There’s a lot to love about Bradenton. The vibrant town of around 57,000 strikes the perfect balance of having just enough to do without be overwhelming to a weekend visitor. There are ample opportunities to experience the arts, great restaurants to dine at, and plenty of preserves and natural areas to help you unwind in the great outdoors. The riverfront town’s proximity to picturesque Gulf beaches and islands is just another facet of Bradenton’s seemingly endless charm. Situated between St. Petersburg and Sarasota, Bradenton can often feel a bit forgotten as far as west Florida locales go, but it’s 100-percent worth remembering and then revisiting time and time again. Here are the 15 best things to do in Bradenton, Florida.

What To Do In Bradenton, Florida

 Shop The Bradenton Public Market

Every Saturday from October through May, Bradenton’s Old Main Street transforms into a bustling market filled with more than 100 vendors offering all kinds of local wares—from fresh produce to art. The beloved event started in 1979 and has been a boon of the community ever since. Live music and kid-friendly activities are also part of the fun.

realizebradenton.com/bradenton-market

Visit The Village Of The Arts

An eclectic mix of colorful historic homes (20^th century bungalows, Florida Cracker homes, and more) make up this one-of-a-kind, live-work-play neighborhood. Inside each of the charming homes, there’s a different treasure to uncover, from artist galleries and studios to restaurants to vinyl shops. On the first Friday night and first Saturday afternoon of each month, the district hosts popular Art Walks that bring live music, delicious food, and even more art to the area.

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

Experience The Arts

Celebrating all kinds of art, the Manatee Performing Arts Center is home to two venues that host everything from Broadway shows to ballets to string quartets. At the Herrig Center for the Arts, explore three galleries with ever-changing exhibits. Onsite, the LiveArtFully gift shop provides an impressive selection of 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

Learn Town History At Manatee Village Historical Park

Between historical buildings, replica buildings, and museum exhibits, there are dozens of access points into the past at Manatee Village Historical Park. Inside the museum, you can learn about Manatee County’s founding and early days from 1840 to 1918. Walk the four-acre grounds and pop into buildings ranging from an old general store to private home to get a picture of what life was like in Bradenton’s foudning days. Bring the entire family and enjoy the onsite playground and picnic tables nestled under the shade of giant oak trees.

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

Adventure In Robinson Preserve

Climb the 40-foot observation tower at Robinson Preserve to look out over the natural area’s nearly 700 acres of coastal grasslands, saltern, marsh, and mangrove habitat. Birders will love keeping an eye out for species ranging from roseate spoonbills to wood storks to bald eagles. If you’re looking to stretch your legs, there’s a 2.5-mile paved path that’s open to walkers and runners, as well as bikers and rollerbladers. There’s also another 5 miles of coastal trails.

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

Go Kayaking

One of the best ways to explore Bradenton’s bounty of natural treasures is on the water via kayak. At Emerson Point Preserve, located on the north shore of the Manatee River,  you can explore both the Manatee River and Terra Ceia Bay from one convenient launch point. De Soto National Monument offers a variety of things to explore, from a nature trail to a small beach to a living history camp (from Jaunary through April). Ranger-led kayak tours are a popular activity in 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

Stroll The Riverwalk

Absolutely no trip to Bradenton should neglect some time strolling on the Bradenton Riverwalk. The 2-mile paved stretch runs between the Green and Desoto bridges along the Manatee River. Sunset and sunrise are especially magical times to visit, but the walk and its surrounding parks are buzzing at all times of day thanks to an amphitheater, skate park, beach volleyball courts, and fishing pier.

Visit Nearby Beaches

The Bradenton Area, which includes Anna Maria Island and Longboat key, claims 16 miles of uninterrupted sugar-white coastline. To experience all the beaches have to offer, take a quick 20- or 30-minute drive to Anna Maria Island or Longboat Key and find a place to park your chairs and umbrella. Each of the area’s eight beaches offers a different vibe, depending on your mood or travel group. Coquina Beach is ideal for shell seekers, while Cortez Beach draws surfers. Holmes Beach is a slam dunk for families, and Bean Point is perfect for those seeking solace.

bradentongulfislands.com/discover/beaches/

 See A Historic Fishing Village

All visitors should make it a point to spend time in The Cortez Fishing Village, which was established way back in 1880 and is the oldest continuously operating fishing village in Florida. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, stroll the town to find 1920s beach bungalows, a busy marina full of restored boats and active fishing boats. If you want to dive even deeper into Cortez’s history, head to the Florida Maritime Museum. And if you start to get hungry between your exploring, visit Star Fish Company, a dockside seafood market and restaurant that serves up the freshest catch in an unbeatable setting. Note: At the time of publish, the Maritime Museum is closed for building rehabilitation.  

Where To Eat In Bradenton, Florida

Have Authentic Italian Cuisine

There are multiple ways to get your Italian fix in Bradenton. For a more casual meal, Arte Caffe in the Village of the Arts is your spot. Owner Remo Mambelli immigrated from Italy in 1990 and is dedicated to bringing a true taste of his home country to guests. A simple menu of pizza, pasta, salad, antipasto platters, and sandwiches are served for lunch and dinner. Don’t miss out on a dessert of tiramisu, cannoli, or panna cotta. Find a more upscale experience at Taverna Toscana, led by famed chef Fabio Viviani. The Top Chef alum combines traditional steakhouse offerings with Italian fare at his elegant downtown spot.

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

Enjoy Dinner Near The Water

There’s a lot of history behind the location of Pier 22, a waterfront restaurant on the Manatee River. Municipal Pier was first built here in 1878, and the spot later went on to become the South Florida Museum and then a radio station. In 1976, it became The Pier restaurant and today it’s known as Pier 22. Come for gorgeous views in a upscale dining room with a generous menu featuring everything from sushi to fresh catch to steak.

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

Grab A Craft Brew

For a great beer, a yummy burger, and a laidback, local-loved atmosphere, 3 Keys Brewing & Gastropub is your spot. The family-friendly spot features a weekly selection of 20 beers, ciders, and seltzers, plus a menu of creative pub grub ranging from buffalo chicken eggrolls to brisket dumplings served with beer cheese. The beer garden and front patio are both excellent places to soak up the sunny weather and sip a cold one.

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

Focus on Floribbean Cuisine

The food Bradenton is most famous for combines classic Florida fare with Caribbean influence. Featuring bright, citrusy flavors and rich spices, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable meal. The fish tacos at Tide Tables in Cortez are a must, 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.

Where To Stay In Bradenton, Florida

Get Pampered At A Resort

One of the area’s newest additions, the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa is the ultimate place to go if you want to relax and unwind. Located near downtown Bradenton, the hotel isn’t directly on the Gulf but gives all the same tropical, beachfront vibes thanks to a resort-style pool deck and a waterfront area with cabanas and loungers. The view from Oyster River, the hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant absolutely can’t be beat.

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

Book A Beachfront Property

If you’re partial to a spot with a view of the ocean, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from in the Bradenton area. Whether you’re seeking a quaint beach bungalow on Anna Maria Island or would prefer amenities consistent with an oceanfront boutique hotel like cheery Mello on the Beach or coastal cool Joie Inn, there’s something for everyone.