Photo courtesy of Bradenton Gulf Islands
We think you will fall in love with this area!
Welcome to Bradenton, Florida—your home away from home! Whether you're here for a relaxing retreat or an action-packed adventure, this charming coastal city has something for everyone. From stunning beaches and scenic nature trails to delicious dining and family-friendly attractions, you're in for an unforgettable stay.
Nestled along the Gulf Coast, Bradenton boasts a vibrant mix of arts, history, and outdoor fun. Stroll through the famous Riverwalk, catch a breathtaking sunset at the area beaches, or explore the iconic Village of the Arts, where creativity comes to life. If you love wildlife, don't miss a visit to Robinson Preserve, where you can kayak through mangroves and spot local birds. And of course, fresh seafood and waterfront dining are a must—you're in prime territory for savoring the local flavors.
Whether you're here to unwind, explore, or make memories with loved ones, I hope this guide helps you discover the best Bradenton has to offer. Enjoy your stay, and feel free to reach out if you need any additional recommendations!
Here's a quick breakdown of the best things to do while you are in the area (at least, according to our experience, of course).
First things first: Anna Maria Island is open and welcomes visitors as many restaurants, shops, and fun things to do are awaiting your family!
Anna Maria Island (AMI) is a barrier island that spans 7 miles in length and is home to three cities: Bradenton Beach to the south (as you cross the bay on Cortez Rd), Holmes Beach in the center (as you cross the bay on Manatee Ave), and Anna Maria on the north end.
Let’s Flamingle is centrally located, equidistant to both Bradenton Beach to the south and Holmes Beach to the north—each 7.2 miles from door-to-island and less than 15 minutes drive time.
AMI is known for its broad beaches, like Manatee Beach Park. In the small resort city of Anna Maria, Pine Avenue is lined with shops, galleries and eateries. Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum features a restored 1920 cottage.
Anna Maria Island is an ecologically diverse barrier island and an important habitat for an amazing array of wildlife. The island is considered a bird sanctuary and draws bird enthusiasts from all over the world.
Get around the island on the FREE Anna Maria Island trolley - hop on and off as often as you like!
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Service starts at 6am from both ends of the loop. Trolleys typically run at 20 minute intervals until 9pm, then every 30 minutes until 10:30pm (times may vary due to unforeseen incidents, traffic conditions or weather).
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Courtesy of Google Maps
1704 99th St NW
Robinson Preserve is a scenic coastal preserve that spans over 600 acres, offering visitors a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Located in Northwest Bradenton, it features a diverse ecosystem of mangroves, salt marshes, tidal creeks, and coastal wetlands, which provide a habitat for a wide array of wildlife, including birds, fish, and native plants.
“Great hiking and biking trails. Nature abounds with birds, fish, and other wildlife. Free admission and bathroom facilities near parking on north entrance. Some trails flood at high tide. Well worth a visit if you are in the area.”
Photo courtesy of Manatee County
Barcarrota Blvd/Waterfront Dr/Riverside Dr
The Bradenton Riverwalk is a 2.03-mile stretch of land lying between the Green and DeSoto bridges along the banks of the Manatee River.
Get ready for an outdoor adventure packed with fun! Stroll along a safe, glowing path that hugs the river, where you can pause to fish, spike a volleyball, or show off your best skateboard tricks. Exciting entertainment and engaging educational activities keep things lively, while a cozy "outdoor living room" with shaded lounge chairs offers the perfect spot to kick back and soak in the view. Kids can dive into playtime at the splash pad and playground, while adults power up at the outdoor fitness zone. Whether you're here to relax or rev up the action, the Riverwalk has something for everyone!
Several great restaurants in and around the Riverwalk area, including our favorite, Oak & Stone, with an 8th floor rooftop bar, patio, lounge, and standing room only view—a great place to take in the FL sunset!
Photo courtesy of Realize Bradenton
LECOM Park, 1611 9th Street West
An 8,500-seat ballpark for home to the Class-A Advanced affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. spring training offers viewing areas & amenities plus limited parking.
This is a family friendly experience in a classic stadium, great place to watch a game - tickets are inexpensive, parking is cheap ($5, in advance), and short walk into the stadium.
LECOM Park is also the Spring Training home to the Pittsburgh Pirates in the Grapefruit League. Catch some fun MLB action in mid-February to late March each year.
Photo courtesy of the Bradenton Marauders
5502 33rd Avenue Drive West
The heart of recreation and leisure in Manatee County! Spanning 140 acres, this park is packed with endless opportunities for fun, fitness, and relaxation. Whether you’re here to exercise, play, or simply unwind, there’s something for everyone.
At the center of it all is the Recreation Center, your gateway to even more activities and open to all with a daily fee or membership. Take a stroll along the scenic trails and explore the park’s many amenities to find what excites you most. From sports to serenity, G.T. Bray Park has it all. Come see for yourself!
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Facilities include a fitness center, group exercise classes, an Olympic-sized pool, kiddie pool and splash pad, teen center, clay tennis courts, pickleball, and a gym to play basketball and volleyball.
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Photo courtesy of Manatee County
Bradenton and its surrounding areas serve up a delicious mix of fresh Gulf seafood, classic Southern comfort food, vibrant international flavors, and scenic waterfront dining, making it a paradise for food lovers of all tastes!
This list isn’t exhaustive, but just contains a handful of our favorites for each meal and in different areas around the region.
