Answer: It's great to hear you're planning on returning to the area for the Braves Spring Training! Downtown Venice, like many parts of Southwest Florida, was impacted by Hurricane Ian, but the area has been working hard to recover. While some businesses and accommodations may have taken time to rebuild, most of the downtown Venice area is open and has made significant progress since last year.

Answer: Venice is a wonderful place to spend Thanksgiving, and many local restaurants—especially along Venice Avenue or just a short drive away—offer traditional Thanksgiving meals each year. While menus can vary slightly from year to year, several well-known spots reliably serve turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and classic holiday desserts.

Answer: Venice, Florida offers some wonderful options for a special Valentine's Day celebration, especially if you want to treat your aunt to a memorable night of great food and experiences. Given your description, a mix of fine dining and a unique activity would be ideal.

Answer: The area around 7th and Vernon in Venice Beach is generally considered to be a safe neighborhood for walking and biking, especially during the day. Venice Beach, in general, is a popular tourist area with many visitors, so you’ll find a variety of people around, including families, locals, and tourists. However, like any place, safety can vary depending on the time of day, so it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings.

Answer: Caspersen Beach in Venice is known for its natural, unspoiled coastline and is a favorite for shelling, walking, and enjoying a quieter beach experience compared to some of the more developed Gulf Coast beaches. Access can be straightforward, but parking availability can vary depending on the season.

Answer: Venice, Florida, and the surrounding Southwest Gulf Coast towns offer a variety of early dining deals and happy hours, especially in April when the season is still popular with snowbirds and tourists. Many restaurants provide discounted appetizers, drinks, or prix-fixe menus before typical dinner hours.