young set. If you’ve got toddlers that are just walking, this is the place for you. Lots of little things for them to do, rubber flooring, one gate that locks. Older kids will enjoy it, too, but it’s especially great for littles. Only drawback: no shade. Like, none, unless you’re there very early or very late. Benderson can surely afford some shade sails to make this park more useable in the summer and in the heat of the day.
Nearby Attractions Of Nathan Benderson Park
Homewood Suites by Hilton Sarasota Lakewood Ranch
Circus Sarasota
Benderson Family Finish Tower at Nathan Benderson Park
Suncoast Aquatic Nature Center Associates, Inc.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Sarasota Lakewood Ranch

Circus Sarasota

Benderson Family Finish Tower at Nathan Benderson Park

Suncoast Aquatic Nature Center Associates, Inc.
Nearby Restaurants Of Nathan Benderson Park
PopStroke
Foxtail Coffee UTC Sarasota
3Natives

PopStroke

Foxtail Coffee UTC Sarasota

3Natives
Reviews
- Unable to get your location