New observation tower opens on Bradenton Riverwalk. See scenic views of Manatee River
The Bradenton Riverwalk is already one of the most popular ways to enjoy scenic views along the Manatee River — and now you can take it all in from three stories high.
Following the opening of the East Bradenton extension of the Riverwalk in September, city officials have opened an observation tower near Glazier Gates Park behind the ShoreView Apartments at the intersection of Riverside Drive and 10th Street East.
The tower features an ADA-accessible ramp design with a gentle slope to the top that allows visitors to enjoy the sights from the top of the park’s newest amenity.
“It’s access for all, which is the most important thing,” said Mayor Gene Brown. “From the different levels, you get different views of our river and our city area.”
The eastern expansion of the Riverwalk also features a boardwalk, gazebos and picnic tables.
After opening to the public earlier this month, the tower is already a winning addition for park visitors. Bradenton resident Christa Cook walks along the Riverwalk every day. On Wednesday, she took a moment to appreciate the view.
“It’s a super-cool tower. I’m excited that it’s open. I couldn’t wait for them to take that fence down so I could get over here,” Cook told the Bradenton Herald.
“We were up there the other day, and it’s really pretty up there, especially with dusk and the sun going down,” said Kristina Rhinehart, who walked the park Wednesday morning with her two young children in a stroller. “The sky was orange and you could see the silhouettes of the trees. It was beautiful.”
The Riverwalk is open to the public. Future extensions to the park will allow visitors to walk all the way from downtown Bradenton to Manatee Mineral Springs Park on one continuous path.
“As we continue to do positive things along the Riverwalk and that neighborhood continues to grow, you’ll see activity after activity and families going there for fun,” Brown said.
Parking is available along 14th Street East at the Manatee Mineral Springs Park.
This story was originally published February 16, 2023 at 11:26 AM.
