Beautifully situated along the Manatee River, Bradenton lies east of nearby Gulf beaches, north of Sarasota, and south of cities like Tampa and Clearwater. The area was first discovered in 1539 by famed conquistador Hernando de Soto. Over 300 years later in 1903, it was named Bradentown after a local doctor who provided refuge for settlers that had been attacked by Indians. It wasn't until 1943, that Bradenton was finally formed thanks to the merging of Bradentown and Manatee.
Today, Bradenton attracts tourists from around the world to its excellent museums, exciting parks, fascinating artist community, and vibrant downtown. Whether you're visiting the city to enjoy one of these attractions or for another reason entirely, it's important that you find the right hotel for your needs so nothing stands in the way of you having a great trip.
When to Visit Bradenton, FL
The best time to visit Bradenton is between September and December, when temperatures reach highs of upper 70s to mid-80s. It's the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities like paddle boarding, fishing, and horseback riding, and to take advantage of exciting events like Bayfest, ArtsHop, and Boofest. Plus, it will be shoulder season so you won't have to worry about large crowds, bad traffic, or no place to set up your umbrella on the beach. An added bonus: hotel rates will be very affordable and a variety of discounts may be available.
Between May and August, Bradenton is hot, humid, and wet, with temperatures reaching highs of upper 80s to low 90s, with large amounts of rain falling in July and August. Despite the heat and occasional downpours, this is the time of year that families converge on the city's attractions. Luckily, you won't compete with nearly as many crowds as you would during high season, and you'll only have moderate amounts of traffic to deal with. You'll also benefit from affordable hotel rates and fun seasonal events.
Like many cities in Florida, Bradenton is a winter destination, so January to April will be the most crowded time to visit. As a result, you'll face everything from congested traffic to expensive hotel rates so book your room well in advance and prepare to share the road. There is plenty of good news, though. Winter temperatures are gorgeous – usually between 60 and 80 degrees – making it a great time to explore nature preserves and parks. There are also plenty of events to enjoy like the Riverboat Regatta, ArtSlam, and St. Patrick's Day Bash.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Bradenton, FL:
Bradenton, FL: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below we've posted 3 graphs illustrating avg. price patterns by star rating class in Bradenton, FL. Browse these line graphs to evaluate the most cost effective time period to book in Bradenton for your upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotel Options in Bradenton, FL
4 Star Average Prices: $145.41
If it's luxury you're after, you'll find many great options in Bradenton. Bridgewalk A Landmark Resort is one of Bradenton's premier aparthotels. Located in the historic district of Bradenton Beach, this family-friendly resort is near fun attractions like Fish Hole Adventure Golf and Fun N Sun Parasail. You'll enjoy one of 28 spacious Key West-style guestrooms – many of which are over 800 square feet – which feature tile floors, granite counter tops, and a large, screened verandah. Depending on the room you select, you may also have access to a full kitchen, dining table, and Jacuzzi tub.
And the luxury doesn't stop there. In and around the hotel, you'll also enjoy a heated outdoor pool, island bar, and spa. Complimentary beach towels and umbrellas are available on-site, as well as retail shopping stores.
For another great luxury hotel option, Courtyard by Marriott Bradenton Sarasota Riverfront will not disappoint. This five-story water-facing property is conveniently located minutes away from Bradenton's downtown district. Also nearby is the South Florida Museum, Manatee Village Historical Park, and Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport. Each well-designed and comfortable guestroom features a work desk with ergonomic chair, luxury bedding, and a private balcony with beautiful views. If that's not enough space, larger suite accommodations, which also include refrigerators, wet bars, and sofa beds, are available.
For a delicious meal or refreshing beverage, you can visit the hotel's on-site restaurant or opt for an adventure by exploring the hotel's meticulous grounds. If you'd rather spend your time swimming or exercising, you can check out the hotel's modern pool and fitness center.
Affordable Hotel Options in Bradenton, FL
3 Star Average Prices: $135.86
There are many affordable hotel options in Bradenton. Quality Inn Bradenton – Sarasota North is a modern hotel located in the eastern section of the city, near restaurants, beaches, and shopping. Each guestroom features a 37-inch flat-screen TV for your entertainment; refrigerators and microwaves for easy food storage and heating: and desks for you to catch up on work. Larger rooms are also available, which include easy chairs and sofa beds for additional lounging.
The hotel features a modern, updated lobby, outdoor pool, fitness center, laundromat, and convenience store. There's even a free breakfast buffet set up each morning.
