The Hauntings of Bridge Street

By Liz Reed
Co-Founder of PSOBFL
Author of Haunted Manatee County
Owner of Downtown Bradenton Ghost Walk

Historic Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach is more than just a lively stretch of shops, restaurants, and AMI nightlife—it’s also home to some of the island’s most chilling ghost stories. With ties to early island history, tragic accidents, infamous gangsters, and mysterious deaths, Bridge Street has earned its reputation as one of the most haunted places on Anna Maria Island.

Spirits of the Old Bridge

Bridge Street got its name from the first bridge connecting Anna Maria Island to Cortez on the mainland. Construction began in 1921 and, despite hurricane setbacks, was completed in 1922. Locals said crossing the bridge in a car sounded like a series of gunshots thanks to its construction. Today, part of that bridge survives as a fishing and sightseeing pier, with excellent views of the newer drawbridge built in 1956.

But visitors report more than just scenery. Some claim to see spirits walking the span: a man killed in a roadside accident after falling from a truck tailgate, and even two headless ghosts—a couple who perished during a tragic escape attempt when their car drove onto the bridge as it was opening.

The Bayside Inn and Al Capone

At the island side of the bridge once stood the Bayside Inn, now home to the popular Bridge Tender Inn Dockside Bar & Grille. When new owners took over in the 1980s, they discovered a hidden chest containing what appeared to be human bones. Many believe this ties back to Al Capone, who was rumored to frequent a bar and dancehall next to the old inn.

Across the street sits Drift-In Liquors, once owned by baseball legend Babe Ruth in the 1920s. Today it’s owned by Jose Cuervo (yes, really), but some say the Babe himself still checks in on his old bar.

George Bean’s Ghostly Walks

George Bean, the island’s first permanent settler, also seems fond of Bridge Street. Bean and his associate Charles Roser built the Anna Maria Pier and the island’s first church. On Bridge Street, locals and visitors alike report seeing George stroll near the shops, particularly in the company of older women. He’s even known to “borrow” small items from unsuspecting passersby.

The Mystery of Sheena Morris

One of the most unsettling stories is more recent. On New Year’s Day 2009, Sheena Morris and her boyfriend rented a unit at the BridgeWalk Resort. After a night of fighting, Sheena was found hanging in the bathroom. Police ruled it suicide, but many—including Sheena’s mother and private investigators—believe it was murder.

Reports suggest Sheena’s ghost still lingers. In the post office parking lot and along Gulf Drive, people hear banging, crying, and pleas for help. During paranormal sessions, she has even spoken through EVP, insisting she didn’t take her own life and that she misses her mother deeply.

Spirits in Shops and Bars

Bridge Street’s hauntings don’t stop there.

• Island Time Inn, once the site of town meetings and a hardware store, is said to host a mischievous male spirit who throws objects and creates chaos.
  

• The notorious Oar House, a rough bar that burned in 1978 and was later replaced by Island Time Bar & Grill and the Bridge Street Bistro, left behind plenty of paranormal residue. Employees and investigators have reported moving shadows, disappearing objects, and heated arguments echoing from the past.

A Haunted Legacy

For just one street, Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach carries an incredible weight of history, mystery, and lingering spirits. From early island settlers to mobsters, from tragic accidents to unsolved deaths, the hauntings of Bridge Street continue to fascinate locals and visitors alike.

So next time you stroll down Bridge Street, keep an open mind—you never know which ghost might be walking right beside you.

FAQs About Ghosts on Anna Maria Island

Is Anna Maria Island haunted?
Yes, many locals and visitors believe Anna Maria Island is haunted, especially along Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. From the ghost of Sheena Morris to reports of headless spirits and mysterious shadows, the island has a long list of paranormal encounters tied to its history.

Are there ghost tours on Anna Maria Island?
While there isn’t a year-round ghost tour company based on the island itself, nearby Bradenton and Cortez often host ghost walks and paranormal events. Many visitors explore Bridge Street on their own, since it’s considered the heart of Anna Maria Island’s haunted history.

Do ghosts live on Anna Maria Island?
According to paranormal investigators, yes—spirits are said to linger on the island. From old bars and inns to the historic pier, locals have shared countless Anna Maria Island ghost stories that keep the legends alive.

Are there floating orbs and shadow people on Bridge Street on Anna Maria Island?
Yes, paranormal enthusiasts often report seeing floating orbs of light in photos and video recordings taken on Bridge Street. Others claim to have encountered shadow people moving along the sidewalks and pier at night, especially near old haunts like the Oar House site and Island Time Inn.