Water Ferry
Newsletter
Travel Guide
Sustainability
Oct 18th – Oct 18th
Embrace the charms of
The Bradenton Area
Welcome to the Bradenton, Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key Area, where you can experience everything that Real. Authentic. Florida™ has to offer! Indulge in the natural beauty, local charm, and laid-back vibes of Florida’s West Coast. With white sand beaches and natural parks, delectable delights, and culture, there’s no shortage of things to do in the Bradenton Area.
Looking for a mix of relaxation, outdoor adventure, and vibrant culture? The Bradenton Area offers a wide range of activities for every type of traveler. Explore pristine beaches, immerse yourself in arts and culture, enjoy outdoor activities and nature, or shop for unique treasures at local shops.
Check out the map below to see where these key attractions and experiences are located, and start planning your adventure!
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Pine Avenue
Discover Anna Maria Island’s green and eco-friendly Main Street with a huge serving of superb shopping, delicious dining, and Florida Charm.
Bridge Street Ferry Stop
Immerse yourself in the Bradenton Area’s lively and historic hotspot, from shopping to delicious dining options.
Lakewood Ranch
Experience upscale fine dining and shopping at one of Bradenton Area’s main streets, Lakewood Ranch.
Lake Manatee State Park
Fun awaits in this 584-acre state park, with recreation, camping, and fishing areas for unrivaled family fun.
Anna Maria Island
With cozy streets, low-rise coasts, and sugar-white sands, Anna Maria Island’s beaches offer Real. Authentic. Florida on the Gulf Coast.
Longboat Key
World-renowned beaches, international cuisine, and upscale resorts are waiting for you at Longboat Key.
Robinson Preserve
With over 670 acres of diverse habitats, from mangroves to grasslands, this natural preserve is the perfect way to see the Bradenton Area’s flora and fauna.
Cortez
Immerse yourself in the Bradenton Area’s commercial fishing legacy at one of the oldest operational fishing villages and a seafood lover’s paradise!
DeSoto National Memorial
This national park not only showcases the natural beauty of the Manatee River, it’s where history comes to life, with artifacts of the American Indians and Spanish explorers.
Bishop Museum
Learning is always fun at this natural science and history museum, with rotating exhibitions and beloved mainstays like the Planetarium and Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat.
Bradenton Riverwalk
There are so many things to do at Downtown Bradenton’s Riverwalk—you can start with an art walk to admire public art installations.
Anna Maria City Pier
It’s even easier to get around the Bradenton Area with the Gulf Islands Ferry, with stops in Downtown Bradenton and Anna Maria Island. Ditch the car and catch the ferry!
Gulf Islands Ferry
It’s even easier to get around the Bradenton Area with the Gulf Islands Ferry, with stops in Downtown Bradenton and Anna Maria Island on the Historic Bridge St. Pier.
Herrig Center
Explore the Bradenton Area’s vibrant art scene with diverse exhibits and art lessons. You can also find unique gifts and memories to take home!
Manatee Performing Arts
The Arts scene in the Bradenton Area is one of the aspects that make it the perfect place to visit. Explore our museum, performing arts center, and more!
Village of the Arts
Experience the unique and eclectic vibe of the Village of the Arts, a live-work community where artists come together to thrive.
How to get here
Need help on how to get to the Bradenton Area? Learn more about local airports, nonstop flights, and how you can get around once you’re here!
Beaches
From pristine natural reserves to family-friendly coasts, the Bradenton Area’s beaches offer gentle surf, sugar-white quartz sand, and a beach getaway like no other! If you’re seeking tranquility, the tucked away locales like Anna Maria Beach and Bean Point are perfect for you. Or, if you prefer amenity-filled options, Manatee Beach and Coquina Beach await, promising a serene beach experience.
Dining
Waterfront eats are better down in the Bradenton Area because there’s no shortage of places to dine. From fine dining to casual digs, there’s something for every palate. You can get fresh-as-can-get seafood from our local faves or try your hand at some of our unique culinary experiences—whichever you choose, we know you’re in for an exceptional meal and even more exceptional time.
Places To Stay
Whatever your perfect slice of beach bliss looks like, you can find it in the Bradenton Area. Looking for a beachfront resort, family-friendly hotel, or vacation rentals? We have plenty of places to stay and accommodations to suit every preference. From options for couples on romantic getaways to family trips and solo adventures—there’s a spot with your name on it!
Signature Events and Festivals
in the Bradenton Area
There’s never a dull moment in the Bradenton Area, with plenty of events for everyone’s version of fun. From incredible music acts to delectable food festivals, you’ll find something that matches your energy and interests. Enjoy signature Bradenton Area events like the Cortez Annual Stone Crab & Music Festival and Pirates Spring Training, among the many things to do. Get inspired with what to do in the Bradenton Area.
The Bradenton Area is full of unique stories to tell — and incredible storytellers! Learn more about these unique people, places, and stories through Local Color. This series helps us highlight the people, places, and stories that make the Bradenton area an incredible place to be. From unique galleries and historic landmarks to creative local businesses, explore how Local Color brings us to life!
Local Color: Ginny’s and Jane E’s
Local Color: Arte Coyoacano Gallery
Local Color: Sea-renity Found on the Shore
Local Color: The Bishop Museum of Science + Nature
Local Color: Celebrating Cortez’s Iconic A.P. Bell Fish Co.
Get Inspired
If you’re inspired and ready to plan your trip, we’re here to get you started! Check out our Destination Guide to help make your trip-planning easy and stress-free, and sign up for our monthly newsletter for all of the latest and greatest things happening in the Bradenton Area.
An amazing trip full of fun, relaxation, and memories is waiting for you!
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