Located on the Manatee River, Bradenton is the seat of Manatee County in Florida. The area is believed to have been discovered by the Spanish conquistador Hernando de Soto, who landed at Shaw's Point in 1539 to begin his 4,000 mile search for El Dorado. However, the city takes its name from Dr. Joseph Braden, the sugarcane magnate who settled in the area in 1853. According to local legends, Braden's fort-like home and sugar mill served as a refuge for early settlers against frequent attacks from Native Americans.

The De Soto National Memorial in Bradenton marks the spot where de Soto is believed to have landed. The South Florida Museum features Native American and natural history exhibits, as well as historical dioramas. For a glimpse of life in 19th century Bradenton, visitors can tour the renovated historic buildings of Manatee Village Historical Park.