Bradenton / Sarasota

[JamesL]

Mrs L is off to Bradenton in December for a week to watch DD play in a football tournament at the IMG Academy - I'm staying at home with DS

She (Mrs L) will have a couple of free days when there are no matches. Are there any "must sees" in the area for these days? Thanks

[tspill]

Anna Marie Island is beautiful and a drive down the islands. Watch a sunset over the Gulf. Myakka Park. Ringing Museum.

[greekgranny]

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
St Armands Circle

The Mall at University Town Centre, out Millennias Mall of Millennia!

[Budmiester]

St Armands Circle is great for quirky shopping along with some very good eateries.

[discostu]

Ellenton outlets, Fully Belly Burger The Beaches Whats on in Tampa its an hour up the road lots of good shows and theatre. Theres a farmers Market in Sarasota keep an eye on this site visitsarasota/?utm_s...gboatKeyResort loads more to do, UTC for high end shopping

[SnowWhite]

In January we spent from sunup to sundown at The Robinson Preserve - we walked miles along the walkways and trails... I don't think I've ever been so captivated with a nature reserve... it was stunning.
Don't forget to take water and sunscreen...
The beautiful landscape and huge variety of animals will take your breath away.
Take a look at some of the hundreds of photos on tripadvisor:
tripadvisor/Attrac...n_Florida.html
And here's the website with details: mymanatee/department...inson_preserve
Good luck to your daughter in her tournament...
Oh and by the way, It's free to get in.

[Budmiester]

I keep forgetting about a little place in AMI called "Skinnies" it's just off the beach beside Manatee Ave.They do fantastic burgers, hot dogs and ice cold beer. It's great place to finish off a day on the coast.

[SnowWhite]

And don't forget the all you can eat pancakes on the beach at Anna Maria Island... I think they were $5.99 in January. They are to die for - gorgeous fluffy pancakes, sausage patties and maple syrup (they even offer low sugar maple syrup!) You won't be disappointed
amibeachcafe/

[discostu]

Given the sporting theme would you look at taking in a Buccs game ?
Some good restaurans, shopping, this is lovely if you want a nice walk nathanbendersonpark/ Busch if you want a bit of park time so you have lots of choices enjoy

[JamesL]

Thanks you all for your suggestions - i will pass them on to Mrs L.