With a motto like " Shop, Dine, and Play, From Beach to Bay," Anna Maria Island is ready to greet you with plenty to see, eat, and do while staying at your island vacation home rental.
Anna Maria Island's Bridge Street Market Farmer's Market is a hugely popular weekend activity that occurs seasonally from November to April when the weather and visitors are at their best. During this period, the Bridge Street Pier area comes alive with local food stalls, fresh produce, locally made gifts from specialty businesses, and some of the area's most talented artisans!
Whether you're flying solo, with your partner, or with the whole family, this market is a crowd-pleaser for all. Of course, you don't need to splurge a single cent to take in the local attractions or relish the sea views from the pier, but you may certainly be swayed by the fresh baked goods or the perfect piece of artwork to remember your trip.
Getting to the Bridge Street Market
Photo Credit: Bradenton Beach Historical Bridge Street Market- Address: 107 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach, Florida
- Season: November through April
- Hours: Every Sunday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
- Website: Historical Bridge Street Market
Reaching the Bridge Street Market is a breeze - simply catch the complimentary Island Trolley, which runs south from Coquina Beach to City Pier on the island's north side and make your way to Bradenton Beach.
The Bridge Street Market is just a 20-minute drive from Downtown Anna Maria; look for the parking lot at 6th Street and Gulf Drive. From here you can walk to Bridge Street.
Or, if you want to take in the scenery, grab a bike rental! Plenty of peaceful bike paths will take you right to Bridge Street!
What to Expect
Anna Maria Island's Bridge Street Market is a haven for local vendors and artisans, with its selection changing often enough to make each visit different and unique each time you visit. This market is known for vendors who sell beach decor, beach-themed jewelry, and watercolor art.
Photo Credit: No matter what type of music youâre interested in, Bradenton Beach Historical Bridge Street Market can provide something special for everyone. Listen to small performances by talented musicians performing live, or check out one of their demos to take home the local sounds of AMI.
Food at Bridge Street Market
Photo Credit: zoryanchikShopping at the market offers a one-of-a-kind experience, as you can explore fresh food, including fresh fruits and veggies from local farms. To get the most out of your visit, take some time to wander around each major tent – discover succulent produce, bouquets of flowers, fragrant herbs, and even gluten-free baked goods.
Bridge Street Market on Anna Maria Island is also a must-visit for seafood lovers! With an array of fresh, local catches to choose from - including grouper, shrimp, snapper, and more - you'll find something delicious no matter what your taste buds are craving.
If you're looking for something uniquely AMI, try the smoked fish dip made with the day's catch!
Artisan Crafts
Photo Credit: Nanci Santos IglesiasCapture the essence of this beautiful island with its locally inspired art and crafts, like jewelry and artwork with anchor motifs, dolphins, or seascapes.
Nature Inspired Art
For nature lovers, consider taking home a photograph or print of one of the island's beautiful beaches, sunsets, or wildlife. Or, for those looking for a more personal touch, why not pick up some handmade jewelry created with shells and sea glass collected from the shores?
Photo Credit: Suppose you're looking to take home something tangible to remember your trip. In that case, a variety of pottery pieces are available that capture the beauty of Anna Maria Island in a unique way.
Photography, Sculptures, and More
Anna Maria Island offers a plethora of stunning photography, sculptures, and other artworks that can be taken home as a special keepsake. You'll find painted canvases with oils, watercolors, acrylics, and any other type you can think of. In addition, loved ones back home will adore the hand-crafted sculptures made from some of the island's natural resources.
To further contribute to the community, the marketplace recently partnered up for a "Save Our Shores" campaign to aid the coastal regions affected by red tide events.
Other Popular Farmers Markets on AMI
Thanks to an abundance of local artisans, farms, and pride in their community, Anna Maria hosts several other markets as well, with some running in alternate seasons, so you'll always have an option for a fresh local fix!Coquina Beach Market
- Address: 2650 Gulf Drive S, Bradenton Beach, FL
- Season: November through April/May
- Hours: Every Sunday and Wednesday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
- Website: Beach Market At Coquina Beach
Coquina Beach Market on Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach has an impressive selection of vendors, delicious food, and gorgeous views, all in a beachside setting.
Every Sunday and Wednesday from November through April or May. The market hours are 10:00 AM till 4:00 PM. Browse the selection of The only beach-centered farmer's market on Anna Maria Island is here, and you won't want to pass it up. The market is both stroller and wheelchair accessible, though you'll have to leave Fido at home - dogs are not allowed.
You will find an array of treats like fresh seafood, produce, ready-to-eat snacks, and items such as pottery, clothing, or beach accessories at Coquina Beach Market.
Downtown Bradenton Public Market
- Address: 400 Old Main Street, Bradenton, FL
- Season: October to May
- Hours: Every Saturday, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.
- Website: Bradenton Public Market
Stepping into downtown Bradenton on a Saturday is like entering a local reunion that happens every weekend. The renowned Downtown Bradenton Public Market has a homey, friendly feel with both regular and rotating vendors.
In addition, you can explore the vast selection of freshly harvested local produce, along with free activities for kids and live music performances!
Each month, on the third Saturday of the month, 'Mainly Art' is a great opportunity for local artists and artisans to display their unique creations. If you're passionate about collecting stylish artwork or crafts, then this will be your chance to sample and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces.
Sarasota Farmers Market
Photo Credit: Stephen B. Goodwin- Address: N. Lemon Avenue, Sarasota, FL
- Season: Year-round
- Hours: Every Saturday, 7:00 am to 1:00 pm.
- Website: sarasotafarmersmarket.org
Just a stone's throw away from Anna Maria Island in Downtown Sarasota, you'll find the Sarasota Farmers' Market. Since 1979, the Sarasota Farmers' Market has been delighting visitors with its delectable cuisine and unique artisan crafts, all accompanied by live music!
They prioritize contributing to local businesses and charities alike - so you can feel good about your purchases knowing that you are making a difference.
Every time you visit, something exciting awaits! With kid-friendly activities all year round and special events such as 'Taste of the Market,' there's no shortage of fun. After spending the morning at the market, take a stroll around St. Armands Circle or do some shopping at many of the boutique shops in the area.
