While many visitors come to Anna Maria Island for the beaches and gorgeous sceneries. This tropical destination boasts a litany of historic places that give a peek into the early days of Anna Maria Island. We have compiled a list of great pieces of history for Anna Maria Island that you can visit today and add a unique touch to your visit.

The Anna Maria City Pier

The 678-foot pier sands at the end of Pine Avenue and has been closed for periods of time to renovate it. Water broke down the construction of the pier over time, and after Hurricane Irma, even more, damage was recorded. This amazing pier, though, is always a piece of history that the residents are determined to keep in place and can be viewed while eating, shopping, or walking through various attractions.

The Roser Memorial Church

Roser also developed the first church on the island, the Roser Memorial Community Church, in 1913. The cross on the church was lit and served as a beacon for fishermen until electricity reached the island after a few years. Amazingly, the Roser Memorial Church still stands today and can be visited in the City of Anna Maria at 512 Pine Avenue.

Cortez Fishing Village

This timeless community embraces everything that is old Florida. No high rises are allowed in the village, filled with little cottages, homes, and businesses lining super narrow streets. You can visit with proud locals that build and refurbish boats, work towers of crab traps and bring up some of the freshest seafood options for your shopping pleasure. This village is off the beaten path and a walk straight into history with a great historical museum and wonderful eateries where you are sure to love the vibe.

Anna Maria Island Historical Museum

The museum can be found in a 1920’s building that was originally an icehouse. The location also served as other important parts of the community throughout its lifetime. It was a garage, a sea turtle hatchery, and an administrative building before becoming the home of the Museum of 1992. Throughout the museum, you’ll learn about the first settlers on the island around 1845. This is the best snippet of everything Anna Maria Island you will surely find in one place.

Blue Marlin Seafood

In 2011 this little eatery opened in a historic 1920s cottage on historic Bridge Street in Anna Maria Island. Restoration of the cottage was done with care to provide an intimate, coastal restaurant vibe with original wainscoting and wood flooring. Tables and benches made from recycled dock wood add to the amazing ambiance of this jewel. Antique ship lanterns, fish mounts & oars scattered throughout lend the cottage a charming, intimate atmosphere. The best part is the wonderful dishes and drinks to be had in this gem of a stop while visiting the island.

With so many great places to take a trip back in time, these locales are sure to add to your trip. Step back in time and walk through years long gone here on Anna Maria Island. These amazing historic places allow you to see the past of this wonderful island, which has been built to make it the paradise it is today for residents and visitors alike.

Feature Photo Courtesy of Deposit Photos