THINGS TO SEE & DO
Amazing Entertainment
Come Explore Endless Adventures
Many visitors and residents are attracted to the area because of the miles of beautiful beaches and outstanding weather. What they quickly find is that many charming shops, tantalizing meals, historical landmarks, cultural happenings, and recreational/sports options await all ages and interests in Manatee County. Use this list of Chamber Member entities – and the categorical listings of attractions, entertainment, shopping, and retail, as well as culture and arts at the end of this book – as a go-to guide.
ACTIVITIES AND AMUSEMENTS
Altitude Trampoline Park – Indoor Trampoline Park. There’s always an opportunity to experience play – another wall to climb, another game of dodgeball, another hoop to shoot, another day to fly on the trapeze or wipe out with friends. altitudetrampolinepark.com/locations/bradenton
Bowlero Bradenton – Get the ball rolling at this popular bowling alley. Bowlers love its retro-chic feel, offering 64 lanes in a newly renovated facility. After a solid game, guests can enjoy pool tables, dart boards and arcade games. bowlerocorp.com
Grover’s Axe – The only axe throwing company in West Florida that uses projection technology to allow customers to choose their targets such as a progressive standard bullseye, zombies, tic tac toe or connect four. groversaxe.com
Manatee County Fair – This 11-day event, held in January, is an annual entertainment favorite and showcase for agriculture and livestock. Attendees enjoy mouthwatering treats, thrilling midway rides, livestock shows and concerts. manateecountyfair.com
Premier Escape Adventures – Whether you go with friends, family or the office, escape rooms are all the rage for fun team-building activities. Puzzles, games, hints and clues add up to fun adventure at Premier Escape Adventures. premierescapeadventures.com
Riverwalk – With an amphitheater, a skateboard park, a splash park, a day boat dock and sand volleyball court, the award-winning Riverwalk – in downtown Bradenton along the Manatee River – is the perfect place to attend a concert or festival; walk, run or bike; or take the kids for a great day of play.
realizebradenton.com/riverwalk
Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf – This miniature golf course features 18 holes of adventure-style golf in which you’ll navigate through caves, pirates ships, waterfalls and live alligators that you can feed. smugglersgolf.com
TreeUmph! Adventure Course – Get your feet off the ground and into the trees at Southwest Florida’s premier 5-star rated aerial obstacle course. You can swing into action for a day of full play on six progressive courses with wobbly bridges, suspended nets, swinging logs, foot bridges, Tarzan ropes and zip lines. treeumph.com
ANIMAL SANCTUARIES
Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary – Guests learn about large felines and other exotic animals that have found permanent homes in this safe haven. Tortoises, a bear and ligers – a cross between a tiger and a lion – are residents, too. A petting zoo is fun for the young and the young at heart. bigcathabitat.org
Donte’s Den Animal Sanctuary & Hospital –
a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of the animals in our care. Our mission is to rescue and care for abandoned, neglected, and abused dogs and cats, and provide them with a safe and loving environment. dontesden.org
Myakka Elephant Ranch – From tusk to tail, African to Asian, elephant conservation is the primary purpose. Intimate elephant encounters guided by professional caregivers will enlighten, educate and provide for an unforgettable experience. Knowledge and understanding are the gateway to global conservation and restoration of these majestic mammals. Passion, dedication and collective efforts from the public ensure continued success in this vitally important endeavor. myakkaelephantranch.org
The Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Center – This habitat holds nearly 60,000 gallons of water, including a medical pool offering both deep and shallow water, allowing the manatees to maintain natural feeding behaviors. An exhibit area within the facility helps to educate the public about manatee anatomy and offers above and below water viewing. bishopscience.org
ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES MERCHANDISE
Emiline’s Antique Mall – In a showroom of over 9,000 square feet, Emiline’s houses more than 35 quality dealers with extensive knowledge from primitives to vintage and collectibles. emilinesantiquemall.com
Sarasota Architectural Salvage – A home furnishing, décor and furniture store filled with examples of reclaimed materials transformed into works of art suitable for any home style and to fit any budget. Sustainable products are made of reclaimed materials, made by artisans, made of recycled materials and/or are recyclable. sarasotasalvage.com
Saw Blossom – We refinish and restore classic old vintage pieces of furniture and update, repurpose, and make new. We sell eclectic, antiques, small home décor, and accents. We do custom refinishing for homeowners, existing furniture, paint art on canvas (beach art mostly), and offer furniture workshops. sawblossom.com
AQUARIUMS
Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium – An independent, nonprofit marine research institution comprising world-class marine scientists committed to the belief that the conservation ands sustainable use of our oceans begins with research and education. Our manatees, sharks, sea turtles and otters are ready to meet you 365 days a year. Visitors can explore touch pools, hands-on exhibits and windows into the science and conservation of Mote.
