Top 18 Things To Do In Palmetto, Florida

1. Kayak in the emerald waters off Emerson Point Preserve

Emerson Point has a special location at the mouth of the Manatee River where it meets Lower Tampa Bay. Visitors to the site have the opportunity to explore the reserve’s history. The family-friendly space has a variety of outdoor and indoor activities where visitors get to experience kayaking in the Manatee River. Keep a lookout for the bird species roaming the area. The preserve is the base of several Native American mounds in the Portavant Mound Site and also features an observation tower that provides views of Terra Ceia Bay, Tampa Bay, and Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

Emerson Point Preserve

Address: 5801 17th St W, Palmetto, FL 34221, USA

Website: Emerson Point Preserve

Opening hours: Sunrise - sunset (daily)

2. Explore the birdlife at Felts Audubon Preserve

A great space for bird-watchers wherein a variety of bird species frequent it is Felts Audubon Preserve. The natural green space features over 163 bird species while more than 33 butterfly species have been spotted. The family-run preserve also plays host to a variety of monthly events, from guided bird walks to educational afternoons on the last Saturday of each month. It is a fantastic hideout for people who enjoy spending time in the outdoors being one with nature.

Felts Audubon Preserve

Address: 4600 24th Ave E, Palmetto, FL 34221, United States

Website: Felts Audubon Preserve

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

3. Learn about Florida's rich plant diversity at Manatee County Agricultural Museum

Manatee County Agricultural Museum was founded in 1979 with the aim of exhibiting the rich agricultural history of Manatee County. Some of the commodities that can be found in Manatee include various fruits and vegetables, livestock, and horticulture. One of the must-see exhibits is the agriculture hall of fame which serves as a tribute and honors agriculturalists that have made a difference in the community.

Manatee County Agricultural Museum

Address: 1015 6th St W, Palmetto, FL 34221, USA

Website: Manatee County Agricultural Museum

Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 10am - 12pm, 1pm - 4pm (closed from Sat - Mon)

Price: Free (but donations encouraged)

4. Treat yourself to quality meats and cheeses at Detwiler's Farm Market

Foodies can come to sample some of Palmetto’s local treats such as quality meats and cheeses produced by local sustainable vendors. They have a wide variety of produce and a great spot to shop if you plan on renting a self-catering apartment during your stay. The family-run establishment features various locations across Florida. Food lovers can come shop for locally sourced fresh fruit and vegetables sold at the food market. Keep a lookout for the regular specials that the store runs daily.

Detwiler's Farm Market

Address: 1800 US-301, Palmetto, FL 34221, USA

Website: Detwiler’s Farm Market

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8am - 8pm (closed on Sun)

5. Tour picturesque buildings at Palmetto Historical Park

Bring the kids to come to experience the historical buildings at the picturesque Palmetto Historical Park. The space is a favorite with school groups as it features a comprehensive field trip program. Each field trip is customized for individual age groups and kids get to experience lessons such as planting, churning butter, laundry, and much more. Guided tours are offered through the Carnegie Library and the Military Museum.

Palmetto Historical Park

Address: 515 10th Ave W, Palmetto, FL 34221, USA

Website: Palmetto Historical Park

Price: Free

6. Take an idyllic sunset cruise off Regatta Pointe Marina

Sail away into the sunset with a group of friends by renting a half or full-day cruise for 8 to 12 persons. Regatta Pointe Marina is Manatee County’s finest marina. The resort-style harbor has a laidback atmosphere and is the perfect way to spend chill weekends. The marina is close to all the major restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Guests get to enjoy luxury amenities at budget-friendly prices. If you are lucky enough to spare a buck or two on luxury items, then you have the option of renting out your own boat and spending the day enjoying magical sunsets in a luxurious and comfortable way.

Sunset Boat Rental

Address: 1005 Riverside Dr, Palmetto, FL 34221, USA

Website: Sunset Boat Rental

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

Price: From 279 USD

7. Go on a spearfishing dive in the Manatee River

Manatee River forms in the northeastern corner of Manatee County and flows into the Gulf of Mexico at the southern edge of Tampa Bay. Visitors to this tranquil space will be treated to a variety of fun activities or you can spend time relaxing with a picnic basket and blanket, whiling the time away. One of the favorite activities in this area is booking a spearfishing charter. No experience is required to book a charter, and you will be provided with all the required equipment.

