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Hip and Historic Stays in Bradenton and Beyond
Mainland stays for everyone
If you love a beach vacation but crave a little city excitement too, consider booking a place in Bradenton and staying at the center of it all. There’s entertainment for all ages, a vibrant local arts scene, memorable dining experiences – plus, the beaches of Anna Maria Island are just a short ferry ride away! Lodging on the mainland ranges from modern hotels to historic inns, which means families, couples, and groups can all find their perfect stay here. Places also boast a variety of amenities, like stunning riverfront views, indulgent spa treatments, coveted golf club access, and more. So, are you ready to find your perfect stay?
Retreats on the river
Breathtaking waterfront views and spectacular sunsets are not limited to the islands. Downtown Bradenton runs along the scenic Manatee River, which is the perfect place to watch the boats going in and out of the marina, spot local wildlife, and get lost in the colorful evening sky.
And experiencing all this from your own hotel makes it even better, as guests of SpringHill Suites Bradenton Downtown/Riverfront will attest. The lodging’s prime location on the river offers a variety of suites with waterfront views, as well as a rooftop pool and restaurant for the ultimate vantage point.
Connected to the Bradenton Area Convention Center, the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa is a destination in itself. Guests can unwind with indulgent treatments at the full-service spa, soak up the sun at two resort-style pools, or enjoy sweeping river views from the Oyster River Rooftop fine dining experience. With exclusive access to the private Beach Club at Rivera Dunes, exceptional on-site dining, and spacious rooms designed for comfort, this resort blends laid-back luxury with elevated amenities just minutes from downtown Bradenton.
The Courtyard by Marriott Bradenton Riverfront hotel also overlooks the Manatee River – with prime access to the Bradenton Riverwalk, an ADA-accessible walking path along the river that features public art, beach volleyball courts, and plenty of places to stop and take in the natural beauty. Want to head to the beach? Just follow the Riverwalk to the pier, where you can take a hassle-free ferry ride to Anna Maria Island.
Stays With a Story
Full of rich history, many local spots have mastered the art of combining their authentic charm with present-day luxuries. Across from downtown Bradenton on the north riverbank, the Palmetto Riverside Bed and Breakfast is a great example of this. The two-story Colonial Revival guesthouse was a Sears, Roebuck & Co. catalog home, delivered by barge back in the 20th century. Today’s innkeepers, a husband and wife team from Belgium, have restored every inch of the home, preserving period details while upgrading necessities – like the professional-grade kitchen used to prepare its signature gourmet European breakfast!
Another historic favorite, restored within the last decade or so, the Hampton Inn & Suites Bradenton Downtown Historic District transports visitors back to the opulence of the roaring twenties, when it reportedly hosted its share of famous guests, from actors to mobsters. Aside from its grandeur, it’s also quite convenient – within walking distance to endless options for entertainment, including LECOM Park, The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, Manatee Performing Arts Center, Village of the Arts, historic Main Street, and the Bradenton Riverwalk.
Top Picks for the TEAM
Here on business? Attending your kid’s sports tournament? There’s no reason your visit can’t double as a vacation! Several Bradenton hotels feature upscale amenities on-site and are close to area hot spots for even more attractions.
For those traveling with an athlete or just passionate about leading an active lifestyle, the Legacy Hotel at IMG Academy is always a winner. Designed to provide the restoration and rejuvenation needed to perform at one’s best, guests will appreciate the luxurious hotel rooms, nutritious meal options, 24-hour fitness center powered by Technogym, and even access to the IMG Academy Golf Club. Need to unplug and unwind after the event? You don’t have to go far to escape to Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key!
Looking for more accommodations, including nearby campgrounds or RV sites? Explore all places to stay in the Bradenton Area.
Arts & Culture
Come, savor the extraordinary, and indulge in the irresistible allure of the Bradenton Area!
Eat & Drink
From fresh Gulf catches and Floribbean flavors to locally sourced seafood, the Bradenton Area serves up an extraordinary coastal dining experience.