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Shop, Play & Dine on Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach – Anna Maria Island

March 5, 2019/0 Comments/in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Community, Things to Do, Travel Tips /by Terry Whyte

Bridge Street is where the original wooden bridge stood and at one time was the only means of access to the island. The wooden bridge was replaced in 1967 with the concrete bridge that you see today running from the mainland to Anna Maria Island.

Bridge Street offers the same laid-back Florida charm that is consistent with all of Anna Maria Island. Instead of high-rise condos and shopping malls, you will find boutique style shops and restaurants. Historic Bridge Street on Bradenton Beach which is the southernmost city of Anna Maria Island. With spectacular Bay to Gulf water views, Bridge Street is a must see!

So, let’s get started — Parking is limited on the Bridge Street. We recommend that you leave your car and walk or use the free Island trolley. The area is very walkable with rest benches along the way.

Shop — Anna Maria Island shopping on Bridge Street, with a wide variety of local art, jewelry, clothing and beach souvenirs. Bridge Street stores are walkable, right between the beach and bay. Find one of a kind items from many of the merchants, including, Bridge Street Bazaar, Bridges Street Interiors, Back Alley Treasures, Bridge Street Jewellery. There are a few not to be missed shops that have just recently opened, right beside Bridge Street Bazaar. Shopping on Bridge Street is a relaxing experience. Have fun while you look for that treasure souvenir to take back home with you.

Activities — Play a round at Florida’s most unique miniature golf course. Fish Hole Adventure golf is an old Florida fishing village themed course. With misters to keep you cool on a hot Florida day, a 3000 gallon pond filled with koi of all sizes and colors, and native Florida plants this is a fun activity. Perfect for the whole family!

If you are looking to book any tours or activities, be sure to stop at Book a Little Sunshine. Choose from water adventures, fishing charters, snorkeling, sunsets cruises, paddle experiences and more. You name it, they will arrange it.

Dine — There are plenty of places to dine, many offering nightly live music (some day music too). Here are a few of the restaurants we recommend on Bridge Street: Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier, Bridge Tender Inn, Island Creperie, Blue Marlin, Island Time Bar & Grill, Bridge Street Bistro. We are sure one of these will become your new favourite spot. Bridge Street = the best place for Anna Maria Island dining and entertainment.

After you’ve wandered along Bridge Street and enjoyed a little shopping and a delicious meal, make your way onto the Bridge Street Pier. There is always a breeze and some great views of the waterway and its many boats. Its almost magical!

As you end your day on Bridge Street, take a seat on one of the benches or swings and relax on the Pier. You’ll be happy you did.

Bridge Street is a very inviting and happening street — the place to be and enjoy….

Take a look at the video below to learn more:

For the latest up to date news, things to do, special offers, travel tips and more continue to follow our blog @ Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals/Blog

Note: Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals offers the above company names and affiliated links as suggestions only. We are not receiving commissions from any of the above and are listing them only to assist our guests. We recommend services that we or close friends and family have experienced.

The content of this blog is not to be copied, adapted or shared without the written consent of Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals.

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PLAYING PICKLEBALL ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals

January 28, 2019/in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Community, Things to Do, Travel Tips /by Terry Whyte

Thinking of playing pickleball while vacationing with Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals? Excellent! No reason you can’t enjoy your game at home and on vacation too. With the increasing popularity of pickleball the number of places to play is increasing, but we have found on our travels that many destinations do not offer facilities to play.However, when you are vacationing with Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals, no worries, we have you covered. But, before we get to the where, let’s talk a little bit about the game itself.

At any sports complex you will find people playing all kinds of paddle or racket sports. Tennis and racquetball are two of the most popular of this variety of sport, but there are other creative options available. For those of you that have never played or are new to the sport of Pickleball you might be curious to know more about the game.

You may have just learned of Pickleball, but it isn’t new, it was actually invented in 1965 by three Washington dads to provide a game that the whole family could play together. In 1975 it was recognized as “America’s newest racquet sport”, and by 1990, pickleball was being played in all 50 United States.

