5 Venues and Event Spaces in the Bradenton and Sarasota Area

If you're planning a wedding, corporate gathering, fundraiser, or other special event, renting an event venue is an easy way to reduce your workload and ensure your guests' needs are met. Bradenton and Sarasota are home to a number of beautiful and accommodating venues that will make your event a memorable one. Here are five noteworthy ones you should consider:

1. The Sandbar
100 Spring Ave
Anna Maria
10 Miles from Springs at Palma Sola

If you've always dreamed of getting married on the beach at sunset, The Sandbar is the perfect place to make that dream come true. Located right on the beach, this venue offers a covered pavilion with stunning views of the Gulf Coast that can seat up to 160 guests. The Sandbar will work with you to design a customized menu featuring entrees like mahi-mahi, strip steak, salmon and lobster tail.

2. Historic Spanish Point
337 N Tamiami Trail
Osprey
8.5 miles from Springs at Bee Ridge

Historic Spanish Point is a 30-acre, accredited, historical and environmental museum established in 1982. Located on the grounds is Mary's Chapel, a reconstructed 1890s chapel that features wooden pews and can seat 30 to 40 guests. It's a quaint, romantic setting for a small wedding, and the reception can be held at the adjoining pergola and sunken gardens. The pergola is built in a neoclassic style, and features a sunken pool, water fountains, and a lush garden.

3. Riverhouse Banquets & Weddings
1001 Riverside Dr
Palmetto
6 Miles from Springs at Braden River

Located just one mile from downtown Bradenton, Riverhouse is a convenient and accommodating venue for corporate events, conferences, non-profit fundraisers, as well as weddings and bridal showers. The Riverfront Room accommodates up to 250 guests and overlooks the Manatee River, while the smaller Eagle's Nest accommodates up to 90 guests and features arched windows and wooden beams.

4. The Sunset by Gulf Drive Cafe
900 Gulf Dr North
Bradenton Beach
5 miles from Springs at Palma Sola

Sugar-white sand, turquoise waters, and colorful sunsets make this the perfect choice for a tropical-themed wedding or event. The Sunset Tiki accommodates groups of more than 50 people and is perfect for casual events with lots of dancing in the sand, while the Windfall Pavilion is a popular choice for smaller groups and intimate wedding ceremonies.

5. Mixon's In the Grove
2525 27th St East
Bradenton
3.7 miles from Springs at Braden River

The charming citrus grove at Mixon's dates back to 1939 and is the perfect place to say "I do" amidst beautiful gardens and tropical landscaping. If you're planning a smaller business meeting or corporate event, Mixon's offers meeting rooms that accommodate between eight and 200. They can even create custom "thank you" or holiday gifts to send home with your guests.

Remember to reserve your space early, as these popular venues fill up quickly! Have you visited any of these local event venues? Tell us about your experiences in the comments below.