3 Fun Festivals to Enjoy this Fall with the Family on Anna Maria Island

Collection of autumn pumpkins on a blue background

Fall is always a great time of year to visit Anna Maria Island with the family. The weather has cooled off from the typical summer heat, and there is always something to do. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to the fun and events. Look at what fall festivals you don’t want to miss this year near the island.

23rd Annual Bayfest

Classic cars in a row parked on asphalt parking lot

We are so excited that Bayfest is returning to Anna Maria Island this year for the 23rd year. Happening on Pine Avenue on Saturday, October 19, 2024, from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm is where your family can join in the fun. There will be live music during the day, arts & crafts, a car show, fantastic food, and more. Admission to this fun event hosted by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce is free. There will also be plenty of vendors you can purchase things from and bring home. Think of the fun the whole family can enjoy while you enjoy this fun event together!

Trail of Treats

For the families staying with us in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals for Halloween, here is a fun activity you can join. Starting at 4:00 pm and ending at 6:30 pm, your children can participate in the Trail of Treats hosted by the Chamber of Commerce. There will be a costume contest and trick-or-treating with local businesses. What a fun event to experience with the family. Be sure to have an enjoyable time together. What more could any family ask for while at the beach?

33rd Annual Pumpkin Festival

boy picks pumpkin at the farmers market. The person in motion, defocused.

For those looking for a fun pumpkin festival, head to Hunsander Farms starting October 12, 2024. This event will reoccur every Saturday and Sunday, offering families lots of fall fun until October 27, 2024. Now’s your chance to discover galore pumpkin carvings, exciting hayrides, and crafts. There will also be live music, a petting zoo, and more. Admission into the festival is free, and there will be a handful of things to do that require ticket purchases, like the corn maze and train rides. There will also be items to purchase, so be sure to bring some extra cash with you to this exciting pumpkin festival.

While many other fun fall events are happening near Anna Maria Island, we wanted to share these with you. Call us today if you haven’t booked your stay in an Anna Maria Island vacation rental for this October. We can’t wait to see you and your family this fall and experience the fun on the coast of Florida!

Make Memories Before the School Year on Anna Maria Island

Multiracial group of friends with children walking at the beach

As the summer winds down and the school year approaches, there’s no better time to make lasting memories with the family than a trip to Anna Maria Island. This enchanting island on Florida’s Gulf Coast offers the perfect backdrop for a pre-school adventure. Begin your vacation by settling into an Anna Maria Island vacation rental, where comfort and convenience create your home away from home. Let’s look below at how your family can make memories before the school year on Anna Maria Island.

Beach Days with Sunshine

Beautiful White Sand Beach and Grasses on the Coastline of Anna Maria Island, Florida

Anna Maria Island holds some of Florida’s most beautiful and treasured beaches. Spend your days soaking up the sun on the picture-perfect white sand. The crystal-clear shallow water with gentle waves makes it a perfect spot for the kids to splash safely. Don’t forget to bring beach toys, sunscreen, and plenty of snacks to keep the fun going all day. As you lounge under the shade of an umbrella, you’ll find yourself unwinding in this coastal paradise.

Explore Nature and Wildlife

For families who love nature, Anna Maria Island has plenty to offer. Take a leisurely bike ride along the island’s scenic trails or visit the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum for a lesson on the history of our island. Head to Leffis Key Preserve for a peaceful walk through mangroves and salt marshes, where you can spot various birds and wildlife. The island’s natural beauty will captivate both young and old alike.

Family-Friendly Island Activities

Group of friends having fun on the beach - Young and happy tourists bonding outdoors, enjoying summertime

There’s no shortage of family-friendly activities on Anna Maria Island. Visit the AMI Community Center, where you can find various comprehensive sports and arts and crafts activities. Take a trip to the nearby Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium to marvel at the wonders of marine life. For a unique adventure, consider exploring the calm waters surrounding the island with kayaks or paddleboards. Think of the fun you’ll have as a family with all the fun island activities.

As your vacation ends, you’ll reflect on the memories you’ve made on Anna Maria Island. Every moment spent here is extraordinary, from the sun-soaked beaches to family-friendly activities. And there’s no better way to experience it than by staying in an Anna Maria Island vacation rental. With all the comforts of home, you can relax and enjoy your time together as a family.