So, what is pickleball? It is a combination of tennis, badminton and ping pong. It can be played with 2–4 people on a court similar to the size of a badminton court. The net in Badminton is elevated, a Pickleball net is low to the ground like on a tennis court. Instead of using a racquet and tennis ball, players use paddles made from solid wood or composite materials and a perforated plastic ball, a “Wiffle ball.” Pickleball is a sport that can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors and has it own unique set of rules. It can be played as singles or doubles. When you serve you do it underhand. Only the serving team is able to score a point and after every point teammates switch spots.

A game is played to 11 and the victor must win by at least two points. Pickleball is a sport for all ages. Being played on a smaller court makes it popular for retired aged folks as they can get their exercise without having to play on a larger sized tennis court and you can actually carry on a casual conversation while playing.

Younger adults also like playing on the smaller court and enjoy an intense game testing their hand eye coordination much like ping pong. When I compare Pickleball to other sports, I find Pickleball is easier to get the swing and serving down because of the paddles and smaller court. When I first started to play tennis it took me months to get good enough to play a game, but when I started playing Pickleball it only took me a few hours to get the rules and techniques down.

The game of Pickleball can be a fun, competitive or a social game that almost anyone can play. For some players it is an adrenaline rush of playing great and winning. For me, it’s about the social interaction and experiencing the physical, mental, and social benefits of feeling great!

Okay, now where can you can play Pickleball in Anna Maria Island?

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The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Avenue, Anna Maria, FL

Phone: 941-778-1908

Email: info@centerami.org

Pickleball — February 2019 Monday and Wednesday 12:30 – 3:00

Tuesday Thurs Friday Sat 10:30 – 1:30

Note: The last hour of Pickleball is for lessons & less competitive play

Drop In Fee $15

Tennis or pickleball pass for $45 a month

Weekly and Monthly rates are available

Center hours — Monday – Thursday 7am-9pm

Friday – 7am-8pm

Saturday 8am-3pm

Sunday Closed

The Center offers Individual and Family – Day, Weekly, Monthly Passes

Included in Pass

• Fitness Center – Fitness and wellness classes

Tennis Courts
Pickleball
Open Gym and field time
Playground

While you’re enjoying the glorious beauty of Anna Maria Island, come on out and get your game on. Click on the link below and you will see, The Center isn’t limited to only Pickleball.

//centerami.org/

For the latest up to date news, things to do, special offers, travel tips and more continue to follow our blog @ Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals/Blog

The content of this blog is not to be copied, adapted or shared without the written consent of Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals.

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THE ROUNDABOUT WAY ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND WILL TRAFFIC SIGNALS BE OBSOLETE ?

July 17, 2018/in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Community, News, Travel Tips /by Terry Whyte

How do you feel about roundabouts?

There have been many debates on how roundabouts affect safety and how traffic flow is affected. Improved roads, safety, and better traffic flow are the results in mind for road reconstruction, I’m not sure all are achieved with a roundabout. In general, I am not an opponent of roundabouts. There are some that I avoid at all costs, and a few others that I navigate out of necessity, despite feeling uncomfortable every time I enter them.

Presently, we have one roundabout on Anna Maria Island located in Bradenton Beach, but a recent traffic study by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) tells us more are planned. The Bradenton Beach roundabout is in the middle of the city, on Gulf Drive and Bridge Street. This very popular area of the Island built the roundabout in 1994, replacing a two-way stop.

Not everyone likes this Bradenton Beach roundabout. Some of their Longboat Key neighbours to the south are not at all happy with it. Longboat Key Mayor Spoll believes it bogs down Island traffic flow, causing traffic jams for drivers traveling north through his city and recently said he would like Bradenton Beach city leaders to remove it. Congestion is certainly a problem in this area. Travelling between Longboat Pass Bridge, on the north end of Longboat Key, and the Cortez Bridge, on the north end of Bradenton Beach, especially during the winter months, the travel congestion can be compared to that of a very bad nightmare.

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Bradenton Beach Mayor Chappie said the roundabout needs to stay in place to help keep pedestrians and motorists safe. He said the roundabout, with its yield signs and four crosswalks, helps to separate pedestrians from motorists, preventing accidents.

While I agree with Mayor Chappie that pedestrian safety features should be in place, I feel that unbearable traffic congestion needs to be addressed as well.

