Bradenton

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Bradenton's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Bradenton Beaches
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk along Coquina Beach, enjoying the beautiful sunrise and soft sands. Grab a light breakfast at one of the beachside cafes.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon swimming and sunbathing on the beach or exploring the nearby trails. Try some delicious seafood for lunch at a local restaurant.

evening
:

Wind down with a sunset view over the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy dinner at a beachside bistro while listening to live music.

day 2
Nature and Wildlife Day
morning
:

Visit the Manatee County Natural History Museum to learn about local wildlife and ecosystems. Then, take a guided tour of the nearby Robinson Preserve for spectacular nature views.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the preserve before heading out for some birdwatching. Don't forget your binoculars to spot local fauna.

evening
:

Head to a nearby park for a peaceful evening stroll. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant specializing in local cuisine.

day 3
Art and Culture Experience
morning
:

Begin your day at the Village of the Arts, a vibrant community filled with galleries and working studios. Grab a coffee and pastry at a local cafe while exploring the art.

afternoon
:

Attend an art workshop or class in the area to unleash your creativity. Enjoy lunch at one of the quaint eateries nearby.

evening
:

Visit a local theater for a performance or art exhibit. Finish your day with dinner at a cultural-themed restaurant.

day 4
Water Sports Adventure
morning
:

Rent a kayak or paddleboard at the nearby marina to enjoy the calm waters. Take a guided tour to admire the beautiful coastline.

afternoon
:

After your water sports, have lunch at the marina’s restaurant. Spend your afternoon relaxing by the water or joining a dolphin watching cruise.

evening
:

Retire to your hotel to freshen up before heading out for a fun evening at a local bar. Enjoy cocktails with a view of the waterfront.

day 5
Historical Landmarks Tour
morning
:

Visit the Manatee Village Historical Park to explore the area’s rich history. Start your day by examining the historic buildings and learning about local heritage.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a nearby cafe before embarking on a walking tour of downtown Bradenton. Discover hidden gems and the city's unique architecture.

evening
:

Finish your day with a visit to the South Florida Museum for an evening event or lecture. Enjoy a casual dinner in the downtown area.

day 6
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Head to the Riverwalk for a fun-filled morning with playgrounds and splash pads for the kids. Pack a breakfast picnic to enjoy by the river.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a family-friendly restaurant, visit the Children's Museum for interactive exhibits. Spend quality time exploring fun learning activities.

evening
:

Cap the day off with a family dinner at a restaurant offering a kids menu. Enjoy ice cream or dessert at a local parlor afterward.

day 7
Wine and Dine Evening
morning
:

Spend your morning visiting local wineries for tastings and vineyard tours. Enjoy a light lunch at a cafe with a farm-to-table menu.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely drive along the scenic routes to explore more wineries. Pair your visits with gourmet cheese and charcuterie.

evening
:

Finish your day with a sumptuous dinner at a restaurant that features wine pairings. Enjoy live music or poetry reading for a lovely wrap-up.

day 8
Adventure Sports Day
morning
:

Kick off your morning with a surf lesson at the beach. Enjoy the thrill of riding the waves with an experienced instructor.

afternoon
:

After lunch, try your hand at fishing or join a snorkeling adventure. Experience the underwater beauty and local marine life.

evening
:

Relax and recount your day’s adventures over dinner at a local seafood shack. Enjoy the soothing beach ambiance to end your day.

day 9
Scenic Sunsets and Outdoor Fun
morning
:

Wake up early to hike at the nearby Myakka River State Park, reveling in the natural beauty. Enjoy a light breakfast at a local diner.

afternoon
:

Explore the park further with a bike ride or picnic at one of its many scenic spots. Take in the lush landscapes while enjoying a packed lunch.

evening
:

Find a peaceful spot at the park to enjoy a picturesque sunset. Afterward, venture back to town for a cozy dinner.

day 10
Festivals and Events
morning
:

Check the local calendar to see if any festivals are happening and plan your day around it. Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy breakfast vendors.

afternoon
:

Explore various booths and activities throughout the festival grounds. Enjoy food and entertainment while meeting local artisans.

evening
:

Wind down with evening concerts or festivities as the sun sets. Savor a casual dinner at one of the festival’s food trucks or stands.

Discover Bradenton

Read more in our Bradenton 2024 Travel Guide.

Bradenton Travel Guide