Experience Adventure in Bradenton, FL
IT’S TIME FOR FUN IN THE SUN ON FLORIDA’S GULF COAST.
Come visit the golf courses, MLB spring training, and some of the best beaches in the country – all easily reached from MidAmerica St. Louis Airport on Allegiant Airlines. Bradenton, Florida offers the ultimate vacation destination for all ages. With nearly 40 miles of shore to explore, Manatee and Sarasota Counties that encompass Bradenton are known for their extensive coastline, offering a diverse range of activities to escape into a world of relaxation, adventure, and family fun. Whether you’re a beach lover, history buff, or outdoor enthusiast, Bradenton has something for everyone to enjoy.
Good to Know
Airport: Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)
Average Flight Time: 2 hours 14 Minutes
Book a Trip: allegiantair.com
Explore the City of Bradenton
Located in downtown Bradenton, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature – formerly known as the South Florida Museum – is an educational and entertaining stop for visitors of all ages. As the largest natural history museum on Florida’s Gulf Coast, it features interactive exhibits that explore Florida’s history, natural wonders, and wildlife. This includes the newly renovated Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat, which holds 60,000 gallons of water and houses manatees that were rescued from the wild after they became sick or injured. The museum is also home to a world-class Planetarium that features one of the most advanced all-digital projection systems in the world, offering digital tours through the cosmos, as well as Laser Light Nights for a unique, high-energy experience.
History lovers will enjoy visiting the De Soto National Memorial, where visitors can learn about Spanish conquistador Hernando de Soto’s pursuit of glory and riches that brought him to the New World in 1539, making him one of the first Europeans credited with discovering America. De Soto National Memorial is surrounded by beautiful coastal area and nature trails, historical exhibits, and live-history programming that bring this important chapter in American history to life.
For those looking to immerse themselves in local culture, the Village of the Arts is a vibrant and creative community in Bradenton. This colorful neighborhood is home to art galleries, studios, and eclectic shops where visitors can experience and purchase original works of art. The area is known for its restored 1920s and 30s cottages, creating a charming atmosphere. Monthly art walks and festivals also make it a great place to explore the creative side of Bradenton.
Bradenton Beaches
If your vacation dreams include white-sand beaches, colorful cottages, casual island vibes and plenty of fun ways to explore, you’ll find your paradise in the Bradenton Gulf Islands region of Florida. Bordered by the Gulf on Florida’s southwest coast and located between Tampa to the north and Sarasota to the south, the Bradenton Gulf Islands are just a short drive from the city, offering a number of beach experiences that are perfect for a day of relaxation or an exciting adventure.
Named the best beach town in Florida by U.S. News & World Report in 2025, Anna Maria Island is just a 20-minute drive from Bradenton. Known for its laid-back and charming atmosphere, the island offers everything from kayaking with dolphins to enjoying live music on the beach. The wide range of activities, paired with stunning views, makes Anna Maria Island an ideal destination for visitors of all ages.
Another hidden gem, Holmes Beach, is packed with history and natural beauty. Located on Anna Maria Island in Manatee County, just 20 minutes from Bradenton, this beach is a haven for turtle watching – especially during nesting season from May to October – where visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and observe local wildlife in their natural habitat.
Located about a 25-minute drive from downtown, Cortez Beach offers a more peaceful beach experience. With over 140 feet of shoreline, it’s a perfect destination for boat tours, fishing charters, and parasailing. It’s a classic “Old Florida” style beach without major amenities, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, picnicking, and other relaxing activities. Whether you’re looking for an exciting water adventure or just want to unwind by the sea, Cortez Beach delivers for everyone.
Discover Nature Reserves
For those who love nature, Robinson Preserve offers more than 600 acres of protected land filled with trails for walking, biking, and wildlife watching. This hidden gem is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and birdwatching. The preserve also features observation towers, providing panoramic views of the area’s unique coastal ecosystem.
Across town, the Bradenton Riverwalk is another way to enjoy nature in the area. The Bradenton Riverwalk is a beautiful 2-mile, multi-use paved trail that stretches from the Green Bridge to the Manatee River Bridge, offering a safe and scenic place to walk, jog, or bike. Along the way, you’ll find a variety of activities, including fishing, beach volleyball, a splash pad, and a skate park. The Riverwalk is free and open 24/7 and offers stunning views of the river, making it a perfect place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
Where to Stay
Bradenton and its surrounding areas offer a variety of accommodations, but one standout is Lakewood Ranch. Voted the #1 community for people of all ages in the United States, Lakewood Ranch is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for comfort, convenience, and a vibrant community atmosphere. With its award-winning design, parks, and golf courses, Lakewood Ranch is an excellent base for exploring the Bradenton area.
For those looking to explore the region even further, nearby communities like Palmetto, Ellenton, and Tampa Bay offer even more options for accommodations, dining, and shopping. The vibrant city of St. Petersburg is also just a short drive away, providing additional cultural attractions, museums, and world-class dining experiences for tourists.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or family-friendly activities, Bradenton, Florida is a perfect destination. With its stunning beaches, historical sites, outdoor adventures, and vibrant culture, this charming Gulf Coast city is a place where memories are made and adventures never end. Come and experience all that Bradenton has to offer!
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