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
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
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!
As the vibrant colors sweep the country, Anna Maria Island transforms into a serene and peaceful paradise. While many love to flock to the more traditional fall destinations, many love to sneak away to our beautiful island. You’ll notice that you can take advantage of our hidden gem during the fall months and experience all we offer. As you stay in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals, you can relax and enjoy your time on the island. See below why fall is the perfect time to visit Anna Maria Island this year.
Perfect Weather for Outdoor Activities
Fall on Anna Maria Island allows visitors to enjoy milder temperatures, making it perfect for exploring the island’s outdoor activities. The heat will soon fade, bringing warm, sunnier days and much more relaxed evenings. Take a bike ride along the island’s paths, kayak along the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, or spend the day lounging on the white sandy beaches. You’ll fall in love with the weather this fall with the family here at Anna Maria Island.
Fewer Crowds = More Relaxation
One of the best aspects of visiting Anna Maria Island during the fall months is that the crowds have decreased considerably. Schools are back in session, meaning the summer rush is over, allowing you to enjoy the beaches more. Fall vacations are also great for visiting charming local shops and enjoying delicious food at local restaurants. Fall on Anna Maria Island will offer a more relaxed experience and fewer crowds so that you can have the best vacation of the year.
Stay with AMI Locals for the Ultimate Fall Getaway
When you choose to stay in an Anna Maria Island vacation rental with AMI Locals, you enhance your fall getaway in every way. We have homes that fit every family’s needs and wants that you may be looking for while on vacation. Each vacation rental has amenities that will make you feel like you’re at home, but instead, you’re in a paradise destination. There is something for everyone, from full-sized kitchens to private pools and large outdoor living spaces. Enjoy a lazy morning sitting on your porch as you enjoy your coffee, or spend the evening in the private pool to spend time together as a family. Plus, with our service, you’ll have everything you need to make your fall vacation seamless.
Fall is an extraordinary time of the year to visit Anna Maria Island with the family. You’ll find something new you may love, from the weather to the unique charm our island offers everyone. There’s no better time to reserve your fall getaway in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals. We can’t wait to see you and your family as you experience the island’s magic this fall.
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
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
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.
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
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
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!
Welcome to Anna Maria Island, where stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and a laid-back charm await you. While this tropical paradise is a tourist favorite, there’s a secret to genuinely unlocking its essence: experiencing it like a local. And what better way to do so than by immersing yourself in the comfort and convenience of an Anna Maria Island vacation rental? Here’s your guide below to exploring Anna Maria Island like a local, right from the doorstep of your vacation rental.
Rise and Shine with Local Flavors
Start your day the island way by savoring the flavors of local cuisine. Skip the crowded breakfast spots and opt for a relaxed morning in your vacation rental’s kitchen. Head to one of the island’s farmer’s markets to pick up fresh produce, locally sourced coffee, and artisanal treats. Whip a delicious breakfast while soaking in the island views from your rental’s balcony or patio.
Discover Hidden Gems
Anna Maria Island is dotted with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Grab your bike or wear your most comfortable walking shoes and explore the island’s lesser-known spots. From secluded beaches and tranquil nature trails to quaint shops and art galleries tucked away in charming neighborhoods. There’s always something new to uncover off the beaten path.
Dine Like a Local
Anna Maria Island boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with many restaurants, cafes, and eateries offering anything from fresh seafood to international cuisine. Explore the lesser-known areas and discover the beloved hidden treasures the island’s residents cherish. From waterfront seafood shacks serving the day’s catch to family-owned bistros dishing out comfort food classics, dining like a local promises a feast for the senses.
Sunset Rituals
No visit to Anna Maria Island is complete without witnessing its legendary sunsets. Join locals and visitors as they gather along the shoreline to watch the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant hues. Whether you enjoy the sunset from the comfort of your vacation rental’s private beach access or venture to one of the island’s popular sunset spots, experiencing this daily ritual will leave you in awe.
