Free Things to Do on Anna Maria Island and Bradenton
Planning a trip can be tricky, especially when there are so many fun things to do. Bradenton and Anna Maria Island are no exception. Both offer a wide range of activities and events for all ages. But the best part is that there are a number of free activities in these areas. From museums and historic sights to hiking, biking, and swimming, there is never a shortage of activities. Here is a list of free things to do in Bradenton and Anna Maria Island.
Bradenton
Known for its pristine beaches and rich history, Bradenton is a beautiful spot for a vacation. Sitting on the Gulf of Mexico, this town offers endless indoor and outdoor fun! Here is a list of free things to do in Bradenton.
Bradenton Riverwalk
Following the banks of the Manatee River, this 2-mile paved trail is the perfect place for many outdoor activities. Bike along the river and look at the interactive public art displays, or take a skateboard to the skatepark. If you have younger kids, the splash pad and playground are crowd-pleasers. If you’re looking for an activity for the whole group, grab a volleyball and head over to the beach volleyball courts. For a more laid-back experience, grab your fishing gear and cast a line! You can even create a scavenger hunt to find local wildlife, plants, and other landmarks in the area to keep it interesting! At the end of your day, stop by Mattison’s Riverwalk Grille. This local favorite is a great place to watch the sunset and enjoy a little grub.
Cortez Beach
Pack a lunch and spend the day on Cortez Beach. Spend the day splashing around in the crystal blue waters, building sand castles with the white sugary sand, and utilize the picnic area to eat and hang out. When you’re done in the water, spend some time on the trails observing the local wildlife!
Palma Sola Botanical Park
This 10-acre sanctuary is home to turtles, local birds, fish, butterflies, and various plants and trees. It is the perfect place for an afternoon stroll and ideal for nature photographers and painters. The park welcomes those who want to spend time capturing the beauty of this garden. Be sure to look at their website for upcoming events and information on the park.
Village of the Arts
This unique neighborhood is a fascinating combination of live/work spaces for artists and creatives. This restored 1920s neighborhood is full of renovated bungalows that now house various shops, restaurants, and creative experiences. Whether you are looking to just stroll through or go for a little shopping spree, this unique community is a must-see! If you are in town on the first Friday or Saturday of the month, be sure to hit the art walk, where you can find live music, food vendors, and local art.
Robinson Nature Preserve
This preserve is an excellent place for biking, walking, or kayaking! With 750 acres of preserved wetlands and marsh, it’s a great way to see the natural beauty of the Florida wetlands. If you have kids who love to explore and climb, be sure to take them to “The Nest.”
Anna Maria Island
Known for its white beaches, crystal blue waters, and quaint shopping district, Anna Maria Island is the perfect stop on your trip. Here is a list of free things to do on Anna Maria Island. Explore Anna Maria Island rentals.
Coquina Beach
If you are looking for a relaxing beach day, then this is the place for you! This beach offers long stretches of white sandy beach, endless sand dollars and shells to collect, and crystal blue waters. Less busy than Holmes Beach, this is an ideal spot for a family outing. There are changing stations, grills, and picnic tables available for use. There are also lifeguards on duty, giving parents peace of mind. And if you’re lucky, you may even spot a few dolphins!
Holmes Beach
Surrounded by crystal clear waters, this beach has been compared to the Caribbean! Watch as manatees swim by, kids and families play in the sand, and sun-lovers soak up the UVs. This beach also has a cafe, public restrooms, picnic areas, and places to rent chairs and umbrellas. While it can be a busy beach, it is a crowd favorite for a reason! Explore Holmes Beach rentals.
Anna Maria City Pier
This pier is the perfect spot to fish or watch the sunset! You will find anglers reeling in Redfish, Snook, Spanish Mackerel, Pompano, Sharks, and more. If fishing is not on your list, simply stroll down the pier and enjoy as the waves crash and the sun sets!
Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum
If you are looking for a fun indoor activity to fill an hour or two, then the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum is a great stop. This museum focuses on the history of how the island went from a jungle to a tourist attraction. Be sure to snap a pic inside the city jail during your visit!
Anna Maria Island Beach Walk
This 7-mile out-and-back trail is great for a leisurely jog, hike, or bike ride along some of the most breathtaking beaches. This trail takes about 2 hours to complete, which is a great way to fill part of your day! Be sure to leave dogs and other animals at home, as this is not a pet-friendly trail.
Trolley
This free trolley is the best way to experience all that the island has to offer! Sit back, relax, and enjoy as you see the sights of local businesses, beaches, wildlife, and more. This trolley runs daily from 6 am to 10 pm, starting at Anna Maria Pier all the way to Bradenton Beach. Be sure to download the app and stay current on running times and stops!
Stay with us!
With so many free activities in Bradenton and Anna Maria Island, there is never a shortage of things to do. If you are looking for a home base for all your adventures, then look no further! At Island Dreams, we offer nearly 60 vacation properties on Anna Maria Island. From oceanfront condos to spacious homes, we have something for everyone! Browse rentals here.