Born Blue Diving Charters, Inc.

Address: 1005 Riverside Drive Palmetto, FL 34221

Website: Born Blue Diving Charters, Inc.

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 125 USD

8. Have a scenic lunch at Riverside Cafe

Located on the water’s edge is this stunning restaurant that brings you freshly prepared seafood and American dishes. The eatery features indoor and outdoor seating and is a favourite with locals looking to come to enjoy sundowners and a light meal. The ambience is laidback and visitors can enjoy the daily offering of live music. Keep an eye out for all the regular specials. This restaurant is a great spot for interacting with locals and getting inside information about all the fun things to do in Palmetto.

Riverside Cafe

Address: 955 Riverside Dr, Palmetto, FL 34221, USA

Website: Riverside Cafe

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 7:30am - 9pm; Sun: 7:30am - 8pm (closed on Mon)

9. Sample innovative beers at Corporate Ladder Brewing Company

Corporate Ladder Brewing Company is a local brewer dedicated to bringing you some of the best craft beers in town. The watering hole showcases tap and bottles beers using some of the best locally sourced ingredients. Beer lovers can come sample some of the companies’ offerings from different pilsners and lagers to sour fruited beers. This brewery prides itself in combining unique and interesting flavours. The founders have made it a point to ensure that visitors have an unforgettable experience. From the moment you set foot into the brewery, you will be greeted by great craftsmanship combined with a genuine love for beer

Corporate Ladder Brewing Company

Address: 4935 96th St E, Palmetto, FL 34221, USA

Website: Corporate Ladder Brewing Company

Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 2pm - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 12pm - 12am; Sun: 12pm - 8pm; Mon 5pm - 10pm

10. Snag a vintage knick-knack from Emiline's Antiques & Collectibles

One of the highlights of travelling is discovering hidden gems and taking a piece of your travels back home as part of a souvenir. If you are tired of the usual cheesy souvenirs and gift options sold at most destinations, then why not head to this unique store in the heart of Palmetto. Emiline’s Antiques & Collectibles is a family-owned business that has been in existence for over 20 years. Visitors can expect to find a wide variety of collectible items and vintage pieces that were once another person’s treasure. The store purchases previously owned items and resells them. There are over 35 vendors with extensive knowledge of vintage items.

Emiline's Antiques & Collectibles

Address: 1415 10th St W, Palmetto, FL 34221, United States

Website: Emiline’s Antiques & Collectibles

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm

11. Enjoy a day of play at Sutton Park

Sutton Park is a landmark in Palmetto that offers a space for the entire family to enjoy. Educational groups often visit the park and they offer daily tours of the historic buildings. Guests have the opportunity to take part in interactive activities and exhibits. Set a day out of your holiday itinerary to enjoy a relaxing day on the manicured lawn while the kids enjoy a play session on the jungle gym.

Sutton Park

Address: 1036 6th St W, Palmetto, FL 34221, United States

Website: Sutton Park

Opening hours: 7am - 9pm (daily)

12. Hike around the hidden gem of Snead Island

Snead Island is one of Palmetto’s hidden gems. The 148-hectare (365.7 acres) space is mainly a residential area that overlooks the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors who are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city will find this place a refreshing respite. For outdoor lovers, there is a preserve that offers the perfect site for enjoying an outdoor hike. Visitors to the island can expect to find two private dry boat storage facilities and remnants of a former palm tree nursery. Emerson Point Preserve is a preserve operated by Manatee County on the western end of Snead Island.