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With traffic backups on the island, The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is looking at adding roundabouts as part of its Barrier Island Traffic Study. These roundabouts would improve island traffic flow. Three roundabouts on Anna Maria Island have been proposed, one at East Bay Drive and Manatee Avenue which would include removing the traffic signal, another at the intersection of Palm/Marina-Key Royale Drive, in Holmes Beach and the third one for northbound motorists on Gulf Drive at Cortez Road in Bradenton.

Roundabouts may not be the answer to all the Island traffic issues, but the elimination of traffic signals as planned in the barrier island traffic study would be a real benefit when not having to wait for power to be restored during a storm, hurricane or evacuation. 2017 Hurricane Irma is a strong reminder of that.

Now for a few facts as sourced 7/18 from the Florida Department of Transportation

Benefits of Roundabouts

Roundabouts are increasingly becoming more popular due to the benefits that they provide. These benefits include dramatic reductions in serious injury and fatality crashes as well as reductions in delay for road users. Benefits of modern roundabouts have been shown to occur in both urban and rural areas under a wide range of traffic conditions.

The Federal Highway Administration designated roundabouts as one of nine proven safety counter measures. Roundabouts provide a number of benefits as described below:

Safety

• Fewer crashes, 90% fewer fatalities and 75% fewer injuries

• Fewer severe crashes

• 10 to 40% fewer pedestrian/bicycle crashes

• Roundabouts are safer for beginner and elderly drivers

• Can be used in multiple road intersections

Time Savings 30 to 50% increase in traffic capacity for intersection, less delay waiting at stops and signals

Environmentally Friendly

• Reduces pollution (from cars not waiting at traffic signals), reduces noise, reduces fuel consumption

• Roundabout islands can be landscaped with native plants and trees

• Roundabouts generally take less land than traditional intersections as they don’t require turning lanes

Saves Money

• Without traffic signals, no cost for traffic signals and yearly maintenance

• Intersection still operates in power outages, no need for police to direct traffic

• Roundabouts can help improve sales at nearby businesses across the country as more people can walk or easily drive to locations compared to traditional intersections

• Can act as a marker to a business or downtown district

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My question is, will these proposed roundabouts on Anna Maria Island eliminate delays allowing vehicular traffic to move quicker in congestion areas while providing safe conditions for pedestrians?

The third phase of the FDOT’s Barrier Island Traffic Study begins this fall with completion expected in Spring 2019. According to DOT projects such as roundabouts typically take 1-3 years to complete.

Whether we agree or disagree there may be no way ‘round it. Traffic signals on Anna Maria Island could become obsolete as discussions go round and round.

For the latest up to date news, things to do, special offers, travel tips and more continue to follow our blog @ Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals/Blog

Note: Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals offers the above company names and affiliated links as suggestions only. We are not receiving commissions from the above and are listing only to assist our guests. We recommend services that we or close friends and family have experienced.

The content of this blog is not to be copied, adapted or shared without the written consent of Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals.

LOTS OF JULY 4th 2018 CELEBRATIONS ON & OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND

July 2, 2018/in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Community, Events, Things to Do, Travel Tips, Trip Planning /by Terry Whyte

On Anna Maria Island

Parade — The Anna Maria Island Privateers annual Independence Day Parade followed by a daylong Fourth of July celebration. Stand right outside your front door of Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals – 601 Gulf Dr. N. Anna Maria Island, Florida, 34217 as the patriots drive by throwing beads and other treats to kids of all ages. The parade begins at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach at about 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 4 and runs the entire length of the Island ending at the Anna Maria City Pier at the east end of Pine Avenue. Everyone is invited all to participate in the parade and all entries are encouraged to wear red, white and blue and to decorate their rides for the holiday. You will see a variety of vehicles from — automobiles, golf carts, Segways, roller skates, bicycles, scooters and pirate ships on wheels.

Parties — After the parade the Privateers will celebrate with two parties. The first will be immediately after the parade at the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe at the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. There the benevolent pirates will award more than $17,000 in college scholarships to local students. The second, is an adult party at at D.Coy Ducks Tavern, 5410 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

At City Pier Park, the city of Anna Maria will celebrate the holiday with a “Celebrate America” picnic from 12:30-2 p.m. The city will serve hot dogs to picnickers while enjoying patriotic songs in the park at the corner of Pine Avenue and North Bay Boulevard. For more info, call city hall, 941-708-6130.

