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Florida is known for some of the best theme parks in the world and many of them are only located a 1-2 hour drive away. You see, the good thing about staying in Bradenton/ Sarasota is the fact that you can enjoy the local beaches and still visit the nearby theme parks in Orlando and Tampa. Why sacrifice one over the other when you can have the best of both worlds. Lets take a look at some of the most popular theme parks around the area.

Busch Gardens– In Tampa Bay is the ultimate theme park providing unrivaled excitement for the perfect family vacation in Florida, including a unique blend of world-class roller coasters, live shows and more than 12,000 animals.

Adventure Islands– Escape into water-soaked excitement at Adventure Island. Guests of all ages can ease into island time in a place where corkscrew slides, waterfalls, a giant wave pool, a rambling river, and other family attractions create a laid-back atmosphere and hours of sun-drenched fun.

Disney– The Walt Disney World Resort is an entertainment complex in Bay Lake and Lake Buena Vista, Florida, near Orlando and Kissimmee. The resort is the flagship destination of Disney’s worldwide corporate enterprise. Parks include Magic Kingdom, Epcot,  Disney’s Hollywood Studio, Animal  Kingdom, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, and Disney Blizzard Beach.

-Go behind the scenes, beyond the screen, and jump right into the action of your favorite movies at Universal Studios®, the world’s premier movie and TV based theme park. Unforgettable thrills and magical experiences await at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Diagon Alley™, at Universal Orlando Resort.

–Islands of Adventure gives guests the chance to explore their way through popular literature. Marvel Super Hero Island houses two of the most popular thrill rides at Universal – “The Hulk” and “The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman”. However, the busiest section of the park is “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” which opened in 2010. Suess Landing is a must-do for those bringing kids to Islands of Adventure and all those who are still kids at heart.

-Fun Spot America is Central Florida’s only family owned Theme Park. We offer two locations; Orlando and Kissimmee. Both of the theme parks provide safe, clean fun but they are distinct enough to allow for a completely different experience between the two parks. Our Orlando park is just 1 mile from Universal and our Kissimmee park is located just five miles from the Disney parks.

Wet and Wild- Wet ‘n Wild Orlando is a water park owned by NBC Universal, located on International Drive in Orlando, Florida. It was founded in 1977 by SeaWorld creator George Millay and is considered America’s first water park.

-For more than 50 years, they have been a leading theme park and entertainment company delivering personal, interactive and educational experiences that blend imagination with nature and enable our guests to celebrate, connect with and care for the natural world we share.

–SeaWorld’s amazing waterpark, blends up-close animal experiences and waters from serene to extreme with high-speed thrills and wide, sandy beaches. At Aquatica, the water is as warm as the South Seas themselves – sometimes warmer actually! A state-of-the-art climate system adjusts the water temperature according to the weather so that it’s always just right – cool and refreshing in the summer months, but heated when the temperature drops.

(All information was composed from each individual parks online website)

The gulf coast is home to many museums that offer a fun and informational setting for all ages. Get a better understanding of what the gulf coast of Florida is all about. As well as a better understanding of the scientific wonders of the world. From art inspired museums to classic car museums, there is something for everyone. Expand your knowledge and have a fun time at the museums listed below.

 

Museums

South Florida Museum
The largest natural and cultural history museum on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The museum interprets the region from the Pleistocene to the present. Highlights include fossil evidence of Florida’s earliest mammals and marine species and the Montague Tallant collection of prehistoric and early post-contact archaeological artifacts. Recently opened is the Environmental Wing focusing on Florida’s ecology and bio-diversity in the Pine Uplands and Riverine Galleries.

The Palmetto Historical Park offers children of all ages the opportunity to learn about the history of Palmetto and the area on the north side of the Manatee River. While touring the park, visitors can check for mail at the 1880 Post Office, write on slates in the Schoolhouse and try on pioneer clothing in the cottage. The Chapel, Military Museum and 1914 Carnegie Library add to visitors’ experience.

