Discover Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Bradenton, Florida
Embrace Florida's Creative Vibe in Bradenton!
There's a lot to sink your teeth into when it comes to Bradenton, a captivating city of around 57,000 residents. Its perfectly balanced mix of things to do makes it a great weekend escape without being overwhelming to visitors. From art and culture to delectable dining and breathtaking outdoor spaces, here's the lowdown on the 15 can't-miss activities in Bradenton, Florida.
Get Your Weekend Started Right
1. Shop 'til you Drop at Bradenton Public Market
On Saturdays from October to May, Old Main Street comes alive with the buzz of over 100 vendors selling local wares, from fresh produce to art. Kick off your weekend with live music and kid-friendly activities at this beloved, long-running event that's been a cornerstone of the community since 1979.
realizebradenton.com/bradenton-market
2. Discover the Eclectic Village of the Arts
Stroll through this one-of-a-kind neighborhood, featuring colorful historic homes and hidden gems like artist galleries, studios, restaurants, and vinyl shops. Make sure to drop by during the Art Walks on the first Friday night and first Saturday afternoon of each month for even more art, music, food, and fun.
villageofthearts.org; 1312 11th St W Bradenton, FL 34205
Indulge Your Inner Art Aficionado
3. Explore the World of Art at Manatee Performing Arts Center
This performing arts center is home to two venues hosting Broadway shows, ballets, string quartets, and more. At the Herrig Center for the Arts, check out three galleries with ever-changing exhibits, and don't forget to browse the LiveArtFully gift shop for souvenirs made 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
4. Peer into the Past at Manatee Village Historical Park
Step back in time between historical buildings, replica buildings, and museum exhibits as you learn about Bradenton's foundation and early days. Wander the four-acre grounds and pop into buildings ranging from an old general store to private homes to fishing villages to get a feel for life in Bradenton's early days. Bring the entire family and enjoy the onsite playground, picnic tables, and tree-shaded areas.
manateevillage.org; 1404 Manatee Ave E, Bradenton, FL 34208; 941-749-7165
Venture into Nature
5. Journey to Robinson Preserve
Take a climb up the 40-foot observation tower at Robinson Preserve for stunning views over the 699-acre natural area's coastal grasslands, marshes, mangrove habitats, and numerous bird species, including roseate spoonbills, wood storks, and bald eagles. There's also a 2.5-mile paved path perfect for walkers, runners, bikers, and rollerbladers, as well as an additional 5 miles of coastal trails for exploring.
manatee.hosted.civiclive.com/departments/natural_resources/preserves/robinson
6. Embrace the Water on a Kayaking Adventure
Explore the bounty of natural treasures that Bradenton has to offer by hitting the water in a kayak. Launch from Emerson Point Preserve on the Manatee River or De Soto National Monument for a variety of experiences, including nature trails, beaches, and ranger-led kayak tours in the summer months.
7. Stroll along the Beautiful Riverwalk
A picturesque 2-mile paved path runs between the Green and Desoto bridges along the Manatee River. Enjoy the amphitheater, skate park, beach volleyball courts, fishing pier, and stunning sunset and sunrise views on this must-see walk.
Discover Nearby Beaches
8. Enjoy the 16 Miles of Uninterrupted White Sand Coastline
In the Bradenton Area, you'll find 16 miles of sugar-white coastline. Take a quick 20- or 30-minute drive to Anna Maria Island or Longboat Key and find a spot to park your chairs and umbrella. Each beach offers a different vibe, with Coquina Beach ideal for shell seekers, Cortez Beach for surfers, Holmes Beach for families, and Bean Point for solitude.
bradentongulfislands.com/discover/beaches/
9. Explore the Historic Fishing Village of Cortez
All visitors should make it a point to spend time in the Cortez Fishing Village, the oldest continuously operating fishing village in Florida, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Wander the town to find 1920s beach bungalows, a bustling marina, and active fishing boats. If you want to dive even deeper into Cortez's history, head to the Florida Maritime Museum. For the freshest catch, visit Star Fish Company, a dockside seafood market and restaurant. Note: At the time of publication, the Maritime Museum is closed for building renovation.
