Things to Do on a Rainy Day

While the Gulf Coast is known for sunshine, Florida's tropical weather occasionally brings rain. During the summer, these are usually brief, intense afternoon thunderstorms that pass quickly, leaving spectacular sunsets in their wake. During the winter, a cold front might bring a solid day of drizzle. Whatever the season, a rainy day is just an excuse to explore some of the world-class indoor attractions in Bradenton and Sarasota.

Top Indoor Attractions in Bradenton

1. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

This is Bradenton's crown jewel. Located right downtown on the Riverwalk, the Bishop Museum is the largest natural and cultural history museum on Florida's Gulf Coast. It features fascinating exhibits on Florida's prehistoric past (including massive mastodon fossils), a state-of-the-art planetarium, and the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat where you can watch recovering manatees from above and below the water.

2. The Red Barn Flea Market

A true local experience. The Red Barn is a massive indoor/outdoor market covering 80 acres (the main sections are completely covered). You will find over 600 booths selling everything from fresh local produce and Amish cheese to vintage clothing, tools, and souvenirs. It is easy to lose track of time here.

3. Bowling and Arcades

For families with kids who need to burn off energy, head to Bowlero Bradenton for bowling, laser tag, and a massive arcade, or the Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex to go ice skating (a surreal experience in Florida!).

Top Indoor Attractions in Sarasota

4. The Ringling Museum of Art

Just a 20-minute drive south of Bradenton, the Ringling is one of the finest art museums in the country. Built by circus magnate John Ringling, the grounds include a massive museum dedicated to European, Asian, and American art, as well as the Circus Museum which houses incredible historic circus wagons and the world's largest miniature circus. The complex is huge and can easily consume an entire day.

5. Mote Marine Aquarium

Located on City Island in Sarasota, Mote is a world-renowned marine research facility. While some exhibits are outdoors, the main aquarium buildings are indoors and feature sharks, sea turtles, manatees, and touch tanks. It is incredibly educational and perfect for kids.

6. The Mall at University Town Center (UTC)

If retail therapy is your goal, UTC is a massive, beautiful, fully enclosed shopping mall featuring major retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy's, and Apple, alongside dozens of boutique shops and excellent indoor dining options.

Wait out the Weather on AMI

If you prefer to stay on Anna Maria Island and just wait out an afternoon storm, grab a coffee at Ginny's and Jane E's (part cafe, part eclectic antique store), browse the boutique shops along Pine Avenue in Anna Maria City, or hunker down with a long lunch at a covered, open-air restaurant like The Sandbar or Beach House to watch the storm roll in over the Gulf—it is a spectacular sight.