Today, The Ringling, the State Art Museum of Florida, is home to one of the preeminent art and cultural collections in the United States. Its story begins nearly a century ago, with the circus impresario and his beloved wife’s shared love for Sarasota, Italy, and art.

There mission is to operate an extraordinary art and whimsical Museum for the public by collecting, preserving and exhibiting works of Artistic and Whimsical importance to Educate our visitors about our culture and history. They have created an environment to inspire, nurture creative expression, and lift out spirits.

Sarasota Classic Car Museum 

The Sarasota Classic Car Museum is recognized as the second oldest continuously operating antique car museum in the Nation! As you stroll through the museum, travel back in time and into the future of man’s greatest invention, the automobile! Antique, exotic, European and one-of-a-kind classics are featured in our rotating exhibits throughout the museum.

Florida Railroad Museum

The Florida Railroad Museum was founded as The Florida Gulf Coast Railroad Museum with the stated goal of preserving Florida’s railroad history. Over the years, the Museum has acquired and restored rolling stock and equipment to operate for the public’s enjoyment.

When it comes to great food and adult beverages, Bradenton, Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Venice & Palm Island offer plenty of culinary options. With local seafood favorites and many local mom and pop restaurants you are bound to find a place that satisfies all your cravings.  Besides amazing food, the gulf coast also has many choices to go out and enjoy a drink. Everywhere from Terra Ceia Bay to Boca Grande. Before visiting take a look at our list below to help plan for your vacation on the gulf coast. Also, give us a call if you have questions and we’ll steer you to the best restaurant for your specific needs. Mexican, Italian, American, Sports Bars, Pizza, and more.

Restaurants

“One cannot think well, Love well, Sleep well, if one has not dined well”.

Station 400
Popi’s Place On The Ranch
Peach’s
Country Pancake House & Restaurant
First Watch
Another Broken Egg Cafe
Pops Sunset Grill
Lock ‘n Key Restaurant
Leverock’s

Local Area Lunch/Dinner:

The Cheesecake Factory
Wasabi Japanese Steakhouse
Texas Roadhouse
Gecko’s Grill & Pub
Casa Di Pizza
Poblanos Mexican Grill & Bar
Cafe Venice
Sharky’s on the Pier
The Crow’s Nest
Brew Burgers

Destination Fine Dining Restaurants:

Chart House Seafood Restaurant
Joto Japanese Steak House
The Beach House Restaurant
Columbia Restaurant
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
The Melting Pot- Sarasota

Bar & Grills 

Olearys Tiki Bar and Grill
Smokin Joes Pub
O Bricks 
Daiquiri Deck  (Multiple Locations)
World of Beer (Multiple Locations)
The Lost Kangaroo Pub
The Gator Club
Motor Works
Darwin’s Brewing Company
Ed’s Tavern 
Evies Tavern (multiple locations)
Joyland
White Buffalo Saloon
The Naughty Monk
Island Time
Gulf Drive Cafe  

Calling all golf lovers, are you planning to take that golf getaway you have been planning for ? Not quite sure where to go or what golf courses are worth the time? No worries, don’t waste your valuable time, we have listed all the golf courses in the area and were sure to mark the best ones. Bradenton/Sarasota has endless golf options that you won’t be disappointed with.Lets take a look at the list below. Also courses marked with a (*) have received the highest rating among Trip Advisor and trusted sources from the local area.

Also, if you are looking for a worry free, no hassle way to ship your golf clubs to the gulf coast look no more.  We have just the solution for you. We have recently partnered with Ship Sticks, a golf club shipping company, that will pick up and deliver your golf clubs to our office. For more info click here.

