Socially-distanced fun: 5 things to do around Bradenton this weekend
It can be tough to find fun in the days of COVID-19.
Fortunately, there are some local entertainment options that add in ample social distancing and other risk-reducing measures for those that feel comfortable venturing out.
Here are some ideas for keeping the doldrums at bay around Bradenton this weekend.
If you do plan on going out, remember to bring a mask. Face coverings are now required inside all businesses and public buildings in Manatee County per a COVID-19 emergency resolution.
Drive-in thrill show
A drive-in stunt show at the Sarasota County Fairgrounds will feature the Fearless Flores Family in a rotation of thrilling acts.
Highlights of the 75-minute attraction include a transforming car, trampoline acrobatics, live comedy and the “Motorcycle Globe of Death,” an act that earned the Flores’ family a spot on “America’s Got Talent” in 2011.
Watch from inside of your vehicle or sit outside. Patrons are asked to observed masking and social distancing guidelines.
Details: 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. showings on Friday and Saturday. Sarasota County Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota. $35 per car (up to six people per car).
Info: dangerzonedrivein.com.
Bowling fun
Bradenton bowling lane Bowlero will make family fun more affordable this weekend with a day of deals.
Kids age 15 and younger will be eligible for one free hour of bowling, free shoe rental and a $5 arcade card on Saturday, and adults will receive a discounted rate.
Food and drink specials will also be up for grabs.
COVID-19 safety precautions are in place at all Bowlero locations, according to the company.
Details: 1-5 p.m. Saturday. Bowlero, 4208 Cortez Road W., Bradenton.
Info: bowlero.com/location/bowlero-bradenton.
Railroad adventure
The Florida Railroad Museum in Parrish takes visitors on a trip back in time to the days when locomotive transport was king.
After a temporary closure, train rides resumed in June with limited capacity and social distancing in place.
Weekend rail rides through rural Manatee County make for a fun family adventure, and there’s also lots to explore in the history museum.
Up to three kids ride free for each adult ticket purchased, all summer long.
Details: Trains leave at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Under 12: Free. Ages 12 and up: $14.
Info: 941-776-0906. frrm.org.
Mask contest
What do mask-wearing Floridians in the COVID-19 pandemic and the Wicked Witch of the West in 1939 classic “The Wizard of Oz” have in common? Answer: The phrases “What a world” and “I’m melting.”
This Friday, the Sarasota Film Society will host a night of family fun with an Oz-themed mask-decorating session and contest at Lakewood Ranch Cinemas.
Families are invited to decorate masks in the likeness of a favorite “Wizard of Oz” character; judges will choose a winning family and award fun prizes.
Some supplies will be provided, but you can also bring your own.
The contest will be followed by a screening of the film.
Details: 6-9 p.m. Friday. Lakewood Ranch Cinemas, 10715 Rodeo Drive, Lakewood Ranch. $12.50 per person (includes movie ticket, popcorn and drink combo and a mask to decorate).
Info: filmsociety.org.
Drive-in movie
Ruskin Family Drive-In plays classic flicks and family favorites every day of the week. This weekend, computer-animated comedies “Despicable Me” and “Kung Fu Panda” will light up the big screen.
▪ Despicable Me: 8:30 p.m. Fri.-Sun.
▪ Kung Fu Panda: 10:05 p.m. Fri.-Sun.
Details: 5011 U.S. 41 N., Ruskin. Ages 9 and up: $6. Ages 5-8: $1. Cash only. $5 fee for bringing your own food. Alcohol not permitted.
Info: ruskinfamilydrivein.com.