Celebrate America on Anna Maria Island

American flag, star, and firework on white, national holiday

Independence Day is a time for celebration, and there’s no better place to revel in the festivities than Anna Maria Island. Our beautiful island, white sand, and clear waters make it the perfect backdrop for a memorable 4th of July. To make your 4th of July getaway a little more unique, why not consider the adventure of staying in a vacation rental on Anna Maria Island? Here, you’ll have the perfect home base for all the celebrations this 4th of July will have. Let’s look below at how you and your family can marvel at the festivities on Anna Maria Island.

A Day in the Sun

Beach Chairs with Umbrella and Raft on the Beach of Anna Maria Island, Florida

Start your 4th of July vacation this year with a day or two at the beach. Anna Maria Island is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Southwest Florida. Soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and hunt for some seashells with the kids. Play some games on the beach like volleyball, catch, or even who can build the best sandcastle with the family. Don’t forget to bring your red, white, and blue beach gear to show off your patriotic spirit!

 4th of July Parade

Of the many highlights of spending the 4th of July on Anna Maria Island, the AMI Privateers 4th of July Parade stands out as a vibrant celebration of our patriotic spirit. This year, the parade will kick off at 10:00 a.m. in Coquina Beach and end around 12:30 p.m. at the Anna Maria City Pier, promising a day filled with excitement and patriotic spirit. So come prepared for the time of your life and celebrate this holiday with us on the island.

Spectacular Fireworks

Crowd watching fireworks and celebrating on the beach.

As the sun sets in the west, it’s time to get ready for the day’s main event: Fireworks. Anna Maria Island offers several prime locations to view the fireworks, including the beach, pier, and local parks. One of the best places to get a great view of the fireworks is The Sandbar Restaurant. Be there early as the weather cooperates, but the show should start around 8:00 pm. It’s free, family-friendly, and has one of the best seats on the island to watch those glorious fireworks light up the night sky.

A Few Tips for a Safe & Enjoyable 4th of July

Remember to stay safe while you’re enjoying the festivities on the island. Here are a few tips to make sure your holiday is fun and worry-free:

  • Stay hydrated: The Florida sun can be brutal, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Apply Sunscreen: Safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays by using sunscreen regularly with a minimum of 30 SPF.
  • Follow local regulations: Be mindful of local rules regarding fireworks, alcohol consumption, and beach activities.
  • Plan: Arrive early to secure the best spots for the parade and fireworks. Be prepared for the traffic and parking challenges you may endure for the day.

Anna Maria Island is a true paradise, and the 4th of July is the perfect time to immerse yourself in its charm. You will create lasting memories with the welcoming community, stunning scenery, and festive atmosphere. As you celebrate America on this beautiful island, let AMI Locals be your home away from home. Stay with us at AMI Locals and enjoy the convenience and comfort of our vacation rentals, making your Independence Day getaway truly special and stress-free.

3 Unforgettable Ways to Spend Father’s Day on Anna Maria Island

Happy fathers day card.

It’s hard to believe that Father’s Day will be here before we know it, and it’s the perfect way to show our appreciation for the dads in our lives. Spending this memorable holiday in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will make for an unforgettable trip. Known for its beautiful white sand, crystal clear water, and plenty of activities, our island is the perfect destination. See three unforgettable ways to spend Father’s Day on Anna Maria Island below.

Enjoy a Relaxing Beach Day

family of father and son building sand castle and enjoying summer vacation at the beach

Anna Maria Island is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Florida. Spend Father’s Day lounging on the soft, white sands of Bean Point Beach, Coquina Beach, or Manatee Public Beach. Pack a picnic with some of Dad’s favorite snacks, bring your beach umbrellas, and enjoy the sound of waves as you enjoy the day. Think of the memories each dad will have as they spend the day at the beach with their family!

Explore Local Cuisine

Anna Maria Island offers diverse dining options. It’s a culinary delight catering to everyone in the family. Treat Dad to a sumptuous meal at one of the island’s renowned seafood restaurants. The Waterfront Restaurant offers an elegant dining experience with stunning views of Tampa Bay. The Sandbar Restaurant, however, provides a more casual beachfront setting perfect for enjoying the sunset as you dine. The choice is yours to surprise Dad with a culinary experience he won’t forget!

