Port Charlotte, Florida – Places to Visit and Places to Avoid

Overview

Port Charlotte is a hidden gem located in Charlotte County, Florida. This beautiful town is known for its warm climate, world-class fishing, and scenic waterways. It’s the perfect destination for those who love the outdoors and a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. There are plenty of things to do and see in Port Charlotte, from beach excursions to golf courses to historic landmarks.

Places to Visit

The Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center

The Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center is a must-visit attraction in Port Charlotte for nature lovers. It offers hands-on educational experiences and guided tours of tidal creeks, marshes, and pine forests.

The Cultural Center of Charlotte County

The Cultural Center of Charlotte County is a premier cultural arts center in southwestern Florida. It features an art gallery, a 200-seat theater, and a variety of exhibits and performances throughout the year.

The Port Charlotte Beach Park

The Port Charlotte Beach Park is a popular destination for families and beach lovers. Its sandy beach and Gulfshore waters provide an ideal setting for swimming, picnicking, and sunbathing.

The Fishermen’s Village

The Fishermen’s Village is a waterfront restaurant, marina, and boutique shopping center in Punta Gorda. It features live music, harbor tours, fishing charters, and scenic boat rides.

The Allegiant Stadium

The Allegiant Stadium is home to the Tampa Bay Rays’ minor league team, the Charlotte Stone Crabs. It features state-of-the-art amenities and provides a fun, affordable way to enjoy a baseball game.

The Alligator Bay Distillery

The Alligator Bay Distillery is a locally owned and operated craft distillery that produces small-batch rum, whiskey, and vodka. It offers free tours, tastings, and a variety of merchandise for sale.

The Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens

The Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens features a beautiful collection of sculptures, flowers, and plants. It also offers guided tours, educational programs, and an on-site coffee shop.

The Myakka State Forest

The Myakka State Forest is a vast wilderness area that is perfect for hiking, camping, and birdwatching. It features dozens of miles of trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks.

The Port Charlotte Golf Club

The Port Charlotte Golf Club is a public golf course that offers 18 holes of challenging, professional-level play. It also features a practice range, pro shop, and a bar and restaurant.

The Military Heritage Museum

The Military Heritage Museum in Punta Gorda features artifacts, exhibits, and stories from all branches of the military. It offers a unique and fascinating perspective on the role of our armed forces in American history.

Places to Avoid

The Ollie’s Pond Park Campground

Ollie’s Pond Park Campground is a poorly managed, rundown RV park with poor sanitation and outdated amenities.

The Avis Car Rental

The Avis Car Rental in Port Charlotte has a reputation for poor customer service, unclean vehicles, and exorbitant fees.

The Buffalo Wings & Rings

The Buffalo Wings & Rings restaurant in Port Charlotte has received consistently poor reviews for substandard food quality and service.

The Quality Inn & Suites

The Quality Inn & Suites in Port Charlotte is a dirty and outdated hotel with uncomfortable rooms and unreliable Wi-Fi.

The El Jobean Public Boat Ramp

The El Jobean Public Boat Ramp in Port Charlotte is in a state of disrepair, with damaged docks and debris in the water.

Overview About Port Charlotte