Hello From
Bradenton!
“Where the River Meets the Gulf and Culture Meets Community.”

Bradenton
A City and the County Seat in Manatee County, Florida
Bradenton is a vibrant coastal city located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, known for its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and laid-back lifestyle. With a rich history and a growing economy, it’s a popular destination for both tourists and residents seeking a mix of urban amenities and beach-town charm.

Robinson Preserve Tower, Bradenton, FL
Photo by Ryan Thorpe on Unsplash
Location & Size
Bradenton is located along the south bank of the Manatee River, just south of Tampa Bay in Southwest Florida and is just shy of 15 square miles large.
Founded
Bradenton was founded in 1842 and later incorporated in 1903. Named after Dr. Joseph Braden, who operated a large plantation of various crops on the west bank of what is now known as the Braden river.
Population
Estimated 57,000 as of 2023
Known For
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Beautiful Beaches: Near Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key
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The Village of the Arts: A vibrant district of live-work art spaces
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LECOM Park: Spring training home of the Pittsburgh Pirates
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Manatee Riverwalk: A scenic waterfront park and walking path
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Cultural Scene: The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, art galleries, and performing arts
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Agriculture and History: Known for citrus and agriculture in its early days
Cost of living
Median Income: $60,000
Median Home Price: $360,000.00
Median Rent: 1 Bedroom – $1,400, 2 Bedroom – $1,800
Things to do
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The Riverwalk: Parks, splash pads, and public art along the waterfront
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Robinson Preserve: Nature trails, kayaking, and bird watching
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De Soto National Memorial: Historic site commemorating the landing of Hernando de Soto
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South Florida Museum (Bishop Museum): Home to manatees and natural history exhibits
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ArtCenter Manatee: Local arts hub with classes and galleries
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Bradenton Farmers’ Market: Weekly downtown market with fresh produce and artisan goods
Fun Facts
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Baseball Heritage: LECOM Park is one of the oldest stadiums used for spring training in the U.S.
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Film Location: Bradenton has been used in scenes for films and TV due to its scenic coastal look.
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Manatee County’s Namesake: The area is named after the gentle sea creatures that inhabit nearby waters.
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Home of Tropicana: The famous juice brand started in Bradenton and still has operations there.
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