Crowley Museum & Nature Center

Crowley Museum & Nature Center is off I-75 exit 210, 10 mi. e. on Fruitville Rd. (SR 780), then 3 mi. s. to 16405 Myakka Rd. This 190-acre nature preserve includes trails through five habitats, a half-mile-long boardwalk over Maple Branch swamp and an observation tower overlooking the Myakka River. Also on site is a pioneer history area with a museum that includes a homesteader's cabin, sugar cane mill, two-story Cracker house circa 1889 and operating blacksmith shop. Chickens, horses and cracker cows are on the premises. A self-guiding tour, pioneer crafting workshops and demonstrations also are offered.

Time: Allow 3 hours minimum.