20 Attractions to Explore Near Charlotte Sports Park

Port Charlotte Town Center is one of the premier shopping and entertainment destinations in the greater Charlotte County. With its vast selection of stores, restaurants, and even a movie theatre, it's no wonder why locals and tourists alike flock to this popular attraction year-round. Whether you're looking to take in some local flavor while browsing the various specialty stores or want to grab a bite to eat with friends and family, Port Charlotte Town Center has something for everyone.

Port Charlotte Beach Park is a beach lover’s dream. The park features incredible sandy shores that span four miles, with plenty of chances to spot dolphins along the way. It’s the perfect place to take a break and swim in the tranquil, warm Gulf waters or cast a fishing line and hope for a nibble. There are many amenities like picnic shelters and grills perfect for grilling your fresh catch, as well as restrooms, summer concessions, and access to kayak rentals.

The Cape Haze Pioneer Trail that served Gasparilla Island existed from 1907 to 1981.

Peace River Wildlife Center offers educational tours to the public.

Ponce De Leon Park is an 80-acre park offers stunning views of nature, with pinelands and grassy meadows providing a blissful experience for guests. Visitors have the opportunity to appreciate its scenery on walking trails, playgrounds and pavilions. There's also space for avid fishermen and boaters with a dock offering access to a lake teeming with fishes. campers can find tranquility in secluded campsites scattered around the lake or choose to have some fun at the expansive picnic area.

Gasparilla Island gets its name from the legendary pirate captain José Gaspar ("Gasparilla" 1756–1821), who had his base on the island and purportedly hid his fabulous treasure there.

Water from the Peace River is crucial to maintaining the delicate salinity of Charlotte Harbor, home to several endangered species, as well as commercial and recreational fishing.

On Pearl Harbor Day, 2001, the Military Heritage & Aviation Museum opened at its original location. The company has grown and moved twice since then, arriving at its current location in 2019.

Gilchrist Park is an inviting area for both locals and visitors alike. Its picturesque shoreline, scenic beach access, and wide array of recreational opportunities make it a great destination for those wanting to experience the beauty of the Gulf Coast. From fishing, bird watching, and swimming to barbecue areas, picnic tables, and nature trails, this Park has something that everyone can enjoy.

Harborwalk is a 2.4-mile (3.9 km) multi-use recreational trail located in Punta Gorda

Punta Gorda, Florida owns A. C. Freeman House, which is leased to the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce. The building is open to the public.

Laishley Park is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It features numerous attractions, including both man-made and natural features. The park's 100-seat amphitheater overlooks Charlotte Harbor, making it ideal for special events as well as open-air concerts. Other amenities include a boardwalk and pier with great views, picnic pavilions along the shoreline, a playground, kayak and canoe launch sites, fishing docks and an arcade.

The Punta Gorda Train Depot is significant both historically and architecturally. Dating back to its origin in 1912, this eye-catching building has served as the centerpiece of historic downtown Punta Gorda for over a century. Constructed with yellow ochre bricks, the depot features both Mediterranean Revival-style architecture and grand classical details. It also remains a symbol of progress in the local community and stands tall as reminder of our nation’s railroad past.

Punta Gorda, a charming town located in Florida, is the perfect getaway for those seeking to relax and explore. This quaint waterfront community offers numerous activities from sightseeing to fishing along the Peace River. The community also has charming parks like Gilchrist Park and Laishley Park which offer stunning views of the river and city skyline. Visitors can also explore attractions such as Fisherman’s Village or visit local art galleries.

The Cape Haze Pioneer Trail, is the perfect getaway for outdoor adventurers. Stretching 12 miles from Placida Harbor to Gasparilla Road and covering a variety of scenic landscapes ranging from wetlands to beaches, this trail offers something for all levels of hikers and bikers. From sunbathing on one of the many sandy shorelines to wildlife spotting in pristine wildlife habitats, trekkers will find plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty surrounding this coastal paradise.

Oyster Creek Environmental Park is located on Peace River and is a beautiful recreational spot for the whole family. With over 488 acres of wetlands and trails, you will be captivated by the natural beauty of aquatic plants, birds, fish and other wildlife that inhabit the area. Visitors can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and fishing while also getting an up-close view of the many types of wildlife living in the park. There are plenty of amenities to make your visit comfortable.

Stump Pass Beach State Park opened to the public in 1971 with no services. Picnic pavilions, a boardwalk, outdoor showers, and restrooms were added to the park in 2000.

Little Gasparilla Island is connected with Don Pedro Island to the north by a thin strip of beach and mangrove swamp.

Englewood Beach is a well-maintained destination that offers pristine white coastline, crystal clear waters, and stunning sunsets. Visitors to the beach can enjoy a variety of activities like swimming, bird watching, and snorkeling. The beach is also home to some unique wildlife such as Loggerhead sea turtles, which may be observed laying eggs in spring and summer months. If a more relaxed day is desired, visitors can simply lounge along the beach and bask in the beautiful natural surroundings.

Don Pedro Island is a brilliant shipwreck-diving haven and secluded beach escape. It’s home to two gorgeous beaches: North Beach and South Beach. All of this is nestled within a state preserve abundant with natural beauty and wildlife. Snorkelers love Don Pedro Island for its extensive variety of aquatic life, including sea turtles, barracudas, moray eels, snook, permit, spadefish and tarpon just to name a few. The waters are crystal clear and often feature visibility of up to 100ft!