Bradenton FL

Fun in the sun also means knowing how to cool off – and our real estate agents have some ideas.

Crunching on ice is a classic way to stay cool and hydrated in the heat of a Florida summer, but it's not very fun. What if you could have all the important benefits and enjoy a refreshing dessert at the same time. The secret is shaved ice, one of the most beloved sweet treats anywhere in the Sunshine State.

Whether you're interested in Bradenton homes for sale or prefer Sarasota homes for sale, you'll find plenty of places for shaved ice in these twin cities. And you don't have to wait for the ice cream truck! Instead, there are lots of frozen dessert parlors, bakeries, and more all waiting to serve you.

Let's take a peek at some of the places to find shaved ice in and around these sister cities:

• Coco Joe's Italian Ice – 5120 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34209
  Coco Joe's Italian Ice is one of the original names in Italian ice here in Manatee County. Around the area since 1995, it is built around a family recipe that founder Joe brought from Philadelphia. When you visit the shop, you'll be treated to a wonderland of Italian ice, gelato, custard, root beer floats, sundaes, and "The Big Nanner," a frozen and chocolate-dipped banana. Coco Joe's even offers catering.
  
  
• Kona Ice of Manatee County – See Website for Location Details
  Kona Ice of Manatee County is a sweet treat shop on wheels you can distinguish by its iconic tropical music. With more than 50 flavors, there's something for everyone. You can even choose a sugar-free or 100% dye-free option. In a hurry? A visit to Kona Ice might take only a few seconds since the top ten most popular flavors are all set up for self-service. Kona Ice frequently holds special events, too.
  
  
• Vampire Penguin Shaved Snow & Desserts – 4976 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231
  Vampire Penguin Shaved Snow & Desserts specializes in light, fluffy, and creamy desserts you'll develop a craving for. Open every day to 8 p.m. or 9 p.m., you're welcome to pop in any time or issue your order through the website. Snazzy specials such as the strawberry cheesecake delight new and return visitors alike, and there are plenty of options for add-ons and mix-ins no matter what you decide to get.
  
  
• Pelican's Snoballs – 806 6th Street West, Palmetto, FL 34221
  If you are searching for shaved ice near Palmetto homes for sale, you need to look no further than Pelican's Snoballs. Now open every day from 12 noon to 9 p.m., thanks to increased demand, the quintessential "snoball" experience can be invited to your own party or other events. Signature Snoballs include nine perennial favorites, with the pink cotton candy "Unicorn" being the #1 most requested pick.
  
  
• Green Zebra Cafe – 1377 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236
  With two locations in Sarasota, including one on Main Street and another not far from the world-famous Ringling Museum, Green Zebra Cafe has a wide-ranging menu that's more than just shaved ice. Open for brunch and dinner, it has won "Best Breakfast" and "Best Lunch" awards from local Sarasota magazines. Its desserts are also acclaimed and are as tasty as they are beautifully plated.
  
  
• Jeremiah's of Bradenton – 2525 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205
  A popular chain offering fantastic shaved ice has found a new home in Bradenton. Recently opened, Jeremiah's of Bradenton is already a hit among locals. While the list of flavors is constantly being updated, you can head to this shop knowing you'll find a treat perfect for helping you cool off. Current flavors include blueberry, mango, cotton candy, and peach.

Contact us to find out more about Florida real estate.

Baseball season is upon us, but you don't need to go to a Major League game to enjoy excitement and fun. Our real estate agents know that a hard-fought Minor League game can be a joy to behold. As you explore Bradenton homes for sale or go across the way to Sarasota homes for sale, you'll have the best Minor League Baseball action right in your own backyard.

Bradenton is home to the Bradenton Marauders, the Minor League Baseball affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. They play from historic LECOM Park, originally known as McKechnie Field, which has witnessed some of the greatest baseball games ever played in the Southeast.

A wonderful thing about Minor League Baseball is that you can enjoy it both before and after wrapping up the Major League season. There's always a welcoming community vibe, especially when LECOM Park is operated by the volunteer Bradenton Boosters during spring training.

Let's take a closer look and learn all about the team and venue.

About the Bradenton Marauders 

Part of the Florida State League, the Bradenton Marauders are the Single-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Like the field in which they now play, the Marauders have a longer history than one might think: They're directly descended from the Tampa Tarpons, which started in 1957.

In April of 2010, the Marauders played their first game in front of nearly 2,400 spectators at what was then called McKechnie Field, named after Bradenton resident and Hall of Fame inductee Bill McKechnie. In a promising start for the team, they defeated the Fort Myers Miracle with a score of 18-3.

