1. The Bradenton Riverwalk

Spanning 1.5 miles along the sparkling Manatee River, the Bradenton Riverwalk is a great way to spend your sunny Florida afternoon. Grab a sweet treat at Corwin’s Ice Cream and Smoothies and hang out on one of the outdoor living rooms, or bring the family and enjoy the splashpad and playground. The best part is you can enjoy the Riverwalk while jamming out because the annual Bradenton Blues Fest takes place at the Event Pavilion!

2. Beaches

“Old Florida” still thrives on the Bradenton Area’s 16 miles of sugar white beaches, with options for those looking to snorkel, shell, play beach volleyball or enjoy some seclusion. Even better, Coquina Beach on Anna Maria Island was recently named one of the world’s top island beaches for perfect sand by Conde Nast Traveler readers.

3. Waterfront Dining

From rivers and lakes to bays and the Gulf of Mexico, there’s always a gorgeous body of water to sit by (or jump in) in the Bradenton Area. And the best part is our waterfront dining. Spend your vacation with your toes in the sand and dining on fresh seafood by the turquoise waters of the Gulf on Anna Maria Island, or having a first class steak at the riverside dining establishments in historic downtown Bradenton. 

4. The South Florida Museum

Boasting a natural history museum, a state-of-the-art planetarium, and a second stage rehabilitation aquarium for injured manatees, the South Florida Museum is a gem not to be missed. With all it has to offer – from learning about some of the oldest history known about Florida to watching the gentle giants of the sea do barrel rolls in their temporary home – it’s easy to spend hours in this small but mighty museum.

5. Robinson Preserve

Tucked into the corner of northwest Bradenton, Robinson Preserve includes 487 acres of coastal saltern, marsh, and mangrove habitat combined with a hiking/biking trail and endless kayaking opportunities. These systems attract a variety of rare wildlife, presenting careful observers with an opportunity to see roseate spoonbills, wood storks, white pelicans, bald eagles, and least terns in their natural environment.

6. Breweries

Bradenton is a city dedicated to living local, and that extends to its beer. Craft breweries like Darwin Brewing Company, Motorworks Brewing, Naughty Monk Brewery and 3 Keys Brewing and Eatery use local flavors to make some tasty, award-winning brews that are best enjoyed while relaxing under the warm Florida sun.

7. Eco Kayak Tours

Take a tour through the Bradenton Area’s clear blue waters and into its intricate mangrove system. Their tour leaders are experts on the area’s ecosystem and will tell you all about its native species. And perhaps the most exciting part is that you’ll get to see some of that wildlife! Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, manatees, splashing mullet, or even sea turtles.

8. Unforgettable Sunsets

There are plenty of things the Bradenton Area is known for, but perhaps the most impressive are its sunsets. No two sunsets are ever alike – the colors can range from hues of orange and yellow to purple and sky blue, often over the course of just a few minutes. There are plenty of places to watch the sun drop, whether it be sitting on the powder-soft sand of Anna Maria Island or dining riverside in downtown Bradenton. But regardless of where you choose to watch it, a Florida west coast sunset is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Bradenton Blues Festival tickets are on sale now. Get your tickets today!

Start planning your Bradenton Area vacation now!