Aquariums and Zoos
From sea turtles and manatees to exotic cats and tropical birds, there’s no shortage of wildlife adventures along the Gulf Coast. These family-friendly attractions offer up-close encounters, educational exhibits, and unforgettable nature experiences perfect for all ages.
- Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium Now open at its new state of the art location
3000 University Pkwy, Sarasota • mote.org - The Bishop Museum of Science & Nature + Parker Manatee Habitat
201 10th St. W., Bradenton • bishopscience.org
- Sarasota Jungle Gardens – 10+ acres of exotic animals and kid-friendly shows
3701 Bay Shore Rd. • sarasotajunglegardens.com
- Big Cat Habitat Gulf Coast Sanctuary – Rescue center for tigers, lions & bears
7101 Palmer Blvd. • bigcathabitat.org
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium – Home to rescued dolphins, sea turtles & marine rehab programs
249 Windward Passage, Clearwater • cmaquarium.org
- The Florida Aquarium – Massive collection of sea life, hands-on exhibits, and a splash zone for kids
701 Channelside Dr., Tampa • flaquarium.org
- ZooTampa at Lowry Park – Award-winning zoo with manatees, primates, and interactive family fun
1101 W Sligh Ave., Tampa • zootampa.org
Arts, Culture and Museums
Dive into the vibrant arts and culture scene that stretches from Anna Maria Island to Bradenton and beyond. Whether it’s historic walking tours, curated galleries, or performing arts, these local spots deliver a creative side of coastal Florida that’s worth exploring.
- Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum – Island history + restored jail
402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria • amihs.org
- The Ringling Museum of Art & Ca’ d’Zan Mansion – World-class art + historic estate
5401 Bay Shore Rd. • ringling.org
- Art Center Sarasota – Free exhibits & workshops from local and regional artists
707 N Tamiami Trail • artsarasota.org
- Selby Botanical Gardens – A living museum with art installations among tropical plants
1534 Mound St. • selby.org
- Manatee Performing Arts Center – Broadway-style shows and concerts
502 3rd Ave. W., Bradenton • manateeperformingartscenter.com
- Sarasota Opera House – Historic venue with classic and contemporary productions
61 N. Pineapple Ave. • sarasotaopera.org
- Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall – Touring theater, music & comedy events
777 N Tamiami Trail • vanwezel.org
- Downtown Bradenton’s Village of the Arts – Art walks, galleries, and studios in a historic district
12th Ave W & surrounding streets • villageofthearts.com
- Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy – Lighthearted outdoor sculptures and art
2121 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota • whimsymuseum.org
Parks and Preserves
Reconnect with nature at some of the most scenic outdoor spots on Florida’s Gulf Coast. From peaceful mangrove preserves to riverside trails, Bradenton and Anna Maria Island offer the perfect settings for hiking, kayaking, birdwatching, and family picnics, all just a short drive from your vacation rental.
- Robinson Preserve – Kayaking, walking trails, observation tower
- De Soto National Memorial – Historic riverside park with trails and views
- G.T. Bray Park – Community park with sports fields and walking paths
- Heron’s Nest Nature Park – Quiet, natural trails in Lakewood Ranch
- Eloise Werlin Park – Waterfront park near downtown Bradenton
- Myakka State Park – Day trip-worthy for hiking, wildlife, and airboat tours
- South Lido County Park (for guests venturing south to Sarasota)
Golf Courses Near Anna Maria Island
Enjoy world-class golf just minutes from the Gulf Coast shoreline. Whether you’re looking for a member-only club on the island or a public championship layout inland, here are quality options known for scenic views, great service, and enjoyable play.
- Key Royale Club – Holmes Beach (Anna Maria Island)
- Manatee County Golf Course – West Bradenton (near Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria)
- Bradenton Country Club – Bradenton
- Timber Creek Golf Course – Bradenton
- IMG Academy Golf Club – South Bradenton (approx. 20 minutes from Anna Maria Island)
- Pinebrook Ironwood Golf Course – Just outside Bradenton
- Waterlefe Golf & River Club – Bradenton