In their first season, the Marauders led the league in runs, batting average, and on-base percentage.

The 2011 season is when the Marauders really established the vibrant local fanbase that they still have to this day. They attracted more than 56,000 fans after 40 home games, a complete turnaround, and a record-breaking performance in the world of Minor League Baseball.

They made an even bigger mark starting in 2015, their first-ever championship season, where they capped off one of the most memorable streaks of the decade to defeat the Tampa Yankees by three games to one. It was their first Florida State League title and truly put them on the map.

A Truly Historic Bradenton Landmark

LECOM Park was renamed in 2017 but is perhaps best known as McKechnie Field, where it has been closely associated with the Pittsburgh Pirates since 1925. Opening in 1923 as City Field, it has been called "Florida's Fenway Park." It's the oldest stadium in the U.S. and is still used for spring training.

It also stands shoulder to shoulder with world-famous Wrigley Field and Fenway Park as the third-oldest stadium still used by a Major League Team. Its layout, nostalgic appearance, and standard amenities have made it a stomping ground for the most enthusiastic baseball purists.

One of the most unique aspects of this family-friendly park is the role of the nonprofit Bradenton Boosters. The Boosters have worked hard for nearly a century to support and improve the venue – many of its upgrades and updates over time can be traced back to fundraising campaigns by these volunteers.

Throughout the spring training season, you'll find the Bradenton Boosters serving as ushers, security personnel, merchants, and press box attendants. It's one more way LECOM Park is a unique local institution.

Be sure to check out their home game schedule so you can experience this baseball diamond in person!

Contact us to learn more about Bradenton and Sarasota.

Science fiction movies are fun, but they can't beat the excitement and wonder of exploring real-life stories. Our real estate agents love learning about our world at the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, just minutes from Bradenton homes for sale.

About the Bishop

Opened in 1947, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is the largest natural history museum on the Gold Coast. Baby Snoots, a West Indian manatee affectionately known as Snooty, arrived in 1949 and became the museum's signature attraction.

Thanks to the museum's popularity, it moved into its current larger home in 1966. In time, exhibits grew to include the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat along with a replica of Barcarrota's Plaza, a 16th-century Spanish town.

In 2001, an electrical fire destroyed the planetarium and seriously damaged the museum's educational wing and administrative areas. Happily, in September 2002, the museum reopened bigger and better than ever. Throughout the years, renovations and additions have continued, maintaining the museum's status as a must-see destination.

The Bishop Planetarium

After being leveled by the 2001 fire, the Bishop Planetarium reopened in June 2005 as the top astronomy facility on the Gold Coast, not far from Sarasota homes for sale. The state-of-the-art projection system includes cutting-edge software that's 1.5 times brighter than the previous system, with four times the contrast.

Shows like "Passport to the Universe," narrated by Tom Hanks, take viewers on a virtual trip through the cosmos. Get a fascinating look at what lies beyond our own solar system and watch phenomenons like black holes. In addition, the planetarium can recreate a dark sky natural environment, allowing for the display of live on-air events as they happen.

Mosaic Backyard Universe

As part of the goal to make science fun and accessible for all, the museum created its latest addition, the Mosaic Backyard Universe. A one-time parking lot has been transformed into a backyard where kids can learn in a familiar setting. Features include a Tree House Platform, Cardboard Rocket, fossil-filled Dig Pit, Science Shed, and freshwater pond that's home to a number of turtles.

Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat

Sadly, Snooty passed away in 2017 at the age of 69. But his legacy lives on in the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat, a 60,000-gallon pool where sick and injured manatees can prepare for their return to the wild. The habitat is designed to resemble a cypress spring so they can once again become accustomed to the food and environment they'll encounter. Above- and below-water viewing areas give visitors a chance to watch the manatees regain their strength and abilities.

Other Exhibits of Interest

• The first floor holds permanent exhibits showcasing artifacts representing the earliest animal and human inhabitants of the Gulf Coast. Displays include "Land of Change" and "Fabulous Florida Seas."
  
  
• The second floor is separated into two areas. River Heritage Hall focuses on how maritime history impacts community economics and culture, while Environmental Hall takes a sweeping look at the past, present, and future of Florida's environment.
  
  
• Gallery spaces are home to a changing selection of temporary exhibits, including traveling exhibitions and special-interest ones developed by the museum's curators.

Information and Hours

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is located at 201 10th St. W., Bradenton, FL 34205. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon - 5 p.m. Sunday. Tickets start at $23.95 for adults, $17.95 for ages 12-17, $14.95 for ages 5-11, and $8.95 for ages 2-4.