Get Out and See the Island

Anna Maria Island, FL, USA – December 20, 2012: The historic City Pier and restaurant stretching out into Tampa Bay on the Gulf of Mexico in Florida

With its rich history and natural beauty, Anna Maria Island is a paradise for adventure seekers. Start your Father’s Day with a visit to the Anna Maria City Pier and enjoy a little fishing with the family. Next up, why not rent some bikes and embark on a thrilling island exploration? Return to your beautiful Anna Maria Island vacation rental, unwind by the pool, or watch the starry night sky to cap off the day. The possibilities for adventure are endless, making it a day to remember.

Celebrating Father’s Day on Anna Maria Island is an unforgettable blend of relaxation, adventure, and quality family time. Whether spending the day at the beach or exploring the island on bikes, you can make new memories together. And when you are staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, you’ll be close to all the relaxation and fun. Here’s to enjoying a stress-free holiday with the family as you make unforgettable memories this Father’s Day!

Exploring 3 Unique Anna Maria Island Experiences this Spring

Footbridge to the beach at Anna Maria Island during sunset

Welcome to the springtime splendor of Anna Maria Island, a jewel nestled in the Gulf of Mexico, where the promise of adventure and relaxation awaits. The season breathes new life into the islands’ stunning landscapes; there’s no better time to explore its unique charms. Imagine waking up in a luxurious Anna Maria Island vacation rental where every detail is tailored for comfort. As your home away from home, these rentals are the perfect starting point for a journey filled with exclusive island experiences. Join us as we uncover three unique experiences that make a spring visit to Anna Maria Island an unforgettable escape into paradise.

Snorkeling

three people snorkeling in the Gulf of Mexico in Anna Maria Island, Florida

Embark on a magical underwater journey by snorkeling in the warm, crystal-clear waters of Anna Maria Island. Offering more than just a refreshing escape from spring’s warmth. It opens a doorway to an underwater wonderland filled with vibrant coral and colorful marine life. From darting fish that shimmer like living jewels to the swaying seagrass beds that house an array of sea life, the snorkeling experiences are mesmerizing. You may even see a dolphin or a manatee on your snorkeling adventure. Some of the best places to snorkel around the island are Egmont Key, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach.

Explore Historic Pine Avenue

If you want something different, take a stroll down Pine Avenue. This area, known as the “Greenest Little Mainstreet in America,” offers a charming street lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and quaint eateries. Spring is the perfect season to explore its vibrant flora and fauna, making each shop visit or dining experience even more delightful.

Sunrise Yoga on the Beach

Caucasian woman practicing yoga at seashore

Greet the day with peace and serenity and experience a sunrise yoga session on the beaches of Anna Maria Island. Picture the sound of the waves and the soft, warm white sand beneath your feet, creating a natural yoga studio. Whether you’re new to yoga or a seasoned yogi, the experienced instructors will guide you through each pose. Starting your day this way ensures relaxation and rejuvenates your spirit.

Choosing AMI Locals for your stay places these unique experiences at your doorstep and wraps you in comfort and luxury. Turn a simple vacation into an unforgettable escape this spring. Let Anna Maria Island enchant you with its wonders now. AMI Locals will be your guide to a truly extraordinary adventure!

Valentine’s Day Adventures for Families on Anna Maria Island

a border of valentine's day candy hearts on a light grey background with the words in dark gray that say "Valentine's Day Adventures for Families on Anna Maria Island"

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples. It’s a day to celebrate all kinds of love, including the love within families. This year, why not take your family to Anna Maria Island, a hidden gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast, for a Valentine’s adventure everyone will cherish? Staying in one of our AMI rentals will keep you and your family close to some of the action-packed fun. Here’s how you can spend this special day soaking up the sun, sea, and togetherness on this idyllic island.

