Things to Do – Page 12 – Riviera Dunes Marina

5 Places to Shop near Bradenton, FL

04/07/201704/07/2017 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

5 Places to Shop near Bradenton, FLWhen it’s time to take a break from the marvelous boating lifestyle here, there are plenty of shopping opportunities that are perfect for the whole family.No matter what you're looking for, Bradenton and the nearby areas have it all! Discover one-of-a-kind boutiques, outlet malls when you’re hunting for a bargain and of course the outdoor shopping centers when you need some fresh air while shopping.So, when you're looking for places to shop near Bradenton, these shopping destinations are all located near Riviera Dunes Marina as well. Let the shopping begin!The Mall at University Town CenterDid someone say Saks Fifth Avenue and Macy’s? You heard right! These luxury department stores are just a couple among more than 125 stores at The Mall at University Town Center. Shop ‘til you drop, bring your kids to unwind in the play area, then sit down at a delicious restaurant after your day of shopping!Ellenton Premium OutletsBeloved brands including Coach, J. Crew Factory, Kate Spade and many others can...

7 Things We Love About Sarasota, FL

03/31/2017 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

7 Things We Love About Sarasota, FLFrom secret shops to manatees, what's not to love about Sarasota, FL? Whether it's your first visit to Sarasota or your fiftieth, there are many things to discover about this beloved county.Here are our top seven things we love about Sarasota:1. Foodie paradiseCatering to everyone from the vegans to the meat lovers, Sarasota has it all. If you're looking for the freshest vegetables in season, there are also plenty of local farmers markets where you can find delicious, artisanal goods. Our local Sarasota Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 7 a.m.–1 p.m. at Main Street and Lemon Avenue.2. Scenic adventures at the riverThe Manatee River is the perfect place to embrace nature and get up-close with wildlife for the afternoon. Go on nature tours, swim with manatees and have a picnic, among many more exciting opportunities to get some fresh, Florida air while at the river.3. The boat lifeOne of our top things to love about Sarasota,...

Top 5 Boating Destinations Near Palmetto, FL

03/24/201703/24/2017 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Top 5 Boating Destinations Near Palmetto, FLHey boaters! There’s always a new, beautiful place to discover when boating in our Florida waters. From the lovely Shell Key in Tampa Bay to the rich culture found at our own Bradenton Beach, venture to one of these boating destinations near Palmetto, FL, and you will be in for an exciting afternoon!Bradenton BeachSpend some time in the sun on the gorgeous beaches of Bradenton on Anna Maria Island. First, set up your chairs for an afternoon of sunbathing and a peaceful beachside picnic. Once you’ve had your time in the sun, there is much to see and do in town. Visit specialty shops and galleries or embrace nature on a kayak paddleboard!Tampa BayIf you’re looking for fine dining experiences, Tampa Bay is one of the boating destinations near Palmetto, FL that you will not want to miss. In addition to the exquisite dining experiences, there are hidden gems that are only accessible by boat. One...

5 Kid-Friendly Things to Do Near Palmetto, FL

03/10/201703/10/2017 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

5 Kid-Friendly Things to Do Near Palmetto, FLWith Spring Break here, there’s no shortage of kid-friendly things to do near Palmetto, FL.From museums to miniature golf, families will never run out of fun things to do!Here are five kid-friendly things to do near Palmetto that are enjoyable for the whole family.South Florida Museum and Bishop Planetarium‪201 10th St W, BradentonAt the South Florida Museum and Bishop Planetarium, kids will enjoy exciting exhibits and presentations by the museum’s knowledgeable and lively staff members. There’s even a show recorded by Tom Hanks! You’ll want to make sure you leave plenty of time to visit the planetarium and view the various shows offered. Kids will also enjoy feeding the manatees and stopping by the gift shop to bring home a souvenir.Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf‪2000 Cortez Rd W, BradentonPlay a round of mini golf at Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf! Experience a fun, though challenging, game at their scenic course complete with 18 holes and 25 live...

Siesta Beach Ranked No. 1 in the U.S.

02/24/201702/24/2017 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Siesta Beach Ranked No. 1 in the U.S.TripAdvisor just released their 2017 Travelers' Choice Awards and ranked our local beach No. 1 in the U.S.! Our own Siesta Beach, located just 20 minutes from Sarasota is ranked as the No. 1 beach in the country. It's no surprise to us as Siesta Beach is a lovely destination year-round! Runners up in the top five spots include Ka'anapali Beach in Hawaii and Florida's Saint Pete Beach, Clearwater Beach and the beach at Panama City.In addition to ranking No. 1 in the U.S., Siesta Beach also ranks No. 5 best beach in the whole world!With its white sand and nature areas nearby, Siesta Beach is a fantastic place to visit. Perfect for large families or as an intimate getaway for couples, this acclaimed beach does not disappoint. If you haven't visited Siesta Beach yet, here are some perks you'll get to enjoy:Cool beaches: Because the sand is comprised of 99 percent pure quartz, you don't have to...

