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Biking the Bradenton Area
With miles of trails and dedicated bike lanes, the Bradenton Area is perfect for two-wheeled adventures. From pedaling the preserves to riding along the Riverwalk, biking allows you to see the area as many locals do. Bring your bicycle and helmet (or rent them while you’re here) to explore the many treasures that are found in the Bradenton Area.
Bradenton Riverwalk
Featuring an almost endless array of public art, this 1.5-mile-long city park stretches the shoreline of the historic Manatee River. The pathway consists of pavers and wooden decking, which is perfect for a leisurely cycle along the river. Stops are encouraged along the way—relax in the outdoor living room, snap a selfie at the Open Hearts sculpture, and watch the locally-famous Tropicana trains cross the river on the train bridge. An all-day biking excursion may leave you feeling a bit famished, so take a detour down Old Main Street and dine al fresco at one of the many quaint restaurants or local coffee shops!
Robinson Preserve
With miles of multiuse trails and an endless variety of wildlife, Robinson Preserve is a paradise for pedaling. This 682-acre park is uniquely situated in Northwest Bradenton between the Intercoastal Waterway and the mouth of the Manatee River. The perfect pitstop is the four-story observation tower that sits along a boardwalk within a salt marsh. Scaling the steps rewards you with a breathtaking view of the surrounding waterways and the famous Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Bring your camera, many native birds call this place home—including the pastel-pink Roseate spoonbill.
Anna Maria Island
Enjoy Anna Maria Island as locals do—on a bicycle! You can cruise nearly the entire stretch of this beautiful, seven-mile barrier island. From secluded Bean Point to charming Pine Avenue, and historic Bridge Street to the drawbridge of Longboat Pass, bike lanes are plentiful and perfect to exploring every restaurant, shop, and beach. Cycling allows you to see the subtle changes that many may miss: the change in the beach sand, the shells found along the shoreline, and the unique vegetation. Need another pedaling perk? Biking gives you the unique opportunity to explore secluded beach-access points that have bike racks—but no car parking!
Joan M. Durante Community Park
Just two miles from Longboat Pass, this 32-acre public park sits along the shoreline of Sarasota Bay along the intercoastal waterway. The shady, shell pathways and elevated, wooden boardwalks provide a unique perspective of the diverse ecosystem, especially once you arrive at the dock overlooking the bay. Once overgrown with invasive species and seemingly forgotten, this special piece of property was restored though a public-private partnership to highlight the native flora and fauna. On your way to the park, stop by one of the local delis or restaurants and pick up a picnic to enjoy at the pavilion!