13. Sip a cocktail while enjoying coastal views on the snook deck of Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant

Located a stone’s throw away from the water’s edge, you will find this upmarket space on the river banks of Palmetto. The party kicks off every Thursday to Sundays where visitors get to enjoy live music performances while watching the sunset and sipping on delicious cocktails. They have an extensive menu that includes mixed grills and fresh salads. Riverhouse features three dining options, each offering a different ambience. Located on the ground floor, you can expect to find a full-service bar and restaurant. There is a patio overlooking the water, as well as a snook deck. Come enjoy the breathtaking sunsets and the aesthetics of this charming coastal restaurant.

Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant

Address: 995 Riverside Dr, Palmetto, FL 34221, United States

Website: Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11:30am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11:30am - 10pm, Sun: 11am - 9pm

14. Pick up beach-themed souvenirs at By the Sea Boutique

Going shopping while on vacation is a favourite pastime for holidaymakers. Located close to the waterfront, you will find this stylish and quaint shop in the heart of Palmetto. They specialise in women’s clothing, accessories, and sea-themed gift items. If you are looking for a souvenir before the end of your trip, then make a turn here to grab a set of seashell-themed jewellery.

By the Sea Boutique

Address:705 8th Ave W, Palmetto, FL 34221, United States

Website: By the Sea Boutique

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9:30am - 5:30pm (closed on Sun)

15. Practise your tennis swing at Lamb Park

Palmetto is a family-friendly seaside town with a variety of things to do for people of all ages. Visitors looking for something free to do can head over to Lamb Park where you can enjoy a quiet, serene picnics or spend time sharpening your tennis skills at the court. Lamb Park is also the site where most of the community events are hosted. They host anything from food markets to vintage car shows.

Lamb Park

Address: 950 6th St W, Palmetto, FL 34221, United States

Website: Lamb Park

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

16. Get some sun on the tranquil banks of Hidden Lake Park

Florida is one of those states that is every outdoor enthusiast’s dream destination. The permitting weather allows visitors to enjoy the array of sunshine that this state is mainly known for. Something a little different from the usual beaches is Hidden Lake Park in Palmetto. Hidden Lake Park is the secret gem of Palmetto. The tranquil outdoor space is surrounded by lush greenery with manicured gardens and an array of indigenous trees. At the centre of it all, you will find a serene lake where you can spend afternoons watching the sunset over the blue waters. Great for a romantic day out in the park.

Hidden Lake Park

Address: 1712 12th St W, Palmetto, FL 34221, United States

Website: Hidden Lake Park

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

17. Golf on the championship greens of Buffalo Greek Golf Course

This modern golf course designed by international acclaimed designer Ron Garl offers golfers a space to test out their golfing skills. The space is open to novice golfers all the way to pro golfers. Aspiring golfers can join one of the many classes led by an experienced instructor who will guide you through the ropes on how to be the best possible golfer. The course is in a remote area in Palmetto and gives the visitor a sense of being somewhere in the rural outskirts of the city. After enjoying a game of golf stop by the in-house shop and purchase some amazing sporting gear.

Buffalo Greek Golf Course

Address: 8100 69th St E, Palmetto, FL 34221, United States

Website: Buffalo Greek Golf Course

Opening hours: 7am - 6pm (daily)

18. Check out diverse activities at Manatee County Fair Association

Manatee County Fair is a fun space for people of all age groups to enjoy. There is a wide variety of fun activities to be enjoyed and it is a centre filled with plenty of fun games. Visitors have the option of renting the place out for your private event. The arts and crafts facility is a centre of exhibitions, talent competitions, and pageants. The agricultural workshop is one of many workshops that are hosted at the facility. Make sure to visit the many food stalls and try out homemade goods made with love.

Manatee County Fair Association

Address: 1303 13th Ave W, Palmetto, FL 34221, United States

Website: Manatee County Fair Association

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 5pm - 10pm; Fri: 5pm - 12am, Sat 12pm - 12am, Sun 1pm - 5pm

Impress your family with a fun holiday in Palmetto

As Hans Cristian Anderson once said, “to travel is to live” and it certainly rings true. Planning a family vacation to Palmetto will not only allow you to enjoy a relaxing break but will also let you be part of a family-oriented community with several fun things to do for people of all age groups. Make sure to include some of these fun activities to your itinerary for a memorable holiday for the entire family.