mote.org
ART GALLERIES AND
DIY WORKSHOPS
ArtCenter Manatee – The mission of ArtCenter Manatee is to provide a welcoming, professional environment, educate novice and experienced artists of all ages, provide galleries to exhibit and market original artwork and enhance the visual arts in Manatee County through special events and outreach programs. artcentermanatee.org
Island Gallery Studios – A not-for-profit art gallery with 30 artists displaying and selling their creations to residents and visitors to Anna Maria Island and beyond. The gallery provides artists with a unique opportunity to share their creations, volunteer in administering the gallery, and serve the greater Bradenton community by promoting the arts. islandgallerywest.com
Parrish Arts Council – A nonprofit organization that financially supports art education for K-12, PAC provides art workshops and classes for people of all ages and sponsors art exhibitions, hosts art-themed community social events and facilitates art sales in a way that is affordable to local artists. parrishartscouncil.org
State College of Florida Fine Art Gallery –
The State College of Florida Fine Art Gallery holds fast to traditions but steps into bold new bounds inside an inclusive and innovative gallery. Objects from the permanent collection are displayed on all three college campuses.
scf.edu/academics/fineperformingarts/fineartgallery
Witchgrass Studio – Fused glass and silver art & jewelry gallery, and working studio. Witchgrass studio offers functional and non functional art pieces along with classes and private parties. witchgrass.studio
BREWERIES AND DISTILLERIES
Inner Compass Brewing Company at Lakewood Ranch – Enjoy a wide variety of craft brewed beers, selected wines and full food menu of items guaranteed to satisfy the whole family. Entertainment and games are available for adults and kids with outdoor seating and a spacious lakefront beer garden. Pet friendly. innercompassbrewingcompany.com
Loaded Cannon Distillery – A premium handcrafted spirits distillery where you can find Florida in a bottle. Manatee County’s first distillery and the first in the area to produce more than rum. The distillery sources its key ingredients right here in the Sunshine State and offers a tasting room with tours of the process. loadedcannondistillery.com
Motorworks Brewing – Established in 2014, Motorworks is Florida’s Best Large Brewery (2017). Weekly events such as live music, karaoke, trivia and corn hole make the brewery a must-visit destination. Taste award-winning brews in Florida’s largest beer garden and party the night away under the stars. motorworksbrewing.com
DANCE STUDIOS
Dance University – We aspire to create and nurture a love for dance and provide technique training that can be brought to life in a variety of dance styles. Each dancer is deeply encouraged at every stage of dance progression to promote self esteem, leadership and team building skills.
danceufl.com
Fred Astaire Lakewood Ranch – From wedding dance instruction, a new hobby or way to connect with your partner, improving your social life, physical and emotional health, or taking your dance skills to the next level, dancing with Fred Astaire Dance Studios will result in faster learning, higher levels of achievement – and lots of smiles.
