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SRQ Magazine | Meetings Shine Brighter at the New Bradenton Area Convention Center
MEETINGS SHINE BRIGHTER
AT THE NEW BRADENTON AREA CONVENTION CENTER
Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Manatee River and just moments from the heart of downtown Bradenton, the newly reimagined Bradenton Area Convention Center is redefining the region’s event experience.
This transformed venue will be a game-changer for Florida’s West Coast-an exciting addition that will energize the already laid-back downtown area and establish the Bradenton Area as a premier destination for conferences, and world-class gatherings. Centrally located in a region known for preserving the essence of Real. Authentic. Florida™, the well-equipped Bradenton Area Convention Center has undergone a $54 million overhaul, blending modern amenities with coastal charm.
Designed to host small to mid-sized events, the venue features versatile spaces ideal for conferences, trade shows and corporate gatherings. With close proximity to two international airports, easy access to the area’s vibrant cultural offerings, outdoor adventures, pristine beaches, and a climate-controlled connection to the new, Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, the Bradenton Area Convention Center provides an elevated experience in a uniquely Florida setting, ensuring your group leaves inspired and impressed. Discover all the Bradenton Area has to offer at this exceptional venue.
HOST ON FLORIDA’S WEST COAST
Why travel when you have the largest convention center between St. Petersburg and Naples right in your own backyard? With over 95,000 square feet of space, the Bradenton Area Convention Center is the largest convention center in our region and is sure to change Florida’s West Coast event landscape for the better. The venue was purpose-built to host a wide range of impactful gatherings—from concerts and trade shows to large scale gatherings. Its Exhibit Hall seats up to 3,800 guests, while the adjacent Conference Center offers versatile meeting spaces ideal for product launches, workshops, and breakout sessions.
Funded entirely by tourism tax dollars, the expansion positions the Bradenton Area Convention Center as a major economic driver— projected to contribute $35–40 million annually to Palmetto, Bradenton, and surrounding communities. “Anytime we can build an asset that drives tourism to the community and can be used by the residents at no cost to them, there’s no better partnership,” says Elliott Falcione, Executive Director of the Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.
We’re enhancing our convention center through a $54 million expansion, we anticipate opening this fall when we’ll be able to accommodate 188 10x10 trade show booths. Also, plans are currently being put in place to have an in-house food and beverage company.
——— ELLIOTT FALCIONE Executive Director of the Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Falcione shares that the Convention Center’s target markets include state associations, medical conventions, sports, and professional groups. “Our No. 1 target is those state association groups based in Tallahassee and focusing on those groups throughout the state. Meeting planners typically book two to three years out, and we’ve got sales teams already engaged in those conversations.” As a government-owned facility, the Convention Center’s primary mission is economic stimulation, not profit. “Convention centers like ours exist to bring out-of-town business that boosts the local economy,” Falcione says. With the venue anchoring Palmetto’s north side, Falcione sees the convention center as the start for broader revitalization. “This development supports small businesses, attracts new opportunities, and brings year-round revenue— even in off-peak seasons,” he adds. “I’m excited to see where we are in three to five years.” More than just an incredible space, the venue is designed for adaptability and performance. It offers seamless services, adaptable layouts, and an experienced team that acts as an extension of your own, supporting every detail, from sustainability initiatives to technology integration. Just like its sunny destination and friendly locals, the Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau team members are inviting and welcoming, standing by to help organizations take care of business. Now accepting bookings for 2026 and beyond, the Bradenton Area Convention Center is ready to deliver unforgettable events-blending business success with the beauty of Florida’s West Coast.
CONNECTED LUXURY
Connected directly to the venue is the new Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, a sophisticated, four-star-plus property with 252 coastal-inspired guest rooms.
The spacious resort features 10,000 square feet of fresh and flexible meeting space, plus upscale amenities including the Oyster River Rooftop, The Social restaurant, Revive Spa, pool, and fitness center. Guests can also enjoy The Marriott’s Beach Club at Riviera Dunes, complete with a lap pool, pickleball courts, and waterfront views. Recently, the hotel began hosting lively monthly events open to the public, including The North River Community Market—an inviting space to shop, dine, and celebrate all things local—and the Movement Market, which spotlights health, fitness, and intentional living while featuring local businesses making a positive impact.
These and future events are sure to become cherished local traditions that celebrate community and connection. Marriott’s General Manager, Greg Ciaccio says that the transformation of the Palmetto Marriott and the connecting Bradenton Area Convention Center isn’t just about new spaces—it’s about creating a destination that brings people together and sparks growth throughout the community. “We’re not just enhancing our hotel and convention space—we’re setting the stage for new business, tourism, and local pride. With the revitalization of the Marriott and Convention Center, we’re bringing new energy to Palmetto—this is about more than hospitality; it’s about driving opportunity for the entire region.” Ciaccio believes the project will reshape the area: “Our vision is simple: to create a gathering place that draws visitors, inspires events, and elevates everything around it—from Palmetto to Tampa Bay” Falcione echoes those sentiments. “We couldn’t move forward with the expansion until we had a flagship hotel,” he explains. “Now, with the Marriott open and connected, attendees can go straight from their rooms to the 14,000 square-foot ballroom or exhibit hall without stepping outside.” In addition to the Palmetto Marriott, the Convention Center has long-standing relationships with other Bradenton area hotels. With more than 770 hotel rooms within five miles of the Bradenton Area Convention Center, it’s easy to find the perfect central home base and gathering spot for any group.
