Florida's 'Friendly City' Offers A Coastal Getaway Between Tampa And Sarasota

Spanning more than 8,400 miles, Florida's coastline is the second-longest in the U.S. The state offers more than 4,500 islands of ten acres or more, over 800 named Florida Keys, and an irresistible 825 miles of sandy beaches, each with its own appeal. Every year, millions of tourists visit this paradise to see destinations like Siesta Key, America's best beach and a world-renowned Florida escape with white sand and emerald waters. Still, beyond these celebrated shores, quieter destinations remain. One of them is Bradenton, an alluring city on Florida's west coast along the southern Gulf, sitting on the banks of the Manatee River.

Sandwiched between Tampa (about 46 miles) and Sarasota (13 miles), Bradenton has a history that stretches back long before it became a getaway destination. Artifacts show local Native American tribes lived in the area over 2,000 years ago. Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto arrived in 1539, and the Spanish ruled for centuries afterward. In the 1840s, settlers started arriving, including Joseph and Hector Braden, who dreamed of building a sugar plantation. When Hector drowned in 1846, Joseph built the Braden sugar mill where the Braden and Manatee Rivers meet. The city was incorporated in 1903 as Bradentown to honor Joseph Braden, then renamed Bradenton in 1924, local businessman E.C. Barnes pushed for a more cosmopolitan name that still kept the town's warmth, which is when the "Friendly City" motto was adopted.

Getting here is easy, with two nearby airports. Travelers can fly into Tampa International Airport, less than an hour away, or Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, a 30-minute drive. Once you arrive, this city of 57,000 offers a warm welcome to a place surrounded by shorelines, riverside parks, golf courses, and serene landscapes.

Your coastal adventures in Bradenton start at the crowd's favorite, Robinson Preserve. It's the number one attraction in the city on TripAdvisor, earning a near-five-star rating with over a thousand reviews. Spread across 679 acres, the preserve features diverse ecosystems like salt marshes, tidal wetlands, and mangroves, making it an abundant wildlife habitat. You can hike more than five miles of shell and coastal trails, or rent a kayak and paddle through the 2.5-mile blueway trail. The real highlight? Climbing the 40-foot observation tower with your binoculars to spot the birds and animals that call this place home.

Another favorite spot is the Bradenton Riverwalk, stretching 2.03 miles along the banks of the Manatee River. Walk along the shoreline, fish in the river, or enjoy beach volleyball, skateboarding, and interactive public art along the way. There's a playground for kids, and the most popular stop is the splash pad, open 9AM to 6PM daily. It's one of the best places to cool off when the Florida heat kicks in. Stick around into the evening, as the sunset over the water is worth staying for.

De Soto National Memorial provides a quieter scene for coastal adventures. Visitors can fish on the water, while hikers can explore trails along the shoreline. The visitor center, which houses exhibits of period weapons, artifacts, and a short historical film, is temporarily closed due to hurricane damage, but the park itself remains open and rewarding. The memorial also offers seasonal guided kayak tours, typically designed for small groups of 10, a relaxed way to explore the coast with friends or family.

While the Gulf Coast is this city's major highlight, Bradenton offers more beyond the shoreline. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is an educational gem for all ages, making it one of those must-visit family vacation destinations in the U.S. that both kids and parents will love. Open daily, except Mondays and select holidays, admission runs $16 to $25 (free for children under 4). You'll find exhibits and artifacts from prehistoric to present day, plus a 50-foot full-dome planetarium with shows about distant stars, alien galaxies, and the universe's beauty. The Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat has a 60,000-gallon pool where rescued manatees are kept until they're ready to return to the wild.

After your museum visit, it's time to seek white sand beaches. Anna Maria Island, 10 miles from Bradenton, has miles of pristine shoreline. Head to the southern end for Coquina Beach, the longest on the island, or the northern side for Cortez Beach. Coquina is your best choice, with lifeguards on-duty and plenty of amenities. The water is crystal-clear, warm, and calm. For unique experiences you can only have in Florida, book a glass-bottom kayak tour to see the marine ecosystem beneath you. There's also a LED-lit night kayak tour, with both priced at $65 per person.

If there's visit this city, you'll probably want to extend your stay. Palmetto Riverside Bed and Breakfast is a restored 20th-century property overlooking the Manatee River with sport courts and access to private boating piers. Hampton Inn & Suites, near Bradenton Riverwalk, offers an outdoor pool, fitness center, and free hot breakfast. For dining, Pier 22 is a riverfront favorite known for its cozy atmosphere and comfort food, from sushi and steak to fresh catch.