fredastaire.com
Miss Jodi’s School of Dance – Our Dance Studio is truly one of a kind. From our unique atmosphere to our state-of-the-art facility, everything was carefully thought out in order to give our dancers and gymnasts the best possible experience. We pride ourselves on being positive, friendly and personable for all levels. 100% recreational and FUN! missjodischoolofdance.com
Sarabay Dance Club – Since 1989, Sarabay Dance Club has been dubbed Bradenton’s Favorite ‘’Family’’ Dance Studio with a reputation for unparalleled quality and big hearts for their surrounding community. They provide personalized, caring instruction for students of all ages and skill levels. sarabaydanceclub.com
Slick Motion Studios – Premiere dance studio offering high quality instruction for students 5 years and older. We focus on the holistic development of our students including strength flexibility technique & character. slickmotionstudios.com
Star Academy of Dance & Aerial Arts – Dance & Aerial Studio for ages 2 and up (including adults!) and all skill levels. Star Academy offers ballet, jazz, acrobatics, lyrical, pointe, hip-hop, tap, aerial silks, lyra and aerial yoga classes in a family-friendly environment. staracademyfl.com
DINING
While in Manatee County, your taste buds are always tempted. Partake of everything from the freshest seafood along Florida’s Gulf Coast to international cuisine to mouthwatering steaks and eclectic local spots. Check out the listings in this book’s directory for great dining suggestions.
FARMERS MARKETS
Bradenton Public Market – The Bradenton Public Market is a place where the community meets to enjoy fresh produce, local art, upbeat music, demonstrations by local chefs and family activities. Held Saturdays, from October through May, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., on Old Main Street in Downtown Bradenton. realizebradenton.com/farmers_market
The Farmer’s Market at Lakewood Ranch – This is a curated gathering of the best flavors in the region, cooking demonstrations and morning yoga. Offering organic produce, meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, breads, pasta, juices and prepared foods from over 90 vendors. Held Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch. lakewoodranch.com
FISHING CHARTERS, BOAT RENTALS AND WATER ADVENTURES
Annie’s Bait & Tackle – Offers inshore and offshore fishing charters where all equipment and licenses are included and they will clean and bag your catch. This full-service bait and tackle shop with live bait delivered fresh daily offers a selection of hooks, lures, frozen bait, terminal tackle, fuel, ice and fishing licenses to meet all your fishing needs.
anniesbaitandtackle.com
AR Freedom Jets – We are a Jet Ski rental business wherein we provide community-building relationships between local residents, local businesses, and tourists through the facilitation of bringing a fun and safe recreational experience out on our city’s beautiful waterways. ski-the-beach.com
Beach Bums – Voted by the AMI Sun’s Readers’ Choice Awards, Beach Bums is the best rental shop on Anna Maria Island for all your outdoor activity needs. They offer a meticulously maintained fleet of bikes, kayaks, paddle boards, surreys and golf carts. The adorable gift shop has something for everyone. beachbumsami.com
Cannons Marina – For more than 63 years, boaters have trusted Cannons when it’s time to buy, sell, rent and service their boats. This family-owned marina has remained deliberately small – a boutique marina with only the finest inventory of new and used boats. cannons.com
Compass Boat Rentals – If you’re looking to go dolphin watching, island exploring, fishing, or just go for a cruise and spend some time with family and friends, we are here to accommodate you! We specialize in long-term rentals starting at 3 days and up. We have the newest fleet of deck boats on the market.
Compassboatrentals.com
Cortez Deep Sea Fishing – A 30-year history of providing daily fishing trips off the shores of Anna Maria Island. cortezdeepseafishing.com
Fly AMI Parasail – Ready to explore Anna Maria Island? Fly AM Parasail is ready to show you a great experience for the whole family. Come join us and fly high, soar over the beautiful Gulf waters. Our island crew is ready to give you the best experience you’ve had on AMI! flyannamaria.com
Patriot Watersport – Enjoy your next water adventure with the region’s most reliable jet ski rental attraction. We offer hourly or full-day jet ski rentals and guided tours for an experience you will always remember. patriotwatersportjetskirental.com
Safe Harbor Marinas – Providing both wet slips and rack storage to recreational boaters. We’re home to the largest network of boatyards, technicians, and marine artisans in the world. shmarinas.com
Shore Thing Tiki Cruises – Locally owned and operated on Anna Maria Island, this homegrown crew knows the local waters and the best spots to cruise aboard the custom floating tiki lounge. Tour boat cruises to sandbars, sunsets, dolphin viewing and booze cruises. shorethingtikicruises.com
Sweet Sunsets & Dolphin Tours – Private boat tours customized to meet your specific requests. From leisurely and enjoyable cruising/sightseeing and sunset excursions to educational eco-dolphin expeditions that can include a sandbar with snorkeling and shelling, we promise our customers an experience to remember. sweetsunsetsdolphintours.net
YOLO Adventures – The crew offers more than 15 years of operating excursions on the water including parasailing, boat tours, fishing charters and snorkeling. floridafunboat.com
FLEA MARKETS
Red Barn Flea Market – The Red Barn combines a traditional flea market, plaza shops, food courts and open-air farmers markets in a 145,000-square-foot area. Enjoy 80,000 square feet of air-conditioned indoor shopping, fresh produce, entertainment and a variety of prepared foods and embark on a treasure hunt through more than 600 flea market booths and shops.