Fireworks — After sunset, the Sandbar Restaurant, 100 Spring Ave., Anna Maria, will mark Independence Day with the 32nd Fireworks Spectacular at their outdoor wedding pavilion. For more than 30 years both tourists and residents have lined the beach with their feet in the sand watching the Sandbar’s colourful display in the sky. They will offer a VIP evening party package which include VIP seating for the show. For more information, call the restaurant at 941-778-0444

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Off Island —

Just off Anna Maria Maria Island, in Cortez, The Swordfish Grill will host it’s Fifth Annual Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, July 4. Given 10 minutes to eat as many hot dogs as possible, the winner will have his or her name engraved on the prestigious Hahana Ilio Cup trophy – hahana ilio is Hawaiian for “hot dog”. The winner will also take home $250 in prizes, including cash and Swordfish Grill swag. The annual contest will also feature raffle prizes. There is no registration fee, but all participants are required to sign a waiver. Contestants under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian’s written permission. Contestants can stop by the Swordfish Grill and pre-register ahead of time or register by noon on the day of the event.. The Swordfish Grill is located at 4628 119th St. W. in Cortez. For more information, call 941-798-2035.

A firework display in downtown Bradenton along Barcarrota Avenue at the Riverwalk, 452 3rd Ave W. Fireworks will be launched from a barge in the river about 9 p.m. on Wednesday, July 4.

Another display of fireworks will take place July 4 on the Sarasota bayfront in downtown Sarasota and over Manatee River, with the best viewing on the waterfronts in Bradenton and Palmetto.

Early Celebration — Baseball fans come out and celebrate Independence Day on Tuesday, July 3, at LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Enjoy an evening of baseball as the minor-league team, the Bradenton Marauders in patriotic jerseys will take on the Palm Beach Cardinals at 6:30 p.m. The first 1,500 lucky fans will receive a free T-shirt and the team will auction off a star-spangled jersey. The game will be followed by a fireworks display show sponsored by Budweiser.

For more information, go online to bradentonmauraders.com or call 941-747-3031.

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Parade — Longboat Key will celebrate the holiday July 4 with a parade and the annual Freedom Fest and Hot Diggity Dog Parade presented by the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce. The parade along Bay Isles Road will take place at 9 a.m. with wagons and bikes decorated in red, white and blue, fire trucks, police cars and pets. Following the parade at Bicentennial Park, 500 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key until 11 a.m. there will be a celebration with games, face painting, balloon and sand art, a butterfly release and a feast that includes waffles topped with strawberries. For more information, call the chamber at 941-383-2466.

For the latest up to date news, things to do, special offers, travel tips and more continue to follow our blog @ Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals/Blog

*Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals offers the above company names and affiliated links as suggestions only. We are not receiving commissions from the above and are listing only to assist our guests. We recommend services that we or close friends and family have experienced.

*The content of this blog is not to be copied, adapted or shared without the written consent of Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals.

ANNA MARIA RANKED #6 — AMERICA’S HAPPIEST SEASIDE TOWN

June 19, 2018/in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Community, Things to Do, Travel Tips /by Terry Whyte

Anna Maria, the most northern of three small cities located on Anna Maria Island is and will always be #1 in our mind.

Coastal Living’s annual 2018 “Happiest Seaside Town in America” issue ranked Anna Maria 6th of the best small waterfront communities. There were many things considered by Coastal Living and worth mentioning is that the final rankings were based on an online popular vote, with Anna Maria having the second smallest population of the 10 finalists.

All of Anna Maria Island including the City of Anna Maria is a magical seaside place that has the power to revitalize. There are many reasons coastal exposure can benefit you mentally, physically and spiritually. Scientific research shows that people who live on the coast are healthier and happier that those living inland. Well most of us would like to but logistically can’t live by the coast, we can go ahead and book that much-deserved beach holiday to reap the benefits of coastal living.

