Bradenton is located just south of Tampa and its bay. Despite being often overlooked, it offers plenty of captivating natural spots, fascinating cultural attractions, and exciting outdoor activities for visitors. Known as “The Friendly City,” it is nestled between the shimmering Gulf of Mexico and the calm Manatee River.
The main attractions, museums, and theaters are located near the Riverwalk on the waterfront. Another highlight is the Village of the Arts district, which features trendy art galleries and vibrant, colorful houses.
Additionally, Bradenton provides opportunities to explore the nearby Gulf Coast, which boasts beautiful nature preserves, pristine beaches, state parks, and remarkable national memorials.
12. Red Barn Flea Market
One of the best places to go shopping and dining in Bradenton is the lively Red Barn Flea Market near the S Tamiami Trail. It is open every day of the week, except on Mondays. The market has about 600 stands, stalls, and shops that offer a wide variety of products. The market has been owned and run by the same family since 1981.
In addition to the flea market, there are farmers markets, food courts, and plaza shops available. Some sections of the market sell fresh fruits and vegetables, while others have items like tools, toys, t-shirts, and Tupperware. There are also sections dedicated to selling soap, shoes, watches, video games, and women’s clothing. Aside from shopping, visitors can enjoy the food court at the market to grab a bite to eat or drink.
11. Village of the Arts
The Village of the Arts is a wonderful place to explore and it covers a large part of the city center. It has many old cottages that are painted in bright colors and inside them, there are unique art galleries, studios, restaurants, and coffee shops.
The district is known for its eclectic and imaginative art installations that decorate the cottages. These cottages were mostly built in the 1920s and 1930s and they have beautiful architecture, made even more stunning by the vibrant colors they are painted in.
Many of these buildings have become art galleries, studios, and specialty shops, so you can go inside and look at the art or buy something. Additionally, there are also charming little cafes and eateries along the streets where you can take a break and enjoy some food.
10. LECOM Park
If you’re looking for an unforgettable sports experience in town, then you should check out the old LECOM Park. It’s the home of the Bradenton Marauders and also where the Pittsburgh Pirates do their spring training. The park is located just a short drive south of downtown.
Built in 1923, it is one of the oldest stadiums still being used in the United States. Many people think of it as Florida’s version of Fenway Park. Baseball fans love its charming old-fashioned look and feel, as well as the energetic atmosphere.
Because the spectators are so close to the perfectly maintained field, you can often hear the players and coaches talking and sometimes even interact with them. This adds to the memorable experience of watching an action-packed baseball game.
And the historic grandstands, swaying palm trees, and outdoor barbecue area only enhance the overall ambiance of the park.
9. Lake Manatee State Park
Lake Manatee State Park is a beautiful and calm place to visit. It offers a variety of outdoor activities and opportunities to see wildlife. The park is located on the southern shore of a large lake, which is on the same road as Hunsader Farms.
You can find both beaches and marshes along the waterfront, with pine flatwoods and hardwood forests further inland. Although there are no manatees, you might spot alligators, ospreys, or armadillos. While it’s important to be cautious of hidden alligators, you can swim, kayak, or boat in the lake.
The park is also great for hiking, sunbathing, and camping. Many locals and tourists visit here throughout the year.
8. Cortez Beach
If you’re looking for a beautiful place to relax and be close to nature, there is a spot not too far away. Cortez Beach on Anna Maria Island is a perfect destination for those who want to unwind. You can soak up the sun, walk along the sandy beach, or take a swim in the Gulf of Mexico.
The beach is untouched and natural, with soft white sand and some plants and trees providing shade. There are three piers that extend into the clear sea, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or go fishing. The island also offers hiking and biking trails that will take you to the southern end.
Besides enjoying the beach and surfing the small waves, you can witness breathtaking sunsets and explore the shallows in search of shells and small fish.
7. Bishop Museum Of Science And Nature
In the heart of the town, you’ll find another must-visit spot: the Bishop Museum Of Science And Nature, a significant cultural hub for tourists. This museum primarily explores the wonders of Florida’s Gulf Coast, showcasing a multitude of captivating artifacts, exhibits, and archaeological discoveries.