redbarnfleamarket.com
GOLF
Big Summer Golf Card Holdings – Big Summer Golf Card leads the market with best golf rates since 1992 – unlimited play and no blackouts! Just one card offers you the best value unrestricted golf possible at favorite courses in Southwest, South, Central and Northeast Florida (at participating courses).bigsummergolf.com
Bradenton Country Club – Founded in 1924, Bradenton Country Club is located on the majestic Gulf Coast of Southwest Florida. Home to an award-winning Donald Ross golf course, tennis, pickleball, fitness facility, swim center and a stately clubhouse, the club provides unmatched services and activities to its members and their guests. bradentoncc.org
The Concession Golf Club – This 18-hole private golf club in Eastern Manatee County offers high-end golf, lodging and dining to local and national membership.
theconcession.com
Esplanade Golf and Country Club – Offers 18 holes of breathtaking championship golf. An enjoyable round awaits players of all skill levels. The pro shop is stocked with the finest apparel and equipment. The friendly, courteous and experienced team of professionals are ready to serve you. A variety of lessons and clinics are offered.
esplanadelwr.com
IMG Academy Golf Club – Home to the IMG Academy golf students, the natural beauty of this is both rivaled and complemented by a great golf experience. The club features an 18-hole championship golf course, multiple practice areas and grille room and bar, as well as a fitness room with an array of fitness and cardio equipment. It is a true test for low handicap players, and also eminently playable for high handicappers who consider it extremely fair, yet challenging. imgacademygolfclub.com
Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club –
Offers three 18-hole championship golf courses, two of which are designed by world-renowned golf course architect and player Arnold Palmer. Each provides varied levels of challenge through length, bunker and water placement, forced carries and overall design. The club also offers two world-class practice facilities, each with 400-yard driving ranges. Its Golf Academy is the only one of its kind in the area, with programs to enhance your game at every skill level. lakewoodranchgolf.com
Palm Aire Country Club – Offers two
courses – the Champions Course and the Lakes Course – providing a fun, yet challenging experience for all golfers. palmaire.net
Peridia Golf & Country Club – Manatee County’s premier executive golf course awaits you at Peridia. Enjoy the casual elegance of country club dining in the dining rooms overlooking the 18th green. Open to the public and serving lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. peridiagcc.net
Rosedale Golf & Country Club – Rosedale Golf & Country Club complements its golf community with 18 holes of golf, tennis, pool, fitness and social events. Semi-private. Membership options include golf, tennis and social events for the family. A beautiful coastal motif clubhouse offers wonderful catering and event opportunities. rosedalecountryclub.com
Waterlefe Golf & River Club – This golf course is situated in a natural setting among five unforgettable signature golf holes that border the Manatee River. Designed by Ted McAnlis, the championship par 72 course offers eight tees ranging from 4,800 yards to 6,900 yards that are challenging and fun for golfers of all skill levels. waterlefegolfandriverclub.com
DAIRY FARMS, FARM TOURS
& ATTRACTIONS
Dakin Dairy Farms – The only family diary farm in Florida open to the public that produces and bottles their own milk right on the farm. Enjoy a tour of our farms, check out the corn maze, enjoy lunch in our Farm Café and take home a variety of milk, ice cream, and other homemade farm treats.
