Bradenton sits on the west central coastline of Florida, just south of Tampa and north of Sarasota. Its location on the Manatee River and Intracoastal Waterway provides visitors and locals with excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Bradenton is conveniently located for beach access on the barrier islands of Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island. Visitors will find many things to do and see in Bradenton.
From Florida's earliest animal inhabitants to archaic peoples to our modern past of a few generations ago, the South Florida Museum has collected artifacts and created exhibits that bring it all to life. Environmental exhibits help visitors understand habitats, how they have evolved and where they are going. The museum houses the Tallant Collection, an archaeological gold mine of artifacts, and also the Bishop Planetarium and the Parker Manatee Aquarium. As of early 2010, admission rates for the museum were $15.95 for adults, $13.95 for seniors 65 and over and $11.95 for children between 4 and 12; younger children are admitted free.
South Florida Museum
201 10th St. W.
Bradenton, FL 34206
941-746-4131
southfloridamuseum.org
Palma Sola Botanical Park in northwest Bradenton sits on 10 acres of carefully cultivated land, which showcases rare palms, flowering trees and other subtropical plants. Patrons enjoy taking art and yoga classes or simply exploring the serene surroundings. Park facilities can be rented for events and are often the site of weddings, both inside and outdoors. Admission to Palma Sola is free. The park is planning aggressive improvements and hopes to create more themed gardens, improve irrigation and build boardwalks for better access to various areas.
Palma Sola Botanical Park
9800 17th Ave. N.W.
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-761-2866
palmasolabp.com
For drag racing enthusiasts, Bradenton Motorsports Park is the place to be. The park maintains a 1/4-mile National Hot Rod Association drag strip and hosts a variety of events throughout the year. A concession stand is open during events, and Wi-Fi is available. Most Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays are Fun and Grudge Racing days, open to all who want to put their own vehicles to the test. Other events include the Florida Bracket Championships and Street Bike Kaos. Prices vary depending on event, but many are accessible for a gate fee of around $15.
Bradenton Motorsports Park
21000 E. State Road 64
Bradenton, FL 34212
941-748-1320
bradentonmotorsports.com
Caddy Shanks has three golf simulators with replicas of more than 60 famous golf courses. Virtual golf--"You can almost smell the grass!"--makes it easy to practice regardless of the weather. The PGA-endorsed simulators make accurate detections from the swing, sending virtual golf balls on true trajectories. Visitors can use their own clubs or rent from the house. In addition to the golf simulators, Caddy Shanks offers racing simulators, Wii games and a rock band simulator. Rates for the golf simulator are based on time rather than per person. The Sims Surround is $40 for an hour, $25 for half an hour and $12.50 for 15 minutes.
Caddy Shanks Virtual Golf
8207 Tourist Center Drive
Bradenton, FL 34201
941-870-4770
caddyshanks.com
