Explore the Bradenton Riverwalk

When you’re searching for fun things to do in Anna Maria Island, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the Bradenton Riverwalk! This family-friendly destination always has something fun going on, so you can spend a quality day with the ones you love most. Before you come down and visit our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, read this complete guide to making the most of your time at the Bradenton Riverwalk! 

About the Bradenton Riverwalk

The Riverwalk Bradenton, FL, is an incredible destination to attend annual events, enjoy the sunshine, and experience one of the best attractions in the Anna Maria Island area. This 1.5-mile park spans downtown Bradenton, located just across the bridge into the Florida mainland and offering a stunning view of the Manatee River. While the Riverwalk has been a popular attraction for years now (ever since it opened in 2012), its recently announced expansion has brought even more attention to this area!

bradenton riverwalk state park

Things to Do 

So, what can you get involved in while you’re at the Riverwalk in Bradenton, FL? There are so many activities that it would be nearly impossible to name them all! Visitors can enjoy a pickup game of beach volleyball or a wellness class like yoga or tai chi. Watch a boat race from Regatta Plaza, have a riverside picnic on the Great Lawn, or check out the award-winning skate park. If you’re looking for indoor activities, bring your kids to the Family Fun Zone & Splash Pad! There’s also some truly amazing artwork on display here, so simply walking down the street can be a huge source of entertainment. 

Where to Eat

But there’s more than just artwork and activities to experience at the Riverwalk. You can also experience some of the best cuisines that Bradenton has to offer! If you want something quick and healthy, the 2nd Street Bistro is the place to be. Got a craving for Italian? Head into Fav’s Italian Cucina. Bring any amazing leftovers back with you to one of our Anna Maria Island rentals.

person cutting into eggs benedict
Photo from Unsplash

Get a delicious brunch at Robin’s Downtown Café, relax with a delicious brew at 3 Keys Brewing and Eatery, or cater to the vegans in your group at Good Fortune Juicery and Kitchen. And this is just the beginning! The Bradenton Riverwalk has a little something to suit every palate. 

Riverwalk Expansion

It might seem hard to believe that more can be added to the already expansive list of things to do at the Riverwalk, but there are some exciting plans in store! The Riverwalk East Expansion will add even more “passive recreation activities” to the existing offerings at the Riverwalk. But what does that mean exactly? Think about recreational activities that can be taken at your own pace, such as walking, biking, watching wildlife, and photography! This expansion is being made possible thanks to the generous donations of local businesses as well as the community at large, so it’s definitely a welcome addition to the town! 

Plan Your Vacation

Ready to experience what all the hype is about? Come check out the Bradenton Riverwalk for yourself when you stay in one of our Bradenton rentals! A Paradise Rentals is happy to have vacation properties big and small, perfect for any group. Contact us today to learn more! 

Directions and Parking

The Bradenton Riverwalk is located at 452 3rd Avenue West in Bradenton. You’ll find parking at this address and can also park at several lots throughout downtown for a total of more than 1,700 parking spots! To get to the Riverwalk from Anna Maria Island, make your way to FL-64 E/Manatee Avenue and follow it for 8.4 miles. Then turn left onto 6th Avenue West, then make another left onto 9th Street West. Turn right onto 3rd Avenue West, then make a final left turn, and the Riverwalk will be on your left.