When was the last time you took a vacation? Treat yourself by planning a weekend getaway to Bradenton, Florida. A quick vacay can actually help with reducing your stress levels, gives you a break from working, and allows you to enjoy the sweeter things in life. Life is too short to not plan a vacation every now and then.
Here is a guide to planning the perfect weekend getaway to Bradenton, Sarasota:
Places to stay:
You have a plethora of hotel options when you book a trip to Bradenton. From reserving a beachfront villa or a cozy B&B, here are four of the best options when searching for a place to stay
Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club
This beautiful hotel sits on a peninsula of water, providing close to all suites with waterfront views and a luxury experience. Other amenities include a fully equipped kitchen with serving dishes, balcony, and access to the exclusive Acqua Aveda, a spa located just steps away from the hotel. While Waterline is a high-end resort, it also is a beach club where you and your family can rent bikes, kayaks, and paddleboards. Live like a king when you stay at Waterline.
Anna Maria Beach Cottages
For a cozier experience, check out these beach cottages located a block away from Palmetto Avenue beach and City Park. Anna Maria Beach Cottages are set to give you an “Old Florida” experience by enhancing Florida’s charm in conjunction with modern amenities.
Anna Maria Island Inn
This family-owned relaxed resort is located at the heart of Anna Maria Island. The Anna Maria Island Inn offers beach and poolside suites, tiki hurts, up to date appliances, and a heated swimming pool. Stay the night or even for the whole month in your choice of a 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, or even a studio.
BridgeWalk Resort
The BridgeWalk is one of Anna Maria’s landmark resorts, offering spacious Key West-themed suites and many accommodations. For example, it has a convenient location of Bridge Street, giving all guests multiple shopping, dining, and entertainment options. This classic option will perfectly fulfill your family’s needs.
Now that you have a place to stay, you need to create an agenda.
Things to do
Like with finding the perfect hotel, there are a plethora of options when finding things to do during your weekend getaway to Bradenton. Here is a list of the things to do during your vacation:
Beaches
Bradenton is known for its beautiful beaches. Planning a day trip to the beach is an absolute must-do during your weekend getaway to Bradenton. With sugar-like sand and spectacular sunsets, any of the beaches will take your breath away. Check out Anna Maria Island, Manatee County Beach, Beer Can Island, and North Longboat Key Beach for the best Bradenton has to offer.
Coquina Baywalk
Come out and enjoy a brisk hike at the Coquina Baywalk. You have the choice of heading left through the mangrove tunnels or heading right towards the crystal-clear cove. Open from sunrise to sunset, this bay walk option is a fun way families can explore Leffis Key on their next trip to Bradenton.
Ringling Museum of Art with the Ca’ d’Zan Mansion
The museum sits on 66 acres and is a treasure from the gloriously opulent past. Founded in 1927, the Ringling Museum features a 44,000-piece miniature circus, Dolly Jacob’s dresses with rhinestones, and many more beautiful works of art. The Ca’ d’Zan Mansion has a vintage Venetian Gothic design and overlooks Sarasota Bay and dates back to 1926.
Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium
There is no better way to experience the local sea life than going to the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. Just a short drive from Anna Maria Island, this nonprofit marine research institution is home to a 135,000-gallon outdoor shark tank and hundreds of different marine life species. Sign up for the highly recommended boat tours!
Ellenton Premium Outlets
Are you more into shopping than you are into aquariums? If yes, then the Ellenton Premium Outlet Mall might be the perfect option for you. This outdoor mall is home to 130 brand outlet stores and features covered walkways, a lush environment, and a wide range of specialty items.
St. Armand’s Circle
Shop, sip, and relax with the strip of boutiques that encompass the St. Armand’s Circle. With approximately 130 upscale shops, gourmet restaurant, and fun events, this is every tourist’s dream shopping destination. It’s impossible to leave St. Armand’s empty-handed.
Beach Market at Coquina Beach
The Beach Market at Coquina Beach is a unique shopping experience which sells various items from produce to antiques. Here your family can enjoy not only the beach, but also enjoy the perks of a local market. Located only on Sundays and Wednesdays from 10 am to 4 pm, the beach market combines the attraction of both tourists and locals.
Are you hungry after taking in all of these fun things to do?
Regional Restaurants
You haven’t experienced Bradenton until you take a bite of what it has to offer. From mouth-watering beach burgers to the freshest catch of the day, here is a list of the best restaurants in Bradenton, Florida:
O’Bricks Pub and Martini Bar
This restaurant features local American cuisine with vegan and vegetarian options. Each dish offers a hearty portion, have reasonable prices, and offers a great wine list. Located conveniently in downtown, the O’Bricks Pub and Martini Bar also features weekly specials which are sure to entice your appetite.
Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant
Want to have an exclusive waterfront dining experience? The Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant sits right on the Manatee River and has indoor and outdoor seating. In fact, come right up from your boat for casual fine dining with this option. The Riverhouse offers an all-American inspired menu with gluten free options and a full-liquor bar inside.
Pier 22
This restaurant is another great option you can access by boat or car. With stellar views, great food, and is a popular choice for the locals, Pier 22 is a landmark restaurant in Bradenton. In fact, it has a charming ambiance and the covered patio area is a great choice after a day on the beach.
Anna Maria City Pier
The Anna Maria City Pier is a seafood, family-style restaurant. For example, it serves lunch, dinner, drinks, and coffee and is good for kids with take-out service and outdoor seating available. Enjoy the breath-taking views because this pier is completely surrounded by water.
This guide is only the start of the many things you can do during your next weekend getaway to Bradenton. Feel free to print or take it with you next time you plan for a weekend getaway to Bradenton, Florida. You can be close to all these local destinations, things to do, and restaurants if you live at Palma Sola Bay Club.
Palma Sola Bay Club
Palma Sola Bay Club is a luxury Bradenton condominium community located near Anna Maria Island. We are known for our high-quality new condominiums, spacious floor plans, and pristine location. We currently have 2 bedroom/2 bathroom and 3 bedroom/2.5 bathroom plans available for you and your family.
So, whether you’re looking for a day in the sun and sand, a bit to eat, shopping opportunities, or simply want to relax in your new condo, we have options for you. For more information on buying a condo in Florida, or to learn about some of our spectacular condo options, contact us today!