Here is a list I have compiled of some persuasive reasons to spend more time in Anna Maria Island’s coastal environment —

At home we tend to spend more time indoors. When we’re near water we tend to go outside in the sunshine. Our bodies convert direct sunshine exposure we soak up triggering the body’s production of vitamin D which is critical for overall health. Vitamin D protects against inflammation, lowers high blood pressure, and improves brain function.
Sunshine, vitamin D and Calcium. Our bodies cannot absorb calcium at all without some Vitamin D. Sunshine triggers production of Vitamin D which helps our body absorb and use calcium for stronger bones and helps fight against hypertension as well as other health benefits. Exercise also helps the body absorb calcium which relates with 3.
Being near the sea you are more likely to head out for a walk and partake in recreational activities. No need to go to the gym, just use the available pool facilities, or head on down to the beach. A beach vacation is all about swimming, sailing, playing beach volleyball, surfing, and taking long strolls along the beach. Being on the coast encourages us to be active by engaging in these enjoyable activities that we don’t do or don’t have time to do when we are at home. Watching other vacationers walking or running on the beach can be a great motivator too.
The sound of waves can be very soothing to the brain, settling you into a deeply relaxed state of mind. This can help clear the mind, lower stress levels and strengthen your immune system. Sitting, relaxing on the beach looking out at the vastness of the Gulf of Mexico helps us put our problems into perspective and our worries away if even for a short time.
Most of us go on vacation to unplug and de-stress from the outside world. When we are at the beach we can put away all our gadgets and engage in the ultimate de-stressing activity of doing absolutely nothing.
Because of the sea air we sleep better after a day at the beach. Research shows that sea air is charged with negative ions speeding up our ability to absorb oxygen and stabilizing levels of serotonin. This is another reason we feel more relaxed and energized after our vacation.

For most people being on vacation is a happy time. I always say, “when you’re on vacation what’s not to be happy about?” To book yourself a happy holiday please contact us — Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals – 601 Gulf Dr. N. Anna Maria Island, Florida 34217. We’ll do our very best to make sure you go home feeling relaxed, calm and well rested.

For the latest up to date news, things to do, special offers, travel tips and more continue to follow our blog @ Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals/Blog

*The content of this blog is not to be copied, adapted or shared without the written consent of Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals.

ONE PLANK REMOVED & ANNA MARIA CITY PIER IS ONE PLANK CLOSER TO REBUILD

June 11, 2018/in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Community, News /by Terry Whyte

Nine months ago today, Hurricane Irma whipped through the state of Florida leaving behind countless, unwelcome memories. While most areas in Florida were spared catastrophic damages, the historic 678 foot Anna Maria City Pier built in 1911 did not fare so well. Days following Hurricane Irma, the pier was deemed unsafe and closed to the public. The tin roof was torn off the bait shop and there was significant damage to the restaurant and to the wooden planking. An engineering assessment was completed and in October 2018 the city commission voted for the City Pier to be torn down and rebuilt from scratch. At that time the new 4.5 million dollar pier, bait shop and restaurant re-opening date was slated for late 2019.

Demolition discussions have been ongoing and on Wednesday, June 6, 2018 a contract with Speeler & Associates was signed. According to Anna Maria Mayor Murphy work is to begin shortly and the contract calls for the demo to be completed on or before September 30. If you’re planning a visit to the pier you can expect to see the pier fenced off with barge-based cranes positioned at the end of the pier.

As for the plank removal, local contractor Frank Agnelli and his crew from Agnelli Pools Ned Construction and Mason Martin Builders are scheduled to begin pulling the engraved pier planks in late June. For those who formally requested their plank be returned, it has been reported that pick-up will begin on July 2nd. The planks can be picked up at Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. Any unclaimed planks will be stored and used to build memorial walls at City Pier Park and in the historical park near the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum.

The Anna Maria City Pier was an attraction on its own and the vast majority of the people who visited the pier never even entered the restaurant. With breathtaking views of Tampa Bay you could enjoy a stroll any time of the day or watch a spectacular Florida sunset. The Anna Maria City Pier was always a favourite gathering place for locals galore and a place where it was easy for tourists to feel welcome. Whether you were fishing, having a drink at the bar, shopping for jewelry or listening to live music at night, the pier holds a special meaning to so many.