Established in 1946 and conveniently situated near the city’s pier and Palmetto bridge, the museum resides in a remarkable modern building. Inside, you can delve into the rich history of the state, spanning from prehistoric eras to the present day. The diverse displays feature ancient fossils, centuries-old pottery, and contemporary artworks.
The museum complex also houses an impressive planetarium where you can enjoy enlightening science shows. Additionally, there’s a manatee rehabilitation center on-site, allowing you to observe these adorable creatures before they are released back into their natural habitat.
6. Hunsader Farms
Just a short drive east of downtown is Hunsader Farms, a fun and family-friendly place to visit. They have a playground, petting zoo, fresh produce market, antiques store, and an ice cream shack. Throughout the year, they also have special events happening.
Hunsader Farms started as a small family-run farm in 1967, but it has grown a lot since then. They add new events, activities, and attractions all the time. People can come to buy local vegetables, pick strawberries, enjoy rides and vendors, and listen to concerts at their Pumpkin Festival and County Christmas events.
If you want to experience the simple farm life, you can even camp overnight or stay in one of their cozy cabins.
5. Robinson Nature Preserve
The Robinson Nature Preserve in northwestern Bradenton is a great place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking and biking on shady trails, climbing up observation towers, and kayaking and canoeing on the park’s pristine waterways.
The preserve is not just limited to Tampa Bay; it also includes mangroves and marshes further inland. Exploring the area by paddling on the water is a peaceful experience, and you might even see dolphins, manatees, and other marine mammals playing around.
In addition to paddleboards and kayaks, visitors can also walk, run, or cycle on the paths or watch birds from the 53-foot-tall tower. Fishing and picnicking are other enjoyable activities available in the preserve, where the coastal ecosystems are always changing.
4. De Soto National Memorial
Just west of Bradenton, there is a place called De Soto National Memorial that offers an interesting combination of history and nature. It is located at the meeting point of the Manatee River and Tampa Bay.
This memorial commemorates the landing of the famous explorer Hernando de Soto in 1539, which was one of the first major expeditions by Europeans into the southern part of the United States. Back then, de Soto and his army arrived at Tampa Bay with the aim of finding land, gold, and the secret to eternal life.
If you visit the visitor centre, you can learn more about their journey and their interactions with the Native Americans of the area. You can also see fascinating artifacts like old armor, weapons, and maps. Once you’re done inside, you can go outside and enjoy the scenic waterfront.
You can go hiking, fishing, or have a picnic there, especially during the cooler months when there are often historic reenactments taking place. In fact, they even set up a living-history camp in the park during those times.
3. Riverwalk
The Bradenton Riverwalk is a popular place near the museum. It has nice views of the water and has green spaces and play areas for people of all ages to enjoy. It is located next to the scenic Manatee River and includes an outdoor amphitheater, tide pool area, sandy beach, splash pad, and skateboard park.
You can walk, run, jog, or ride a bike on the mile and a half long boardwalk. You can also have a picnic on the lawns, go fishing on the pier, or play volleyball on the sandy courts. Throughout the year, there are live music performances and community events held here.
2. Palma Sola Botanical Park
Located in the northwest of town, Palma Sola Botanical Park is filled with a wide variety of colorful plants, flowers, trees, and shrubs. The park has been carefully designed, with ponds, picnic areas, and a playground where you can spot beautiful birds and butterflies.
It used to be a palm nursery, but now it houses numerous tropical trees and exotic plants that line the paths. In addition to admiring the blooming flowers and capturing their enchanting colors in photos, you can also relax and observe the leisurely movement of turtles and fish in the lakes.
Known as a hidden gem, the park offers a peaceful atmosphere and is a great place to visit before heading to the nearby beaches and nature preserve.
1. Manatee Village Historical Park
Manatee Village Historical Park is a great place for people who want to learn more about the state’s rich history. The park has many replicas and well-restored structures from the late 1800s and early 1900s. It became a National Historic Site in 1976, with the goal of protecting and preserving the city and county’s early history.
Some of the buildings at the park include an old courthouse from 1860, a Methodist church from 1887, a schoolhouse, a smokehouse, a blacksmith’s shop, and a boat yard. Visitors can explore these buildings, see artifacts and furniture from that time period, and read about their history.
The park also has historical photos and informative plaques scattered around its grounds, which are located to the east of the city center.
