Home Buying Guide Bradenton FloridaIf you are searching for a home in Bradenton, Florida, you are searching in the right place. Bradenton, Florida, also known as the “friendly city,” welcomes new residents and tourists to explore this historical city. The city of Bradenton is full of history, surrounded by fresh and salt water, gorgeous views, and plenty of outdoor activities for all ages.

History of Bradenton

In the 1850s, an early settler named Joseph Braden built a sugar plantation called the “Braden Castle” and a sugar mill where the Braden and Manatee Rivers connect. Parts of the “Braden Castle” are still there today.

The property collected much debt, eventually causing Joseph Braden to lose the property. Then, in the 1870s, when Fort Braden was established, business owners and tourists began to flood the area.

In remembrance of Joseph Braden, the city’s first mayor suggested the name be Bradentown. However, in the early 1900s, the railroad began building in the town, and the name was changed to the current spelling.

The city began thriving in the 20s, becoming a tourist destination. Bradenton continued to grow, adding a city hall and courthouse. With the continuous tourism in the area, the city quickly got the nickname “The Friendly City.”

Neighborhoods in Bradenton

While Bradenton is not loaded with restaurants and shopping centers at every intersection, Bradenton has many beautiful neighborhoods, all varying in styles and sizes. In addition, Bradenton is known for being a “resort” town, making it feel like residents are on vacation all year.

Citrus Meadows

Citrus Meadows is a well-established and beautiful community for those just graduating from college or newly married couples. The community has mostly smaller homes, making them very affordable. The houses are very cozy and are great starter homes for first-time homebuyers.

Related: Homes for Sale in Citrus Meadows

Point Pleasant

With fewer than 100 homes in the neighborhood, Point Pleasant homes for sale vary in style, making each home unique and different from every other. From Craftsman, Colonial, and Spanish-style homes, Point Pleasant is one of the more popular neighborhoods in Bradenton. Point Pleasant also has mid-rise condos and apartments for those not ready to purchase a home.

Wares Creek

Suppose you are searching for a bungalow or a home you can renovate, look at the Wares Creek neighborhood homes for sale. The neighborhood offers more of a musical vibe, with many residents being musicians. In addition, Wares Creek has many waterfront properties and access to a nearby creek.

Azalea Park

Azalea Park is an upscale private neighborhood located in West Bradenton. The area is known for being one of Bradenton’s safer and quieter neighborhoods. Azalea Park is within walking distance of De Soto National Memorial Park and provides stunning views of the Manatee River. In addition, Azalea Park has easy access to shopping, restaurants, beach areas, the Robinson Preserve, and more.

Related: Azalea Park Homes for Rent

Beaches Near Bradenton FloridaBeaches Near Bradenton Florida

The most beautiful beaches are located a short drive away and are accessible by free bridges from Bradenton, Florida.

Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island is a peaceful and secluded barrier island that offers beautiful views of the Sunshine Skyway bridge and the sounds of waves hitting the shore.

On Anna Maria Island’s northern end, Anna Maria offers beach-goers more than 1,000 feet of beach area overlooking Tampa Bay. In addition, Anna Maria Island has restrooms, showers, and picnic areas conveniently available for visitors.

Related: Anna Maria Island Homes for Rent

Bradenton Beach

Bradenton Beach is a small city on the southern tip of Anna Maria Island that is popular for its fishing piers, white-sandy beaches, and restaurants. In addition, Bradenton Beach has a charming shopping strip that includes unique homemade goods such as specialty olive oils, homemade clothing, small art galleries, and French milled soaps.

Bradenton Beach is excellent for walking along the coast, finding seashells, enjoying snacks, and relaxing. A fun fact about Bradenton Beach is that drive-through restaurants are prohibited.

Related: Bradenton Beach Homes for Rent

Holmes Beach

Located in the middle of Anna Maria Island, Holmes Beach offers a small-town atmosphere with plenty of activities for the whole family. Holmes beach is perfect for surfing, bodyboarding, or sport fishing in the Gulf. Look at Holmes Beach Homes for Sale if you are interested in living on a breathtaking beach!

Fun Activities in Bradenton

Being proud of its history, Bradenton, Florida, is full of historical museums, architecture, and nature reserves, which all welcome and attract many tourists.

Village of the Arts

Village of the Arts is what it sounds like; It is a village of old cottages that house endless art galleries and studios, coffee shops, and restaurants. The historical cottages are brightly painted and decorated with different kinds of art. You can enter the houses to browse and stop by one of the many coffee shops for a delicious cup of coffee.

Lake Manatee State Park

Lake Manatee State Park is the perfect place for outdoor activities. From kayaking, swimming in the lake, hiking, camping, and more, Lake Manatee is a peaceful place to visit any time of the year. There aren’t any manatees, but you do have to watch out for alligators!

LECOM Park

LECOM Park was built in 1923 and is one of the oldest stadiums in the United States that is still in use. The historical baseball park is home to the Bradenton Marauders and the Pittsburg Pirates spring training park.

The stadium has undergone multiple renovations to add modern touches and amenities to the park while maintaining the original Spanish-style appearance.

Palma Sola Botanical Park

Palma Sola Botanical Park is 10 acres of natural beauty. The park has abundant colorful plants, flowers, tropical plants, fruit trees, three lakes, and butterflies galore. Palma Sola Botanical Park has screened-in pavilions and gazabos for visitors to enjoy nature for a few hours before going to the beach.