Life in Bradenton and Sarasota goes beyond fun in the sun. If you're selling or buying a home, contact us at Wagner Realty for cheerful and experienced assistance.

Moving to Bradenton is a dream come true. The climate is great, the scenery is better, and there are always plenty of fun things to do. There are many beautiful Bradenton Beach homes for sale, for every need and every taste.

Then once you're moved in, unwind by spending the day at the Riverwalk: a one-and-a-half-mile stretch on the Manatee River, where families can come to hike, play sports, enjoy some entertainment, and have a bite to eat. Here's a look at what the Riverwalk has to offer.

Sports and Outdoor Activities

Located right on the beach, the Riverwalk features several great volleyball courts. Whether you're organizing a serious tournament or having a friendly game with friends, it's a great way to spend an afternoon.

There's also a skate park in the area, beneath the highway. Designed based on a survey of over 1,400 actual skaters, it has everything a skateboarder could want, including ledges, stairs, rails, and a pool, complete with tile and coping.

There's also a back trail for hiking and biking, which is great for all skill levels. Plus a pier on the beach for fishing. Whatever outdoor activities you're looking to participate in, there's space for them at the Riverwalk.

Arts and Entertainment

The Mosaic Amphitheater is a 400-seat outdoor performance space, which hosts everything from plays to concerts to school and community performances, and more. Come see what's playing, or even see about hosting your own performance event there!

You should also check out the outdoor art gallery. There are 19 different pieces in the gallery, including paintings and sculptures, as well as interactive pieces designed to promote learning and spark creativity in young people.

Restaurants

There are a number of great places to eat in downtown Bradenton, and some of the best are on the Riverwalk. Mattison's Riverwalk Grille Bradenton serves lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Their menu includes everything from pasta to seafood and steak to French Toast and avocado toast, plus a variety of specialty cocktails like cranberry maple and honey basil. Plus, try their "breakfast sundae": Greek yogurt, toasted granola, wildflower honey, and seasonal fruit.

If you're looking for more of a sports bar feel, check out Oak & Stone. They serve up basic foods like pizza and sandwiches, along with more off-beat fare, like crispy mozzarella and meatball lollipops, or Philly Cheesesteak eggrolls. Plus a variety of delicious craft beers on tap.

Or, if you want something upscale, try PIER 22, for gorgeous outdoor dining, right on the waterfront. They serve up delicious burgers and steaks, alongside premium seafood and sushi, and much more.

Parking and Other Considerations

There's always plenty of parking at the Riverwalk. Between the lots and street parking, there are over 1,700 spaces in the area. Street parking is free on weekdays, with a two-hour time limit. On weekends, all parking is free and unlimited, both on the street and in the lots.

The entire area is designed to be ADA-accessible. And soon, the Riverwalk will be expanding, thanks to a grant from the Manatee Community Foundation. Plans are in the works, based on input from the local community, to make the Riverwalk an even better and more accessible place for Bradenton arts, culture, and other activities to thrive.

The Riverwalk is just the beginning of what this area has to offer. If you're ready to make Bradenton your new home, contact us. Our real estate agents can show you all the best Bradenton homes for sale, and help you find the one that best meets your needs.

With its amazing weather and beautiful beaches, it's not hard to see why purchasing a vacation home in Florida is the ultimate dream for thousands of people all over the world. Not only is a Florida vacation home a great escape, but it's also a fantastic investment. Florida is a hot real estate market, and it's easy to generate rental income from a second home when you're not using it

If buying a Florida vacation home is one of your New Year's resolutions this year, here are some tips from our real estate agents on how to find the right dream home for you:

• Choose Your Location
  With so many beautiful parts of Florida, choosing one location can be a challenge. Florida is home to 1,350 miles of coast, numerous state parks, and of course, Disney World. To choose the right location, think about your personal preferences and lifestyle. Do you prefer to be on the beach or inland? Do you prefer the Atlantic or Gulf coast? If you're having trouble deciding on an area, take a look at these beautiful Bradenton homes for sale or these amazing Sarasota homes for sale for inspiration.
  
  
• Secure Financing
  If you're planning to finance your vacation home, you'll need to secure a second home mortgage. Keep in mind, second home mortgages often require higher down payments and may also have higher interest rates and fees than a traditional mortgage as lenders may consider second homes to be a bit riskier. Be sure to get pre-approved by a lender before you start shopping.
   
• Determine The Rental Opportunity
  When buying a vacation home, you'll also want to consider if you'll be planning to rent out the property while it's not in use. If so, you'll want to choose a home in a popular vacation market to maximize your rental income. Do some online research, and check rental websites like Airbnb to get a sense of how much income you can generate from rentals.
  
