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The Best Picnic Spots in the Bradenton Area
From beaches to preserves, these are the prettiest places to throw down a blanket and stay a while.
Embracing the great outdoors is a cherished part of the Florida lifestyle, and what better way to do so than by enjoying a picnic? The Bradenton Area offers a variety of picturesque locations perfect for dining al fresco. Whether you prefer serene nature preserves, scenic beaches, or vibrant parks, there’s a spot for everyone. Pack your picnic basket, and let’s explore some of the best picnic spots our destination has to offer.
Parks & Nature Preserves
Experience Florida’s natural beauty in these tranquil settings:
Emerson Point Preserve
Located on Snead Island, this preserve offers expansive views of Terra Ceia Bay and the Manatee River. With numerous picnic areas, hiking trails, and observation towers, it’s an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.
G.T. Bray Park
As one of the largest parks in the area, G.T. Bray Park boasts a variety of recreational activities, including baseball fields, pickleball courts, playgrounds, and picnic tables. It’s a great spot for families looking to combine sports and leisure.
Palma Sola Botanical Park
Nestled in northwest Bradenton’s “Old Palma Sola” neighborhood, this 10-acre park features unique flora, a butterfly garden, and a children’s maze. With no entrance fee, it’s a delightful spot for a picnic amidst beautiful gardens.
Neal Preserve
Situated near the north bridge to Anna Maria Island, Neal Preserve encompasses 120 acres of coastal habitats and oak hammock uplands. The preserve features a half-mile shell and boardwalk trail, an observation tower with views of Anna Maria Island, and reconstructed Native American burial mounds. Please note, pets and bicycles are not permitted to protect the sensitive habitat.
Lake Manatee State Park
Extending along the south shore of Lake Manatee, this park offers a large picnic area nestled under oaks near the lake. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and a variety of water-related activities. A picnic pavilion is available for reservation.
Florida State Parks
Beaches
Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea breeze at these island picnic spots:
Bean Point Beach
Located at the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, Bean Point offers a secluded beach experience with panoramic views of Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Its serene atmosphere makes it perfect for a peaceful picnic by the water.
Anna Maria Bayfront Park
This family-friendly park on the northern end of Anna Maria Island provides stunning vistas of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and Tampa Bay. Amenities include picnic tables, grills, a playground, and calm waters suitable for children.
Longboat Pass
Overlooking emerald waters, Longboat Pass at Coquina Beach is a picture-perfect picnic spot on Anna Maria Island’s southern end. Watch the drawbridge in action, soak in the sweeping seascapes, and enjoy the convenience of picnic tables, restrooms, and plenty of parking.
Historical sites
The Bradenton Area is rich in history—and these shaded parks let you experience it all at your own pace, with plenty of places to sit, snack, and take in the past.
Palmetto Historical Park & Agricultural Museum
This quiet park features an 1880s post office, a one-room schoolhouse, and a vintage cottage all arranged around a shady brick courtyard. Nearby, the Agricultural Museum and native gardens offer more to explore—and more spots to relax.
Manatee Village Historical Park
Step back to the 1800s at this open-air museum featuring historic and replica buildings, a pioneer home, and the county’s oldest cemetery. Kids can play at The Junior Junction, a train-themed playground, while adults relax under mossy oaks at one of many picnic tables.
Anna Maria Island Historical Society
Located on charming Pine Avenue, this museum campus includes the old City Jail, Belle Haven Cottage, and a shady Mangrove Walk with water views. It’s steps from shops and cafés—perfect for cooling off between exhibits.
Waterfront Picks
Combine picnicking with waterfront views and activities:
Mineral Springs Park at Riverwalk East
A state historical marker at Manatee Mineral Springs Park describes the rich history of this location, named after a natural spring used by American Indians. The park features picnic tables, a gazebo, and connected story plaques, offering a blend of history and leisure.
Bradenton Riverwalk
Stretching over two miles along the Manatee River, the Riverwalk features outdoor living rooms, grassy areas, benches, and playgrounds, providing numerous spots for a scenic picnic in downtown Bradenton.
Jiggs Landing Outpost
Located on the Braden River reservoir, Jiggs Landing offers boat rentals, fishing opportunities, and waterfront cabin stays. Picnic shelters and tables are available, making it a great spot for a day by the water.
Home
Portosueno Park
This charming neighborhood park provides a picnic table and benches, along with the unique opportunity to spot manatees in their natural habitat. It’s a peaceful spot for a quiet picnic.
Where to get your picnic supplies
Enhance your picnic experience with local delicacies:
Scott’s Deli
Offering free delivery on Anna Maria Island, Scott’s Deli provides a variety of house-made sandwiches perfect for a beach picnic. Simply call to place your order, and they’ll deliver right to your beach spot.
Graze Street AMI
This modern market offers artisan sandwiches, flavorful salads, sweet treats, and charcuterie boards, ideal for a gourmet picnic. Located on Anna Maria Island, it’s a convenient stop before heading to your picnic destination.
The Cheesecake Cutie
Known for their in-house crafted menu items and family recipes, The Cheesecake Cutie offers a variety of charcuterie options, including meat & cheese, fruit & veggie, and fruit & cheese boards, perfect for picnics. And, of course, the cheesecake can’t be beat!
Olive Oil Outpost
Located on Pine Avenue, this charming shop offers imported cheeses, cured meats, crackers, and gourmet snacks. It’s a one-stop shop for a European-style picnic on the go.
Gulf Shore Charcuterie
Take your picnic to the next level with artisan charcuterie boards, grazing boxes, and custom snack spreads. Gulf Shore Charcuterie partners with several picnic pros—or you can order directly for a DIY upgrade to your picnic.
Upgrade your picnic experience
Leave the setup (and cleanup) to the experts. These local luxury picnic companies handle everything—from beach permits and tablescapes to grazing boards and cozy seating—so all you have to do is show up and enjoy.
Sun Served Bespoke Picnics
Known for their ultra-personalized setups, Sun Served creates one-of-a-kind picnics with elegant décor, fresh florals, and special touches tailored to your occasion. They’ll even coordinate with photographers or other vendors if you’re celebrating something big.
Sandy Toes Luxury Beach Picnics
With romantic candlelit spreads and coastal-chic vibes, Sandy Toes is a go-to for sunset picnics, proposals, or dreamy date nights. Packages include low tables, umbrellas, seating, and optional add-ons like charcuterie boards and drinks.
Boho Beach Escape
Boho Beach Escape brings laid-back luxury to life with earthy textures, layered pillows, and breezy beach décor. Perfect for small gatherings, girls’ nights, or golden-hour hangs with your toes in the sand.
Posh Picnic Co.
Stylish and stress-free, Posh Picnic Co. offers beautifully curated experiences in beach and park settings. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just want something special, their setups are picture-perfect and hassle-free.
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