Bradenton, Florida, is known for more than just its picturesque beaches and stunning architecture. From the scenic Bradenton Riverwalk to the Manatee Village Historical Park, this Florida hotspot has everything you need to enjoy the summer.
Whether you’re just visiting or you call this beautiful city your home, there’s never a shortage of things to do in Bradenton. And as long as you know where to go, you’ll always be entertained!
Keep reading, and we’ll share seven of the best things to do in Bradenton, Florida, in 2023.
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#1. Robinson Nature Preserve
Florida is one of the most sought-after places for visitors and residents alike. Everyone knows Florida for its endless sun and to-die-for summers, but that’s not all that this amazing state has to offer!
In the city of Bradenton, which lies just south of Tampa and near the Manatee River, you are able to enjoy so many of the amazing benefits of Florida living.
From its amazing proximity to outdoor attractions to its rich culture, Bradenton has no shortage of things to do. So, if you find yourself in this charming and charismatic city, you’ll never be bored!
The Best Way To Enjoy Florida’s Amazing Outdoors
If you’re in Bradenton, you’ll want to find ways to soak in the beautiful outdoors. And by visiting the Robinson Nature Preserve, you can do exactly that!
This gorgeous preserve features plenty of mangrove habitats, marsh, and coastal grasslands across its 682 acres. What was once agricultural land has been transformed into a coastal wetland habitat that is perfect for spending the day.
While there are countless trails you can spend the evening walking along, that’s not all this serene location has to offer. In addition to a 2.5-kilometer rubberized pedestrian-only walkway, there are also plenty of off-road biking trails, kayak launches, and even education and event spaces.
More Than Just Nature-Filled Biking And Walking Trails
After some physical activity, you can head over to the Preserve’s NEST, which otherwise stands for the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology. This is where countless fun and hands-on programs are held for all ages.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, outdoor activity lover, or someone looking to get in a few extra steps, it’s well worth a trip to this amazing preserve. Don’t forget to head to the top of the 53-foot-tall birdwatch tower and see what kinds of amazing flying species you can spot!
#2. Village Of The Arts
Bradenton, Florida is known for being a nature-centric hub. But there’s more to this city than you might think.
The culture and community in Bradenton are one-of-a-kind. And it’s worth it to take a trip to some of the most lively and artsy communities this place has to call home.
The Heart Of Bradenton’s Unique Art Scene
The Village Of The Arts is located in the heart of Bradenton and is full of stunning art. However, this isn’t to say that it’s an art museum.
Instead, it’s an iconic place full of stunning homes, studios, and restaurants decorated in colorful patterns and eye-catching designs. Visiting its sidewalk cafes and lively galleries is a must-have for your “Bradenton things to do” list!
Gorgeous Architecture You Can’t Overlook
This community contains more than 200 unique buildings and homes that you need to see to believe. Strolling these artsy streets and soaking in the bright colors and unique homes is one of the best ways to spend a day in Bradenton.
#3. Bishop Museum of Science and Nature (Formerly The South Florida Museum)
Florida has a rich and diverse history, more so than any other state in the United States. And in Bradenton, it’s easy to find ways to learn more about and indulge in that history!
One of the best places to visit for history buffs and Florida-goers alike is the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature. Formerly known as the South Florida Museum, this museum is full of attractions and exhibitions dating back to the early prehistoric period and continuing into the current age.
A Taste Of Bradenton’s Rich History
This popular place to visit was opened in 1946 as a way for Bradenton to share its ties to the ancient history of this land. However, terrifying dinosaur exhibits and science displays aren’t the only thing available at the museum.
There’s also an archeological exhibit showcasing plenty of fossil evidence from the Paleo-Indian and Archaic eras. The River Heritage Hall is home to plenty of educational displays with a particular focus on local maritime history.
Don’t Forget To Check Out The Planetarium!
But the real kick comes from the full-dome Planetarium and the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat. The latter is a newly-renovated manatee habitat and is a stage 2 rehab facility for injured, abandoned, or sick manatees.
Though that’s not all the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature has to offer, it’s more than enough to entice just about anyone to walk through their doors!
Best Bradenton Sites
- Take a trip to the Robinson Nature Preserve
- Explore the Village Of The Arts
- Go to the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
- Take a stroll on the Bradenton Riverwalk
- See the Manatee Village Historical Park
- Enjoy the water on Anna Maria Island
- Relax at the Lake Manatee State Park
#4. The Bradenton Riverwalk
Bradenton is an amazing place to live and visit for more reasons than one. For starters, it’s easy to indulge in the rich and stunning nature around the city without traveling too far from its bustling streets.
And if you’re looking to stretch your legs, enjoy the city, and soak in Mother Nature, it’s well worth it to take a stroll on the Bradenton Riverwalk. This scenic area is one of Bradenton’s most popular areas for people of all ages to enjoy.
