The Drift In Reopens on Anna Maria Island After Long-Awaited Comeback

April 4, 2025 – Bradenton Beach, FL

After facing hurricane damage, permit delays, and months of uncertainty, The Drift In—a beloved local bar just steps from Dan’s Florida Condos—has officially reopened its doors. Locals and visitors alike gathered this morning at 7 a.m. to welcome back one of Anna Maria Island’s favorite hangouts.

The journey to reopening wasn’t easy. Originally shuttered due to significant damage caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, The Drift In required extensive repairs to both its interior and structure. But just as the repairs were wrapping up, the team was hit with another storm—this time, a bureaucratic one.

Permitting Delays Drag On

Despite the bar’s deep roots in Bradenton Beach, the road to reopening was stalled by prolonged permitting challenges with the city. Zoning hiccups, fire safety revisions, and heritage preservation concerns turned what was supposed to be a few months of paperwork into nearly a year-long process.

“We kept thinking, ‘just one more form and we’re there,’” said the manager. “But it felt like the goalposts kept moving. Every time we cleared a hurdle, another one popped up. It was exhausting.”

Still, the team never lost faith—and neither did the community.

Community Support Fueled the Comeback

Island residents and loyal patrons rallied around The Drift In, urging the city to expedite the process and showing unwavering support. Among the local advocates was Dan O’Connor, owner of Dan’s Florida Condos, located just a short stroll from the bar.

“Our guests asked about The Drift In constantly,” said O’Connor. “It’s part of the Anna Maria experience. We’re beyond excited to see it open again. It brings a whole new energy to the area—and it feels like the Island just got a piece of its soul back.”

A Fresh Look, Same Island Spirit

With some fresh updates and a lot of the old charm preserved, The Drift In is ready to start a new chapter. Guests can expect cold drinks, live music, and the same warm, welcoming vibe that’s defined the spot for years. Weekend events are already on the calendar, and the bartenders are back to pouring the drinks that made the place famous.Want to see the transformation?

Check out our photo gallery below featuring behind-the-scenes shots from the days leading up to the reopening and highlights from this morning’s grand opening on Friday, April 4th, 2025.

Whether you’re walking over from Dan’s Florida Condos or cruising down Historic Bridge Street, be sure to swing by and show some love to a true island institution. The Drift In is back—and better than ever.