Family-Friendly Winter Festivals in Central Florida

02/16/201702/16/2017 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Family-Friendly Winter Festivals in Central FloridaDon't miss all of the wonderful family-friendly winter festivals right here in Central Florida! See a circus performance, embrace Italian culture and food, and join thousands at our local fishing village for their annual extravaganza!Circus Sarasota Winter PerformanceWhen: Through Sunday, March 5Weeknights: 7 p.m.Wednesdays & Saturdays: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.Sundays: 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.Where: The Ulla Searing Big Top, Nathan Benderson Park, SarasotaWhat: Join Circus Sarasota as they commemorate 20 years with their winter performance! This special show will feature circus legend Nik Wallenda as well as other international circus stars performing amazing acts that will surely dazzle you and the whole family! Make sure to purchase tickets ahead of time as they are known to sell out! More info here.Admission: $15–$55The 35th Annual Cortez Commercial Fishing FestivalWhen: Friday and Saturday, Feb. 18–1910 a.m.–6 p.m. daily.Where: Cortez Fishing VillageParking: G. T. Bray Park, BradentonWhat: Don’t miss the 35th Annual Cortez Commericial Fishing Festival honoring this...

Top 3 Fishing Charters Near Bradenton, FL

02/10/201702/11/2017 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Top 3 Fishing Charters Near Bradenton, FLWhether you’re a rookie fisherman or a well-versed angler, our local fishing charters are enjoyable for all skill levels! Here are our top three fishing charters near Bradenton.1. Tailing Tales Charters 941-812-6640 | 5800 Riverview Blvd, BradentonBook a fishing trip with Captain Kris Winkel of Tailing Tales Charters and you won’t be disappointed! Tailing Tales Charters offers fishing trips inshore and nearshore at the best fishing spots in the area. Climb aboard the custom 1972 222 Aquasport to begin the journey to your fresh catch. No need to worry about ice or cleaning your catches. Capt. Kris takes care of that for you. Since their charters are focused on the inshore and nearshore fishing areas, it’s an ideal setting for anglers ranging all levels of experience. However, offshore trips are offered in the Tampa Bay, Sarasota and Bradenton areas.RatesHalf-day (4 hours): Starting at $400Three-fourths day (6 hours): Starting at $550Full day (8 hours): Starting at $7002. Bass N' Bay Charters941-722-2033 | Tampa, Palmetto, Sarasota Also...

6 Secret Islands to Visit Near Palmetto, FL

02/03/201702/03/2017 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

6 Secret Islands to Visit Near Palmetto, FLLooking for a quick weekend getaway or a new destination for your family’s next vacation? Look no further than these six secret islands for your next adventure!All six of these secret islands are within three hours of Palmetto, FL, so you can choose to take a quick day trip or opt for a longer weekend or week-long stay.1. Gasparilla IslandEmbrace the slower Gasparilla Island lifestyle via golf cart, like a true local. Enjoy shelling, swimming and even snorkeling here. Take a visit to the restored Port Boca Grande Lighthouse, and bring your picnic lunch for a bite in the scenic Gasparilla Island State Park.2. Jupiter IslandStretching less than 4 miles, Jupiter Island is a private barrier island home to celebrities including Tiger Woods and Celine Dion. Lounge on the island’s beautiful white beaches or go for a stroll through the Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge where you just might meet a loggerhead sea turtle.3. Merritt IslandThough not...

Why You Should Vacation to Palmetto, FL this Winter

01/20/201701/26/2017 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Why You Should Vacation to Palmetto, FL this WinterWhile Palmetto, FL and the surrounding areas are great places to vacation to during any season, the winter season is especially favorable for both you and your wallet.Though you probably don’t need to be reminded why you should vacation to Palmetto, FL, here are some of our six favorite reasons to further motivate you.1. The winter season goes easier on your wallet.Yes, it’s true. There are much lower rental rates for beach houses and condominiums in Palmetto, FL during winter. Come stay for a great deal, and you’ll have more allowance to enjoy all of the fun activities, delicious dining and more.2. There’s always an exciting event happening!Just because the temperatures are milder doesn’t mean the fun is compromised. Next month, the Bradenton Area River Regatta will amaze you with thrilling boat races. Then, make sure you don’t miss the Circus Sarasota Winter Performance beginning on Feb. 10 through March 5. Fisherman and water...

3rd Annual Bradenton Area River Regatta

01/13/201701/26/2017 by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

3rd Annual Bradenton Area River RegattaAttention, thrill-seekers: Prepare to be amazed at boats racing more than 120 mph! Witness daring events like this and so much more when you join in for the 3rd Annual Bradenton Area River Regatta just a few weeks away on Feb. 4.If you haven’t been to the Bradenton Area River Regatta previously, you’re in for a real treat! The schedule is still not concrete, but there are many exciting surprises in store for all of the Bradenton and Palmetto locals.Head to the Manatee River for thrilling events including the Powerboat Super League Formula 2 events and the XHydro Cross Jet Skis and Disc Connect K9 show. You’ll also get to hear from the Nashville Yacht Club, Tampa’s own Soul Circus Cowboys and the ZBTB, the No. 1 Zac Brown tribute band, as the headliner. One thing’s for certain, the Powerboat Super Leagues will return for another spectacular performance that you do not want to miss....