Bradenton, Florida, known as "The Friendly City. White sandy beaches and laid back neighborhoods west from Anna Maria Island to the ever-growing downtown riverfront scene, award winning communities and golf courses stretching eastward. New Manatee Performing Arts Center and Bradenton Riverwalk offers dozens of recreational opportunities against the beautiful backdrop of the Manatee River. Rowing is taking off and hardscape viewing plaza allows viewing and staging of local and collegiate teams from around the U.S. McKechnie Field, home to Pittsburgh Pirates spring training and minor league affiliate Bradenton Marauders.