Live Music and Local Culture
Immerse yourself in the island’s vibrant cultural scene by seeking live music performances, art exhibitions, and community events. Check out our local calendar to see what’s happening during your stay. There’s something for everyone, from weekly farmers’ markets and art walks to outdoor concerts and festivals. Engaging with the local community is the perfect way to gain insight into Anna Maria Island’s unique spirit.
End the Day with Relaxation
After a day of adventure and exploration, return to your vacation rental for a night of relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you prefer to unwind with a soak in the hot tub, cozy up with a book in the living room, or stargaze from the comfort of your balcony. Your vacation rental provides the perfect sanctuary to end the day on a tranquil note.
By immersing yourself in the island’s local culture, cuisine, and community, you’ll uncover the true essence of Anna Maria Island. Capture unforgettable moments during your stay in our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, crafting memories to cherish forever. So go ahead, explore like a local, and let the magic of this tropical paradise capture your heart.
Anna Maria Island is a 7-mile-long barrier island on Florida’s Gulf Coast that is a true hidden gem! Major travel publications including Travel +Leisure, The Wall Street Journal, Herald-Tribune, and Thrillist, have recently recognized Anna Maria Island as a must-visit destination. Let’s explore what makes Anna Maria Island stand out as a travel destination!
Modern Florida Charm
Cultivated by a loyal following, thanks to its no-high-rises shoreline, incredible sunsets, and small-town feel, Anna Maria Island has become increasingly popular amongst vacationers who want to feel like they’ve escaped (Thrillist and Travel + Leisure). Rich in historic landmarks, visitors can check out the AMI City Pier, Anna Maria City Jail, Cortez Fishing Village, and the Anna Maria Historical Society for more information on how this island came to be (Thrillist and Herald-Tribune).
Activities, Restaurants, and Shops
Thrillistsuggests the best way to explore the blue waters and to catch a view of our local manatees and dolphins is atop a kayak or paddleboard, or you can book a boat cruise from Bradenton Beach Marina. The restaurants are spread across the charming island and include great spots, including The Doctor’s Office and The Beach Bistro for beachfront dining, and the Rod N Reel Pier is an Instagram-worthy spot to visit and boasts Tampa Bay views. (Herald-Tribune and Thrillist). You cannot forget about Pine Avenue; it offers a unique variety of boutiques locally made, restaurants, and cute coffee and donut shops (Thrillist).
Pristine Gulf of Mexico Beaches
Anna Maria Island has six award-winning beaches with easy access that are the biggest draw for locals and visitors alike according to the Wall Street Journal. Some beaches feature ice cream shops and beachside seafood shacks (Herald-Tribune!) Visitors can enjoy the white sandy beaches and calm waters from the comfort of their vacation rental home‘s backyard or take short walks to the sparkling beaches.
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!
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 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!
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
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!
We can’t think a better way to celebrate the 4th of July than spending a day on an Anna Maria Island beach with your friends and family. So here’s our exclusive AMI Locals insider guide to the what-where-and-when!
Get an Early Start
First off, and this is important… if you plan on a beach day, get here early! Of course, parking can be tricky, and traffic tends to back up easily on Anna Maria Island, with only a few main roads to get around with. And this is just one reason why we recommend staying with us at an AMI Locals luxury vacation rental home. Perhaps a home with a rooftop deck for prime fireworks views? Such as Seaside Escape, or Ocean Breeze.
Cheer on the Parade! Celebrate America!
The Anna Maria Island Privateers Annual 4th of July Parade kicks off at 10am at Coquina Beach Park! The parade runs the length of the Island, all the way to City Pier Park. And remember to bring your sunscreen, beach chairs, drinks and snacks.
Next, get yourself to the 4th of July Celebration at City Pier Park! It starts at 12pm. The City of Anna Maria invites all to celebrate America on July 4th, 2023. With free hot dogs, chips and patriotic music… So you’ll be feeling red, white, and blue in no time!
Relax on the Beach
Baby-powder soft sand, crystal clear water… we LOVE our beaches!
Then, spend a little time at one of Anna Maria Island’s famous beaches. Bayfront Park, Bean Point, Manatee Public Beach, Coquina Beach or any one of the beautiful stretches of sand on our amazing 7-mile paradise. Grab your friends and go get some sunshine.
