Hernando de Soto, one of North America's first Spanish explorers, set foot in Florida in 1539 near what is now Bradenton; that feat is commemorated at this memorial. In high season (mid December-late March), park employees dressed in 16th-century costumes demonstrate period weapons and show how European explorers prepared and preserved food for their journeys over the untamed land. A film, exhibits, and a short nature trail into the mangroves and along the shoreline round out the offerings.
Reviewed by Hedy from New Jersey on 4/23/07
Very informative with a beautiful nature trail. See how people lived in ancient and early Sarasota.
Visit the Travel Talk forums for help on planning your trip