Things to do in Bradenton

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Boulders placed on beach to prevent erosion.
Boulders placed on beach to prevent erosion.
Rainbow after the storm
This is a sugar cane mill. The whole sugar canes are inserted in the middle and a donkey or horse is attached to one end of the tree. The animal walks in circles and the canes are run through the press.

The historical park is free and boasts the 1860 Courthouse, the 1887 Church, the One Room Schoolhouse, the Old Settler’s House, the Potter Barn, the Sugar Cane Mill and Smokehouse, the Wiggins Store, a blacksmith shop, a 1913 Baldwin Steam locomotive, the Fogarty Boatworks and a Cowhunter Bunkhouse.
The 1903 Wiggins General Store. Inside there are various tools and gadgets from the past with signs encouraging visitors to guess what the purpose of these implements may have been.

The historical park is free and boasts the 1860 Courthouse, the 1887 Church, the One Room Schoolhouse, the Old Settler’s House, the Potter Barn, the Sugar Cane Mill and Smokehouse, the Wiggins Store, a blacksmith shop, a 1913 Baldwin Steam locomotive, the Fogarty Boatworks and a Cowhunter Bunkhouse.

Bradenton Attractions

They say the best things come in small packages, and this charming city is no exception. From popular tourist attractions to thrilling excursions, there are loads of fun things to do in Bradenton.

Discover what makes Bradenton tick with some of the most popular tours & day trips. Scroll through our {98 fun activities in Bradenton fun activities in Bradenton}, and book with ease knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.


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What to do in Bradenton

Free Things to Do in Bradenton

Some say the best things in life are free. Be sure to explore the following around Bradenton:

Manatee Village Historical Park - Round up the whole family and set off on an intriguing adventure through history together.

De Soto National Memorial - Pay a visit to this historic site and learn something about the area's cultural heritage.

Red Barn Flea Market Plaza - Spend some time here and find out the importance of this place to the locals.

Palma Sola Botanical Park - Find your green thumb and marvel at the many and varied plants on display.

Things to Do in Bradenton with Kids

There are plenty of memorable experiences in Bradenton that the whole gang will get a buzz out of. Here are some of the most popular family friendly experiences in the area.


 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Bradenton

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Bradenton

Aerial view of city and gulf Cape Coral, Florida. Typical architecture of South Florida. Large houses built on the banks of canals, canals into the sea.

South Bradenton

4/5(105 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in South Bradenton, Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf and DeSoto Square are top sights worth seeing.

South Bradenton
EyeEm Custom Shoots Q4 2018

Palma Sola

4.5/5(2 area reviews)

Travelers like the gardens in Palma Sola, and Robinson Preserve is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Palma Sola
City skyline from Bayfront Park over Sarasota Bay at night in Sarasota Florida USA

Bayshore Gardens

3.5/5(73 area reviews)

Bayshore Gardens is well-liked for its beaches. You can also take some time to explore sights in the surrounding area like IMG Bollettieri Tennis Academy and John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art.

Bayshore Gardens
Path to a Gulf of Mexico beach in Bradenton Beach on the west coast of Florida

West Bradenton

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in West Bradenton and surrounding area, you can visit The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature and LECOM Park.

West Bradenton
The Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge in Brandeton, Florida

Sabal Harbour

While Sabal Harbour might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like LECOM Park and Rosedale Golf and Country Club.

Sabal Harbour
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Coral Shores

Though Coral Shores might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Jewfish Key and Coquina Beach.

Coral Shores

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Bradenton

Frequently asked questions

Is Bradenton worth visiting?
Providing a blend of history and culture, there are many things to do in Bradenton. While you're here, head to Coquina Beach, a key attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Bradenton?
Coquina Beach and Manatee Public Beach are two awesome places to kick-start your vacation adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and shopping options in Bradenton while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Bradenton?
The top tourist attraction in Bradenton is Coquina Beach, so don't forget to put it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Bradenton?
Three days in Bradenton is enough to visit the city's major highlights. Many guests stay for three days on average. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, De Soto National Memorial and arcadeland are among the most popular sights. Want to experience more? Hang around a bit longer to visit nearby hotspots like Sarasota.
Is Bradenton a walkable city?
It all depends on what you plan to see and do in Bradenton. Several key sights, such as The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature and Astro Skate and Fun Center, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Bradenton's neighborhoods, South Bradenton is 2 miles away from downtown, while West Bradenton is 2 miles away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Bradenton with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Bradenton with kids.

What to do in Bradenton for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Bradenton, with activities for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at West Coast Surf Shop or Aluna Wellness Center & Spa.
Are there free things to do in Bradenton?
One of the easiest ways to learn about free things to do in Bradenton is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on exciting neighborhoods, parks and other highlights you can enjoy without taking your wallet out. De Soto National Memorial is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.

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