Bradenton BeachLocated on the southern-most part of Tampa Bay, the Bradenton Area is a great place to explore historic attractions, fishing adventures, golf and shopping. Bisected by the Manatee River, the small city of Bradenton lies on the river's southern shore with the municipalities of Palmetto and Ellenton to the north.

A Little History

In 1539 Hernando DeSoto, the Spanish conquistador, landed at the current site of DeSoto National Memorial and began his 4000 mile search for El Dorado, the lost city of gold. Florida's Gulf IslandsOne of the next settlers who came to the area in the 1800's was Joseph Braden, a sugar planter for whom the city was named. The area remains a center of agriculture featuring tomatoes, cut flowers and home of Tropicana.

Current Points of Interest

Visitor's can experience Florida's history at the South Florida Museum, visit Snooty the Manatee at Parker Aquarium , learn of the lost Indian tribes of Southwest Florida and explore 1200 year-old temple mounds at Emerson Point, see the oldest Antebellum Plantation House at Gamble Plantation or visit the Manatee Historical Village.

Manatee Chamber of CommerceShopping is also a preferred pastime in the Bradenton Area. Ellenton is home to the largest discount designer outlet in Southeastern US*Prime Outlet Mall. The beaches are full of fabulous boutiques and galleries and the outdoor and indoor markets of the Red Barn Flea Market offer many bargains.