 

Bradenton Golf Courses

*University Park Golf & Country Club
27 Holes
7671 The Park Blvd.
University Park, FL 34201
(941) 359-9999

The Preserve Golf Club At Tara, Preserve Course
18 holes over 7,000 yards with a par of 72
7310 Tara Preserve Ln
Bradenton, FL
34203-8036
(941) 756-2944

*Esplanade Golf & Country Club 
18 holes over 3,521 yards with a par of 61
12825 Malachite Drive
Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211
306-3500

The River Club, River Course
18 holes over 7,026 yards with a par of 72
6600 River Club Blvd
Bradenton, FL
34202-1724
(941) 751-4211

Rosedale Golf & Tennis Club, Rosedale Course
18 holes over 6,779 yards with a par of 72
5100 87th St E
Bradenton, FL
34211-3706
(941) 756-0004

*Legacy Golf Club, Legacy Course
18 holes over 7,067 yards with a par of 72
8255 Legacy Blvd
Bradenton, FL
34202-2514
(941) 907-7920

Peridia Golf & Country Club, Peridia Course
18 holes over 3,344 yards with a par of 60
4950 Peridia Blvd E
Bradenton, FL
34203-4052
(941) 758-2582

Links At Greenfield Plantation, Greenfield Plantation Course
18 holes over 6,719 yards with a par of 72
10325 Greenfield Blvd
Bradenton, FL
34212-2660
(941) 747-9432

Stoneybrook Golf Club at Heritage Harbour, Stoneybrook Course
18 holes over 7,134 yards with a par of 72
8000 Stone Harbour Loop
Bradenton, FL
34212
(941) 749-1842

River Run Golf Links, River Run Course
18 holes over 6,393 yards with a par of 70
1801 27th St E
Bradenton, FL
34208-7402
(941) 708-8459

*River Strand Golf and Country Club At Heritage Harbour, Tributary Course
9 holes over 3,214 yards with a par of 36
7155 Grand Estuary Trl
Bradenton, FL
34212-3233
(941) 708-3617

*Waterlefe Golf &River Club, Waterlefe Course
18 holes over 6,908 yards with a par of 72
1022 Fish Hook Cv
Bradenton, FL
34212-5215
(941) 744-0393

IMG Academy Golf Club, IMG Course
18 holes over 6,855 yards with a par of 72
4350 El Conquistador Pkwy
Bradenton, FL
34210-4023
(941) 758-1466

Pinebrook/Ironwood Golf Club, Pinebrook/Ironwood Course
18 holes over 3,964 yards with a par of 68
4260 Ironwood Cir
Bradenton, FL
34209-6820
(941) 792-3288

Manatee County Golf Course, Manatee County GC Course
18 holes over 6,747 yards with a par of 72
6415 53rd Ave W
Bradenton, FL
34210-4915
(941) 792-6773

Timber Creek Golf Course, Timber Creek Course
9 holes over 1,043 yards with a par of 27
4550 Timber Ln
Bradenton, FL
34210-2643
(941) 794-8381

 

Sarasota Golf Courses

*Sarasota National Golf Club
18 holes
25500 National Blvd.
Venice, FL 34293
(941) 244-4810

Village Green Golf Club of Sarasota, Village Green Course
18 holes over 2,810 yards with a par of 58
3500 Pembrook Dr
Sarasota, FL
34239-6705
(941) 922-9500

*Misty Creek
Par 72 championship course set on 350 acres
8954 Misty Creek Dr
Sarasota, FL
34241
(941)-922-2188

The Palms Golf Club At Forest Lakes, Forest Lakes Course
18 holes
2401 Beneva Rd
Sarasota, FL
34232-3611
(941) 388-7241

Serenoa Golf Club, Serenoa Course
18 holes over 6,270 yards with a par of 72
6773 Serenoa Dr
Sarasota, FL
34241-9276
(941) 925-2755

Bent Tree Country Club, Inc., Bent Tree Course
18 holes over 6,863 yards with a par of 72
4700 Bent Tree Blvd
Sarasota, FL
34241-6039
(941) 371-8200

