Bradenton

Bradenton is a city in the U.S. state of Florida and the county seat of Manatee County. It sits on the south bank of the Manatee River near its outlet into Tampa Bay and is part of the Tampa Bay metropolitan area, forming a core community in the Bradenton–Sarasota region. The city serves as a cultural and economic hub for the gulf coast part of the county.

The area was settled in the 1840s, with development centered around a trading post and fort established by Dr. Joseph Braden. The community took the name Bradenton in his honor and grew as an agricultural and commercial center in the early 20th century, eventually incorporating as a city.

Bradenton’s economy blends tourism, healthcare, education, and retail. Notable attractions include the Riverwalk along the Manatee River, the South Florida Museum and Parker Manatee Aquarium, and the Village of the Arts, a district with working artist studios. The city’s location near Gulf coast beaches such as Anna Maria Island supports tourism and recreation.

Education and infrastructure are supported by the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota, located in Bradenton, along with multiple public and private schools. Manatee Memorial Hospital serves the medical needs of residents. The city is connected by major highways, including U.S. Route 41 and State Road 64, with Interstate 75 to the east and access to Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport serving regional travel.