Located in Southwest Florida (between Sarasota and Fort Myers in Charlotte County), Punta Gorda is a charming small town situated on the banks of Charlotte Harbor, one of the US’s largest natural harbors. The beautifully restored historic downtown area is loaded with lovely vistas, quaint homes, unlimited restaurants, and lots of other great things to do. It is a slice of paradise for fisherman, boaters, sun-worshippers and shoppers alike.
Easily reached by I-75, Punta Gorda features streets lined with huge royal palms and old Florida-era tin-roofed homes with wide verandas, brick lanes and pristine landscaping.
The A.C. Freeman House Museum in Punta Gorda is an authentically restored and furnished late Victorian-era home. It’s currently owned by the City of Punta Gorda. It houses a museum operated by the Punta Gorda Historical Society, and offices for the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce. The home has a spacious wrap-around porch featuring Queen Anne trim, a veranda and a third story tower.
Located in downtown Punta Gorda, the 20’ Whispering Giant “Calostimucu” is an effigy to the first people inhabiting the area. The name of the statue is a combination of the two Native American tribes that lived in this area of Florida. The two-sided statue is on Retta Esplanade. Sculptor: Peter “Wolf” Toth
This Downtown banyan tree is over 100 years old and about 40’ around. It is a very historic landmark in Punta Gorda and the background for endless selfies.
There are certain rooms at the PG Waterfront Hotel and Suites that can see the banyan tree. The down-to-earth waterfront hotel is a 3-minute walk from Gilchrist Park and 1 mile from Fishermen’s Village.
Near the historic district of Punta Gorda, you will find Fishermen’s Village. This unique waterfront destination includes gift, clothing, and specialty shops, seven restaurants, a military heritage museum, a 98-slip marina and fully furnished luxury villas.
For more info on Punta Gorda, visit: https://www.charlotteharbortravel.com/