Enjoy the show!
Finally, end the evening with dinner and a bang! Head on over to Bradenton to Pier 22 restaurant. They are hosting a wonderful Dinner & Fireworks event that you can’t miss. The fun begins at 7:00 pm where you’ll enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet, plus the table you’re sitting at is yours for the night. In addition to the dinner, you’ll be able to view the fireworks around 9:30 pm. Be sure to make your reservations today to take advantage of this amazing event!
Usually you can also see the fireworks from just about any spot on Anna Maria Island! So grab a sparkler and celebrate America’s Independence!
Do you have a family vacation to Anna Maria Island soon but are unsure what to pack? We understand that it can be overwhelming to pack the whole family, so we have come up with a packing guide to help you. AMI Locals provide linens and a few starter items in each vacation rental for you. Let’s check out a more detailed list to get your next Anna Maria Island vacation packed and ready to go.
What We Provide in All of Our Vacation Rentals
AMI Locals vacation rentals include fresh bed linens, beach towels, bath towels, and kitchen towels. We also have a starter supply of products that provides for one small bottle of dish soap, two dishwasher tablets, one roll of paper towels, two rolls of toilet paper per bathroom, one small bar of hand soap per bathroom, one trash bag per bin and a sanitary strip on each toilet. We also provide beach chairs in our rental homes, but the number of chairs will vary by each property. Almost all of our vacation rental homes have a washer & dryer but be sure to check the amenities list on the rental you’ve booked.
Rental Home List
Paper Towels
Napkins
Toilet Paper
Coffee Filters
Sponges
Laundry Detergent/Fabric Softener/Dryer Sheets
Dish Soap/Dishwasher Tablets (or liquid)
All-Purpose Cleaner/Disinfectant Wipes
Trash Bags
Aluminum Foil/Plastic Wrap
Storage Containers/Ziplock Bags/Reusable Bags
Hand Soap for Bathrooms & Kitchen Sink
Tissues
Clothes Basket/Collapsible Hamper
Reusable Water Bottles
Spices/Non-Stick Cooking Spray/Oil
Nightlights
Sound Machines
Items for Your Baby
Beach Day List
Sunscreen/Face Sunscreen
Aloe/Lotion
Beach Umbrella
Beach Blanket
Beach Wagon (to carry all the items on the beach)
Cooler
SPF Shirts (a white shirt will also work well)
Bluetooth Speaker
Boogie Board/Rafts
Floats (for the pool if vacation rental has access to one)
Beach Toys
Books/Magazines/Kindle
Sun Hats/Sunglasses
Baby Powder
Beach Tote/Mesh Bag
Toiletries
Toothbrush/Toothpaste
Glasses/Contact Lenses/Contact Solution
Shampoo/Conditioner
Body Wash/Bar Soap
Haircare Products
Razors/Shaving Cream
Makeup
Feminine Products
Hairdryer/Styling Tool
Brush/Comb
Face Cleanser/Toner/Moisturizer
Insect Repellant
Hand Sanitizer
Pain Reliever
Medications/Vitamins
Deodorant
Clothing
Underwear/Bras/Undershirts
Sleepwear
T-Shirts
Dress/Casual Pants
Jeans/Pants
Light Jacket
Shorts
Dress/Sun Dress
Swimsuits/Cover-Ups
Leisure/Walking/Tennis Shoes
Sandals/Flip-Flops/Water Shoes
Purse
Dress Shoes
Miscellaneous Items
Microfiber Towel
Laptop/Tablet plus Chargers
Waterproof Phone Pouch/Case
Insurance Cards
Credit/Debit/ATM Cards
Cash
List of Emergency Contacts
House/Car Keys
Camera/Charger/Memory Cards
Phone/Phone Chargers
Driver’s License
You can pack many other things, including groceries, for your stay, but we wanted to share this list with you. If you haven’t booked your next stay in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to hear how easy it was to pack with the help of this list!
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
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
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!