For now, all we can do is watch as the old planks are removed with anticipation and a vision of walking on the brand new planks in 2019 and envision the what the new city pier will look like.

For the latest up to date news, things to do, special offers, travel tips and more continue to follow our blog @ Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals/Blog

*The content of this blog is not to be copied, adapted or shared without the written consent of Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals – 601 Gulf Dr. N. Anna Maria Island, Florida 34217*

LATEST UPDATE – REBUILDING ANNA MARIA CITY PIER

April 11, 2018/in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Community, Travel Tips /by Terry Whyte

News just in from “The Islander” newspaper — Work on the Anna Maria City Pier will commence in May 2018. All work should be completed by December 2019.

Such great news for local Islanders and tourists alike! Looks like we will be walking on the iconic Anna Maria City Pier before the end of 2019. The view from the Anna Maria Island City Pier is a picture-perfect snapshot.The pier draws thousands each year and takes us back to the pictures, many years ago when people first arrived on the island and they came to this pier. I can’t count the number of times our family visited the Pier, sometimes just to walk, sometimes for lunch or dinner. One thing our visit always included was the “family photo shoot”. The Pier is such a popular site. We have been so fortunate over the years to meet people from all over the world, but not this year 🙁

The 678 foot pier built in 1911 was already scheduled for renovations when it suffered major damage from Hurricane Irma in September 2017. Fortunately most of Anna Maria Island sustained little damage from Irma, but the waves and wind made a mess of the foundation and decking at the historic Anna Maria City Pier. The roof was torn off the bait shop and there was significant damage on the northwest side to the wooden planking. In the days following the hurricane an inspection of the pier was done and it was deemed unsafe and closed immediately. It was unclear at that time when the City Pier and its restaurant would re-open to the public.

According to the VP of project engineering firm Ayre Associates, the firm in charge of rebuilding the pier, demolition will begin early May 2018 with a completion date of early September 2018. The planks part of the decking will be removed around May 15, 2018. After removal, the engraved planks that were part of the decking will be used to build a custom fence on the perimeter of City Pier Park and at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society. Work on the platform is expected to begin in late August 2018 and work on the restaurant is set to begin in April 2019.

As for the buildings on the pier, a decision has been made on the siding and meetings are underway to discuss changes to the restaurant area. Any changes will not alter the look as Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy has stated that the design and architecture will look exactly the same as it does today.

The new pier should reopen by the end of 2019. I think most will be happy with the decision to keep the look the same; no one wants their image of the 100 year old City Pier to change. The only change anyone wants to see is the removal of the large signs that read, NO TRESPASSING – PIER CLOSED.

The countdown is on … approximately… 597 days until we see …. ANNA MARIA CITY PIER OPEN!!

For the latest up to date news, things to do, special offer, travel tips and more continue to follow our blog @ Anna Maria Island Condo Rental/Blog

LOOKING FOR A CULINARY AND HISTORICAL TOUR?

March 12, 2018/0 Comments/in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Community, Dining, Events, Restaurants, Things to Do, Travel Tips, Trip Planning /by Terry Whyte

Book a WALKING & HISTORICAL TOUR OF BRADENTON, FLORIDA with Taste Dining & Travel.

Located just a twenty minute drive from Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals – 601 Gulf Dr. N. Anna Maria Island, Fl 34217.

Tuesday or Thursdays enjoy a walking tour of downtown Bradenton and see some of its historic neighbourhoods. Combined with visits to some popular and unique restaurants makes for a fantastic day!

Here’s what you can expect… The walking tour is 1.5 miles so dress appropriately, rain or shine and wear comfortable shoes. You will receive food from each restaurant, included in price. Price also includes non-alcoholic beverages. A beer is provided at Motorworks. Gluten and vegan dietary restrictions are not available.

Tour #1 on Thursday @ 1:00 pm sharp. Explore The Village of the Arts which is a charming mix of art, galleries, specialty shops and restaurants in houses built from 1920 to 1930. Full of interesting and uniques finds in these early 20th century bungalows add an interesting touch to this quaint community. You will enjoy cuisine sampling’s at Arts & Eats Restaurant, Ortygia and Sugar Cubed.

