Parks That Teach

Guided tours will be led by the University of Florida’s Master Gardeners, individuals who have completed an extensive training course in gardening sponsored by the University of Florida. As you walk thru the pathway, you will view the unique ecosystems of the mangroves, identify trees and shrubs, and learn how these plants can fit into your home landscape. In addition, you will experience the habitats that support many different Florida creatures including alligators, wading birds, turtles, fish, raccoon, and crabs. The Master Gardener guides will introduce native, non-native Florida Friendly (good to plant ) and invasive plants (not good to plant) and the difference between each. Learn about the importance of the mangrove community, it’s value as a habitat and the support it provides as nursery grounds for fish, birds, crabs and other creatures as well as the ability of the mangroves to survive under low oxygen and saline environments. Additional information and guided walks will be posted in the kiosk on the Parks that Teach corridor of the Punta Gorda Pathways at the Shreve Street and West Virginia Avenue crossing. The Parks That Teach Program is a Public – Private Partnership between the City, the Master Gardeners and Team Punta Gorda. Tours last approximately one and a half hours. It is recommended that you wear comfortable clothing and footwear, and wear sunscreen. You might need to bring a hat and water as well! Master Gardeners are responsible for the Tours and are happy to schedule guided walks with groups (6 or more). Schedule at least 3-4 weeks prior to the date requested. Please call 941-764-4340 to check on this information.

When: Tours are scheduled monthly September – May on the first Saturday and third Wednesday at 9:30 am. RSVP is required from June to August.

Where: Punta Gorda. Tours depart from Fisherman’s Village parking lot near the outdoor fitness area

Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens

The Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens will be one of Florida's most breathtaking garden parks, featuring diverse botanicals and artistic beauty. Opens to the public. Click here for more information..

Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum

The oldest structure on the island has been a comprehensive museum since 1999. Three rooms cover cultural and social history dating from 12,000 BC–present; a fourth contains a “please touch” area. Features a gift shop offering souvenirs, local artwork and jewelry. Call 941.964.0060 for more information, click here.

Where: 880 Belcher Rd., Boca Grande

Note: $6 cash toll fee to cross onto the island

Historic Mural Tour

View the rich history of Punta Gorda through the beauty of mural art. The Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society, through the current 28 murals, has established the city as one of the leading mural towns in the country. Book a private group tour or use this interactive map and see them at your leisure.

When: Permanent Display, Punta Gorda

The Blanchard House Museum

The Blanchard House Museum is an open access, educational institution devoted to the procurement, preservation, study, and display of artifacts and materials related to the history, culture, and contributions of African Americans in the settlement and development of Charlotte County and Southwest Florida.

Where: 406 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Punta Gorda

History Quest: Historical Geocaching and Questing

This educational treasure hunt encourages all to explore local historic sites using questing (a place-based scavenger hunt) and geocaching (an oudoor hunt using GPS devices). Participation and admission is free. Details: (941) 629-7278 or visit their website.

When: Ongoing, Charlotte County

Boca Grande Historical Society

Visit our interesting exhibitions obtained from our large archival collection of photos and historical research. Our book store offers a choice of historical memorabilia for sale. For more information,click here.

Where: 170 Park Ave, Boca Grande

Peace River Wildlife Center

Peace River Wildlife Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating southwest Florida's native wildlife. Patients which are deemed non-releasable reside here at the center, where the public can learn about and see first-hand the wide variety of birds and mammals that co-inhabit our area.

When: 11am-4pm, Ponce de Leon Park, Punta Gorda