Stoneybrook Golf  & Country Club of Sarasota, Stoneybrook Course
18 holes over 6,820 yards with a par of 72
8801 Stoneybrook Blvd
Sarasota, FL
34238-5803
(941) 966-1800

Bobby Jones Golf Club, American Course
18 holes over 6,039 yards with a par of 71
1000 Circus Blvd
Sarasota, FL
34232-1228
(941) 955-8041

The Meadows Country Club, Meadows Course
18 holes over 6,707 yards with a par of 72
3101 Longmeadow
Sarasota, FL
34235-6999
(941) 378-5153

*Tatum Ridge Golf Links, Tatum Ridge Course
18 holes over 6,757 yards with a par of 72
421 Tatum Rd N
Sarasota, FL
34240-8945
(941) 378-4211

Rolling Green Golf Course, Rolling Green Course
18 holes over 6,343 yards with a par of 72
4501 N Tuttle Ave
Sarasota, FL
34234-5021
(941) 355-6620

Suncoast Golf Center & Academy, Suncoast Course
9 holes over 840 yards with a par of 27
7741 15th St E
Sarasota, FL
34243-2715
(941) 351-2666

 

Venice Golf Courses

Pelican Pointe Golf & Country Club
27 holes over 7,182 yards
499 Derbyshire Drive
Venice, FL34285
(941) 496-4653

Venice Golf & Country Club
18 holes over 5,094 yards
250 Venice Golf Club Drive
Venice, FL
34292
(941) 492-9600

Waterford Golf Club
27 holes
1454 Gleneagles Drive
Venice, FL
34292
(941) 484-6621

Capri Isles
18 holes
849 Capri Isles Blvd.
Venice, FL
34292
(941) 485-3371

Lake Venice Golf Club
27 holes
1801 South Harbor Drive
Venice, FL
34285
(941) 488-3948

Jacaranda West Country Club
18 holes
1901 Jacaranda Blvd.
Venice, FL
34293
(941) 244-2052

 

Nokomis Golf Courses

Calusa Lakes Golf Club
18 holes
1995 Calusa Lakes Blvd.
Nokomis, FL
34275
(941) 484-8995

 

Englewood Golf Courses

Boca Royale Golf & Country Club
18 holes over 6,357 yards with a par of 72
1601 Englewood Road
Englewood, FL
34223
(941) 475-6464

Ready for a fun outdoor adventure?

One of the oldest and largest, Myakka State Park, protects one of the state’s most diverse natural areas. The Myakka River, designated as a Florida Wild and Scenic River, flows through 58 square miles of wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pine lands.

Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing from a boardwalk that stretches out over the Upper Myakka Lake, then take to the treetops with a stroll along the canopy walkway. The parks river and two lakes provide ample opportunities for boating, freshwater fishing, canoeing, and kayaking; a boat ramp provides access to Upper Myakka Lake. Hikers can explore trails that cross large expanses of rare Florida dry prairie.

Scenic lake tours are offered daily on the worlds two largest air boats. Safari tram tours of the parks back country are offered from mid-December through May. Full-facility campgrounds and primitive campsites are available. Five palm log cabins, built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, have been modernized for comfortable lodging. Located nine miles east of Sarasota on State Road 72.

 

Activities to do at Myakka River State Park

 

Myakka State Park Location:

All information found at www.floridastateparks.org/park/Myakka-River

Golfers, feel my pain. I have been half-heartedly attempting to transfer my golf clubs down from my family’s Minnesota home to Florida for over a year now. Each time I go north to visit, I have the intentions on bringing them on a flight home but each time I talk myself out of it.  I dislike carrying my clubs from hole to hole, let alone the idea of trudging them through the airport.

Enter ShipSticks. After learning of the partnership with Gulf Coast Property Management and ShipSticks, I was eager to try the service out.  Could they possibly be the solution to my long distance golf travel problem?