Meet at the Motorworks Brewing-1014 9th Street West, Bradenton, FL in the beer garden. Cost is $45 which includes brewery tour and a craft beer.

Tour #2 on Tuesday @ 1:00 pm sharp. Explore Old Main Street, a rivertown with an energizing history. See the classic buildings that have endured for more than a century, a 1926 shopping arcade and Carnegie Library. At The Fish and Sage Biscuit Cafe sample some of the chef’s specialties.

Meet at the South Florida Museum at 201 10th Street West, Bradenton, FL for a tour which is a $19 value and finish with desserts served by Sugar Cubed artisan bakery.

Cost is $55

Reservations are a must for all tours and must be paid prior to your tour. Call Taste Dining & Travel 941-366-7950 or visit their website www.tasteweb.net

TripAdvisor Reviews

1. During our tour, we visited several studios/galleries and three local, privately owned restaurants — all stops were fantastic! We enjoyed food samples from Arts and Eats, as well as Ortygia and Sugar Cubed. Each sampling was unique and outstanding! Our tour concluded at Motorworks Brewery with a beer (included in the tour price) and a behind-the-scenes brewery tour. Neal Finelli, with Taste Magazine, put together an amazing tour and provided a memorable afternoon. Looking forward to joining another tour in the near future!

2. Tour #1 is the Artistic Foodie Tour offered on Thursdays. A group of 8 of our friends just completed this wonderful outing. Our friendly and knowledgeable guides escorted us on a scenic walking tour of the Village of the Arts, introduced us to local shop owners and included plenty of photo ops. The outstanding food and beverages were generous in amount, creatively presented, well-balanced in flavor, and the chefs were very attentive and engaging. This Foodie tour is a true value, well worth the price of admission!

For the latest up to date news, things to do, special offers and more continue to follow our blog @ Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals/Blog

Travel Tip created by Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals in association with Vacation Soup

Part II — THINGS TO DO ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND & NEARBY BRADENTON MARCH 2018

February 22, 2018/0 Comments/in Anna Maria Island, Anna Maria Island Events, Blog, Community, Events, News, Sports, Things to Do, Travel Tips, Trip Planning /by Terry Whyte

March 3, 2018: 9:00 am – 3 pm Anna Maria Island Museum, 402 Pine Avenue in the Historical Park, Anna Maria Island, FL. (Trolley Stop 42)

Anna Maria Island Heritage Day with a Settler’s Market selling their famous Settlers’ Bread and herbs, honey and produce. Live music all day plus Bar-B-Q, museum tours and settler era crafts. There will be demonstrations: Bee Keeping, Candle Making, Wool Spinning, Quilting, Knitting, Woodworking, Basket Weaving and more. Old fashioned children’s games and scavenger hunt with games and prizes will be held as well as a Pirate Jailbreak. Kids and adults will love seeing how the early settlers lived.

March 3, 2018: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Old Main Street Bradenton, FL

Come and enjoy the Free 9th annual ArtSlam 2018 in downtown Bradenton. This annual community day showcasing collaborative creativity is a celebration of the arts and arts education in conjunction with the Bradenton Farmers’ Market. The festival’s focus this year is showcasing arts educators and their students. Old Main Street will be transformed into an interactive art zone.The free event features live performances, site-specific installations, and engaging art exhibits by Manatee County students and professional artists. 28 teams of student and professional artists are participating in ArtSlam this year, more than ever. Every team project, installation, and presentation is unique.

March 4, 2018: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Gamble Plantation on US 301 Ellenton- one and a half miles west of I-75 (exit #224)

It’s the Gamble Plantation Historic State Park Annual UDC 58th Annual Spring Open House. During the Mansion’s ‘free tours’ see the many lifestyle demonstrations of the era of the 1840’s – 1870’s. Additionally, members of the 4th Florida Volunteer Infantry will have a Confederate camp. Music, crafts and more on the grounds. Free admission and parking.

March 10, 2017: 11:00 am – 12:30 pm — 1611 9th Street West at McKechnie Field, Bradenton

The Pittsburgh Pirates 11th annual Pirate Fest with family-friendly fun, free player autographs, games, prizes, music and more all just outside the ballpark on 9th street. Free and open to the public. Tickets are required for 1:05 p.m. game with the Rays and can be purchased on-line.