For an affordable hotel located northeast of downtown Bradenton, Sleep Inn & Suites Riverfront is a great choice. Its convenient location puts you minutes away from top-rated shopping, beaches, and other attractions. In one of its beautifully-decorated guestrooms you'll enjoy a refrigerator, microwave, work desk, and free internet access. Hotel amenities include an outdoor heated pool, sundeck, weekday newspaper, and complimentary breakfast. If you have a pet, feel free to bring him or her along for the stay. The hotel will be happy to accommodate your four-legged friend.
2 Star Average Prices: $79.44
Best Discounts in Bradenton, FL
There are plenty of hotels with good discounts in Bradenton. Best Western Plus Manatee Hotel offers AAA and AARP discounts on many of its guestrooms and suites. The hotel is located in the center of Bradenton, near top attractions like DeSoto Square, Heather Hills Golf Course, and Ringling Museum of Art. In one of its 51 guestrooms, you'll enjoy a refrigerator, microwave, work desk, and pillow top bed, along with free internet access and cable TV programming.
Hotel amenities include an outdoor heated pool, fitness center, concierge desk, coffee shop, and free hot breakfast.
Quality Inn Bradenton – Sarasota North also offers AAA and AARP discounts on its rooms. The hotel is located south of downtown, convenient to Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, IMG Soccer Academy, and State College of Florida. Its inviting guestrooms feature flat-screen TVs for entertainment, refrigerators for storing food, and premium Q Beds for peaceful sleeping.
Aside from its comfortable guestrooms, the hotel also provides a relaxing outdoor pool, convenient business center, and easily-accessible guest laundry room. Additional perks include free buffet breakfast and coffee.
Best Value Options in Bradenton, FL
If you're searching for hotels with good value, Bradenton's options will not disappoint. Hampton Inn & Suites Bradenton Downtown Historic District puts you steps away from museums, historical parks, and Bradenton's famous Riverwalk. Best of all, the hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its Bradenton-style décor so you won't have to travel far to enjoy a top attraction. In your guestroom, you'll enjoy a comfortable Hampton bed, mini-refrigerator, free internet access, and iHome clock radio. Upgrade your stay with a spacious suite that also features a balcony with gorgeous city or marina views.
Hotel amenities include free hot breakfast, an outdoor heated pool, fitness center, meeting space, and 24-hour Suite Shop where you'll find snacks and travel accessories.
For a good value hotel a short distance from downtown, Holiday Inn Express and Suites Bradenton East – Lakewood Ranch is a great option. It's conveniently located in east Bradenton near Ellenton Outlets, St. Armand's Circle, and Myakka State Park. Its 78 spacious guestrooms feature refrigerators, microwaves, work desks, and free internet access. The hotel's oversized suites, which are perfect for families, also feature Jacuzzi tubs, wet bars, sofa beds, and lounge chairs.
Outside of your room, you can take a swim in the hotel's outdoor pool, break a sweat in the fitness center, and catch up on current events in the lobby with a free copy of USA Today, provided by the hotel.
Top Historic Attractions in Bradenton, FL
No matter where you stay in Bradenton, you'll be close to many of the city's top historic attractions. South Florida Museum, located downtown, is the largest natural and cultural history museum on Florida's Gulf Coast. It boasts a number of fossil, maritime, and exploration exhibits that highlight the history of Florida, as well as a planetarium and aquarium.
Or you can experience early life in Bradenton and surrounding areas at the Manatee Village Historical Park. This unique attraction showcases a collection of restored buildings from the settlement period before electricity, cars, or the internet were ever invented. Roam the grounds and stop by the 1903 Wiggins General Store, the 1912 Settlers' House, the 1887 Methodist-Episcopal Church South, and more.
Whether you're searching for a luxury hotel in the center of Bradenton or an affordable one with good value further away, you can find the perfect hotel for your needs and budget in Bradenton.
FAQs about hotels in Bradenton
How much does a cheap hotel in Bradenton cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Bradenton can be as cheap as $79.44 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Bradenton cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Bradenton has been $135.86 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 4-5 star hotel in Bradenton cost?
In the last year, the average 4 star hotel in Bradenton has been $145.41 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
Verified reviews of the city of Bradenton
Below are reviews of the city of Bradenton, FL from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Lake wood Ranch beautiful"
Score
4.0 / 5
Only visit Lake wood Ranch beautiful love how the hotel is close to all the stores and accessories to restaurants.
