De Soto National Memorial, located on the south shore of the Manatee River, commemorates the first major European exploration of the North American interior. A visitor center contains historic displays of armor and weaponry, maps, and a replica of one of de Soto's ships; a short film depicting the expedition is shown throughout the day. An outdoor exhibit on the north porch outlines probable archaeological sites associated with the four-year expedition.
Crossbow and arquebus (matchlock musket) demonstrations are given at Camp Ucita (a reproduction of the 16th-century Indian village that the de Soto expedition used as a base camp), open from from late December to early April. Park rangers also demonstrate blacksmithing, cooking, and armor repair. Special films or demonstrations can be arranged for groups by pre-arrangement.
The park is open daily, year-round; located 5 miles west of Bradenton.
