10 Things to do in Bradenton When Vacationing on Anna Maria Island
For travelers who want to experience incredible white-sand beaches and shockingly turquoise water, an Anna Maria Island vacation may be the perfect getaway. Since the seven-mile barrier island is subject to fairly strict regulations regarding business construction, the nearby town of Bradenton is a popular destination for Anna Maria's visitors. Here are 10 great ideas for places to visit in Bradenton—including several places where you can eat and drink, of course.
Robinson's Preserve is a 600+ acre coastal preserve located in Northwest Bradenton that features hiking and biking paths, waterways for kayaking and paddle boarding, bridges, picnic spots, and a 53-foot tower with a wide-open view of the Tampa Bay area. This is a great place to observe Florida nature while getting in a bit of activity at the same time!
Between a lazy breakfast and a late afternoon seafood lunch, golfers can catch a round at the upscale Legacy Golf Club.
Bradenton Downtown Farmer's Market
This farmer's market has not only fresh fruits and veggies but also great food trucks. Check it out Saturday mornings!
Every traveler on an Anna Maria Island vacation needs a great brunch spot. Enter Sage Biscuit Cafe, offering plenty of vegan and vegetarian options plus traditional brunch items and amazing desserts.
No Anna Maria Island vacation would be complete with a little shopping. The Ellenton outlets have 130 stores, including Nike, Kenneth Cole, Kate Spade New York, and many more.
Paddle Manatee
Visitors can rent a kayak and explore the rivers and tidal creeks of Manatee County while checking out local wildlife like dolphins and manatees. Don't worry; the difficulty level is beginner.
Drago's
A relaxing Anna Maria Island vacation spot, Drago's offers sandwiches, ice cream treats, and luscious Cuban coffee.
Red Barn Flea Market
This huge air-conditioned flea market features clothing, sunglasses, fresh produce, souvenirs, two large food courts, and tons more.
TreeUmph! Adventure Course
Friends and families alike can get some energy out with the zip lines and Tarzan ropes at TreeUmph! This is a fun activity for all ages and is a good activity to enjoy the beautiful weather.
Duffy's Tavern
The way to tell a great restaurant apart from its competitors is whether the locals go there, too, and Duffy's definitely passes that test. With its amazing freshly made burgers, ice-cold beer, and casual atmosphere, Duffy's is a must-go for visitors on any Anna Maria Island vacation.
Things to do on Anna Maria Island
1. Ride the Island Trolley
The Anna Maria Island Trolley will take you nearly everywhere on the island for free! These brightly colored vehicles operate on a daily schedule around the island between 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. every 20 minutes from the Anna Maria City Pier on the north to Coquina Beach on the south. Not only is it convenient and cost-effective, but you also get to experience the life of a true Islander!
They are also perfect for nights out on the town- don't drink and drive, take the trolley instead!
2. Enjoy the beach
Florida's gulf coast is blessed with its west-facing, breath taking views. Take advantage of it by renting a paddleboard and getting out on the open water! Rent paddleboards from Anna Maria Island Paddleboard Rentals as well as take lessons and tours! No matter your skill level, you'll be paddling through the ocean in no time.
If you'd rather do something more laid-back, gather a group of friends for a sunset picnic on the beach, go for a romantic stroll, or cast out a line and hope for some bites!
3. Visit Robinson Preserve
The preserve is a 600+ acre coastal preserve located in northwest Bradenton. The interior of the park consists of paved and unpaved hiking/biking paths, picnic spots, bridges, and kayak and canoe waterways that are also great for paddleboarding. Its most impressive landmark is the 53-foot tall watchtower with an open view of Tampa Bay. It's also dog-friendly so you can bring your furry friend!
4. Cool Off With Some Ice Cream!
Anna Maria has numerous delicious local ice cream shops. Two Scoops, Dips, Joe's Eats and Sweets, and Holy Cow Ice Cream are just a few to check out. After a long day at the beach, an ice cream cone, milkshake, or other sweet treat is just the thing to help you relax and cool off.
5. West Coast Surf Shop
With just over 50 years of business, this surf shop is one of the oldest in the state, and the oldest on the gulf coast. They have a great selection of brand name surf gear and apparel, like Roxy, Quicksilver, Ray Ban, Oakley and much more! Come see why it's been a local favorite year after year!
6. Grab a Burger and Beer at Duffy's!
To experience a little bit of hamburger heaven on Anna Maria Island, stop by Duffy's Tavern! A favorite of locals and visitors both, Duffy's is known for their "world famous burger and the coldest beer in town." With a variety of burgers, sandwiches, soups, and homemade sides like potato salad and coleslaw, you'll definitely think you're in hamburger heaven. Choose from a selection of over 20 beers to accompany your burger and enjoy the casual, laid back atmosphere!