Punta Gorda, Florida

Something for Everyone in Punta Gorda, Florida

Punta Gorda, the county seat, is Charlotte County’s only incorporated community. The old city dock, on the banks of the Peace River, has been transformed into Fisherman's Village, a marina and shopping complex. Visual Arts Center houses several galleries and features revolving exhibits.

Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary, just off of I-75, provides refuge for injured or unwanted wild and exotic animals. Phone 941.543.1130. Another organization offering assistance to orphaned or injured animals is the Peace River Wildlife Center in Ponce de Leon Park, which attempts to rehabilitate and release native wildlife to their natural habitats. Phone 941.637.3830.

Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce is located at 326 West Marion #112, Punta Gorda, Florida, 33950. Phone 941.639.2222.

Babcock Wilderness Adventures is at 8000 SR 31. Visitors get a close look at rare Florida panthers, alligators, snakes, birds, bison and other native fauna and flora during the 1 hour, 30 minute swamp buggy tours through a working cattle ranch and the surrounding cypress swamps. Seasonal off-road bicycle tours also are offered. These 3-hour guided rides explore Florida ecosystems; reservations are required. Food is available. Allow 2 hours minimum. Swamp buggy tours daily 9 to 3. Phone 800.500.5583 for reservations.

Florida Adventure Museum is 1 block north of US 17, between US 41N and US 41S at 260 West Retta Esplanade. The museum houses changing exhibits relating to state and local history, science and Florida natural history. Educational programs are available. Allow 30 minutes minimum. Monday through Friday 10 to 5, Saturday and Sunday 10 to 3, closed major holidays. Phone 941.639.3777.

King Fisher Cruise Lines, 1200 West Retta Esplanade in Fisherman's Village, offers day trips to the offshore islands of Cabbage Key and Cayo Costa. Nature, harbor, sunset, fishing and chartered cruises also are available. Cabbage Key cruises depart Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 9, Cayo Costa cruises depart Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday at 9. Schedules may vary; phone ahead. Reservations are recommended. Phone 941.639.0969. MyWikiBiz