This Florida Town Offers Gorgeous Beaches, a Delightful Downtown, and a Vibrant Riverwalk for the Perfect Getaway.

Bradenton is a hidden gem with much to offer. This lively town, home to approximately 57,000 residents, finds the ideal equilibrium—plenty of activities without overwhelming weekend visitors. You can dive into artistic experiences, enjoy great dining options, and explore numerous natural areas that invite relaxation. Its close proximity to stunning Gulf beaches and islands adds to Bradenton’s undeniable allure. Nestled between St. Petersburg and Sarasota, Bradenton may sometimes feel overlooked among Western Florida destinations, but it is truly a place worth revisiting time and again.

Things to Do in Bradenton, Florida

Explore the Bradenton Public Market

Every Saturday from October to May, Old Main Street in Bradenton turns into a lively market featuring over 100 vendors with a diverse range of local crafts, from fresh produce to art. This cherished event began in 1979 and has since become a staple of the community. Enjoy live music and family-friendly activities as part of the experience.

realizebradenton.com/bradenton-market

Discover the Village of the Arts

This distinctive live-work-play neighborhood is made up of an eclectic array of vibrant historic homes, spanning 20^th century bungalows to Florida Cracker houses. Each home features unique treasures, including artist galleries, studios, restaurants, and vinyl shops. The district hosts popular Art Walks on the first Friday evening and Saturday afternoon of each month, filling the area with live music, delectable food, and an abundance of art.

villageofthearts.org; 1312 11th St. W Bradenton, FL 34205

Engage with the Arts

The Manatee Performing Arts Center showcases all types of art, featuring two venues that present a variety of performances, including Broadway shows, ballets, and string quartet concerts. At the Herrig Center for the Arts, you’ll find three galleries with rotating exhibits. The onsite LiveArtFully gift shop offers a fantastic collection of souvenirs crafted by local artists.

manateeperformingartscenter.com; 502 Third Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34025; 941-748-5875

artcentermanatee.org; 209 9th St West, Bradenton, FL 34205; 941-746-2862

Explore Local History at Manatee Village Historical Park

With historical buildings, replicas, and museum exhibits, Manatee Village Historical Park offers numerous ways to step back in time. Inside the museum, you can uncover the history of Manatee County from its founding days in 1840 to 1918. Stroll through four acres of grounds and enter buildings like an old general store and home to envision what life was like during Bradenton’s formative years. Bring the family along to enjoy the playground and picnic areas shaded by towering oak trees.

manateevillage.org; 1404 Manatee Ave E, Bradenton, FL 34208; 941-749-7165

Adventure Awaits at Robinson Preserve

Ascend the 40-foot observation tower at Robinson Preserve for breathtaking views over the nearly 700 acres of coastal grasslands, salterns, marshes, and mangroves. Bird watchers can spot a variety of species, from roseate spoonbills to wood storks and bald eagles. For those looking to get active, a 2.5-mile paved trail welcomes walkers, runners, bikers, and rollerbladers, plus an additional five miles of coastal trails to explore.

manatee.hosted.civiclive.com/departments/natural_resources/preserves/robinson

Enjoy Kayaking

One of the finest ways to explore Bradenton’s array of natural wonders is via kayak. At Emerson Point Preserve, located on the northern shore of the Manatee River, you can navigate both the river and Terra Ceia Bay from a single launch site. De Soto National Monument features a variety of attractions, including nature trails, a small beach, and a living history camp (from January through April). Ranger-led kayak tours are also available during the summer months.

mymanatee.org/connect/locations/location-details/emerson-point-preserve

nps.gov/deso/index.htm; 8300 De Soto Memorial Hwy, Bradenton, FL 34209; 941 792-0458 x102

Wander Along the Riverwalk

No visit to Bradenton is complete without a leisurely stroll along the Bradenton Riverwalk. This 2-mile paved path stretches between the Green and Desoto bridges along the Manatee River. The sunset and sunrise are particularly magical times to visit, though the area remains lively throughout the day thanks to an amphitheater, skate park, beach volleyball courts, and fishing pier.