March 10 – 11, 2018: Right next to City Hall in downtown Holmes Beach at 5801 Marina Drive. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

The 30th annual Holmes Beach Spring Fest Fine Arts & Crafts Fest on Anna Maria Island. Fine art and fine craft exhibitors, this event will also include children’s young at art exhibit and art activities. Organized by the Anna Maria Island Art League. Free admission and parking.

March 17 – 18, 2018: 10 am – 5:00 pm both days — 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, FL

It’s time to enjoy the 10th Annual Anna Maria Taste of Arts & Crafts Show. The show will feature the creations of talented artists and crafts people from all over. It takes place right next to City Hall in downtown Holmes beach.. Free admission and parking.

March 31, 2018: 9:00 am sharp Sandbar Restaurant,100 Spring Avenue, Anna Maria, FL, Anna Maria Island, FL.

The Sandbar Restaurant will host its 32nd Annual Easter Egg Hunt at the Pavilion at the Sandbar. Make sure to bring your own basket(s) for the Easter Egg Hunt. After the hunt kids will be led by the Easter Bunny down Pine Avenue where the Easter Egg Roll and Bonnet contest will take place. Refreshments will be provided by the Sandbar.

WE HOPE YOU WILL ENJOY THESE ACTIVITIES AND ARE ALWAYS HAPPY TO ASSIST YOU WITH ANY QUESTIONS YOU MIGHT HAVE.

For the latest up to date news, things to do, travel tips, special offers and more continue to follow our blog @ Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals/Blog

Travel Tip created by Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals in association with Vacation Soup

Come out and Enjoy these MARCH HAPPENINGS on Anna Maria Island

February 9, 2018/1 Comment/in Anna Maria Island, Anna Maria Island Beaches, Anna Maria Island Events, Blog, Community, Events, Things to Do, Travel Tips, Trip Planning /by Terry Whyte

March 1 – 31, 2018: Beach Market

Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive, S., Bradenton Beach, FL

Every Wednesday & Sunday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Find island treasures, select fresh produce, tons of arts and crafts, jewelry and more.

All activities and attractions are a short trolley ride from Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals – 601 Gulf Dr. N. – Anna Maria Island, Florida, 34217

March 3, 2018:Anna Maria Island Museum, 402 Pine Avenue in the Historical Park, Anna Maria, FL 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Don’t miss Anna Maria Island Heritage Day with a Settler’s Market.

The market will be selling their famous Settlers’ Bread and herbs, honey and produce. Enjoy the all day live music, Bar-B-Q, museum tours and settler era crafts and demonstrations. See how the early settlers lived with Bee Keeping, Candle Making, Wool Spinning, Quilting, Knitting, Woodworking, Basket Weaving and more. Old fashioned children’s games and scavenger hunt with games and prizes. Kids will love a Pirate Jailbreak.

March 10, 2018:Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive South, Bradenton Beach, Anna Maria Island

8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Free Admission

It’s the Anna Maria Island Privateers Thieves Market, a Flea Market only Pirate Style! 100’s of Vendors. Treasures to be found for everyone. Lots of food to eat. Hamburg’s hotdogs and more. Buy some fresh veggies while you’re there. Custom Handmade Jewelry, Sharks Teeth on a String, T-Shirts, Golf paraphernalia, Fishing Lures, Antiques Real and not, BBQ Brisket to Hot Links. Hang with some Pirates, see their 60 foot Pirate Ship.

March 10 – 11, 2018: Next to City Hall in downtown Holmes Beach at 5801 Marina Drive Anna Maria Island 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Organized by the Anna Maria Island Art League. Free admission and parking. The 30th annual Holmes Beach Spring Fest Fine Arts & Crafts Fest on Anna Maria Island. Fine art and fine craft exhibitors, this event will also include children’s young at art exhibit and art activities.

All of the above are within a short drive from our condo. Or, let someone else do the driving and hop on the Free Island Trolley!

Please keep reading our blogs, more March Happenings will be posted soon!

For the latest up to date news, things to do, special offers, travel tips and more continue to follow our blog @ Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals/Blog