Morning: Breakfast and Beach Time

Festive dish-Valentines day homemade pink colored heart shaped pancakes with berries. Vibrant indoors horizontal closeup image.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of the island’s cozy cafes, or make your family a memorable meal in your AMI rental. Many places offer unique Valentine’s Day treats, so indulge in heart-shaped pancakes or red velvet waffles. After breakfast, head to one of Anna Maria Island’s pristine beaches. Build sandcastles, collect seashells, or enjoy the gentle waves and warm sun. Remember to capture a family snapshot with the stunning Gulf of Mexico, providing the perfect backdrop!

Midday: Explore the Island

Rent bikes and explore the island’s charming neighborhoods. Stop by the local shops for unique souvenirs, and don’t miss out on tasting some delicious homemade ice cream. If your family loves adventure, you might consider a dolphin tour or a kayaking excursion through the mangroves. These activities are fun and offer an opportunity to learn about the local marine life and ecosystems.

Afternoon: A Picnic with a View

Young girl sharing broccoli with mother while sitting on blanket on beach

Pack a picnic and head to one of the island’s parks for lunch. Bayfront Park offers stunning views and an excellent playground for the kids. Enjoy your meal with the sight of the sparkling and perhaps a glimpse of dolphins playing in the distance.

Evening: Sunset Celebration

As the day winds down, find a spot on the beach for the main event: a spectacular Anna Maria Island sunset. Bring blankets and a light dinner, like sandwiches or a pizza from a local pizzeria. Observe as the sky transforms into a tapestry adorned with hues of oranges, pinks, and purples. This peaceful moment is perfect for reflecting on the love and bond your family shares.

Night: Stargazing and Sweet Dreams

Rear view of a young caucasian woman sitting on a tropical beach watching Milky way in a starry sky

If your little ones still have energy, end your night with stargazing on the beach. The island’s low light pollution means you can see various stars twinkling above. Finally, head back to your AMI rental, whether it’s a beachfront home or a home with a pool, and tuck into bed with hearts full of love and memories to last a lifetime.

Celebrating Valentine’s Day on Anna Maria Island with your family is an excellent way to escape from the everyday routine and create memorable moments together. Whether through shared adventures, relaxing on the beach, or simply enjoying each other’s company in a beautiful setting. These shared moments will deepen the bonds of the family and remind everyone that love comes in many forms.

Why Winter is the Best Time to Explore Anna Maria Island

white sands on a beach with a beautiful blue and dark blue color water, blue sky and in a teal color writing that says Why Winter is the Beast Time to Explore Anna Maria Island

When the chill of winter begins to bite in many places around the United States, Anna Maria Island off Florida’s Gulf Coast offers a warm and inviting escape. Renowned for its idyllic landscapes and pleasant climate, winter here is the season of beauty and outdoor adventure. As your guides to this island paradise, we at AMI Locals are excited to share why winter is the ideal time to explore our beautiful island.

Ideal Weather for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Two kayakers on a green and red kayak each, having an oar with yellow paddles on them, wearing a yellow life vest on calm waters on the gulf of mexico

Anna Maria Island is a haven of sunny skies and moderate temperatures during the winter. The cooler weather is perfect for a range of outdoor activities. Enjoy biking along scenic trails, kayaking through calm waters, or simply indulging in a relaxing day of fishing. The mild winter climate ensures your outdoor adventures are comfortable and enjoyable for the whole family.

Peaceful & Less Crowded

Winter on Anna Maria Island is a time of tranquility. The usual crowds thin out, leaving the beaches and attractions less populated. This quieter atmosphere allows for a more laid-back and personalized experience. The island’s serene beaches offer the perfect backdrop for peaceful walks, relaxation, or just basking in the soothing sounds of the waves. Plus, you can take advantage of the crystal-clear blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico and search for those perfect shells as a souvenir.

Unique Wildlife Sightings

picture of a spoonbill flying along the coast of Florida with greenery in the background

The island’s cooler months attract migratory birds, turning it into a birdwatcher’s paradise. Some of the birds that you may happen to see are the Osprey, Cormorants, Spoonbills, and a Laughing Gull. The surrounding waters are also home to various marine life, including dolphins and manatees. They are often more visible and active during the winter season.