dakindairyfarms.com
Gamble Creek Farms – Their farmers have taken experience from their travels around the world and brought back the best products and techniques for Florida’s climate. Featuring fresh fruits and veggies, breads and pastries, poultry, beef, sausage, pork and seafood, milk, eggs, cheeses, specialty oils, coffees, plants & flowers. gamblecreekfarms.com
MOVIE THEATERS
Sarasota Film Society – For more than 20 years, the society has rolled out the red carpet with international flair as visitors and celebrities attend the Cine-World Film Festival every November. The event features some of the richest independent and artistic movies in the world. filmsociety.org
MUSEUMS
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature –
In the heart of downtown Bradenton, the museum is the largest natural and cultural history museum on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The Bishop interprets the region from the Pleistocene to the present. Highlights include fossil evidence of Florida’s earliest animal inhabitants, the Montague Tallant collection of prehistoric and early post-contact archeological artifacts and the Environmental Hall focusing on Florida’s ecology and biodiversity in the Pine Uplands and Riverine Galleries. It also houses the The Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Center and the planetarium. bishopscience.org
Family Heritage House Museum at State College of Florida – This venue shares an array of literature, artifacts and resources that chronicle the cultural and historical achievements of African Americans. The mission of the museum is to inspire children to have a passion for service, love of learning, respect for their ancestors and to assist in keeping the African American culture vibrant and alive. familyheritagehousemuseum.com
Florida Maritime Museum – The Florida Maritime Museum is a historic treasure occupying a 1921 schoolhouse. Visitors can learn maritime skills, listen to a lecture on the state’s history or just sit on the front porch and take in the tunes of the Cortez Grand Ole Opry – a Saturday jam session celebrating the rich musical heritage of the village. floridamaritimemuseum.org
Florida Railroad Museum – Guests can visit a Civil War camp before boarding the train to watch a battle between Confederate and Union soldiers. On most Saturdays, the Hole in the Head Gang thrills audiences when it stages a robbery and takes over the train. Be sure to check the museum’s calendar for special events throughout the year. frrm.org
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art – Featuring exhibitions, films and performances, the museum spans 66 acres on beautiful Sarasota Bay. The grounds include the Circus Museum, which contains numerous artifacts from the famous family’s acts; Ca’D’Zan, John and Mable’s spectacular homestead; and the Historic Asolo Theater. ringling.org
Manatee County Agricultural Museum –
This museum co-hosts a wide variety of programs and events designed to appeal to people of all ages. Gospel and Games in the spring, summer socials, an annual Heritage Day Open House and adult educational programs are just some of the offerings.
manateeclerk.com/historical/agmuseum
MUSIC AND PERFORMING ARTS
Asolo Repertory Theatre – This professional theater company performs primarily in the Mertz Theatre, a beautiful 500-seat turn-of-the-century facility originally built as an opera house in Dunfermline, Scotland. Additional performance space includes the Cook Theatre – a contemporary 161-seat venue. The acting company is known for producing high-quality professional theater in true rotating repertory. asolorep.org
Bradenton Bluesfest – Held the first Saturday in December, Bluesfest attracts more than 6,000 blues fans from across the world. Bluesfest is hosted by Realize Bradenton and offers attendees an outstanding lineup of talented blues musicians on the big stage. In addition to amazing music, the award-winning annual festival features local craft beer and delicious specialty food vendors. bradentonbluesfestival.org
Choral Artists of Sarasota – Choral Artists of Sarasota is one of a handful of professional choruses whose members live & work locally. The versatile ensemble of 32 classically trained singers & 8 apprentices has a repertoire spanning 4 centuries: from major works with orchestra, folk songs, close-harmony jazz, to show tunes. ChoralArtistsSarasota.org
Manatee Community Concert Band – The purpose of the Manatee Community Concert Band is to provide an opportunity for talented and dedicated musicians to continue their involvement in music and to provide quality musical entertainment. manateeconcertband.org
Manatee Performing Arts Center – The award-winning local theater company produces amazing performances ranging from Broadway classics to new plays and is known as the community’s premier theater and the region’s center for cultural, educational and artistic expression. manateeperformingartscenter.com
Music in the Park – During the months of March and April, support local music while watching the sunset over the Manatee River. Realize Bradenton’s free, family-friendly, outdoor concert series offers live music at downtown Bradenton’s 400-seat Mosaic Amphitheater on the Riverwalk. Bring a picnic basket, blankets or chairs and furry companions on leashes. Snacks, drinks, local craft beer and wine will be available for purchase. realizebradenton.com
Sarasota Ballet – The Sarasota Ballet was founded in 1987 by Jean Weidner Goldstein as a presenting organization with the goal of becoming a full resident ballet company, which was achieved in 1990. The Sarasota Ballet offers an expansive repertoire, including many ballets by some of the most celebrated and prestigious choreographers and composers of the ballet world, and has received national and international acclaim. sarasotaballet.org
Sarasota Opera – Touching and unforgettable performances take place year-round at Sarasota Opera. The opera house offers an intimate setting to enjoy classics and other performances. sarasotaopera.org
Sarasota Orchestra – Performing more than 100 concerts each year with enlivening pops, family and classical options, the orchestra is dedicated to excellence in performance and education. The orchestra has been entertaining music lovers from the region and around the world for more than 65 years.
