The Top Five Best Places to Visit on a Trip Between Bradenton and Miami
Looking for the perfect road trip between Bradenton and Miami? Look no further! Here’s a list of the top five best places to visit along the way.
Halfway Point: Naples, FL
Before we get to our top five destinations, let’s take a moment to talk about the halfway point, Naples, FL. Set on the Gulf of Mexico, Naples offers beautiful beaches, great restaurants, and a thriving arts and culture scene. If you’re looking for a quick stop, head to the Naples Pier for some fantastic views of the Gulf. For something more substantial, visit the Naples Botanical Garden or the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens.
Stop One: Historic Spanish Point
Located in Osprey, FL, Historic Spanish Point is a must-see for history buffs and nature lovers alike. This 30-acre site is home to a prehistoric shell mound, a pioneer-era homestead, and a stunning butterfly garden. Learn about Florida’s early settlers and explore the beautiful waterfront property. Don’t miss the guided tours of the archaeological exhibits and the beautiful gardens.
Stop Two: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Next up, we have the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota, FL. This 15-acre garden is home to more than 20,000 plants and has a fantastic view of Sarasota Bay. You’ll want to spend several hours exploring the numerous gardens, which include the Cycad Collection, the Banyan Grove, and the Rainforest Garden. Be sure to check out the Children’s Rainforest Garden, which features a rope bridge and a monkey bar station.
Stop Three: The Ringling Museum
No trip to Sarasota is complete without a visit to The Ringling Museum. This impressive museum features an art collection that includes works by Rubens and Velazquez, circus memorabilia, and a stunning rose garden. You’ll want to set aside several hours to explore the various galleries and exhibits, including the Circus Museum and the Ca’ d’Zan, a stunning Venetian Gothic mansion.
Stop Four: Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Located in Miami, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or gardens. This 1916 Italian Renaissance-style villa was once the winter residence of industrialist James Deering. Explore the beautifully landscaped gardens, take a guided tour of the mansion’s opulent rooms, and marvel at the stunning views of Biscayne Bay.
Stop Five: The Wynwood Walls
Our final stop is the Wynwood Walls in Miami. This outdoor street art museum is a haven for art lovers and Instagram aficionados alike. The Wynwood Walls feature murals by some of the world’s most renowned street artists, including Shepard Fairey and Ron English. Take a leisurely walk through the colorful streets and enjoy the amazing public art that covers every inch of the walls.
And there you have it – the top five best places to visit on a trip between Bradenton and Miami. Whether you’re into history, art, or nature, there’s something for everyone along this beautiful stretch of Florida’s Gulf Coast.