We're driving from Sanibel to St. Petersburg on a Saturday at the end of April. We'd like to stop along the way and take a 2-3 mile walk and have lunch. Something along the lines of a nature preserve (for example, we love Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary outside of Naples.) or a park with bike/walking paths. (Although the Ringling estate in Sarasota looks intriguing too). We're traveling with a 3 year old who can handle long walks, but not a strenuous hike. We're also open to traveling all the way to St. Petersburg and doing something when we get there. All recommendations appreciated. Thanks!

One word: Myakka.

Here's what you are looking for:
http://www.floridastateparks.org/mya...er/default.cfm

I like Myakka too. It's abt a 10 min drive east of Sarasota. Also: Marie Selby Gardens right in Sarasota. A tremendous place and a most special place to walk for a couple of hours. I think your 3 yr old might enjoy it even more than Myakka. Spectacular trees and flowers and nice water views. There's a bit of an entrance fee, but imo it's worth it-- trul unusual place.

I agree. Myakka would be a good place to walk and have lunch. Be sure to walk out on the Birdwalk (hopefully there'll be some water) and walk to the weir behind the "outpost", and also the canopy walk.

You might also consider Sunken Gardens in St. Pete. It is an older "attraction" dating way back to 1920s or so, a natural sink that is lush and tropical with a meandering trail. It was recently bought by the city of St. Pete and they joined it to their Hands-On Childrens Museum. Just across the street are some of the nicer chain restaurants -- I think there's a Carrabas and a Bonefish, but not exactly sure.

Another suggestion is Ft. DeSoto but frankly, I think Sunken Gardens would be more relaxing for you. Everything is there, and it is reasonably priced.

I was going to say Corkscrew Swamp if you go near Naples. We love the place, which I deem to be one of the wonderful places in the SE that way too few people know about.