sarasotaorchestra.org
State College of Florida Music Program – Melody lovers will delight in the college’s music program. The department regularly features performances and recitals by the staff, the symphonic band, the symphonic orchestra and the jazz band. Audiences are in for a special treat during the holidays with multiple performances to celebrate the season.
scf.edu/academics/music/musicperformances.asp
Studio 84 Productions – The SCF Department of Fine and Performing Arts stages musicals, mysteries and dramas under the name of Studio 84 Productions. All performances are presented in either the Neel Performing Art Center or the new David S. & Anne V. Howard Studio Theatre on campus.
scf.edu/academics/dramaticarts/studio84
Sunshine State Theatre – Bradenton’s first professional nonprofit theatre company! We believe that magic happens when you mix together art, passion, entertainment and great LIVE storytelling. Great storytelling has the ability to unite a community in a single moment. sunshinestatetheatre.com
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall – This auditorium brings big names and star-studded productions to the Manatee-Sarasota region. From gala holiday specials to adult contemporaries and international ballets, comedies and symphony orchestras, performances are second to none. vanwezel.org
PARKS AND RECREATION
De Soto National Memorial Park – Step into the world of Spanish conquistadors and discover their place in Florida history at the park. Enjoy live re-enactments of Hernando de Soto’s historic landfall or explore trails winding alongside graceful mangroves lining the Manatee River. nps.gov/deso/index.htm
Manatee County Parks and Recreation – Enjoy the outdoors and explore the sites managed by the parks and rec department. Amenities range from beach access to rivers and aquatic preserves offering ample opportunities for picnics, swimming, fishing, hiking and sailing. Go jogging in a nature preserve or head out for a leisurely kayak paddle to enjoy a wealth of natural splendor. There are also many opportunities for youth and adult sports leagues, including soccer, tennis, softball, kickball and volleyball.