  
• Consider The Tax Benefits
  When financing a second home, you'll have the benefit of being able to increase the mortgage interest you deduct from your annual income which can result in big savings. However, to achieve this, you will have to use the home as a vacation home. In other words, the primary purpose of the property can't be to generate income alone, you have to treat it as a vacation home first.
  
  
• Find A Good Real Estate Agent
  No one knows the local market like a real estate agent. An agent can not only help you find the right dream home but can also stand in your corner and negotiate a deal. An agent is also a great resource for learning about the local rental market and connecting with property management and vacation rental companies.

A Florida vacation home doesn't have to be a dream. If you're planning to make a purchase in 2022, now is a great time to start your research. For more info on the Florida real estate market, contact us today.

Shopping local is the perfect way to support small businesses during the holiday season. This year, our real estate agents suggest that you leave Black Friday to the crowd-followers. On November 27, be a trend-setter and support Small Business Saturday by patronizing these amazing shops around Bradenton and Sarasota.

• The Dancing Crane Gallery - 1019 10th Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34205
  Have you or a friend recently purchased one of the great Bradenton homes for sale? Add some individual flair with artwork from The Dancing Crane Gallery. Choose from paintings, glassware, hand-painted tiles, and sculptures from a variety of talented artists. Hours are 11 a.m. 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, with extended hours until 9 p.m. on the first Friday of each month. 
  
  
• Mixon Fruit Farms - 2525 27th St. E., Bradenton, FL 34208
  Kids who hate shopping will love going to Mixon Fruit Farms, which is fun for the whole family. Take a fascinating tram tour through the grove, with a stop for an interactive educational show at the wildlife center. Then it's time for lunch at the Groveside Cafe and a visit to the Play Place before you pick up some fresh fruit, wine, fudge, and other treats to take home. Stock up on gifts like fudge, wine, and sauces. Mixon Fruit Farms is open 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Tram tours are held each day at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for kids ages 3-12.
  
  
• Bookstore1Sarasota - 12 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
  At Bookstore1Sarasota, their motto is, "Joie de Livres," which translates to, "Joy of Books." Owners and staff are passionate about the joy of books and equally passionate about sharing that joy with customers. Discover a new favorite from among their selection of current best-sellers and perennial classics. The shop's online author events and book clubs are a perfect way to connect with other book lovers. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors close at 2 p.m. 
  
  
• Lotus Boutique - 1464 Main St., Sarasota, FL 34236
  Dress yourself from head to toe at Lotus Boutique, just minutes from Sarasota homes for sale. Lotus features the hottest designs from Diane von Furstenburg, Frank & Eileen, Norma Kamali, and other name brands. Complete your outfit with jewelry, shoes, and accessories in the latest styles. Afterward, cross the street to their newest addition and expand your wardrobe with their collection of activewear and casual favorites. Lotus Boutique is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon - 5 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Pastry Art - 1512 Main St., Sarasota, FL 34236
  Even power shoppers need a break. Rest and recharge with a snack or light lunch at Pastry Art. Choose from a tasty selection of salads, sandwiches, and wraps, or head right to the good stuff with a cupcake, cannoli, or molten lava cake. Coffee is locally roasted and freshly brewed for a full, rich flavor. Hours are 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.

Wagner Realty is proud to be part of the vibrant business community around Bradenton and Sarasota. Contact us for help with all your real estate needs.

Although current events may have canceled your global travel plans, there's still plenty of time to have an amazing vacation close to home. Our REALTORS® invite you to plan a staycation at one of our Florida rental properties. Situated near or directly on the sandy shores of the Gulf Coast, these rental properties allow you to soak up the sun and maximize your time to relax, unwind, and enjoy the simple pleasures that the Sunshine State has to offer.

• Sunset Terrace 102, Bradenton Beach
  Spend hours on the sand at this beachfront condor in Bradenton Beach. With two bedrooms and two bathrooms, up to four guests can comfortably enjoy a staycation in style. The stylish interior is outfitted with the latest amenities, including a fully equipped kitchen, a 65" Smart TV in the living room, and laundry in the unit. Outside, you'll find a heated swimming pool and private access to a white sand beach where you can enjoy dolphin spotting in the morning and beautiful sunsets every evening.
  
  
• Longboat Harbour Towers 905, Longboat Key
  Enjoy amazing views from the 9th floor of this turnkey two-bed, two-bath condo, and spoil yourself with a wonderful staycation. Lounge on the screened-in balcony after relaxing in the spacious master suite. Your stay includes access to the condo's heated pool, sauna, fitness center, and social room. With enough room for four, this condo only a few miles from the city, and mere feet from the ocean offers the very best of Florida vacationing.

