Bradenton Beach, Florida is a beautiful place to spend the day while staying on Anna Maria Island. Just a short 20-minute drive over the bridge takes you where you can experience all that Florida has to offer.
You most likely will not be able to enjoy all of Bradenton in one day, but there are plenty of opportunities to go back when you’re such a short distance away from such a magical destination. Plan to head out early and make a day trip out of it. Set two alarms if you have to because you don’t want to miss what Bradenton has in store for you. Early risers get the best parking and views, avoid the crowds, and make the most out of their day.
Things To Do
There are countless things to do in Bradenton, but there are a few that you just can’t miss.
Looking to get some time on the water? Five O’Clock Charlie Boat Tours is a great way to watch the dolphins and manatees swim around. Several other companies offer similar tours that guide you around the intercostal waterway, letting you get up close and personal with most of Florida’s aquatic life. The Family Scuba Center is a favorite of many looking to get scuba certified or do a little diving for the day.
There are also a riveting number of holiday activities on the water, such as a cruise trip for the New Year’s Eve fireworks.
Depending on what time of the year you visit, you could catch a late game at McKechnie Field. Not that into sports? Bradenton also offers painting with a twist if you want to let your creative side come out while enjoying some local wine.
Feel like relaxing with a movie after a long day exploring? The top theater choice for many is Regal Oakmont 8, conveniently located on Cortez Road.
Bradenton has many things to do to keep you busy day in and day out, which is why it’s appealing to most visitors that come to Florida. Staying on Anna Maria Island essentially means you have everything that Bradenton has to offer just a short drive away.
If you’re not quite ready to head back to the island, you can always check out one of the many other options Bradenton has such as Robinson Nature Preserve, South Florida Museum and Bishop Planetarium, De Soto National Memorial, Manatee Village Historical Park, and Riverwalk. All of these options are family friendly and relatively easy on the wallet as well..
Where To Eat
If you’ve worked up an appetite midday and want to enjoy some of the best food in Bradenton, look no further than the Sage Biscuit Café. Equally loved by locals and visitors alike, you’ll be sure to come back for more once you’ve tasted the great dishes this restaurant has to offer. The menu will suit everyone in your family with options for vegetarians, vegans, and those that eat gluten-free.
Need a sweet treat at the end of the day? Head to Tyler’s for homemade ice cream, or check out Joe’s Eats and Sweets for their unique offerings. B Towne Coffee Co. or Sugar Cubed are both excellent and local-focused places to grab your mocha and maybe a pastry.
Take it up a level and have a full meal at Bridge Street Bistro or Maria’s Family Restaurant. No matter your taste, you will find something to make your mouth water in Bradenton.
Stay on Anna Maria Island
Bradenton is such a short distance from Anna Maria Island that you can truly have the best of both worlds. You have a choice of Anna Maria Island hotels, you will want to choose
We are proud to be the industry leader in Anna Maria Island rentals. Our premier beachfront properties are perfect for giving you a phenomenal view and putting you just steps from the gorgeous white sand. Whether you’re traveling with your sweetheart or the whole family, we have the ideal rental to suit your needs.
Contact us today to learn more about Anna Maria Island and Bradenton, so we can help you set up your dream getaway.
