Day Trip: Punta Gorda

Photo by Bill Zaino

You can almost spend an entire day in Punta Gorda right in fishermen’s Village, which features shops, restaurants, and even its own resort if you end up spending the night. Shop for the perfect keepsake to take home at boutiques such as Laff Out Loud, sea spirit and island fever, and try award-winning seafood at Village fish Market and restaurant. For a fine dining experience, try The Captain’s Table, which overlooks Charlotte Harbor.

For a restaurant with stunning views of the Peace River, visit the two-story Laishley Crab House. While you’re there, you can try Blue Crab caught right in Charlotte Harbor, or fresh sushi.

When you’re ready to walk off the seafood, Punta Gorda has plenty of scenic spots for you to enjoy. peace river botanical and sculpture gardens is a 30acre waterfront oasis that gives visitors a look at several of Southwest Florida’s ecosystems: marshlands, wetlands, mangroves, uplands, and a tidal basin.

Follow along its boardwalks to see sculptures from internationally renowned artists.

Laishley park is another great location to take in the shoreline of the Peace River. It has 18 miles of scenic walking and bike paths, as well as a public boat launch if you’re looking for a day of fishing.

If you have an animal lover in your group, visit the peace river Wildlife Center while you’re in town. It’s an educational center where visitors learn more about Florida’s native wildlife, and it was originally started right out of the home of local wildlife expert, Dr. Jerry Gingerich. Injured animals are taken here for treatment, and when you visit you can see the animals currently in care and learn firsthand what the center is doing to protect local wildlife.

Looking for a book to enjoy on your visit? Stop by sandman books, the largest independent bookstore in Southwest Florida. Sandman Books has more than 100,000 new and used titles, along with a selection of gifts and puzzles. While you’re there, be sure to take a picture under its beloved book arch, an art installation in the middle of the shop made of repurposed hardcover and paperback books. Keep an eye out for the resident cat, Kitty-Wan Kenobi.

Photo by Laishley crab House