A new renovation and expansion of the Bradenton Area Convention Center is underway, spearheaded by the Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (BACVB). This $48 million renovation and expansion is anticipated to be completed in the second quarter of 2025, and is estimated to provide an economic impact of $25 to $30 million annually to the community. Located in Palmetto, not too far from Sarasota, the convention center is the only full-service one of its size in a 150-mile radius from St. Petersburg to Naples. It is located along the scenic Manatee River with easy access to downtown Bradenton and the beautiful beaches of Anna Maria Island.
The renovation will feature an additional 14,000-square-foot ballroom that includes pre-function space. This new space will seat 900 attendees and offer the option to be split into two equal sections with operable walls. Two additional outdoor event spaces will also be added and the existing exhibit hall will receive a little TLC with fresh paint and new epoxy for the current flooring.
Not only will attendees be able to enjoy the new convention space, but also a brand-new upscale Marriott hotel—the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa—set to open this spring. The hotel will feature 252 rooms, a climate-controlled walkway to and from the Bradenton Area Convention Center, a ground floor restaurant and lounge, VIP rooftop bar and lounge, beach club, an outdoor resort-style pool, and additional meeting and event space to complement the convention center.
Tony DeRusso, managing director of Indevelopment Partners LLC, says in a prepared statement, “Palmetto is truly the ideal location for this world-class resort, further creating a vibrant and exciting conference and convention destination.”