The Perfect Way To Get Your Steps In
It stretches along the gorgeous Manatee River, allowing you to soak in the beauty while stretching your legs. Plus, as you enjoy your stroll, you will encounter plenty of attractions that will keep you entertained.
You’ll be able to come across a large outdoor amphitheater, tide pool area, and skateboard park, to name a few. But there are also plenty of shops and restaurants for you to enjoy, as well as a beach volleyball court, fishing piers, and a splash pad for kids.
The path itself is around 1.5 miles long and is even ADA accessible, meaning you can also bring your stroller along. If you’re looking for the perfect place to get your steps in, this is it!
Bonus: 5 Tips For Moving In The Summer
#5. Manatee Village Historical Park
As we said, Bradenton is home to a rich and diverse history. Stretching back hundreds of years, it’s easy to keep learning more about what made this city!
If you’ve happened upon Bradenton, it’s well worth it to take a trip to the Manatee Village Historical Park. This indoor and outdoor museum is a National Historic Site and a beautiful place to visit.
Before electricity and cars were abundant in Florida, there were iconic buildings that told the story of this city. And this living museum is a great place to experience how life was in Bradenton from 1840 to 1918.
A Rich Collection Of History
It boasts an outstanding collection of historical buildings, trains, and artwork, including the Wiggins General Store, 1887 church, and Potter Barn. For anyone of any age, there’s plenty to do, see, and learn at this amazing location.
Feel free to also check out the cemetery, pavilion with picnic tables, and educational building to enjoy the full experience. And one of the best parts of this museum is that it is free for anyone to attend!
#6. Anna Maria Island
Florida is known for its bright, sunny beaches. And in Bradenton, it’s easy to take advantage of these amazing benefits!
Even if you’re just visiting this gorgeous city, there are many ways to soak in the sun while staying near Bradenton’s bustling city center. But if you’re hoping to indulge in Bradenton’s rich and wonderous lifestyle a bit more frequently, it might be time to call this place your home.
Making Bradenton Your Forever Home
With the right movers at your side, it’ll be easier than ever to make the permanent trip to Bradenton. The Movers Moving and Storage is one of Florida’s most trusted professional moving companies, and we are the team you need for your upcoming relocation.
Whether you’re looking for some help with packing, moving that heavy furniture, or merely a place to store some belongings in between, we can do it all for you.
That’s why families and individuals across the entire state of Florida have trusted us for years to handle both their personal belongings and their future.
How Far Is Bradenton From The Ocean?
If you’re hoping to enjoy the ocean in Bradenton, you’re in luck. The city of Bradenton itself is only a 20-minute drive from scenic Anna Maria Island, which is a prime location for sunbathing, spotting dolphins, and water sports.
Anna Maria Island is one of the best places to visit in Bradenton and can fill your day with the best sun-soaked activities that Florida has to offer. Though you can effortlessly enjoy a day here sitting in the sand or swimming in the ocean, you can also indulge in things like snorkeling!
Bradenton is right next to the Gulf of Mexico, which is full of hidden gems that are perfect for spotting underwater. While you’re snorkeling or scuba diving, keep an eye out for brightly-colored coral and sponges, unique fish, and even majestic manatees!
Does Bradenton Have Beaches?
Anna Maria is home to the notable Bradenton Beach, which is one of the best locations to visit in Bradenton. This beach has miles of gorgeous sugar sand and crystal-clear waters.
On Bradenton Beach also lies Cortez Beach, a wonderful 140-foot stretch of ocean that is known for its warm waves and amazing sunset views. It’s the perfect place to bring the whole family to enjoy a day of sun, surf, and classic beach activities.
#7. Lake Manatee State Park
If you’re looking to spend a day in Mother Nature, it’s time to take a trip to the gorgeous Lake Manatee State Park!
It’s one of the most welcoming outdoor locations this city has to offer and is the perfect place for a relaxing day trip. There are countless activities and attractions, and its simplistic and laid-back environment is wonderful.
This 556-acre nature preserve is only about 15 kilometers east of Bradenton. You can either spend your time camping, fishing, strolling the various hiking trails, or taking a boat out on the water.
Wrapping Up
Soaking in Bradenton properly may take longer than a single day, what with its countless things to do and see. However, its rich history and amazing proximity to nature make it a place you can’t bypass.
Whether you want to spend your days soaking in the sun on its sugar sand beaches or walking upon one of its countless trails, Bradenton is a prime spot to visit for vacationers, nature lovers, and history buffs alike.
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The Movers Moving & Storage has been a family-owned and operated moving company for 40 years and across three generations. Serving areas in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Bradenton, Spring Hill, Lakeland, Wesley Chapel, Brandon, and Clearwater in Florida, our simple approach to moving has not changed since the day we opened. We treat our customers like family and their belongings like our own. For more moving facts and information, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter.
