Things to Do
From outdoor recreation to arts and culture, Manatee County has something for everyone! Learn more about fun things to do in the area:
Outdoor Recreation
With miles of white sand beaches and abundant sunshine, Manatee County is a great place to relax by the ocean. Golf, tennis, biking, climbing, boating, hiking, water skiing and fishing are also popular activities in the area. In addition, Manatee County has several lakes, rivers and parks to explore.
Food and Drink
Bradenton has a vibrant food scene with many restaurants offering live music and entertainment. Fresh seafood is widely available, including grouper, snapper, stone crab and more. The Bradenton Farmers' Market offers fresh, local produce.
Arts and Culture
The Bradenton Riverwalk is an outdoor park that spans downtown and features an amphitheater for free concerts, the Manatee Performing Arts Center, the South Florida Museum, the Bishop Planetarium, the Parker Manatee Aquarium and much more. The Village of the Arts, Florida's largest community of artists, is also nearby, and features a variety of galleries, studios, restaurants, bakeries, specialty shops and more.
Shopping
From trendy downtown shops to large shopping malls, there's something for everyone. The University Town Center Mall has more than 150 stores and restaurants while the Ellenton Premium Outlets is one of the largest on Florida's West Coast. The Village of the Arts offers a variety of vintage jewelry and handmade items.
Nearby Cities
Sarasota, St. Petersburg and Tampa are all within 30-45 minutes from Manatee Memorial Hospital and are known for their art and culture, nightlife, music, shows and world-class restaurants.