Tampa to Bradenton FL: Distance, drive time & best stops
The best stops on the Tampa to Bradenton FL drive are Ruskin, Apollo Beach and the Showmen’s Museum. The distance from Tampa to Bradenton FL is 45 miles, with a 55 minute driving time.
Planning a Tampa to Bradenton road trip itinerary
The Tampa to Bradenton drive connects two key spots on Florida’s Tampa Bay.
Tampa is justifiably one of the most popular holiday destinations in Florida. It’s home to top attractions such as the Florida Aquarium, ZooTampa, the Adventure Island water park and Busch Gardens theme park.
Other great Tampa experiences include historic Ybor City food walking tours, seeing the highlights in a street legal golf cart and a Haunted Tampa tour that combines ghosts and pubs.
Also on offer are Segway tours, history cruises, dolphin-watching and celebrity homes tours.
Tampa accommodation is best booked in advance – look for deals here.
Bradenton lies at the southern end of Tampa Bay, stretching along the Manatee River to a series of beachy barrier islands.
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is the top cultural attraction, but Bradenton is best experienced outdoors. The 1.5 mile Riverwalk along the Manatee River is a good place to start.
Elsewhere you can go kayaking with clear-bottomed kayaks in the Robinson Preserve and parasailing over Anna Maria Island.
Other fun Bradenton experiences include the TreeUmph Adventure Course and pirate-themed tasting sessions at the Loaded Cannon Distillery.
Good Bradenton accommodation choices include the Silver Surf Beach Resort at Bradenton Beach and the SpringHill Suites on the Riverwalk.
Bradenton FL to Tampa distance and driving time
By car, the distance from Tampa to Bradenton is 45 miles. Expect a driving time of around 55 minutes. The quickest route is largely along the I-75.
The best stops to add to a Tampa to Bradenton FL road trip itinerary are Ruskin, Apollo Beach and the Showmen’s Museum.
Best things to do between Bradenton FL and Tampa: The Showmen’s Museum
The Showmen’s Museum in Riverview FL celebrates the travelling shows that once crossed America. This museum covers 54,000 square feet, with exhibits including circus wagons, one of the oldest Ferris wheels in existence and several colorful costumes.
Bradenton to Tampa road trip attractions: Apollo Beach
Apollo Beach lies on Tampa Bay amongst a maze of waterways. The marina makes it a popular spot for yachts, but the main attractions in Apollo Beach are natural. First up is the Apollo Beach Preserve, which has a sandy beach, nature trail and 37-foot observation tower.
More curious is the Manatee Viewing Area by the Tampa Electric power station. During the winter months, manatees come here in their dozens to bathe in the warmer waters released by the power station.
Find Apollo Beach accommodation deals here.
Tampa to Bradenton drive: Ruskin FL
Ruskin FL is a quiet spot on Tampa Bay, with the highlight being the EG Simmons Conservation Park. This 258-acre conservation area is home to extensive native mangrove swamp, where birds such as the bald eagle and roseate spoonbill can be sighted. You can also enjoy two playgrounds, kayak hire and a 700-foot beach.
For walking trails, you’re better off in the nearby Little Manatee River State Park.
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