Whether you are in search of swamp buggy tours in Punta Gorda or looking for the best spots to stop in town, this guide to Florida activities will help you navigate the best things to do during your stay in Punta Gorda!
1. Go On a Swamp Buggy Tour in Punta Gorda
Swamp Buggy Tours near Punta Gorda are one of the best ways to connect with the local scenery, wildlife, and plants of Southwest Florida! Babcock Ranch Eco Tours offers daily, 90-minute swamp buggy tours through the rich ecosystem of the historic Babcock Ranch! You can learn more about these swamp buggy tours near you in Punta Gorda here.
2. Visit Fishermen’s Village
Fishermen’s Village is the perfect place to stop to really feel the heart and soul of Punta Gorda’s culture. This area offers a variety of waterfront shopping, dining, and even boat tours. It’s a perfect mix of local beauty and destination service!
3. Have A Picnic A Ponce De Leon Park
Ponce de Leon Park has a beautiful picnic pavilion which makes it an ideal spot to get out of the sun and enjoy a bite to eat. You might want to consider having a sunset picnic— the sunset views over Charlotte Harbor are gorgeous at this park!
4. Visit The Military Heritage Museum
Whether you are a history buff or not, the Military Heritage Museum is an amazing place to visit during a trip to Punta Gorda. The veteran museum guides are a wealth of knowledge and make sure you don’t miss a ride on the flight simulator!
5. Take A Nature Walk
Punta Gorda has so many fun places to walk! Take a stroll around History Park, Gilchrist Park, or Bayshore Live Oak Park. If you are looking for a fun spot to visit outside of the hustle and bustle of Punta Gorda— take a free walking tour at Babcock Ranch Eco Tours! The walking tour is about 45 minutes long (just over a mile) and is a great way to explore the wet flatwoods habitats just outside of town.
6. Enjoy The Botanical Gardens
The Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens offers 30 acres of beautiful plants to explore put enchanting sculptures mixed among the lush brush! There are also often events and activities here, like yard games and music on many Saturdays.
7. Grab A Bite at A Local Eatery
Punta Gorda offers a variety of delicious cuisine from all around the world as well as some local favorites. For great Cajun food and an authentic Florida eating experience, check out the Gator Shack Restaurant after enjoying one of the Swamp Buggy Tours in Punta Gorda at Babcock Ranch Eco Tours. The fried alligator is a must-try!
8. Kayak Through the Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park
Kayaking through the mangrove forests of Southwest Florida is a beautiful way to see the Punta Gorda area. Following the winding paddle trail systems of the Charlotte Harbor Preserve Park is one of the only ways to access much of the park!
9. Go Souvenir Shopping
Now you’ve seen the Punta Gorda sights, it’s time to shop for souvenirs before you go! Babcock Ranch Eco Tours’ souvenir shop has a great selection of toys, books, t-shirts, and more so you can take a little bit of Punta Gorda back home with you!
10. Take A Night Tour
You’ve seen Punta Gorda during the day but what about at night? Take a Sounds of the Night Tour with Babcock Ranch Eco Tours to get a whole new perspective on the Punta Gorda sights and wildlife. This specialty tour is offered on the last Saturday of every month at 5:30 pm. Book your spot on the tour here!