ARTS    MUSIC    FESTIVALS

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When it comes to  culture, Punta Gorda thinks big.  Its attractive, full-service cultural and convention center is accessible by land or by sea.  Innovative artists' galleries are tucked throughout the city.  Jazz festivals, wine & cuisine affairs, and open-air art shows enliven the community throughout the year.  Spontaneous jams at the city's palm-lined, harbor-front park have been know to serenade the sunset.  Whether staged indoors or tented on the green, when there is a reunion, panic, wedding, or major trade show on the calendar, Punta Gorda offers the perfect venue.

" Come for the weekend ... Stay for life "

Punta Gorda is the rarest of places – a gem at the edge of Florida’s Gulf Coast, a treasure that charms and delights.    Florida's best small city marries the allure of a world-class resort with the pleasures of a hometown welcome.  National travel and lifestyle editors tout its premier sports and recreation, blue-ribbon arts and culture, and its variety of casual and fine dining.  The 2020 America's Best Small Cities report ranks Punta Gorda #1 in airport connectivity. First time or returning, visiting or staying, those who discover Punta Gorda find it for life. 

ACTIVE LIFESTYLE    WALKING    BICYCLING   

Whether pedaling around with the city’s free bike-loaner program, taking a stroll along the Punta Gorda Pathways, playing tennis or pickleball – if it’s outdoors, Punta Gorda does it with style.  Florida’s best small city is a bike-friendly, walking community.  It’s network of pedestrian share use trails links historic neighborhoods, parks & historic downtown.  Punta Gorda Pathways, eighteen-miles of groomed shared multi use paths are pet, bicycle, and walking friendly.

SAILING    MARINA    BOATING

Sail Magazine review of Punta Gorda's front door described Charlotte Harbor as "Thin-Water Paradise."  That's how sailors identify friendly waters perfect for small and medium-size cruisers, yachts and charter boats.  Punta Gorda has deep water access too.  National and regional fishing tournaments draw world-class anglers.  At the waterfront, Fishermen's Village harbors boardwalk shops, casual and find dining, and resort accommodations.  Whether arriving by kayak or yacht, maritime visitors find Punta Gorda's snug harbor is an island of enchantment. 

WILDLIFE    ESTUARY    FISHING

Florida's southwestern estuaries, mangrove wetlands, historic river, and productive uplands comprise one of the largest ecosystems of its kind in North America.  Punta Gorda takes pride in its ecological riches.  Inland, its green-tree canopy shades city streets and residential districts.  Surrounding the city, maritime and costal habitats support over 600 species of birds, fish, and marine wildlife.  Punta Gorda's ecosystem is managed in partnership with state and federal scientist to accommodate a wide range of active and passive uses.  Accessible parks and preserves, boat launches, and picnic areas invite family excursions.