With ease, I went to www.shipsticks.com/gcvacationrentals and filled out my shipment information. I had them pick up my clubs, which my dad kindly packaged, printed the shipping label, slapped on the box, and waved goodbye to. I chose to have my clubs delivered straight to Gulf Coast headquarters in Lakewood Ranch, FL. UPS picked them up the next morning.

Pro Tip: Don’t have a box handy? You can ship your clubs directly in your travel bag or hard case.

One thing that stood out throughout my experience was after setting my pickup & delivery date, I received an email a day before pickup asking if the clubs were ready. This gave me the opportunity to confirm, or reschedule if I needed to – which I found extremely helpful.

A few days later, Front Desk Coordinator Jonelle informed me that my clubs had arrived! There was my box, perfectly intact and ready for me to rip into.

The real bonus was digging through the pockets of my golf bag to see what 16-year-old me left in there.

The entire process went incredibly smooth, and I definitely recommend this service for others. It saved me from additional hassles at the airport, and was an easy and convenient way for my golf clubs to be shipped directly to me.

Thanks ShipSticks!

Get ready to play golf, go fishing, or rent a few bikes for your family while you stay with us here in Bradenton, Sarasota and Anna Maria Island. What’s a vacation without some good old-fashioned sports and recreational activities on the gulf coast? Take advantage of everything our area has to offer by starting rowing, or watching the Pittsburgh Pirates at McKechnie Field during spring training. In Ellenton, the Ice and Sports Complex is a great place to ice skate or catch a hockey game. It also hosts Olympic figure skaters during the off-season. Let’s take a look at some of the best things to do while on the gulf coast!

 

Top Recreational Activities

Smugglers Cove
TreeUmph
Suncoast Skydiving
Anderson Race Park
The Premier Sports Campus at Lakewood Ranch
AMF Bowling
Sarasota Lanes
Mckechnie Field
Mixon Fruit Farms
Sarasota Kennel Club
Sky Zone
Ice Skating

 

Parks/ Preserves:

Marina Jacks
Emerson Point Preserve
De Soto National Memorial
Robinson’s Preserve

 

Other Recreational Activities

Kid Friendly Activities

Water Sport
Date Night Activities
Pet Friendly Activities
Museums 

Visitors to Bradenton, Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Anna Maria Island, Venice & Palm Island have plenty of information to help them get the most out of their vacation. Here is a listing of local Visitor Information Centers and Chamber of Commerce offices for Bradenton, Sarasota, Anna Maria, Siesta Key, Venice, Englewood & Boca Grande. Our friendly staff at Gulf Coast Vacation Rentals looks forward to helping you too. Call us today.

 

Bradenton Visitor Information Centers

Manatee County Chamber of Commerce
222 10th Street West; Bradenton, FL 34205
941-748-3411

Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce
5313 Gulf Drive North, Holmes Beach FL 34217
(941) 778-1541

The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
1 Haben Blvd, Palmetto, FL 34221
(941) 729-9177

 

Sarasota Visitor Information Centers

Visit Sarasota Tourist Center
1710 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236
(941) 706-1253

Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce
5114 Ocean Boulevard Siesta Key, FL 34242
(941) 349-3800

Sarasota Chamber of Commerce
1945 Fruitville Road
;Sarasota, FL
34236
(941) 955-8187

 

Venice Visitor Information Centers

Venice Chamber of Commerce
597 Tamiami Trail S, Venice FL 34285
(941) 488-2236

 

Englewood Visitor Information Centers

Englewood Chamber of Commerce
601 South Indiana Avenue Englewood, FL 34223
(941) 474-5511

 

Boca Grande Visitor Information Centers

Boca Grande Area Chamber of Commerce
471 Park Avenue Ste. 3 Boca Grande, FL 33921
(941) 964-0568

After an exciting day exploring the Gulf Coast, wind down at one of the best Breweries in Bradenton FL. Bring along a deck of cards or your favorite board game and raise a toast to your relaxing getaway via Gulf Coast Vacation Rentals. You’re sure to find a handful of fantastic craft breweries near your vacation rental in Bradenton. Enjoy the warm Florida twilight and sip on a crisp brew surrounded by loved ones.