Comfortable and Cozy Accommodations

AMI Locals provides a range of accommodations to suit any winter getaway. From cozy beach cottages to luxurious villas, each property is designed to offer comfort and warmth. Enjoy a coffee with a stunning Gulf view or relax on a beachfront property – all within reach this winter. No matter the size of your family, we have a vacation rental just for you to enjoy.

Delectable Dining Experiences

a bowl of ice filled with fresh seafood and a bottle of tabasco pepper sauce

The island’s dining scene remains vibrant in the winter, with the added advantage of less crowded restaurants. This is the perfect time to enjoy the best tables at top-rated restaurants and charming beachside cafes. Now is the time to sample fresh seafood and local specialties as you dine in some of the best places you can find along the West Coast of Florida!

In essence, Anna Maria Island in winter transcends the typical winter experience. It’s where cool breezes, gentle waves, and stunning natural beauty create that peaceful winter haven. With AMI Locals, your winter escape to Anna Maria Island promises a memorable and enriching experience. Book your stay with us and discover the unique charm of our island this winter.

FALL in Love with Anna Maria Island

Fall-On-Anna-Maria-Island-Uncrowded-Beach-AMI-Locals

Fall in Love with Anna Maria Island. It is not hard to do when you vacation during the months of Fall on Anna Maria Island.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to vacation on Anna Maria Island during the fall months of September, October, and November? Here is a little secret: This is our favorite time of year on the island! Even though it may not feel like colder weather and there are no landscapes of color-changing leaves to look at…the spirit of Fall takes over Anna Maria.

Less Crowds

Generally, by this time of year, the crowds have dwindled. You can get a feel for what it is like to live like a local on Anna Maria Island during the Fall months. By now, most of the kids have all returned to school, and the beaches are quiet. So, head out to the beach for a secluded and relaxing day. Grab a book and read. Or, close your eyes and soak up plenty of warm rays from the sun.  There is nothing like getting a tan in the Fall on Anna Maria Island. During the Fall on Anna Maria Island, the lack of crowds is evident everywhere. After relaxing at the beach, explore the uncrowded restaurants, shops, and bars. Just jump on the free Anna Maria Island trolley and explore the island from end to end. Maybe find a new favorite spot to grab a bite to eat. During the Fall on Anna Maria Island, you will find much shorter wait times for a table at most of our popular dining options!

The-Sandbar-Restaurant-Anna-Maria-Island
Visit the Sandbar Restaurant for Gulf Side dining at it’s finest

Festivals Galore

As October and November roll in, so do all the area festivals! In my opinion, the Fall on Anna Maria Island – October to December – are the best months of the year to explore all the great happenings in and around Anna Maria Island. Maybe you keep it super local and head down to the Coquina Beach Market at the island’s South end to search for treasures from local artists and vendors, all while taking in the beautiful gulf views.

Also, look for Halloween-style island events. From costume contests to the Anna Maria Elementary Fall Festival, there is fun to be had for all ages! Take advantage of the Trail of Treats if you find yourself here with your little ones on Halloween. This is where area businesses hand out goodies to all the dressed-up kiddos!  If you get adventurous and head off the island, you will find some exciting events! Maybe head East and go to a good old-fashioned pumpkin festival. There are plenty to choose from! Or, take a ride on the Pumpkin Patch Express at the Florida Railroad Museum, where you can journey on an open-air train through the picturesque countryside of Manatee County. The train ride ends at a remote pumpkin patch. There, everyone selects a pumpkin and gets to bring back the perfect gourd for an island-style pumpkin carving party. With so many things going on, how will you choose? Check out our area events calendar when planning your next Anna Maria Island getaway

Halloween-On-Anna-Maria-Island
Halloween on Anna Maria is a Scary Fun Time!

Beautiful Weather

While the island is beautiful and sunny almost all year, the Fall months on Anna Maria Island are very refreshing. They can bring a nice break from the high humidity and hot, sticky days that rule the Summer. While the days are warm and pleasant, with temperatures hovering in the 80’s, the evenings can often bring a nice breeze and cool down into the low to mid 70’s. This makes those evening strolls on the beach even more enjoyable. You may still even be able to catch a glimpse of the spectacular sea turtle nests. Some of the eggs will still be waiting to hatch. Sea turtle season runs until the end of October every year. Each nest is marked and secured with “caution tape.” Witnessing the hatching of a nest and watching all those tiny sea turtles take off toward the water is one of the most fascinating and memorable sights you will ever see!

