You’ll Want to Shop at These 3 Farmers Markets While Staying on Anna Maria Island

Farmer’s markets aren’t a new thing, but the 100-mile food boom over the last half-decade has seen them cropping up left, right, and center.

Anna Maria Island has three major farmers’ markets, each with something different to offer. From fresh produce to local products to family-friendly activities, today’s farmer’s markets serve as a local attraction to pick up fresh groceries.

Stock your Anna Maria Island vacation rental fridge with products from some of the best farmers markets near Anna Maria Island.

City of Anna Maria Farmers Market

Even quaint Anna Maria Island has a farmers market of its own. If you need only the basics, you won’t have to go far for fresh local products while on vacation.

This outdoor green market is open every Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and typically runs from October through May. Here, you’ll find all kinds of organic produce, fresh and dried mushrooms, microgreens and edible plants, honey, and kettle corn, as well as sauces and seasonings, like barbecue sauce, salsa, rubs, and Himalayan salts.

The Anna Maria Island farmers market is quick and easy to get to. Walk out of your vacation rental to City Pier Park, at the corner of Pine Avenue and S. Bay Boulevard. The northwest section will be transformed into a farmers market every Tuesday.

Be sure to ask about other local art, craft, and food markets that take place on the island, particularly at Coquina Beach and along Bridge Street.

veggies from ami farmers market
Photo from Shutterstock

Bradenton Farmers Market

Bradenton is the closest mainland city to Anna Maria Island, located about 20 minutes away by car. The Bradenton farmers market is bigger than the one on the island, and definitely worth a visit if you’ll be cooking while on vacation.

Expect lots of veggies, fresh seafood, bread, gourmet olive oil, flowers, and a number of artisan vendors selling crafts, art, jewelry, and more. Check out some incredible local art, upbeat live music, and – a crowd favorite – demonstrations by regional chefs.

Be sure to bring the kids along, as the market typically has activity tables where kids can make their own healthy snack or decorate a cookie. There are plenty of other fun, free activities for the whole family to enjoy.

This produce market takes place every Saturday from October to May in downtown Bradenton on Old Main Street (400 12th St. W.).

Sarasota Farmers Market

As far as Sarasota farmer’s markets go, this one has to be one of the county’s best.

The Sarasota Farmers Market was established in 1979, and has over the years become a state-wide favorite. This produce market is huge, with dozens of vendors selling everything a traveling foodie could ask for.

Located in the downtown core about 45 minutes from Anna Maria Island, this market offers everything from fresh produce to sustainable meats to sweet treats. This is a great place to pick up fresh pasta and home-made tomato sauce for an easy family dinner. Ready-to-eat meals, local honey, and plants are some of the other items you’ll find at the market.

The market’s fresh-squeezed lemonade is a major draw. Pick up a cup of this locally made, iced-cold summertime favorite and peruse the market’s offerings. This market has many art and craft vendors, making it stand out among its peers. Kids can stop at the free coconut painting station while parents shop for groceries.

The biggest farmers market near Anna Maria Island, this outdoor event takes place every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 1 N. Lemon Ave. – year-round, rain or shine.

Plan Your Next Vacation

Browse Anna Maria Island pet-friendly vacation rentals at Lizzie Lu’s Island Retreat on our website to find the perfect home away from home for your family. Choose from available listings and book immediately online – a quick and simple process. Everything you need to know about staying at Lizzie Lu’s on Anna Maria Island is right here at your fingertips!