Seniors Visit Palmetto

Palmetto, Florida with a population just over 14,000, is a waterfront community located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, midway between Tampa / St. Petersburg to the north and Sarasota to the south. When I saw this clip of a giant monster alligator filmed crossing a golf course, I had to discover what else Palmetto has to offer senior visitors other than large alligators.

Palmetto Florida abounds in history as a post office called Palmetto has been in operation since 1868. Samuel Sparks Lamb is considered the “Father of Palmetto,” having surveyed and plotted the city at its outset and donated several plots of land. He owned a general merchandise store in town. The city received its name from the palmetto trees near the original town site.

Historically, water brought the first settlers in the middle 1800s and soon, yachtsmen and shippers discovered the beauty and allure of the mile-wide Manatee River. Fertile ground and a suitable climate attracted hearty young couples willing to accept the challenge of the future and the building of a community.

 Seniors Enjoy Green Spaces and Festivals

In 1897, Florida’s governor signed the charter declaring Palmetto a City in the Sunshine State. Today the city has 12 city owned parks, a host of annual festivals and over 60 acres of green space.

Senior visitors can enjoy the many events that are held in the City of Palmetto: the Kid’s Fishing Tournament, the Desoto Children’s Parade, Heritage Day and the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade.

Also, Farm City Week, a Vintage Wheels Car Show, a Multi-Cultural Festival and the Great American Cleanup in April sponsored by the City and Keep Manatee Beautiful. The Taste of Manatee and the De Soto Seafood Festival are two of the newest events.

Spend Nine Minutes in Palmetto with this video and seniors will see why it is such a popular site to visit. TripAdvisor suggests that you start your visit at Emerson Point Preserve followed up with a stroll in Palmetto Historical Park and  maybe a boat tour after that.

Tomatoes, Fruits and Vegetables

Palmetto and the region has earned a hospitable reputation, noted for its abundant fruit and vegetable production and some of the nation’s most familiar consumer brands. Huge fields of tomatoes can be found in the area.

The City maintains the “Old Florida” charm that residents and visitors have come to love. The Manatee County Fair takes place during the last ten days in January. I counted four award-winning golf courses in or near Palmetto, so toss in your clubs and plan a round or two.

Senior travelers, plan to spend quality time in Palmetto and enjoy its many amenities. Don’t forget to also dine in some quality restaurants and enjoy some great southern chow. -jeb