Wagner Realty
July
5
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Charlotte Harbor: 5 Things to do
Nestled at the mouth of the Peace River, Charlotte Harbor is a captivating mix of old and new. When our real estate agents have out-of-town guests or just want to get away, they head for these wonderful attractions around Charlotte Harbor.
- Fishermen's Village - 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Whether you're a tourist or a resident near Punta Gorda homes for sale, you'll always have fun spending a day at Fishermen's Village. Book a sightseeing harbor cruise, head out on a fishing boat or explore on your own with a kayak or paddleboard. Landlubbers can do a different type of exploring through more than 30 boutique stores or rent a four-person surrey bicycle to pedal around the village. Make it a staycation at the all-suite resort with luxury amenities and spectacular views. - Peace River Wildlife Center - 3400 Ponce de Leon Pkwy., Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Get an up-close look at some fascinating creatures at Peace River Wildlife Center. Founded in 1985, the center takes in orphaned and injured animals and birds for rehabilitation. Wildlife that cannot be returned to their natural habitat are cared for at the center. Current residents include bald eagles, owls, turtles, opossums, and rabbits. Visitor hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted. - Ponce de Leon Springs State Park - 2860 Ponce de Leon Springs Rd., Ponce de Leon, FL 32455
Ponce de Leon Springs State Park is well worth the trip. The namesake spring, created from a convergence of two underground water flows, maintains a constant temperature of 68°F year-round. Hardy souls dive right in, while others are content just to dip their toes. Two hiking trails pass through hardwood forests, home to a number of native plants and animals. Other activities in the pet-friendly park include fishing, geocaching, and picnicking. Hours are 8 a.m. - sunset, seven days a week. Admission is $4 per vehicle. - Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum - 880 Belcher Rd., Boca Grande, FL 33921
Back at the turn of the 20th century, the steady glow of a lighthouse guided sailors into Charlotte Harbor. Today, the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum showcases life in those earlier days. The museum is just minutes from Boca Grande homes for sale, but you'll feel worlds away as you view the hands-on collection of fossils and shells. Other exhibits focus on Spanish and Calusa culture, tarpon fishing, and the local phosphate industry. Museum hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Admission is included with the $3 per vehicle fee to enter Gasparilla Island State Park. - Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens - 5827 Riverside Dr., Punta Gorda, FL 33982
Mother Nature's creations and manmade artwork combine for an unforgettable display at Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens. The 30-acre waterfront property encompasses five different ecosystems, including marshlands, mangroves, and a tidal basin. "The Thinker," one of the delightful sculptures, is a whimsical take on Rodin's original, with the subject wearing jeans and running shoes. "Next Summer," which floats in the lower pond, features a bathing beauty perched on an inner tube. The gardens are open 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $18 for adults and $9 for students.
Charlotte County is a great place to call home. If you're buying or selling a home, contact us at Wagner Realty for cheerful and qualified assistance with all your needs.