Indulge Your Inner Foodie
10. Taste Authentic Italian Cuisine at Arte Caffé
Experience a touch of Italy at Arte Caffé in the Village of the Arts. Owned by Remo Mambelli, who immigrated from Italy in 1990, the restaurant offers a simple menu of pizza, pasta, salads, antipasto platters, and sandwiches. Don't miss out on a dessert of tiramisu, cannoli, or panna cotta.
artecaffebradenton.com; 930 12th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205; 941-750-9309
11. Savor Elegant Dining at Taverna Toscana
Top Chef alum Fabio Viviani brings a taste of Italy to downtown Bradenton at Taverna Toscana. Combining traditional steakhouse offerings with Italian fare, this upscale dining spot serves a generous menu featuring everything from sushi to fresh catch to steak.
tavernatoscana.com; 1301 6th Ave W, Bradenton, FL, United States, 34205; 941-357-7772
12. Relax by the Water at Pier 22
Overlooking the Manatee River, Pier 22 offers a relaxed yet elegant dining experience with a diverse menu including sushi, fresh catch, and steak. The historic location once served as a municipal pier, a South Florida Museum, and a radio station before becoming The Pier restaurant and, now, Pier 22.
pier22.com; 1200 1st Ave W., Bradenton, FL 34205; 941-748-8087
13. Sip on Craft Brews and Pub Grub at 3 Keys Brewing & Gastropub
3 Keys Brewing & Gastropub offers a fun, family-friendly atmosphere with a rotating selection of 20 beers, ciders, and seltzers, as well as creative pub grub ranging from buffalo chicken eggrolls to brisket dumplings served with beer cheese. Both the beer garden and front patio are excellent spots to soak up the sun and sip a cold one.
3keysbrewing.com; 2505 Manatee Ave. E., Bradenton, FL 34208; 941-218-0396
14. Savor Floribbean Cuisine
Florida's unique mix of Caribbean and Florida flavors is on full display at Bradenton's restaurants. Make sure to try the fish tacos at Tide Tables in Cortez, and several spots in the Bradenton area beach communities, like Hurricane Hanks, The Sandbar Restaurant, and Woody's River Roo, are also worth a visit.
Plan Your Bradenton Getaway
15. Relax at the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa
Located near downtown Bradenton, the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa is the ultimate place to unwind. The hotel doesn't have direct ocean access but offers resort-style pool facilities, a rooftop bar, and a waterfront area with cabanas and loungers, giving off tropical beachfront vibes.
marriott.com; 600 US-41, Palmetto, FL 34221; 941-304-3115
Bradenton offers a captivating mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and vibrant community activities, making it an excellent destination for a diverse range of interests. With its perfect balance, you're sure to find something you love!
- Especially during the weekend, visit the Bradenton Public Market on Old Main Street for a vibrant assortment of local wares, including fresh preserves that pair beautifully with yummy breads and cheeses. [realizebradenton.com/bradenton-market]
- After indulging in art and culture, have a meal at Tide Tables in Cortez, offering a delicious Floribbean twist on traditional favorites, like especially the mahi-mahi fish tacos. [tide-tables-exciting-floribbean-cuisine-with-a-view]
- As you stroll through the Village of the Arts, make a stop at Arte Café, serving authentic Italian dishes that are especially popular for their mouth-watering tiramisu. [artecaffebradenton.com]
- The Manatee Performing Arts Center, with its ever-changing exhibits, hosts Broadway shows and ballets and is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. The attached LiveArtFully gift shop carries yummy souvenirs crafted by local artists. [manateeperformingartscenter.com]
- For a breathtaking view of the Florida countryside, venture to Robinson Preserve and climb the 40-foot observation tower. Keep your eyes peeled for yummy wildlife like roseate spoonbills, wood storks, and bald eagles. [manatee.hosted.civiclive.com/departments/natural_resources/preserves/robinson]
