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.
Discount weekends at Mote Marine
Mote Aquarium is offering discount admission to Florida residents on weekends throughout September. Tickets must be purchased in advance online using the discount code “HALF.”
Safety measures in place at the aquarium include timed and limited entry for guests, socially distanced displays and hand-sanitizing stations. Visitors over the age of 5 are required to wear face coverings.
Mote’s resident creatures include aquatic reptiles, otters, sharks, colorful fish, manatees, sea turtles and more.
Details: Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota. Regular admission is $18 for ages 3-12; $24 for ages 13 and up. Half-off for Florida residents on weekends through September.
Info: mote.org.
Sarasota Farmers Market
The Sarasota Farmers Market has returned to downtown Sarasota in a new, socially-distanced format. Vendors selling arts and crafts, goods and services, produce, food, plants and more are spread out along several streets. Masks are required, and hand sanitizer is available throughout the market.
Patrons are encouraged to send just one shopper per household and to order items in advance from vendors if possible. A complete list of vendors and contact information is available on the Sarasota Farmers Market website.
Details: 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Lemon Avenue and Main Street, downtown Sarasota.
Info: sarasotafarmersmarket.org.
Planetarium adventure
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature’s galaxy-traversing planetarium recently reopened with upgraded technology for an even more vivid experience of the universe. The exhibit is included with museum admission.
This Saturday, young space cadets can also enjoy the new and improved planetarium from home with a free online KidSpace program. Designed for elementary students, the monthly event offers fun and educational explorations of the universe.
Details: Open Wed.-Sun. (timed entry and social distancing in place). The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Ages 18-64: $20. Ages 65 and up: $19. Ages 12-17 and college students with ID: $16. Ages 5-11: $12. Ages 4 and under: Free with paying adult. KidSpace will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday; register online.
Info: 941-746-4131. bishopscience.org.
Drive-in movie
Ruskin Family Drive-In plays classic flicks and family favorites every day of the week. This weekend, the outdoor theater is showing two musical fantasy gems, 1939’s “The Wizard of Oz” and 1971‘s “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.”
Bring a portable radio if you don’t want to leave your car turned on during the films. Face masks are required to enter the snack bar or restrooms.
▪ The Wizard of Oz: 8 p.m. Fri.-Sun.
▪ Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory: 9:45 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.
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.
Details: Trains leave at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Ages 3-11: $10. Ages 12 and up: $14.
Info: 941-776-0906. frrm.org.