Bradenton's calling you!

Monday, December 16th 2019

Bradenton, Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key are a little pocket of old Florida charm.

With miles of sprawling, white beaches and crystal blue water as far as the eye can see, the destination feels like it’s worlds away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The Bradenton Area, which was City’s destination for the 2019/20 pre-season tour, is only a two-hour drive from the excitement of Orlando, acting as a tranquil springboard for visitors to explore the Sunshine State.

So, why not swap Bristol for Bradenton for a trip in 2020?

To tempt you a little bit more, here’s our top 10 facts about this unique Florida destination:

Anna Maria Island is one of a kind
Surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico, and with it’s pristine white sand, Anna Maria Island is the jewel in Bradenton’s crown. On the island, building regulations mean nothing over three storeys is allowed. This helps reinforce the feeling of utter serenity on what is already a peaceful island.
Pine Avenue is a sustainable shopping hub
The “greenest little main street in America” offers unique and eco-friendly boutique shopping. Shop for exotic produce, explore the community gardens, or enjoy a personalised doughnut from the Donut Experiment.
Motorworks Brewing has the largest beer garden in Florida
Bradenton’s first craft beer company boasts a huge beer garden where visitors can sit, relax and enjoy an award-winning drink or two.
You catch it, they’ll cook it!
If you enjoy a reeling in your own dinner, then simply take your catch to one of the area’s participating restaurants for a super-fresh meal you won’t forget in a hurry.
Home away from home
Anna Maria Island is known for its high-quality homes on or very near to the beach. Each with its own charm, often with a private pool, families or groups of friends will find this style of accommodation super convenient and comfortable.

Dolphins are common off Anna Maria Island

You can go horse surfing!
Horse surfing is an activity unique to Anna Maria Island which allows visitors to take horses out into the water for a swim. In fact, the island is one of only a few places in Florida you can ride horses along the beach.
The Bradenton Area is a centre of retail therapy.
The Ellenton Premium Outlets offer a whopping 25-65% off designer brands including Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Kate Spade and Gap. Looking for something a little more quirky? The Village of the Arts is a live-work arts community where you can find all sorts of hand-made pieces ranging including jewellery and art.
You can watch turtles hatch on the beach
Anna Maria Island works hard on turtle conservation and is very considerate of the turtle nesting season between May and October. You can join the local turtle watch tours and you may be lucky enough to see baby turtles spring out of the sand and make their way to the Gulf of Mexico.
Spot the local wildlife
If you want to get up close and personal with the area’s playful residents, why not head out on a boat tour or kayak tour and see the dolphin or manatee in their natural habitat.
The Bradenton Area is for everyone!
Whether you’re looking for a family holiday, a romantic break for two or a getaway with some friends, the Bradenton Area has so much to offer.

For more information on visiting the Bradenton Area head to www.bradentongulfislands.com.