Bradenton vacation rentals

Heritage and culture near Bradenton vacation home rentals

If you love old-world destinations, say "yay" to a Bradenton vacay—this place was first explored by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, and established as a town in the 19th century. Its long history shows in its buildings, including the early 20th-century Manatee County Courthouse and the Iron Block Building, which was built in 1896. From your Bradenton vacation rental, it's a quick drive to Bradenton Beach, where you can take a dip in the calm waters while watching the young'uns build castles in the fine white sand. Bradenton Beach is relaxed and family-friendly, the foil to bustling Siesta Key down south.

Tourist attractions near Bradenton vacation rentals

The South Florida Museum is a 3-in-1 destination. Apart from exhibits tracing the gulf coast's natural and cultural history all the way back to prehistoric times, the museum also encompasses the Bishop Planetarium and the Parker Manatee Aquarium. Then, there's the Manatee Village Historical Park, a living history museum where restored buildings let you in on the simple life of the area's early settlers. Hardcore history buffs can also swing by the Madira Bickel Mound, the first one in Florida to be named a State Archaeological Site. Don't knock the flat-topped lump of sand and debris—it's helped archaeologists identify 3 periods of Native American culture!

Activities near Bradenton vacation homes

Your Bradenton vacation rental is a great base for checking out the vibrant atmosphere downtown. Snap colorful photos for your Instagram grid as you walk past the eye-catching restored cottages at The Village of the Arts. Local artists live and work in these brightly painted houses, which sometimes double as restaurants, artisanal bakeries, and art galleries. A 1.5-mile park along the Manatee River, the RiverWalk has a day dock for boaters and a fishing pier for anglers. Tots can run amok amidst the Family Fun Zone's splash fountains while the teens make a beeline for the skate park.

Local weather for your stay in Bradenton vacation rentals

Bradenton has a humid subtropical climate typical of the southern United States, which means you can expect hot summers and mild winters. It can get rather sizzling in June to September, with highs that reach up to 91 degrees, but as the temperatures climb, so do the chances of rainfall. The rest of the year is pretty warm, even in the winter months of December to February, when temps range from the mid-50s to the low 70s. Bradenton vacation rentals tend to be easier on the wallet in the winter.

Exploring the beaches and other natural features in Bradenton

Whether you're looking for fun outdoor activities or just want to take in the scenery, Bradenton is a great spot to appreciate mother nature. Here are some of the area’s most eye-catching natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:

• Lido Beach (13.2 mi / 21.2 km)
• Siesta Key Beach (16.2 mi / 26 km)
• St. Armands Circle (12.5 mi / 20.1 km)
• Riverwalk (0.5 mi / 0.7 km)
• Cortez Beach (8 mi / 12.8 km)
• Coquina Beach (8 mi / 12.9 km)

Best beaches near Bradenton vacation rentals

Bradenton boasts beautiful beach spots for sunbathing and swimming. Vacation homes are available near places like Anna Maria Public Beach, a serene beach with calm waters for children, and Palma Sola Causeway Park, a bayfront beach park with scenic views, hiking trails, and picnic areas. There’s also Lake Manatee State Park, a waterfront beach park with freshwater boating and fishing.

Transportation to and around Bradenton

The nearest airport is in Sarasota-Bradenton Intl. Airport (SRQ), located 7.8 mi (12.6 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you can also fly into St. Petersburg-Clearwater Intl. Airport (PIE), which is 29 mi (46.7 km) away.

Romantic vacation homes in Bradenton

Couples can enjoy an array of romantic locations in Bradenton. Vacation rentals can be found near places like Emerson Point Preserve, a lush wildlife and plant preserve on acres of land with historic sites, and Palma Sola Botanical Park, a landscaped garden with exotic plants and lakes in a tropical setting. You'll also like the Neal Preserve, a serene wetland habitat with boardwalks and a tower for sunset viewing.