When planning an upcoming tropical vacation, consider adding Bradenton, Florida, to your list of must-sees. Commonly called “The Friendly City,” you’re sure to enjoy your time in this coastal paradise.
There are plenty of exciting things to do in Bradenton that will keep the entire family busy and happy; however, one of the most fantastic attractions in Bradenton is the newly opened Bradenton Riverwalk.
Where is the Bradenton Riverwalk?
Bradenton is a great little city in Manatee County on the Manatee River in South Florida. There is deep history here, and you can learn all about the past at the numerous local Bradenton museums.
There are some great parks and Anna Maria Island preserves, plus a vibrant downtown area with shops and restaurants. Additionally, significant events happen throughout the year, like the Village of the Arts, live music, and much more.
However, one of the must-do activities while in Bradenton is the Bradenton Riverwalk. It runs along the park and the water’s edge for a mile and a half. The park was first developed in the 1980s and has grown considerably since then.
The early stages of the Riverwalk were started in 2011 and opened to the public the following year. Known as Rossi Park, named after Anthony T. Rossi, or Waterfront Park, this beautiful destination stretches for several blocks.
The views of the park and the water are great, and the paved trail is perfect for bikes, strollers, and rollerblades, and it is even accessible for wheelchairs.
Riverwalk General Information
You can visit the Riverwalk any time you like, as it is always open and accessible. Enjoy an early morning run or a late evening stroll after dinner. There are patrol police on hand, so there’s no need to worry about safety.
Public bathrooms along the path are also open from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. There is ample parking, too, but if your Anna Maria Island vacation rental is nearby, you can take the convenient Anna Maria Island trolley!
There is more to the Riverwalk than just a path. You will find the Family Fun Zone and Splash Pad. This brightly painted splash fountain will keep the kids entertained for ages, and Mom and Dad can sit and relax nearby.
You can enjoy the beach volleyball court, skate park, or fishing pier. You can also see some great entertainment at the Mosaic Amphitheater. They have concerts, plays, and other local community events.
If you arrive by boat, there is a day dock where you can tie your boat and take in the sights and activities. There are several open spaces along the Riverwalk in the park where you can take a yoga class, fly a kite, or have a delicious and memorable picnic.
Shops and Restaurants
If you are looking for something to do in Bradenton, plenty of shops and restaurants are nearby. Whether you are looking for souvenirs or groceries to take back to your Anna Maria Island beachfront rental, there is something for everyone.
When it comes to dining, you will find some very familiar names you love and some fantastic local cuisine. You will find plenty of places that serve fresh seafood caught daily. Check out restaurants like Mattison’s Riverwalk Grille or Oak & Stone.
There are places where you can relax and enjoy a big breakfast before heading out on your adventures or grab something to take with you and eat in one of the parks. You can find some great sweets and pastry shops, plus a place to create your own customized doughnuts.
If international dining is your thing, you will be pleased to find cuisine from all over the world. Enjoy Mexican food one night, Greek the next, and then have Italian for lunch the next day! The opportunities are endless.
You can find vegetarian restaurants, pizza and burger joints, and everything from fine dining to dinner specials. Whether you want a few sandwiches to take out with you, or to sit and enjoy a full meal, Bradenton has it all.
If you are looking for souvenirs or gifts to take home, there are seemingly endless options. Find beautiful items made locally by artists in the area. There are plenty of clothing stores, from boutiques to secondhand stores, and places you can find all kinds of home decor items.
Get gifts for loved ones back home, or keep these for yourself. There is a comic book store for the kids and the kids at heart, and spa and wellness centers for all who need a little pampering. Be sure to check out nearby shopping destinations like Bealls, The Bungalow of Bradenton, and Reinspired Boutique.
Plan Your Anna Maria Island Vacation!
Planning your dream vacation to Anna Maria Island doesn’t have to be difficult! Whenever you stay with Island Vacation Properties, it’s simple! Just view our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, reserve your favorite, and prepare for an unforgettable Florida vacation.
Riverwalk Events
The Bradenton Riverwalk and surrounding park are not just for walking and relaxing. There are plenty of activities and events to keep you busy. One of the must-see highlights is the Downtown Bradenton Public Market.
You can visit the public market every Saturday from October to May. You will find locally grown fruits and vegetables, baked goods, and fresh seafood. It’s the perfect way to get great food to prepare in your Anna Maria Island rental.
Besides fresh food, there is entertainment, artists selling their works, and cafes and restaurants all along Old Main Street. There is even an arcade where the kids can hang out and play.
You can bring your dog if it is on a leash, and the parking for the market and the park is free on the weekends. The list of local vendors is almost endless, so plan on spending the day and wear your walking shoes!
Depending on when you visit, you can take in all kinds of events in Bradenton. There are events for various holidays, a Blues fest, concerts, plays, and multiple programs and events for the kids.
During the winter, there is An Old Florida Christmas that takes place. You can expect food, local arts and crafts, and the chance to make custom Christmas decorations. It runs for one day only and is free to attend.
Visit Bradenton
Contact Island Vacation Properties for your next visit to Bradenton. Just let us know what you need, and we can take care of the rest. Choose the number of bedrooms you want and specify the amenities you can’t live without.
You can access everything you want from your Anna Maria vacation rental, walk to the water, and visit all the amenities and events around town. Book your rental early to make sure you get your dream vacation! Get in touch with the team at Island Vacation Properties to learn more.
