Crowley Museum and Nature Center
Sarasota, FL 34240
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941-322-1000
Admission Fee
Adults (over 12): $7 Youth (5-12): $3 Children (under 5): free Members: free
Hours
Jan-Apr 10 AM-4 PM Thurs-Sun; May-Sept 10 AM-4 PM Sat & Sun; Oct-Dec 10 AM-4 PM Thurs-Sun
Optimal time to visit
Year round is great, but November to May is ideal
What's Nearby
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Amenities
Nature trails, boardwalk, observation tower, picnic tables, covered and screened pavilion, historic pioneer buildings and museum, educational programs, guided tours, self-guide pamphlets, ADA compliant facilities, rental facilities, gift shop, snacks, parking, restrooms
Closed: New Year's Day, Fourth of July, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day
Experiences
Instilled with Jasper Crowley’s passion for preserving the history and environment of rural southwest Florida, the organization and its 190 acre preserve have hosted families for 35 years. A three mile nature trail winds through five unique habitats. Wander through high and dry pine flatwoods, a shady oak hammock and over the maple branch swamp. The trail leads you out to the edge of the expansive tatum sawgrass marsh along the Myakka River and ends at the pioneer history area. The long boardwalk and observation tower are ideal for viewing native plants and wildlife, such as bald eagles and migratory birds. The trail’s easy and pleasant walking conditions are suitable for people of all ages and abilities; closed toe shoes are recommended. Visitors can pick-up a self-guide booklet for the trail to learn about the native flora and fauna found here.
The pioneer area includes a pioneer history museum, pioneer cabin, blacksmith shop, working sugar cane mill, the restored Tatum House (one of the oldest examples of rural architecture in Sarasota County restored to its 1892 appearance), and the one room Tatum Ridge Schoolhouse (dating to approximately1906).
History
The Crowley Museum and Nature Center is uniquely positioned as an education center. Founders, William Jasper Crowley and Edina Truchot, incorporated the Nature Center and Pioneer Museum in 1974. Successions of dedicated community volunteers and financial support have emphasized education, enjoyment and stewardship.
Habitats
Pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, marshes, swamps and riverine system
Acreage
190 acres
Watershed
Myakka River
Who Owns and Maintains
CMNC is a private not for profit 501(c)(3) supported by memberships, admissions, donations and educational programs. Some fundraising events are held on-site, with specific projects being funded through grants and volunteer efforts.
Website
SCAT Bus stop and route
None