Location, Location, Location: Easy Access to Downtown Bradenton and Coastal Beauty
The Bradenton Area Convention Center is perfectly situated so that getting there—and enjoying your stay—is a breeze. It’s just a short drive from Sarasota Bradenton International and Tampa International Airports, and close to a walkable downtown full of charm and character. Plus, it’s just a short trip to the pristine, sugar-sand beaches of Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key–the ultimate destinations for relaxation. Downtown Bradenton is a hub where you can dive into local culture, enjoy the outdoors, and discover some hidden gems. Kick back and relax with a craft beer and artisan pizza at rooftop bars like Oak & Stone, known for its great views and laid-back vibes. For something a bit more upscale, check out Oyster River at the Marriott. For live entertainment, head to the Manatee Performing Arts Center or the Neel Performing Arts Center, where you’ll find everything from plays to concerts. For a more underground feel, Oscura features indie, punk, and rock bands in an intimate setting. Art lovers won’t want to miss The Herrig Center for the Arts, with its rotating exhibits, hands-on classes, and a unique gift shop full of locally made treasures. When it’s time to soak up the sun, head to the beautiful family-friendly shores of Anna Maria Island, including Coquina Beach, Manatee Public Beach, and Bradenton Beach. For a more serene escape, Longboat Key offers powdery white sands and a peaceful, private feel—perfect for unwinding in quiet luxury.
The Bradenton Area Convention Center is perfectly situated so that getting there—and enjoying your stay—is a breeze. It’s just a short drive from Sarasota Bradenton International and Tampa International Airports, and close to a walkable downtown full of charm and character. Plus, it’s just a short trip to the pristine, sugar-sand beaches of Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key–the ultimate destinations for relaxation. Downtown Bradenton is a hub where you can dive into local culture, enjoy the outdoors, and discover some hidden gems. Kick back and relax with a craft beer and artisan pizza at rooftop bars like Oak & Stone, known for its great views and laid-back vibes. For something a bit more upscale, check out Oyster River at the Marriott. For live entertainment, head to the Manatee Performing Arts Center or the Neel Performing Arts Center, where you’ll find everything from plays to concerts. For a more underground feel, Oscura features indie, punk, and rock bands in an intimate setting. Art lovers won’t want to miss The Herrig Center for the Arts, with its rotating exhibits, hands-on classes, and a unique gift shop full of locally made treasures. When it’s time to soak up the sun, head to the beautiful family-friendly shores of Anna Maria Island, including Coquina Beach, Manatee Public Beach, and Bradenton Beach. For a more serene escape, Longboat Key offers powdery white sands and a peaceful, private feel—perfect for unwinding in quiet luxury.
TRAVEL IN STYLE WITH GULF ISLAND FERRY SERVICE
In 2025, the Gulf Islands Ferry Service transported more than 34,000 passengers between downtown Bradenton and Anna Maria Island using two 49-passenger, openair pontoon catamarans—Miss Anna Maria and Downtown Duchess–making beloved beaches just a ferry ride away. Funded by tourism tax dollars, the service helped eliminate an estimated 20,000 car trips since the service commenced in January 2024, reducing congestion and improving the visitor experience.
When you’re blessed with a good water source like we are, you can get people out of their cars and onto the beautiful river.
Plans are now underway to expand the route to the Bradenton Area Convention Center, with a proposed stop at Palmetto Park. What sets the Gulf Islands Ferry apart from other water transit options is its unique combination of scenic travel and accessibility. The 50-foot vessels offer passengers an open-air experience across the Manatee River and Palma Sola Bay—turning what would be a traditional roadway experience into a relaxing ride on the water. “This is about enhancing multimodal transportation from the mainland to the island by utilizing our incredible asset—the Manatee River,” says Falcione. “Imagine you’re attending a convention with your family —you’re in meetings all day, while your spouse and kids hop on the ferry to spend the afternoon on Anna Maria Island. You can’t do that at most convention centers. That’s something that sets us apart from the competition. When you’re blessed with a good water source like we are, you can get people out of their cars and onto the beautiful river. Visitors and residents have embraced it.”
Manatee County’s Director of Natural Resources, Charlie Hunsicker, is leading the initiative to bring ferry access to the Convention Center area, further enhancing its appeal as a waterfront destination. Later this season, a third water ferry will be delivered to the county—this one partially enclosed and equipped with indoor and outdoor seating. “We learned that in January and February, that first ride out to the island can get pretty cold,” Falcione says. “So, this new vessel will have heat, air conditioning, and protection from the rain. We’re excited to get that in service.” As the ferry service expands, it not only improves regional connectivity but also reinforces the area’s commitment to sustainable tourism and visitor convenience, making the Bradenton Area a truly unique destination on Florida’s West Coast. Ready to plan something unforgettable?
Visit BradentonAreaConventionCenter.com to get started.
1 Haben Blvd, Palmetto, FL 34221
941.729.9177, ext. 3980
