The Bradenton Area is home to many well-known beaches, but we’ve also got more than a few hidden gems just minutes from Anna Maria Island. These less-visited spots offer something for everyone: exotic gardens, a railroad museum, a tranquil Old Florida fish camp, a colorful village devoted to the arts, and more!  Next time you take a trip to our beaches, be sure to check out some of these fun treasures that many locals may not even know about! 

Palma Sola Botanical Park

Located in “Old Palma Sola,” the 10-acre Palma Sola Botanical Park is home to lush gardens, abundant wildlife, and three pristine lakes. Maintained by a nonprofit, this Palma Sola Park is the perfect environment to appreciate the balance of landscaping and nature. You’ll find a wide collection of rare palms, fruits, flowering trees, and other subtropical plants. Since this location is notably warm and frost-free, it is also host to the Manatee Rare Fruit Council which maintains an exotic fruit tree section you can explore on a shell path weaving between the plantings. Explore this verdant park for free every day, from 8 a.m. to sunset. Since this park is a popular place for private weddings, check their calendar before planning your trip!

Florida Railroad Museum

One of the few places where you can ride the exhibits, the Florida Railroad Museum is one of the best places to experience Florida’s railroad history. Over the years, the museum has acquired and restored railroad cars, rolling stock, locomotives and other equipment from the 1940s and 1950s. With a six-mile line between Parrish and Willow, passengers can experience the first track built in Manatee County, dating back to the turn of the century! These air-conditioned and open-air cars transport passengers to a time when the railroad was the primary means of travel through undeveloped Florida. The ticket office and gift shop are located in a refurbished rail car. The train operates nearly every weekend. If you’re in the Bradenton Area around the holidays, be sure to book an excursion on the “North Pole Express” to visit Santa Claus!

Manatee Village Historical Park

Founded on January 9, 1855, Manatee County has a rich history that stretches many generations, and Manatee Village is the best place to experience the county’s founding period. The outdoor museum features a huge collection from the county’s pioneer past, including the courthouse, a one-room schoolhouse, general store, boat shop, and more. These historical and replica buildings are idyllically located in the cool shade of hundred-year-old oak trees. But history isn’t static here; you’ll find reenactments, docent-guided tours, and seasonal events, all of which bring history to life. Admission is free, so stop by 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month

Jiggs Landing

Founded by Al (Jiggs) and Agnes Metcalf, this seven-acre property is home to Jiggs Landing, a fish camp that has served residents and visitors since 1944. Located atop a lush peninsula on Evers Reservoir, the camp offers picnic areas, freshwater fishing, and kayaking opportunities on the Braden River. Because of the Old Florida ambiance, the outpost has a knack for attracting boaters, anglers, and sight-seers alike. You’ll find a concession stand that also serves as a rental depot, allowing you the chance to grab a tasty snack, rent a boat, kayak, or fishing tackle. Since you’ll fall in love with the laid-back atmosphere, be sure to book one of the several air-conditioned cabins for a night or two to unplug from the world around you.

Village of the Arts

The Village of the Arts is a thriving arts district located within walking distance of Old Main Street in downtown Bradenton. This eclectic, live-work community is home to many galleries, studios, restaurants and specialty shops, all of which are housed in vibrant, century-old cottages. The colorful neighborhood features a special commercial overlay, which enables a rare live-work community full of artists of all stripes. While many restaurants and shops have their own hours of operation, the village springs to life during ArtWalk, every first Friday night and Saturday afternoon of each month. You’ll be greeted with live music, incredible food and unique art opportunities spanning every medium. Whether you’re a foodie, a music lover or yoga practitioner, you’ll easily find something that appeals to everyone.