 

Relax with a Beer at the Best Breweries in Bradenton, FL

Immerse yourself in the community and help support local businesses when you visit the fantastic assortment of breweries in Bradenton, FL. Whether you’re a cerevisaphile or take pleasure in discovering delicious eclectic brews, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for you. Bask in the glow of a magnificent sunset and cultivate unforgettable memories with your closest friends at a Gulf Coast brewery.

 

3 Keys Brewing

Are you traveling with a few people who don’t care for beer? 3 Keys Brewing features scrumptious hard ciders—both semi-sweet and semi-dry. Their tap list has a little something for everyone, from IPAS and light lagers to hearty stouts and porters. Sip on a fresh craft brew alongside their handcrafted burgers or wood-grilled pizzas. Regardless of what you’re craving, 3 Keys Brewing will come through for you.

 

Good Liquid Brewing

If you’re looking for something new, Good Liquid Brewing is the place to go. Download their extensive tap list and look forward to discovering a unique craft beer. Stop by for a pint, or stay for a meal from their Good Liquid Gastro Pub.

 

Naughty Monk Brewery

Those who enjoy a Belgian-inspired brew will love the Naughty Monk Brewery. Taste their fantastic assortment of alcoholic beverages: beers, hard seltzers, hard ciders, and wines. While you’re there, take advantage of their finger-lickin’ good BBQ. There’s no better way to end the day than with crisp beer, good food, and excellent company during your stay at our Florida vacation rentals.

 

Live Your Best Life at Our Gulf Coast Rentals

Treat yourself to a well-deserved vacation at a beachfront Florida vacation rental on the Gulf Coast, and taste delicious beverages from the best breweries in Bradenton. Our assortment of spacious accommodations is perfect for every occasion—romantic getaways to gatherings with loved ones. We have vacation homes scattered all over Florida’s Gulf Coast, from Longboat Key to Siesta Key rentals. To learn more about our fantastic offerings, please give us a call at 844-548-5637.

If you’re looking for things to do on the Gulf Coast of Florida, consider embarking on a family-fun adventure on the various Sarasota bike trails. Soak in the tropical splendor of Southwest Florida on boardwalks, beaches, and through lush greenery. Luckily for you, there are plenty of riding options when you stay at Gulf Coast Vacation Rentals. Choose a solo escapade and traverse the trails unguided, or reserve a spot on a fantastic Sarasota tour. If you’re looking for a set of wheels, have no fear! There’s a handful of bike rentals near your Flordia vacation rental, such as: 

 

Ride Urban & Rural Sarasota Bike Trails

Strap on your helmet and make sure your water bottles are full in preparation for an unforgettable ride on the best Sarasota bike trails. You may even want to bring along a camera or a few snacks so that you can capture beautiful moments while you refuel. Whether you’re riding with your significant other, family, or friends, you’re sure to find the perfect excursion for you. 

 

Cycle Along with These Fantastic Sarasota Tours

For those who’d rather not deal with the hassle of finding a Sarasota bike rental or reading a map, try out a cycling tour near your Florida Gulf Coast rental. The expert guides will show you all sorts of hidden gems and relay exciting tidbits about the area.

 

Choose the Perfect Gulf Coast Rental for Your Getaway

Whether you’re looking for a Longboat Key rental or a vacation home in Siesta Key, we have the perfect assortment of spacious accommodations to suit your needs. Cultivate cherished memories with loved ones on the best Sarasota bike trails, golf courses, fishing charters, and so much more! To learn more about our fantastic offerings and rental properties, please give us a call at 844-548-5637.

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