Good morning, Bradenton.

The Gulf Islands Ferry now provides a scenic 45-minute ride from Bradenton's Riverwalk to Anna Maria Island, with a new vessel named the Manatee Belle built to handle rough weather.

The service, designed for sustainability, runs Wednesday through Sunday with adult round-trip tickets at $11 (kids under 4 ride free).

LECOM Ball Park in Bradenton boosted community ties with over 100 local events in 2025 + hosted theme nights in June, including Space Night and a tribute to the Nine Devils.

Crews broke ground for City Park beyond left field, which will feature a full-size baseball field with lights.

The Nest Nature Center at Robinson Preserve offers families 500 annual education programs, a shaded playground, trails and kayaking routes that connect to Tampa Bay — with a crow’s-nest lookout that gives a 360-degree view of this restored natural area.

Bradenton began as a wilderness settlement in 1842 and evolved into a vibrant riverfront city where landmarks like City Hall, Memorial Pier, and a century-old ballpark still stand.

Local historians credit early settlers' adventurous spirit with shaping the city's rich legacy.

Braden Castle ruins in a 55-plus Bradenton community — trace back to a sugar plantation built in 1850 by Dr. Joseph A.

Braden. Cottages now surround the site, which is listed as a historic district after its tabby walls protected settlers during a Seminole attack in 1856.

Manatee County is in a medical boom as new facilities are built to meet growing healthcare needs.

BayCare Hospital Manatee in Palmetto is under construction for a 2028 opening with 154 beds (expandable to 207), and a BayCare Health Hub offering outpatient services will open later this year.

Live Music with Justin Layman

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Deep Lagoon Seafood & Oyster House — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of folk and rock tunes by the talented Florida-based singer-songwriter.

Justin Layman Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — The Ugly Grouper — Entry details not specified — Experience the fusion of folk, rock, Americana, blues, and R&B with Florida-based singer-songwriter Justin Layman.

Ken Apperson: High Energy Beach Vibes

6-10 p.m. — Daiquiri Deck Bradenton Beach — Enjoy sunset views with live music and frozen drinks.

Kaleb Woods Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — Freckled Fin Irish Pub — Free entry — Enjoy an upbeat night with award-winning musician Kaleb Woods, blending reggae, ’90s/2000s hits, and country vibes.

Wine Down Wednesday & Friday

5-9 p.m. — Amore Restaurant — Buy 1 Bottle of Wine, Get the 2nd 50% OFF — Enjoy live music and great deals on wine for a perfect midweek date night.

Live Music by Dean Johanesen

1-5 p.m. — Fiorelli Winery — Enjoy delicious food and locally made wines with Circus Swing & American Roots music.

Wednesday & Friday Wine Down

5-9 p.m. — Amore Restaurant — Buy 1 Bottle of Wine, Get the 2nd 50% OFF — Enjoy a midweek wine special with live music from Eddie Tobin.

Wine Down Wednesday & Friday

5-9 p.m. — Amore Restaurant — Buy 1 Bottle of Wine, Get the 2nd 50% OFF — Enjoy live music and great deals on wine for a perfect midweek relaxation.

Savor Sarasota Menu

All day — Amore Restaurant — Cost varies — Experience authentic Portuguese & Italian flavors with live music in a cozy atmosphere.

Savor Sarasota Menu at Amore Restaurant

Aug 2 – 30 — Amore Restaurant — Pricing not indicated — Experience authentic Portuguese & Italian flavors with live music and a cozy atmosphere.