Perhaps best known for the world-famous beaches of Anna Maria Island, the Bradenton Area on Florida’s west coast is preparing to unveil yet another impressive attraction later this summer. Currently putting the finishing touches on a $52 million transformation, the Bradenton Area Convention Center will soon feature more than 95,000 square feet—best suited for up to 4,000 guests and perfect for bringing virtually any vision to life.
The expansion includes a new Grand Ballroom that will seat up to 800 attendees banquet-style, as well as additional outdoor plazas for enjoying the venue’s scenic locale near the Manatee River. For trade shows and similar large-scale events, the existing Gulf Islands Center Hall provides 32,000 square feet of flexible exhibit space.
These updates come just a year after the much-anticipated opening of the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, conveniently connected to the Bradenton Area Convention Center by a climate-controlled walkway. The upscale hotel features 252 spacious rooms and event space of its own—not to mention a myriad of guest amenities, including spa services, rooftop dining, social events, and access to the nearby Beach Club at Riviera Dunes.
Just across the bridge, downtown Bradenton offers additional hotels to accommodate guests and entertainment options for team building or enjoying downtime. There are exciting museums, dine-around opportunities, and recreational activities along the Bradenton Riverwalk, as well as local shopping and walking tours. Travelers can even catch a ferry to nearby Anna Maria Island to relax and unwind on the breathtaking beaches post-conference.
The Convention Center is booking events for next year and beyond. Learn more about the venue and why you should host on Florida’s west coast at bradentonareaconventioncenter.com.
