Punta Gorda is a charming waterfront city in Southwest Florida on Charlotte Harbor, full of character and natural beauty. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors, explore local history, dine at unique restaurants and unwind by the water. Here are some of the top things to do when visiting Punta Gorda.
Arts, Culture and Murals
Downtown Punta Gorda boasts a vibrant art scene. The streets are adorned with colorful murals created by the Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society. Many visitors enjoy taking a walking tour to view them all and discover the stories behind each unique piece.
You can also explore galleries like the Sea Grape Gallery and the Visual Arts Center, which showcase paintings, photography and other works by local artists. Another sight worth visiting is the Artisan’s Atelier, where artists create and sell their work on-site. For live performances, the Punta Gorda Symphony presents several concerts throughout the year.
Beaches and Coastal Activities
Punta Gorda is located near several beautiful beaches. Englewood Beach is one of the most popular spots for swimming, shelling and soaking up the sun. Visitors who enjoy fishing can take advantage of public boat ramps, cast a line from a pier or book a charter fishing trip.
Charlotte Harbor also offers excellent opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding, with calm waters and plenty of scenic areas to explore.
Dining and Nightlife
Punta Gorda offers a wide variety of restaurants and bars. TT’s Tiki Bar, located right on the waterfront, is a local favorite for live music and casual dining. For a more upscale experience, Ortigia Cucina & Bar serves traditional Italian dishes in a stylish setting.
Seafood is especially popular in the area, with Peace River Seafood known for its fresh blue crabs. For something unique, consider booking an Oasis Tiki Tour — a small tiki boat cruise where you can enjoy cocktails while exploring the harbor. Downtown Punta Gorda also features several bars and restaurants offering craft beer and live music.
Fishermen’s Village and Local Shopping
Fishermen’s Village is the premier central Florida waterfront destination, offering shopping, dining and lively entertainment all in one convenient location. You can browse local boutiques, enjoy a waterfront meal or take a sightseeing cruise with King Fisher Fleet. Visitors can even stay overnight at The Suites at Fishermen’s Village.
The complex also includes the Sunset Beach Club and marina. Beyond Fishermen’s Village, you’ll find local gems like Becky’s Garden Shoppe, a weekly farmers market and a specialty tea store in downtown Punta Gorda.
Historic Sites and Museums
There are also plenty of ways to dive into Punta Gorda’s rich and fascinating history. The Military Heritage Museum is one of the city’s top attractions, featuring historic artifacts, interactive exhibits and even flight simulators. The Punta Gorda History Center highlights the city’s early years and local heritage.
At Laishley Park, you’ll find the Vietnam Memorial Wall — a replica of the one in Washington, D.C. The park sits along the Harborwalk, making it easy to pair a history lesson with a scenic walk by the water. Veterans Park is another meaningful stop, honoring local service members.
Local Events and Festivals
Throughout the year, Punta Gorda hosts a wide variety of events and downtown festivals that bring the community together. The Annual Chili Festival is a local favorite, but you’ll also find music festivals, holiday celebrations, craft fairs and international art exhibits on the calendar.
The Punta Gorda Farmer’s Market, held every week, is a popular spot for both locals and visitors alike. On event days, the downtown streets come alive with vendors, food stands and live performances, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
Nature Parks and Outdoor Recreation
Punta Gorda is surrounded by beautiful natural areas and scenic parks. The Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens offer a unique blend of art and lush tropical gardens. For outdoor enthusiasts, Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park and Alligator Creek Preserve are great spots for hiking, birdwatching, canoeing and kayaking.
If you’re looking for a guided experience, Babcock Wilderness Adventures takes visitors on wildlife tours through swamps and forests, showcasing Florida’s natural habitats. Animal lovers can also explore Iguanaland, the Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary or visit a local butterfly sanctuary.
Nearby coastal gems like Gasparilla Island State Park and Stump Pass Beach State Park are perfect for swimming, fishing or simply enjoying a peaceful walk along the sand.
Waterfront Activities and Harborwalk
With stunning views and easy access to nature, Punta Gorda’s waterfront is a must-see. The Harborwalk stretches for several miles along scenic Charlotte Harbor, making it ideal for walking, biking or simply enjoying the peaceful views. It links together a variety of parks, waterfront restaurants, marinas and scenic lookouts.
Gilchrist Park is a favorite spot to relax and watch the sunset, while Ponce de Leon Park offers a small beach, picnic areas and a serene mangrove boardwalk. For those who want to get out on the water, boat tours and sunset cruises are a relaxing and memorable way to take in the beauty of the harbor.
A Coastal Gem Worth Discovering
Punta Gorda is a laid-back and welcoming destination with something for everyone. From arts and history to waterfront adventures and outdoor recreation, there are countless ways to enjoy your time. Whether you’re admiring downtown murals, unwinding on the beach or setting out on a sunset cruise, Punta Gorda offers a perfect blend of charm, culture and natural beauty in a peaceful coastal setting.