Bishop Museum of Science and Nature Bradenton
Explore Florida's natural history, rescued manatees, and captivating planetarium shows at this family-friendly Bradenton museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Bishop Museum of Science and Nature Bradenton
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Florida's natural history, rescued manatees, and captivating planetarium shows at this family-friendly Bradenton museum.
"A hidden gem for families, offering manatees, a planetarium, and a fantastic play area!"
Check Planetarium Schedule
Shows are included with admission! Plan your visit around them.
Manatee Feeding Times
Catch the manatees during their feeding times for a lively experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat
Aquarium section
See rescued manatees receiving care and rehabilitation before their return to the wild. A heartwarming experience.
Mosaic Backyard Universe
Indoor play area
An engaging, ADA-accessible space with a treehouse, pond, and interactive exhibits for kids of all ages.
Planetarium Shows
Planetarium
Experience captivating shows, from space explorations to laser light concerts, included with admission.
LEGO® Towers of Tomorrow
Exhibit hall
Marvel at incredible LEGO® brick models of famous skyscrapers from around the world.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Manatee Magic & Planetarium Shows
Kid-Friendly Fun & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Planetarium Schedule
Shows are included with admission! Plan your visit around them.
Manatee Feeding Times
Catch the manatees during their feeding times for a lively experience.
Kid-Friendly Play Area
The Mosaic Backyard Universe is perfect for little ones to burn energy.
Parking Garage Access
Use the convenient parking garage across the street if street parking is full.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Planetarium Schedule
Shows are included with admission! Plan your visit around them.
Manatee Feeding Times
Catch the manatees during their feeding times for a lively experience.
Kid-Friendly Play Area
The Mosaic Backyard Universe is perfect for little ones to burn energy.
Parking Garage Access
Use the convenient parking garage across the street if street parking is full.
Student Discounts Available
Inquire about student discounts when purchasing tickets.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature for its engaging exhibits, particularly the manatee rehabilitation habitat and the interactive Mosaic Backyard Universe, making it a top choice for families. The planetarium shows are a significant highlight, offering great value as they are included with admission. While parking can be a minor challenge, the overall experience is highly recommended for its educational and entertaining offerings.
"This Natural History Museum is focused on Florida and is especially great for kids (and even has a dedicated play area for younger ones). You can spend around 2-3 hours here or more if you plan to see multiple planetarium shows. The Planetarium is great with a variety of programs and videos scheduled throughout the day. It is great that the shows are included in the price of an admission ticket. On top of fossils and human artifacts, there is also a live Manatee aquarium with a couple rescue manatees that they release back into the wild when ready. They do offer student discounts. Street parking is limited but there is a large parking structure across the street."
Mayur Patel
"First laser light show here since the 80's. We went to see Pink Floyd the wall 🧱. I was having a phone issue and didn't get to buy the ticket ahead of time and they were nice enough to get me in anyway. We all enjoyed the show for sure. I thought the did a great job, I could only ask for a couple more songs to be included. I definitely will be back with a variety of different friends for the variety of different musical selections they offer. I recommend this experience for all and I am thankful we have this museum, planetarium and laser shows available."
Lonnie t
"Lots of displays with the history of Florida. A great play area for children. The planetarium runs several shows throughout the day. Another area changes it's theme periodically and there are interactive areas."
Vickie Foster
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in downtown Bradenton, Florida. If driving, street parking is limited, but a large parking structure is conveniently located across the street. It's also a short drive from St. Petersburg.
Information on public transport routes to the museum is not widely available, but it is centrally located in Bradenton, making it accessible by car or ride-sharing services.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Bishop Museum website for the most up-to-date information on daily hours and any special event timings.
Absolutely! The museum is a great addition to a Bradenton day trip, especially when combined with a walk along the Riverwalk.
Yes, the museum offers a variety of exhibits, including the planetarium and historical displays, that can be engaging for teenagers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, and it's recommended to check the official Bishop Museum website for current ticket costs. Student discounts are often available.
Yes, planetarium shows are typically included in the general admission ticket price, making it a great value.
Tickets can usually be purchased at the door, but booking in advance, especially for special events like laser light shows, is recommended.
Yes, the museum offers membership options, which can be a great value for frequent visitors, especially families.
The museum hosts various events, including laser light shows and special kids' days. Keep an eye on their website and social media for announcements.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat, the Mosaic Backyard Universe for kids, and the captivating Planetarium shows. The LEGO® Towers of Tomorrow exhibit is also a unique attraction. +2
Absolutely! The Mosaic Backyard Universe is specifically designed for young children with interactive play areas.
You can spend around 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits, or longer if you plan to see multiple planetarium shows.
Yes, the museum features interactive displays and areas designed to engage visitors of all ages.
It's an ADA-accessible indoor space designed for children, featuring a treehouse, freshwater pond, and various interactive elements. +2
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While specific dining facilities within the museum are not extensively detailed, visitors often combine their visit with nearby eateries.
Policies on outside food and drinks can vary. It's advisable to check with the museum directly or look for designated areas if available.
The museum is located in downtown Bradenton, offering various dining options. Visitors have enjoyed combining their museum trip with nearby family-friendly spots like Motorworks Brewing.
Information regarding an on-site cafe or snack bar is not consistently highlighted, so planning for meals outside the museum might be wise.
Yes, Bradenton has several family-friendly dining options, and combining a museum visit with a meal at a place like Motorworks Brewing is a popular choice.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography is allowed for non-commercial use, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions within certain exhibits or during special events.
The manatee habitat, the LEGO® Towers of Tomorrow exhibit, and the Spanish-style courtyard (often used for events) offer great photo opportunities. +1
Photography is typically not permitted during planetarium shows to avoid disturbing other guests and for technical reasons.
Flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits or for the comfort of other visitors. Always be mindful of signage.
Visitors often share photos of the manatees, the interactive exhibits, the LEGO® creations, and their families enjoying the museum. +2
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Planetarium shows are also a hit with kids and are included in admission, so check the schedule! ✨ Couples & Date Nights
📚 History & Science Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat
Visitors have the unique opportunity to observe these gentle giants up close as they recover. The museum's rehabilitation specialists work diligently to provide specialized care, with the ultimate goal of releasing the manatees back into the wild. This initiative not only educates the public about the challenges facing manatees but also highlights the museum's commitment to conservation. Seeing the manatees during their feeding times can be a particularly engaging experience. Many visitors express their delight in seeing the manatees, noting the heartwarming aspect of supporting a rehabilitation effort.
It's a significant draw for families and anyone interested in Florida's wildlife and conservation efforts. Engaging the Youngest Visitors: The Mosaic Backyard Universe
Toddlers and preschoolers often find this area particularly captivating, offering them a chance to explore, play, and learn in a safe and stimulating environment. Parents appreciate that this area allows children to expend energy while still being educational.
The Captivating World of the Planetarium
Planetarium shows are included with general admission, making them an excellent value for visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit