If you’re looking to plan a family vacation, Anna Maria Island is the perfect destination. You get all the sun and sand you expect from a Florida getaway, but you are far away from the crowds of Orlando and Tampa. Instead, you’ll be greeted by friendly locals who can point you toward the best fresh seafood, fascinating history, and breathtaking Anna Maria Island nature.
It can be difficult to plan family activities that everyone will enjoy while you’re on vacation, but Anna Maria Island is home to tons of attractions that everyone can get it on. All of the locations mentioned here are right near our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, so you can get out the door in a hurry!
Bowling
Bowling is a classic family activity, allowing you to escape the sweltering heat or get out of an afternoon shower. Luckily, there’s a bowling alley just 15 minutes away from Anna Maria Island across the mainland in Bradenton, Florida. Bolero Bowling is the perfect destination not only for the classic game, but also for billiards, arcade games, and delicious food.
Bolero boasts 64 lanes, so you’re sure to get a spot no matter how busy it is. They are always open late in case some of the adults in your group want to come back for an evening out. Once you get done bowling, head to the arcade to try your hand at Mario Kart or the World’s Largest Pac-Man, or try to beat your friends at pool. No matter what you choose, you’re in for an exciting evening.
Work up your appetite and head out for dinner at one of Anna Maria Island’s local restaurants.
Bolero Bowling is located at 4208 Cortez Road West in Bradenton.
Skating
Roller skating is another classic pastime, and the Astro Skate Family Fun Center in Bradenton is the perfect place to skate while on vacation. The fun and vibrant atmosphere is perfect for everyone in your group, and if someone in your family is hesitant, they can come to a skate lesson! Lessons are perfect for all ages and skill levels, and you can participate in either quad or inline skates. There’s no sign-up required, and you can get the lesson and skate rental for just $8!
The arena also offers various events throughout the year, so there’s likely to be something special going on while you’re in town. Be sure to visit their website to see what fun special they will be running while you’re on vacation.
The Astro Skate Family Fun Center is located at 3611 3rd Street West in Bradenton.
Mini Golf
Arguably the most popular family activity in Anna Maria Island is mini-golf. You get to let out your competitive side while spending quality time with the ones you love and being surrounded by the gorgeous nature of the area. The Fish Hole Miniature Golf is a waterfront spot in Bradenton Beach, so you don’t even have to leave the island to participate! Misters throughout the course will keep you cool on a hot day, and your kids will love looking into the 30,000-gallon pond with koi and native Florida plants.
The Fish Hole Miniature Golf is located at 115 Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. Bridge Street is also full of restaurants and shops, so you can find even more to explore once you’re done with your game!
If you’re already in Bradenton for the bowling and skating, stop by Smuggler’s Cove Adventure Golf. Not only will you find 18 holes of adventure style golf, but you can spot a live alligator while you’re making your shot! Once you visit, it will be easy to see why Smuggler’s Cove was voted “best mini golf in Florida” five years in a row. Come play your way through 18 challenging holes, feed the alligators, then grab your own snack at the snack bar. It’s the perfect addition to your fun day in Bradenton.
Smuggler’s Cove Adventure Golf is located at 2000 Cortez Road West in Bradenton.
Plan Your Anna Maria Vacation
This is just a sampling of the family-friendly activities available in and around Anna Maria Island. At the end of the day, bring the crew back to one of our Anna Maria Island beachfront rentals to rest up for another fun day!