mymanatee.org/home/government/departments/parks-and-recreation.html
Manatee Village Historical Park – Our mission is to preserve and share the heritage of Manatee County’s founding period (1840-1918). We do this through our museum exhibits and a collection of historical and replica buildings set on nearly four acres under the shade of hundred-year-old oak trees. In addition to our exhibits, we also host special events throughout the year like lectures, book signings, festivals, workshops, and demonstrations. manateevillage.org
PLANETARIUMS
The Planetarium at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature – The Planetarium at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is the premier astronomy education facility on Florida’s west coast and is also a multimedia theater presenting lectures, films, live music and digital art performances. The theater incorporates unidirectional stadium style seating and a digital 25,000-watt Dolby 5.1 surround sound system. bishopscience.org
PROFESSIONAL AND
AMATEUR SPORTS
Bradenton Marauders at LECOM Park – The Bradenton Marauders are a minor league baseball team that plays in the Florida State League. The Marauders are the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Their home games are played at LECOM Park, which also serves as the Pirates’ spring training facility. bradentonmarauders.com
Chargers Soccer Club at Lakewood Ranch –
Providing soccer opportunities to all levels of players from children trying soccer for the first time to those seeking to pursue opportunities in college or at the professional level. We attract players from all parts of Manatee and surrounding counties. chargerssoccer.com/LWR
Ellenton Ice & Sports Complex – This 115,000-square-foot “igloo-like” state-of-the-art facility on the Florida Gulf Coast offers recreational and entertainment activities for all ages. The complex features two NHL-size ice rinks, a 13,500-square-foot indoor roller/ball hockey rink, gym, fitness studio, dance studio, off-ice training gym and sports academy. ellentonice.com
IMG Academy – IMG is one of the world’s premier destinations for sports training. The academy is in full swing year-round, featuring training in nine sports disciplines, including golf, tennis, baseball, basketball and football, so athletes from across the globe have access to the resources they need for the results they want. imgacademy.com
N Zone Sports Manatee – N Zone Sports is a community based sports league for all children covering Manatee County. Our athletic programs help develop and promote physical fitness while also empowering our youth to become good citizens in our communities. nzonesports.com/manatee
Police Athletic League of Manatee County –
Our Mission: To bring law enforcement, kids and families together in a positive, safe environment through sports and academics to build a stronger community.
manateepal.org
Pittsburgh Pirates at LECOM Park – Every spring, Manatee County welcomes the Pittsburgh Pirates for MLB Spring Training. With its multimillion dollar expansion and renovation, the park offers an award-winning fan experience. pirates.com
Premier Sports Campus – A multipurpose facility that has 22 full-sized, mixed-use fields for soccer, lacrosse and other amateur sports. Other events include soccer camps and clinics. The Lakewood Ranch Chargers soccer program is a host tenant at the facility. premiersportscampus.com
Sarasota Polo Club at Lakewood Ranch – Since 1991, the Sarasota Polo Club has provided the perfect locale for an exhilarating day of action or a serene setting for picnics. Matches are scheduled every Sunday afternoon December through April. Leashed dogs are also welcome. sarasotapolo.com
Super Soccer Stars – We are the #1 youth soccer and enrichment program in the country. Offering year-round programs to fill your schedule with fun, educational activities and games. Kids can enjoy classes, camps, special events and more. Curricula to develop skills, self confidence, and teamwork are important areas of focus in all that we do. Ages 1-12. soccerstars.com/swflorida
Tampa Bay Buccaneers – A professional American football team based in Tampa. The Buccaneers currently compete in the National Football League as a member club of the league’s National Football Conference South division. buccaneers.com
Tampa Bay Rays – An American professional baseball team based in St. Petersburg that competes in Major League Baseball as a member of the American League East division. Since its inception, the team’s home venue has been Tropicana Field. raysbaseball.com
Terra Nova Equestrian – We are a world-class equestrian competition facility. Set on one of Southwest Florida’s most picturesque properties, TerraNova provides a beautiful backdrop for all levels of a range of equestrian disciplines in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with spectacular amenities.
terranovaequestrian.com/
SHOPPING
Manatee County is a shopper’s paradise with everything from trendy boutiques and funky secondhand shops to the large-scale retail magnets. And we always encourage residents and visitors alike to choose Manatee Chamber members for their patronage. For a list of Chamber member retailers, see page 148 of this guide.
WINERIES AND WINE TOURS
Fiorelli Winery & Vineyard – A family-owned business located just south of Lake Manatee in eastern Manatee County, just minutes from Lakewood Ranch and Bradenton. They offer tastings of their selection of white, red and blush wines. You can purchase wine by the glass or take home a bottle or two. They also boast two beautiful outdoor event spaces available for rent for your next party or wedding. fiorelliwinery.com
Ready Set Go Tour & Travel – Explore the world one trip at a time! Whether it is oceans, rivers, air, or land, this full-service travel agency will lend a helping hand. Dedicated travel professionals are ready to help make your dream vacation a reality. Explore their wine tours. Travel services are for individuals, couples, families, groups, generational and corporations, domestic and international. There is a destination to fit your dream. rsgtravel.com
