Horse Owner's Dream Rental

A Horse‑Owner’s Dream Rental — Space, Privacy & Everything You Need for Happy, Healthy Horses

Welcome to 3717 Downer Ave, a rare Sarasota rental that truly caters to equestrians. Set on more than 5 peaceful acres in the Old Myakka area, this property offers the ideal environment for those who want their horses close to home without sacrificing comfort, convenience, or quality of life.

With wide‑open pasture space, room for turnout, and a barn already in place, the property is perfectly suited for horse owners looking for a functional and serene setup. There’s plenty of land for riding, grazing, training, or creating your own personalized equine layout. The quiet surroundings, mature trees, and natural landscape make it an excellent environment for horses to relax and thrive.

The property also features a spacious 90‑by‑110 riding arena, offering ample room for schooling, training, and exercising horses across a variety of disciplines. Its generous proportions make it ideal for flatwork, pattern riding, jumping grids, and lunging, while still providing plenty of space for young horses or conditioning sessions. Whether you're working on foundational skills or advanced maneuvers, the arena delivers a reliable, convenient environment that supports consistent, safe training right at home.


The residence itself provides spacious living areas and a warm, inviting atmosphere—just steps away from your horses. Enjoy the convenience of caring for your animals from home while still being within a reasonable drive of Sarasota’s amenities, feed stores, trails, and coastal attractions.

Whether you’re a recreational rider, a competitor, or simply someone who wants their horses right where they belong—at home—this property delivers the space, functionality, and tranquility equestrians rarely find in a rental.

Adding to its appeal, the property is located near a shared easement that leads directly toward the boundary of Myakka River State Park. This offers riders a rare opportunity for scenic trail access, peaceful nature rides, and miles of open terrain without needing to load up a trailer. For renters who dream of stepping outside their home and riding straight into one of Florida’s most beautiful natural areas, this location simply can’t be beat.

Area Information

Old Myakka: A Rural Equestrian Haven Just Outside Sarasota
Old Myakka is one of Sarasota’s last true country enclaves—an area where wide‑open land, quiet roads, and a relaxed rural pace create the perfect environment for horse owners. Known for its spacious homesteads and strong agricultural heritage, Old Myakka offers the freedom and privacy equestrians crave while still being within a reasonable drive of Sarasota’s beaches, dining, and shopping.
The landscape here is ideal for horses: gently rolling pastureland, mature oaks that offer natural shade, and plenty of room for barns, arenas, and turnout. Many properties sit on multiple acres, giving horse owners the flexibility to create their own customized setup, whether that means training space, grazing paddocks, or simple pleasure riding areas. The low‑traffic atmosphere and long, quiet roads make for peaceful neighborhood rides right from your own gate.
Adding to its appeal, the area sits close to the expansive Myakka River State Park—one of Florida’s premier natural preserves—where equestrians can enjoy miles of scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and beautiful open terrain. For those seeking a balance of rural charm, natural beauty, and true equestrian freedom, Old Myakka stands out as a rare and highly desirable corner of Sarasota.

Favorite Places To Eat

Lila – Fresh, Organic, Vegan‑Friendly Cuisine
A stylish downtown spot serving fresh, vegetable‑forward dishes, artisanal grains, and globally inspired entrées. Perfect for anyone who enjoys clean, modern, health‑conscious cooking.

Duval’s Fresh. Local. Seafood. – Modern Seafood with Local Sourcing
A popular Sarasota favorite featuring Gulf‑caught fish, seasonal specials, and elevated versions of classic seafood dishes. Known for fresh ingredients and polished presentation.

Owen’s Fish Camp – Southern Coastal Seafood
A beloved downtown hangout serving Southern‑style fish dishes, oysters, fried green tomatoes, and low‑country comfort food. Casual, charming, and always lively.

Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana – Authentic Neapolitan Pizza
Wood‑fired pizza, handmade pasta, and classic Italian comfort dishes served in a warm, rustic setting. A go‑to for traditional Italian flavors.

Bars & Nightlife Near Old Myakka (Sarasota Area)
The Gator Club – Historic Downtown Bar
A classic Sarasota nightlife spot offering craft cocktails, live music, and an old‑school bar atmosphere. Great for a lively night out with dancing.

Brewster’s – Gastropub with Comfort Food
A casual bar‑restaurant serving elevated pub food—burgers, wings, tacos—and a full bar with beer, cocktails, and late‑night hours.

Bar Hana – Tiki‑Inspired Cocktails & Pan‑Asian Bites
A tropical‑themed bar offering creative cocktails and shareable small plates like bao buns, noodles, and ceviche—both stylish and fun.

99 Bottles – Craft Beer Bar & Wine Lounge
A cozy, upscale beer bar known for specialty craft brews, artisanal share plates, and a strong wine selection. Trendy, laid‑back vibe.

Inside Scoop

1. Old Miakka Isn’t Just Rural—It’s a Tight‑Knitted, Generational Community
Locals will tell you Old Myakka is not like the rest of Sarasota. While Sarasota grows rapidly, this pocket fiercely protects its old‑Florida charm. Many families have lived here for generations, and neighbors are quick to help each other—whether it’s looking for lost livestock or alerting others about gate deliveries. Community members regularly share updates about missing packages, stray cows, neighborhood gatherings, and barn‑to‑barn help.

2. Dirt‑and‑Shell Roads Have a Sound Locals Recognize Instantly
Longtime residents talk about how Sunday drives in Old Myakka have a special crackling sound—the noise of tires rolling over roads made of crushed shell and dirt. It’s a classic, nostalgic detail that marks the transition from “Sarasota traffic” to “true country quiet.”

3. There Are Zero Gas Stations or Restaurants—By Design
One of Old Myakka’s best‑kept truths: there’s nothing commercial in the immediate area. No gas stations. No chains. No strip malls. Locals love this and often display “Keep the County Country” signs to make their stance clear against developers. Visitors are always surprised to find that the quiet is intentional—and fiercely loved.

4. Locals Have Direct Access to Horse Trails Most Outsiders Don’t Know About
Because the area is deeply horse‑oriented, residents know how to access the “hidden” horseback trails that connect farms and acreage properties to Myakka River State Park. Many longtime residents literally tack up at home and ride for miles without ever needing a trailer. This is something only those who live in the area truly understand the value of.

5. The Homesteading & Farm Swap Is a Neighborhood Staple
While tourists flock to Sarasota’s farmers markets, Old Myakka locals gather monthly for a low‑key, homesteading‑focused farm swap hosted at the Old Myakka United Methodist Church. People sell, trade, or share things they grow, make, or build—everything from eggs and honey to handmade goods. No vendor fees, no hype—just community.

6. Wildlife Sightings Are a Daily Occurrence—Not a Novelty
Locals know exactly which stretches of road are most likely to have loose cows, deer crossings, or even the occasional bobcat. It’s such a part of life that neighbors often post real‑time updates. Outsiders might see it as “wildlife,” but locals see it as just another Tuesday.

7. The Old Myakka Schoolhouse and Church Are the Real Social Hubs
Most community events—potlucks, meetings, gatherings—happen at the historic Old Myakka Schoolhouse and the Old Myakka United Methodist Church. These places serve as the unofficial community centers and are packed with more local stories and history than any guidebook could offer.