• The Shore 113, Longboat Key
  Stroll right out to the beach from this fantastic first-floor two-two condo. With room for up to four, every area of this spacious unit has been renovated and upgraded to deliver maximum comfort. Outside, you'll enjoy dining on a private patio overlooking the beach and heated pool. Whether you're looking for a little R&R without the kids or hoping to give the whole family a much-needed break, this staycation on Longboat Key offers resort-style living without the crowd.

• The Shore 209, Longboat Key
  If you're searching for the ultimate staycation, look no further than this gorgeous unit at The Shore. For a minimum of 60 days, you and up to five others can savor the sun, surf, and sand of the Gulf Coast without limits. Fully furnished for your convenience, a well-equipped kitchen, a comfortable living room, and serene bathrooms create a space that will immediately feel like home. This waterfront community includes a social room, fitness center, private library, and a recently resurfaced pool and spa. 

Who says you can't staycation forever? We have a portfolio of gorgeous Longboat Key homes for sale on the water and many stunning Bradenton Beach homes for sale within a short stroll to the shore. Contact us today to book one of our amazing rental homes and discover what life is like along the Gulf Coast.

Sticking to an exercise routine can be tough, especially during the holiday season. Between last-minute shopping, fun community events, and celebrations with family and friends, finding time for the gym is difficult. Thankfully, these fitness centers around Manatee and Sarasota Counties make it easy to stay in shape during the holidays.

• AMI Health & Fitness — 5364 Gulf Dr., Holmes Beach, FL 34217
  The only full-service fitness facility on the island, AMI Health & Fitness offers 24-hour access to their equipment to help you stay in shape no matter how crazy your schedule becomes during the holidays. A huge benefit to AMI Health & Fitness is that they offer Fitness On Demand, which is a digital archive of group fitness classes that you can play at any time of the day or night. If you're searching for fitness freedom on your schedule, you'll be thankful that this 24-7 facility is close to the best Holmes Beach homes for sale.
  
  
• Pilates is a Workout — 55 South Palm Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
  This boutique Pilates studio close to Sarasota homes for sale in the heart of the city. They offer studio sessions and mat classes for people of all fitness levels. Pilates is a Workout will even provide private home instruction for those needing a convenient, professional exercise class in the comfort of their own homes.
  
  
• Jaco Boxing & Fitness — 5708 Lawton Dr., Sarasota, FL 34233
  The one-stop fitness shop Jaco Boxing & Fitness, is ready to take your body to the next level with their HIIT boxing and weightlifting classes. They also offer a kid's fitness classes so the whole family can have fun reaching their fitness goals. Next time you're browsing Sarasota homes for sale, bring the family in for a free tour.
  
  
• Latin Fitness — 4900 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota, FL 4232
  Dance your way to a healthier body during the holidays at Latin Fitness. They offer Zumba, Barre, and Pilates classes throughout the week focusing on cardio, strength training, and flexibility. If you're concerned with committing to a membership, they offer pay-by-the-class services. No reservations are required, so feel free to jump into a class after touring Sarasota homes for sale.
  
  
• Longboat Key Fitness Studio — 511 Bay Isles Parkway, Longboat Key, FL 34228
  If you prefer a more private setting while you exercise, Longboat Key Fitness Studio is the best place for you. All training services are private or semi-private, letting you strengthen your body in a comfortable setting. Longboat Key Fitness Studio allows you to pay for only the services you use. Consider stopping by after viewing Longboat Key homes for sale to learn about their state-of-the-art equipment and training sessions.
  
  
• Island Fitness — 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria Island, FL 34216
  When shopping for Anna Maria homes for sale, you'll be happy to discover a full-service gym is located right around the corner. Island Fitness offers classes six days a week to get your heart pumping. Their trainers are also the highest certified trainers in the county, giving you the opportunity to receive professional sport-specific or fitness training to meet your wellness goals.
  
  
• Koko FitClub — 2531 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Bradenton, FL 3421
  Get fit in a way that fits your lifestyle. Koko FitClub offers flexibility and tailor-made fitness plans designed entirely for you. Around the corner from Lakewood Ranch homes for sale, when you stop into Koko FitClub you can expect a 15-45 minute workout driven by technology for your most effective workout yet. Perfect for those looking to get in shape but unsure where to start. 

Are you interested in buying or selling homes in the Manatee or Sarasota area during the holidays? Contact us today, and our REALTORS® will be happy to assist you.