City Profile: Punta Gorda

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End of the Line mural in Punta Gorda, Florida

Photo Credit: Contributed Photo

Punta Gorda embraces an old Florida lifestyle on Florida's west coast.

The city of Punta Gorda is a charming and historic waterfront town. Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon is said to be the first European to set foot here back in the early 16th century. The city honors its Spanish origins with its name, meaning "Fat Point" in Spanish, and a statue of Ponce de Leon that can be found in downtown's Gilchrist Park.

Streets lined with huge royal palms, old Florida-era tin-roofed homes with wide verandas, brick lanes, and street lamps and benches leave an almost tangible old-Florida atmosphere. The A.C. Freeman House Museum is an authentically restored and furnished late Victorian era home. The entire premises is a unique showplace of Punta Gorda and Charlotte County history.

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. Attractions include fishing, sailing, water sports, sight-seeing cruises, live entertainment, special events, and gorgeous sunsets.