Five Unconventional Bradenton Wedding Venues

Journal and Imagery by Bradenton Wedding Photographers Popping Champaign Photography.


Bradenton, Florida is a charming city that boasts a rich history and culture. It's no surprise that many couples choose to tie the knot in this quaint city. If you're looking for a wedding venue in Bradenton that is unconventional, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the top wedding venues in Bradenton, Florida that are unconventional.

#1 The Nest at Robinsons Preserve

The Nest at Robinson Preserve is a unique event venue located in treetops of Bradenton, Florida. This waterfront venue is nestled in the heart of the Robinson Preserve, a sprawling nature reserve that covers over 600 acres of protected land. The Nest offers couples a stunning and secluded setting for their wedding day, with breathtaking views of the water and the natural beauty of the preserve. The venue features a circular, spacious indoor facility with modern amenities that allows you to look over the treetops of banyan trees. The Nest at Robinson Preserve is perfect for couples who want to celebrate their love in a tranquil and serene environment, surrounded by the beauty of nature.


#2 The Bishop Museum of Natural Science and Nature

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is an ideal wedding venue for those seeking a unique and memorable experience. The museum's stunning architecture and lush grounds provide a picturesque backdrop for a wedding ceremony and reception. Couples can exchange vows in the museum's victorian courtyard surrounded by classic architecture and tranquil water features, or inside the elegant Bishop Planetarium, which boasts a state-of-the-art digital projection system. The museum's experienced staff can assist with every detail of the wedding, from catering to decor, ensuring that the event is personalized and stress-free. With its rich history, world-class exhibits, and breathtaking surroundings, The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is sure to create an unforgettable wedding celebration. View our blog post of Alex and Tiffany's wedding at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature here.

#3 Hickory Cove Estates - No longer available as of August, 2023

Hickory Cove Estates in Bradenton, Florida is a stunning wedding venue that offers a unique and picturesque setting for couples looking to tie the knot. This private estate is situated on a sprawling 15-acre property and features a beautiful lake, towering oak trees, and lush greenery that provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic outdoor ceremony. The estate also boasts a spacious and elegant reception area that can accommodate up to 250 guests, complete with chandeliers, a built-in bar, and a dance floor. Whether you are planning an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, Hickory Cove Estates is a stunning choice for a dreamy and unforgettable wedding day.


#4 Urban Loft at Manatee Central

The Urban Loft at Manatee Central is an industrial-chic wedding venue located in downtown Bradenton. This venue is perfect for couples who are looking for a stylish and modern-classic backdrop for their wedding celebration due to its exposed brick walls, polished concrete floors, and high ceilings adorned with elegant chandeliers. With 10,000 square feet of space, the Urban Loft can accommodate weddings of up to 300 guests, making it perfect for various sized celebrations. The venue also has an outdoor courtyard with a serene waterfall, providing a beautiful setting for outdoor ceremonies, cocktail hours, or receptions. With its unique and trendy aesthetic, the Urban Loft at Manatee Central offers a memorable and unforgettable wedding experience for couples seeking something different and unforgettable.


#5 Motorworks Brewery

Motorworks Brewery is a Bradenton staple that also hosts weddings for couples that gravitate towards rustic, industrial, or non-traditional settings for their wedding. The brewery's large outdoor beer garden and indoor event space provide ample room for both intimate and large-scale weddings. The vintage decor and industrial accents, including a 1940s-era Ford truck, create a distinctive backdrop for wedding photos. Guests can enjoy the brewery's selection of craft beers, cocktails, and food trucks, making for a fun and laid-back atmosphere. With its combination of industrial chic and craft beer, Motorworks Brewery is a one-of-a-kind wedding venue that will leave a lasting impression on couples and their guests.

An Extra Pop: Additional Venues We Love But Couldn't Fit The List


#6 Palmetto Riverside Bed and Breakfast

While The Palmetto Riverside Bed & Breakfast is right across the Green Bridge from Bradenton, is an incredibly beautiful and historic wedding venue located in Palmetto, Florida. The venue is situated on the banks of the Manatee River and features a restored 1913 mansion, a spacious lawn, and a dock overlooking the river. The venue's picturesque setting and charming vintage decor create a romantic atmosphere that is perfect for a wedding. The Palmetto Riverside Bed & Breakfast offers a variety of wedding packages that can be customized to suit each couple's needs. Whether you're looking for an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, the venue's professional staff will work with you to make your wedding dreams a reality. With its stunning waterfront location and old-world charm, the Palmetto Riverside Bed & Breakfast is a truly unique and unforgettable wedding  venue.


#7 IMG Academy Golf Club

IMG Academy Golf Club is a more contemporary, yet exceptional wedding venue located in Bradenton, Florida. The club is nestled within a beautiful 18-hole championship golf course, featuring lush green fairways and sparkling lakes. The stunning scenery makes for an idyllic setting for any wedding, and the venue offers a range of indoor and outdoor spaces to suit any couple's preferences. The clubhouse boasts a spacious ballroom with panoramic views of the course, accommodating up to 200 guests, and a charming outdoor patio that overlooks the 9th hole. The experienced event team at IMG Academy Golf Club is dedicated to creating personalized and unforgettable weddings, with bespoke menus and attentive service. With its picturesque surroundings and excellent facilities, IMG Academy Golf Club is the perfect venue for couples seeking a sophisticated and elegant wedding celebration.


#8 The Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club

While The Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club is contemporary, it is a stunning wedding venue located in the heart of Bradenton, Florida. With beautifully manicured grounds, the club features a range of indoor and outdoor event spaces that can accommodate both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. The Grand Ballroom, with its elegant decor and chandeliers, is perfect for large wedding receptions of up to 350 guests, while the outdoor terrace overlooking the golf course provides an idyllic backdrop for a stunning outdoor ceremony. The Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club is the ideal venue for couples seeking a truly memorable wedding celebration.

Bradenton is home to some of the most beautiful and historic wedding venues in Southwest Florida. Whether you're looking for a treetop paradise, victorian courtyard, or modern-industrial spaces, there's a venue in Bradenton that will suit your needs. Consider these top wedding venues for your special day and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.


What's Next?


Once you've selected a date and venue, you should  start looking for the right wedding photographer for you . Scroll down to read more about us, Zoe & Damara, who are Bradenton wedding photographers who elegantly tell our couple's love stories in joyful, whimsical, and timeless images.


Hi! We are Zoe & Damara, a best friend wedding photography duo based in Southwest Florida! Our approach in photography and in life is pure, authentic, and candid. Our images are whimsical, joyful, and timeless. Our editing is natural yet refined. Through your love story and our lens, we will provide you with a wedding album of authentic moments and emotions, with a fun and personalized experience. Let's become friends! Complete this short form and we'll be in touch soon.