TOTALLY OT! Places not to miss?

Hi Gang! I KNOW this is totally off topic however, I am curious to see the responses! On Wednesday my family and I are heading out to your beautiful state. We plan on spending a few days in St. Augustine, as we just love that area. In the past we have always spent our entire vacation in St. Augustine, however this year after a few days there we are heading over to the Venice Beach area. This is our first time ever on the gulf side, and I have heard it is gorgeous. My question to you all is this. What is in that area that are "can't misses"? Any tips, or ideas you guys have would be appreciated! We take my parents with us each year, so anything you guys can share would be great! We learned LONG ago to ask what the locals like to do, where are the best places to eat etc. I truly appreciate any info!

OHHHHH!  Thanks for coming to FL!  The Venice Beach area is beautiful- you will NOT be disappointed!  If you are heading this way you should not miss St. Petersburg!  We are not far off of 275 (take 75 South, to I-4 West to 275 South). There is a lot to do- from the beaches, to cultural sites/museums, and stuff to do for kids- we have it all! I am a bit biased though-  I am the Marketing Coordinator at The Pier www.stpetepier.com check us out for anything local.   The 2005 #1 Best Beach Nationwide is Fort De Soto- worth a see if you have time.  If you go this way, you can take 275 South through St. Pete, then over the Skyway Bridge (#3 highest bridge in the WORLD!!!! Yikes!!!).   Once over the massive bridge,   you will be headed through Sarasota- check out St. Armands Square (a lot of beautiful high-end boutiques, guaranteed to make you drool!).  Beaches along Sarastota are pretty too. If you want more info-PM me!  I'd love to help out! Have a blast and remember to wear your sunscreen...

Thank you so much! We were due to leave out yesterday however, due to a medical emergency concerning my hubbys mother, we were delayed until this morning!  I am checking out the link you sent as we speak! I would love to check out that bridge :-) Thanks again!