Turtles-On-The-Beach-Anna-Maria-Island-Florida-AMI-Locals
Watch the Baby Turtles hatch on Anna Maria Island

Get Out On The Water

The Fall on Anna Maria Island is also an excellent time of year to fish. Being a barrier island, you can enjoy offshore and inshore fishing the best. This time of year, trout, flounder, redfish, cobia, snapper, and permit take center stage for near-shore fishing. Perhaps one of our spectacular Waterfront Homes would give you the best opportunity to do a little fishing right in your backyard! Or, allow you to bring your boat and secure it behind your vacation home. You can always book a local fishing charter to show you all the best spots to drop a line. Or, just head out to one of the island’s piers. Whichever you choose, we can help point you in the right direction. If fishing is not your forte, then perhaps a leisurely cruise around the coastline of our little island is more your speed. We have some excellent suggestions for dolphin cruises, sunset cruises, and snorkeling excursions on our website. With clear, sparkling aqua

Fishing-Boat-Tampa-Bay-Anna-Maria-Island-Florida
Boating, Fishing, and Diving are great in the Fall.

What Are You Waiting For?

So, whether you want to get away for a romantic week for two or you are traveling with a group, we have a unique and luxurious vacation home waiting just for you. Visit our AMI Locals Rental Page to pick your next vacation home from our list of exceptional properties. Or, contact one of our property managers to make your vacation dreams a reality this Fall on Anna Maria Island. Let us show you how to vacation like a local!

MLB Spring Training and an AMI Beach Vacation



So if you’re anything like us, you can’t wait for the day that baseball players report for MLB Spring Training. Finally, we can enjoy the sunshine, hot dogs and cold beer, and BASEBALL! And Florida is lucky enough to host the Grapefruit League, so there are plenty of teams and stadiums within a very short road trip of Anna Maria Island. Then why not enjoy a relaxing Anna Maria Beach Vacation along with an MLB Spring Training game? Let AMI Locals show you how.

National Anthem before an Orioles Spring Training Game at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota.

Play ball! Spring Training begins in February.

Beginning in February, there are many Major League Baseball teams that come to Florida to play baseball in the mild Winter and warm Spring days that we enjoy here; such as the Pittsburgh Pirates, Boston Red Sox, Baltimore Orioles, and New York Yankees. We here at AMI Locals are ready to be your guide to planning a grand slam vacation!

First, take a look at the Grapefruit League Spring Training schedule and available tickets. Second, find your favorite MLB team and choose a game (or several!) that you’d like to attend. With this in mind, get your cheering section together and book one of our fabulous AMI Locals luxury vacation rental homes for your adventure. After all, we have a wide variety of homes available for any size group. Such as Just Beachy with 6 bedrooms, or Island Life with 3 bedrooms, all the way up to our 9 bedroom beauty Island Sol! When you are combining a beach vacation with a Spring Training game in the same trip, it’s bound to be a home run of fun!

Our view from the bleacher seats at LECOM park in Bradenton.

Nearby Bradenton and Sarasota MLB Spring Training Stadiums

For example, Anna Maria Island is within a very short distance of two Spring Training fields. The Pittsburgh Pirates play at nearby LECOM Park in downtown Bradenton, an easy 20-minute drive from AMI. So be sure to head out for the game early and stop by one of our favorite breweries!
Additionally, The Baltimore Orioles’ Spring Training home is at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota. So it’s a fun way to spend an afternoon there! Afterwards, why not explore downtown Sarasota’s Main Street for shopping and happy hour while you are in the neighborhood?

  • LECOM Park – 1611 9th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
  • Ed Smith Stadium – 2700 12th St, Sarasota, FL 34237

Tampa area MLB Spring Training Stadiums to visit

Then, about an hour away, you have the Bronx Bombers, The New York Yankees spending their Spring Training time at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa. Also, The Philadelphia Phillies play at Spectrum Field in Clearwater,  The Toronto Blue Jays at Dunedin Stadium in Dunedin, and The Detroit Tigers at Publix Field in Lakeland.