Graciela S., from 29-Sep-2026
"Love the area"
Score
4.0 / 5
Robert W., from 15-Sep-2026
"Convenience"
Score
4.0 / 5
Convenience
Daniel D., from 23-Aug-2026
"Moses in Sarasota"
Score
4.0 / 5
Moses in Sarasota. Der Dutchmen Restaurant.
Adriana P., from 16-Aug-2026
"I was visiting my sister who lives in Bradenton"
Score
4.0 / 5
Deborah H., from 20-Jul-2026
"Quiet peaceful"
Score
4.0 / 5
Quiet, peaceful, easy accessible to other location and business
Sandra C., from 15-Jul-2026
"Ease of getting around "
Score
4.0 / 5
Ease of getting around
Things located nearby
Dawne S., from 29-Jun-2026
"Easy walking distance to river walk"
Score
5.0 / 5
Robert G., from 24-Jun-2026
"I liked everything about the city of Bradenton"
Score
5.0 / 5
I liked everything about the city of Bradenton. Very clean and easy to get around. Beach not crowded and very well maintained.
Kelly P., from 12-Jun-2026
" The people are very friendly"
Score
5.0 / 5
It's busy for sure. The people are very friendly.
Richard M., from 01-Jun-2026
"Good location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Good location for where i needed to be.
Carolyn D., from 27-May-2026
"Convention center was nice"
Score
4.0 / 5
Alexa S., from 15-May-2026
"Rebecca and Summer at the front desk were very helpful and kind"
Score
5.0 / 5
Stephanie J., from 08-May-2026
"The restaurants shopping"
Score
5.0 / 5
The restaurants, shopping, golf and 30min to Lido Beach
Rickey L., from 19-Apr-2026
"Bradenton is so beautiful and quaint"
Score
4.0 / 5
Bradenton is so beautiful and quaint. Love it!
Tana K., from 14-Apr-2026
"The community was extremely friendly and welcoming"
Score
5.0 / 5
Lisa M., from 13-Apr-2026
"MY SON LIVES THERE"
Score
5.0 / 5
Lisa P., from 08-Apr-2026
"Great"
Score
5.0 / 5
GREAT SOME VERY GOOD RESTURANTS AND SHOPPING.
Norvel D., from 05-Apr-2026
"Loved the monster Wall Mart store"
Score
4.0 / 5
Donald W., from 27-Mar-2026
"A busy area "
Score
5.0 / 5
A busy area with a lot of sports/ weddings/ spring break happenings that kept all the hotels full and expensive.
Terry B., from 21-Mar-2026
"We liked that Bradenton was clean"
Score
4.0 / 5
We liked that Bradenton was clean, light traffic, and pretty easy to get around.
David P., from 15-Mar-2026
"Riverwalk"
Score
4.0 / 5
Rebecca D., from 15-Mar-2026
"Enjoyed yoga"
Score
4.0 / 5
Enjoyed yoga at A little Twisted yoga studio.
Paul M., from 11-Mar-2026
"Good Service"
Score
5.0 / 5
The front desk person was very understanding.
Andrey Z., from 08-Mar-2026
"A cozy and charming downtown"
Score
5.0 / 5
A cozy and charming downtown. Ate at Bricks, which was yummy.
Leslie A., from 07-Mar-2026
"Weather"
Score
4.0 / 5
Tim S., from 15-Feb-2026
"I live here "
Score
5.0 / 5
I live here had to stay at hotel for personal reasons
Donnie B., from 12-Feb-2026
"Bradenton is a beautiful city"
Score
4.0 / 5
Bradenton is a beautiful city, the people are friendly the weather is amazing.
Andy G., from 24-Jan-2026
"I live here"
Score
4.0 / 5
Ted V., from 23-Dec-2025
"75 degree weather"
Score
4.0 / 5
Robert T., from 12-Dec-2025
"Spectacular Christmas lights at UNIVERSITY MALL "
Score
5.0 / 5
Karen M., from 18-Nov-2025
"The shops and restaurants"
Score
5.0 / 5
Katherine M., from 29-Sep-2025
"Good Location"
Score
4.0 / 5
A lot of activities to do and good selection of restaurants and businesses
David M., from 27-Sep-2025
"My hometown."
Score
5.0 / 5
Robin L., from 12-Sep-2025
"Near Very Good Beaches!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Close to very good beaches!