Explore Nearby Beaches

The Bradenton area, encompassing Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key, boasts 16 miles of pristine, sugar-white beaches. For a full beach experience, make a quick 20- or 30-minute drive to either Anna Maria Island or Longboat Key where you can set up your chairs and umbrellas. Each of the eight beaches radiates a unique vibe, catering to different moods and groups. Whether it’s shell-hunting at Coquina Beach or riding waves at Cortez Beach, families will enjoy Holmes Beach, while Bean Point serves as a serene retreat.

bradentongulfislands.com/discover/beaches/

Discover a Historic Fishing Village

A visit to The Cortez Fishing Village is a must for all travelers. Established in 1880, it stands as Florida’s oldest continually operating fishing village. On the National Register of Historic Places, visitors can stroll through the town, admiring 1920s beach bungalows and a vibrant marina filled with restored and active fishing boats. For those interested in history, the Florida Maritime Museum offers deeper insight into Cortez’s past. If you feel peckish while exploring, stop by Star Fish Company, a dockside seafood market and restaurant known for serving the freshest catches in a delightful setting. Note: As of publishing time, the Maritime Museum is closed for building renovations.

Dining in Bradenton, Florida

Savor Authentic Italian Cuisine

Bradenton has numerous spots to satisfy your craving for Italian cuisine. For a casual meal, Arte Caffe in the Village of the Arts is the ideal choice. Owner Remo Mambelli, who immigrated from Italy in 1990, is dedicated to delivering an authentic taste of his homeland. The straightforward menu features pizza, pasta, salads, antipasto platters, and sandwiches for lunch and dinner. Be sure to save room for delectable desserts like tiramisu, cannoli, or panna cotta. For a more refined experience, visit Taverna Toscana, helmed by renowned chef Fabio Viviani. The Top Chef alum combines classic steakhouse fare with Italian specialties at this elegant eatery in downtown.

artecaffebradenton.com; 930 12th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205; 941-750-9309

tavernatoscana.com; 1301 6th Ave W, Bradenton, FL, United States, 34205; 941-357-7772

Dine by the Water

Rich in history, Pier 22 is a waterfront restaurant on the Manatee River. This location first became a municipal pier in 1878 and eventually transitioned into the South Florida Museum, later serving as a radio station. In 1976, it transformed into The Pier restaurant, which is now known as Pier 22. Guests enjoy stunning views in an upscale dining atmosphere, featuring a diverse menu that includes sushi, fresh seafood, and steak.

pier22.com; 1200 1st Ave W., Bradenton, FL 34205; 941-748-8087

Sip on Craft Brews

If you’re in search of a great beer, delicious burgers, and an inviting local atmosphere, head to 3 Keys Brewing & Gastropub. This family-friendly establishment features a rotating selection of 20 beers, ciders, and seltzers, along with a creative pub menu that ranges from buffalo chicken egg rolls to brisket dumplings served with beer cheese. Enjoy the sunny weather while sipping a cold beverage in the beer garden or on the front patio.

3keysbrewing.com; 2505 Manatee Ave. E., Bradenton, FL 34208; 941-218-0396

Indulge in Floribbean Cuisine

Bradenton is renowned for its Floribbean cuisine that blends classic Florida flavors with Caribbean zest. With vibrant, citrusy flavors and bold spices, your taste buds are in for a treat. Don’t miss the fish tacos at Tide Tables in Cortez! Several other dining spots in the Bradenton beach communities, such as Hurricane Hanks, The Sandbar Restaurant, and Woody’s River Roo are also outstanding choices.

Accommodation in Bradenton, Florida

Enjoy a Resort Experience

Recently opening its doors, the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa is perfect for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Located near downtown Bradenton, the hotel may not be directly on the Gulf but offers all the tropical beachfront vibes with its resort-style pool and waterfront area complete with cabanas and loungers. The views from Oyster River, the hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant, are simply unbeatable.

marriott.com; 600 US-41, Palmetto, FL 34221; 941-304-3115

Reserve a Beachfront Property

If you prefer a location with ocean views, there are plentiful options in the Bradenton area. Choose from cozy beach bungalows on Anna Maria Island or enjoy the amenities offered by oceanfront boutique hotels such as the cheerful Mello on the Beach or the stylish Joie Inn; there’s an accommodation to fit every preference.