  • Steinbrenner Field – 1 Steinbrenner Dr, Tampa, FL 33614
  • Spectrum Field – 601 N Old Coachman Rd, Clearwater, FL 33765
  • Dunedin Stadium – 373 Douglas Ave, Dunedin, FL 34698
  • Publix Field – 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33805
Representin’ the St. Louis Cardinals, Tampa Bay Rays, and the NY Yankees at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa. Baseball and friends – what a great way to spend a day!

Teams worth traveling a little further to see – The BoSox and beyond

Next up on the tour, the Tampa Bay Rays play at Charlotte Sports Park in Port Charlotte, about an hour and 15 minutes away. Our hometown Rays are always fun to watch! Unfortunately this year, the MLB Spring Training for our Tampa Bay Rays will be at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex due to too much damage from Hurricane Ian to our home stadium.

  • Charlotte Sports Park – 2300 El Jobean Rd, Port Charlotte, FL 33948
  • Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex – 700 S Victory Way, Orlando, FL 34747

Then, you’ll hear Sweet Caroline playing when the Boston Red Sox win at JetBlue Park in Fort Myers, and the Minnesota Twins also take the field at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers, about a 2 hour drive south of Anna Maria Island.

  • JetBlue Park – 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33913
  • Hammond Stadium – 14100 6 Mile Cypress Pkwy, Fort Myers, FL 33912

Visit Orlando to see ATL

Finally, the Atlanta Braves play at Champion Stadium in Lake Buena Vista, just outside of Orlando, about 2 ½ – 3 hours from Anna Maria Island.

  • Champion Stadium – ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, 700 S Victory Way, Kissimmee, FL 34747
Watching the Orioles play at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota. Night games are also a great way to enjoy your beach days and then an MLB Spring Training game!

Directions and destinations from Anna Maria Island to MLB Spring Training stadiums

To get from Anna Maria Island to these ballparks, you’ll first cross the Manatee Avenue Bridge. Then you will continue eastward on Manatee Avenue – and now you need to choose your destination: Bradenton/Sarasota, Tampa area, Port Charlotte, Fort Myers, or the Orlando area.
Before you leave the Island, search by the chosen ballpark’s address that we have provided above. Our favorite is Google Maps for turn-by-turn directions and time estimates.

So, whatcha waiting for? Pack your bathing suits and baseball gloves, buy your tickets, and call your AMI Locals to book your vacation rental home. Since the peanuts and Cracker Jack will be at the stadium, there’s no need to bring that from home! Batter up!

Explore Springfest 2023 this year on your Vacation to Anna Maria Island



Explore Springfest 2020 this year on your Vacation to Anna Maria Island

Do you and your family have a vacation planned to Anna Maria Island in March? If the answer is yes, then we need to let you know about the fun that is happening at this year’s Springfest. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to where the fun is at. Let’s look below at what your family can enjoy while you are on vacation during Springfest this year.

About the Festival

Explore Springfest 2020 this year on your Vacation to Anna Maria Island

If you have never been to Springfest before then you are in for a treat! Springfest is sponsored by the Anna Maria Island Art League is and held every year. This year the dates to attend the festival is March 18th & 19th, 2023 in Holmes Beach. This is a fine arts & crafts festival that you won’t want to miss this year. Springfest is returning for its 35th year and is one that will allow you and your family to check out the local’s crafts and art. This year it will begin at 10:00 am at City Hall Field and we promise you that it’s one you can’t miss!

What to Find & Buy

Explore Springfest 2020 this year on your Vacation to Anna Maria Island

Some of the fun things that you will be able to purchase at Springfest 2023 are crafts, art and fine art from 80 professional artists. With having so much to check out, it’s good that there are two days that you can hang out at the festival and also listen to some excellent music, get to try a variety of food & treats and so much more. There will also be different things that the kids can participate in to create their very own arts and crafts. Just think of the memories that you can make while on this vacation to Anna Maria Island.

While there are other fun things that you will be able to check out on your next vacation to Anna Maria Island, we wanted to share the details about Springfest 2023 with you. If you haven’t booked your vacation to stay in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals yet, now is the time. We can’t wait to see you and your family as you help us celebrate Springfest 2023 together!