David P., from 07-Jul-2025
"Family "
Score
5.0 / 5
Family lives nearby.
Anna F., from 20-May-2025
"Great Location!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Lots of restaurants!
Mary E., from 14-May-2025
"Middle School Concert"
Score
5.0 / 5
We were there for granddaughters middle school concert.
Alana L., from 09-May-2025
"Restaurants with music, the beaches and amazing sunsets!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Restaurants with music, the beaches and amazing sunsets!
Laurie C., from 30-Mar-2025
"Good beaches and restaurnts."
Score
4.0 / 5
Easy to get around with beaches, good restaurants.
Gertrude D., from 18-Mar-2025
"Robinson Preserve is Amazing!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The parks! Robinson Preserve is amazing!
James M., from 17-Feb-2025
"Bradenton Drag Strip!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Bradenton Drag Strip!
Donna C., from 10-Feb-2025
"Nice location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Golf
Brian H., from 25-Nov-2024
"Very clean hotel in great location."
Score
4.0 / 5
Very clean. Close to everything we needed/wanted to visit.
Stephanie R., from 16-Nov-2024
"Excellent Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Hotel location was excellent.
Nancy G., from 10-Nov-2024
"Exquisite beach and amazing food!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The beach was exquisite! The town was friendly and easy to get around. Food was amazing also.
Michael C., from 18-Sep-2024
"Good proximity to Anna Maria Island"
Score
5.0 / 5
Good proximity to Anna Maria Island.
Eileen C., from 31-Aug-2024
"Excellent Restaurants"
Score
4.0 / 5
Excellent restaurants!
Sarah W., from 27-Aug-2024
"Near beaches with lots of scenery, shopping and restaurants."
Score
4.0 / 5
Bradenton is a nice town, near the beaches filled with lots of scenery and convenient shopping and restaurants.
Carmen S., from 07-Jul-2024
"Riverwalk is nice."
Score
5.0 / 5
Riverwalk is nice.
Pam S., from 06-Jul-2024
"I love how close it is to everything!"
Score
5.0 / 5
I love how close it is to everything!
Ephraime M., from 04-Jul-2024
"Nice Little Town"
Score
4.0 / 5
Bradenton was a nice little town. I was in town for a funeral so did not spend much time touring.
Richard M., from 15-Jun-2024
"Clean Historic City"
Score
4.0 / 5
Had breakfast at Sage which was excellent! The city is very clean and historic. People are very friendly!
Dene P., from 04-Jun-2024
"Good Location"
Score
4.0 / 5
We walked to Fav's and had great pizza on 12th Street! That street had a variety of eating and drinking places in walking distances.
Gail A., from 05-Mar-2024
"Great!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Great!
Carole G., from 18-Feb-2024
"Great Restaurants & Saint Armands!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Great restaurants like Flemings Felipe Creek, Columbia House, The Element, another seafood restaurant at Saint Armand Circle! Saint Armands itself and a great mall at University!
Michael H., from 03-Jan-2024
"Near HCA Blake Hospital"
Score
4.0 / 5
Husband is at HCA Blake Hospital.
Jane S., from 31-Dec-2023
"Bishop Museum, Farmers Market & the Pier"
Score
4.0 / 5
The Bishop Museum, the farmers market and the pier.
Rosemary B., from 19-Dec-2023
"Holmes Beach"
Score
4.0 / 5
I was visiting a friend that lived on Holmes Beach.
Anthony G., from 02-Dec-2023
"Lots of Eateries!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Lots of food places!
David T., from 12-Nov-2023
"Beautiful place in great location!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Beautiful place in great location!
Roxann B., from 06-Nov-2023
"Beautiful!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Beautiful!
Ramen B., from 17-Oct-2023
"Very Nice"
Score
4.0 / 5
Very nice!
James K., from 18-Sep-2023
"Gorgeous Beaches!"
Score
4.0 / 5
A lot of great food options and all the beaches nearby are gorgeous with plenty of fun things to do!
Torie O., from 16-Sep-2023
"Beaches and anything you need in close proximity. "
Score
4.0 / 5
I love Bradenton because it has so much to offer. Everything is so convenient. We have beaches and just about anything you need or want in close proximity.
Almeda S., from 04-Sep-2023
"Beautiful!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Beautiful!
Mike M., from 21-Aug-2023
"Great place if you want to slow down unwind and relax!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Great place if you want to slow down unwind and relax!
