Florida has a deep and rich history. A unique site, Cortez fishing village, dates back to the 1880s. It is recognized as a historical landmark and has 97 structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places. If you’re visiting Anna Maria Island, the village is a short drive away and worth checking out. Read on to learn more about the historical locations around Cortez village in Bradenton.
Exploring History in Cortez Fishing Village
Cortez Cultural Center
11655 Cortez Rd. W. – (941) 840-0590
Fridays and Saturdays, 10 am – 4 pm
Learn stories about the village at Cortez Cultural Center. Exhibits share the community’s timeline, starting with the founding families in the 1880s until the 1980s. Cortez Village Historical Society plans to eventually share the village’s entire history. It also hosts events, including an annual picnic. Don’t forget to call to book tours.
Florida Maritime Museum
4415 119th St. W. – (941) 708-6120
Tuesday to Friday and the 2nd & 4th Saturday of Each Month
10 am – 4 pm
Located in the fishing village, the Florida Maritime Museum is on the four-acre Cortez Nature Preserve. The old brick structure was a schoolhouse built in 1912, enduring economic instability and hurricanes. It symbolizes the village people’s perseverance, and the museum shares that story through exhibits.
Manatee Village Historical Park
1404 Manatee Ave. E. – (941) 749-7165
Monday to Friday and the 2nd & 4th Saturdays of Each Month
9 am – 4 pm
If you want a fun yet free activity in Bradenton, visit the impressive Manatee Village Historical Park. It features open-air exhibits and replica buildings under the canopy of century-old, moss-covered oak trees. The four-acre park has 15 attractions showcasing the founding period of Manatee County. Its facilities include a children’s playground and picnic tables.
For the ultimate experience in Cortez fishing village, plan to visit during the Commercial Fishing Festival. It is an annual event from the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage. The event celebrates the rich history of commercial fishing in the region. You can expect great food, music, activities, and more. They usually hold the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival around February each year.
Plan Your Visit to Anna Maria Island
After a day of exploring historical spots around Cortez village in Bradenton, you’ll want comfortable accommodations waiting for you. Click here to search our vacation rentals on Anna Maria Island. Don’t hesitate to contact our team if you need assistance.
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