Chechulae D., from 05-Jun-2023
"The Beach!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Beach and restaurants!
Shirley S., from 31-May-2023
"Chili’s is near the hotel."
Score
4.0 / 5
Chili's is near the hotel. I enjoyed going there for dinner.
Donna D., from 23-Apr-2023
"Shopping!"
Score
5.0 / 5
We liked shopping in Bradenton.
John L., from 20-Apr-2023
"Shop Hop for Quilters throughout Florida"
Score
4.0 / 5
We only stayed the one night as we were on a shop hop for quilters throughout Florida.
Alan B., from 11-Mar-2023
"Love the Riverwalk!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Love the Riverwalk!
David B., from 22-Feb-2023
"Shops, Old Town & Arts Center"
Score
4.0 / 5
I went to the Sage Biscuit Cafe and the shops nearby, which were very pleasant. The downtown old town was enjoyable and the local arts center was an absolute joy.
Ruth S., from 20-Feb-2023
"Lots of Shopping & Dining!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Lots of shopping and sunshine. Plenty of places to dine.
Rae M., from 17-Feb-2023
"Neat the beach, attractions, restaurants!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Many restaurants, the beach and other attractions are nearby!
Lynelle D., from 11-Jan-2023
"The property was very modern and comfortable, staff was extremely friendly and professional. "
Score
4.0 / 5
The property was very modern and comfortable, staff was extremely friendly and professional. Having many restaurants and the beach and other attractions nearby
Lynelle D., from 10-Jan-2023
"Rooms very clean and staff very friendly."
Score
4.0 / 5
Rooms very clean and staff very friendly. Sweet little town
Brenda L., from 13-Dec-2022
"Good Restaurants & Great Blues Concert"
Score
5.0 / 5
The restaurants are good and the blues concert was great.
Scott G., from 05-Dec-2022
"Lots of places to visit and dine."
Score
4.0 / 5
Lots of places to visit and dine.
Danny C., from 30-May-2022
"Good Restaurant"
Score
4.0 / 5
The restaurant was good.
Rickey C., from 28-Apr-2022
"Lovely area on the water."
Score
4.0 / 5
Lovely area with many eating venues on the water. I golfed here as well.
John L., from 15-Mar-2022
"Mucho pero el hotel si."
Score
5.0 / 5
La ciudad de bradenton como tal no me gusto
Mucho pero el hotel si
Barbara S., from 16-Feb-2022
"Very Nice Area"
Score
5.0 / 5
Plenty of places to eat. Walking paths along river. Nice parks.
Michael F., from 17-Jan-2022
"Beautiful"
Score
5.0 / 5
It was beautiful.
Richard G., from 30-Dec-2021
"Excellent!!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Excellent!!
Shamika L., from 23-Dec-2021
"Pier 22 is Highly Recommended!"
Score
5.0 / 5
I highly recommend Pier 22.
Lauren N., from 02-Nov-2021
"Beautiful Scenery!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Great restaurant, scenery is beautiful
Linda C., from 23-Oct-2021
"Nice Area"
Score
4.0 / 5
Very nice area and seems to be growing. Plenty of shopping all around and access to major highways.
Gary D., from 17-Nov-2019
"Beautiful beaches"
Score
4.0 / 5
Beaches
Steven E., from 05-Nov-2019
"overall great experience!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Beautiful!
Tajuana R., from 18-Jun-2017
"Lovely "
Score
4.0 / 5
Bradenton is a lovely town.
Amy K., from 19-Apr-2017
"Enjoyed Our Visit"
Score
4.0 / 5
Bradenton is a lovely town.
Amy K., from 19-Apr-2017
"Gorgeous "
Score
5.0 / 5
Beautiful place, it is the home of where our heritage began
Melissa Hines H., from 09-Aug-2016
"Beautiful with lots to do"
Score
5.0 / 5
We are golfers so there was an abundance of opportunities! Very easy to navigate. The River Walk is awesome for family fun. Robinson Preserve is a great place for exercise and nature walks. The beaches are clean and plentiful.
Janice H., from 02-Mar-2014
"Super easy to navigate"
Score
5.0 / 5
I live in Bradenton and rented the condo for NY guests. The city is super easy to navigate, beaches are nearby. If you need more excitement, Sarasota (south of Bradenton) or Tampa (north) are within an hours drive.
David G., from 15-Dec-2013
The average traveler rating of the city of Bradenton, FL shown above is
4.4 out of 5 based on 95 reviews