Once you’re fueled up and ready to go, pick up a free loaner bike in downtown Punta Gorda. Then ride your bike through town in search of the city’s 30 murals showing the town’s culture and history.
After seeing the murals, head to the Military Heritage Museum, where you can try a flight simulator, experience virtual reality, and see historical artifacts. The museum also has a laser gun range and theater, and veterans serve as volunteer guides.
Next, grab some lunch less than a mile down the road at Pizza Gorda, which serves wood-fired pizza, salads, and wine, and has tables on the patio for dining al fresco.
After lunch, head 1.4 miles down the road to the Visual Arts Center. In addition to three galleries with rotating exhibits, the Visual Arts Center has an art supply store and art library and offers classes, workshops, and art socials.
Time Allowance
This itinerary takes two days and one night to complete.
Distance from Population Centers
Punta Gorda is less than two hours south of Tampa, 40 minutes north of Fort Myers, and just over an hour south of Sarasota.
What to Bring
Wear comfortable clothes appropriate for the weather. Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug spray, and drinking water. An umbrella or light poncho is a good idea, especially if you visit during summer. For the sunset cruise, bring your own food and drinks along with a sweater or jacket if the weather is going to be cool or breezy.
What to Expect
For these two days, you’ll be able to enjoy art in its many forms and locations within Punta Gorda, while also spending time outside and on the water.
Be aware that the Military Museum and Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens charge admission fees.
Physical Demands
To participate in the activities on this itinerary, visitors must be able to ride a bike, walk moderate distances, and stand for long periods.
Accessibility Enhancements/Inclusion Highlights
The Peace River Botanical & Sculpture gardens have wide, paved, accessible paths. The Visual Arts Center has wheelchair-accessible ramps and the Military Heritage Museum has an accessible elevator from the ground floor parking lot.
Trip Highlights
Highlights of this two-day adventure include watching the sunset from the water, seeing art in its many forms across the city, both indoors and out, and learning about the U.S. military and its history in interactive ways.
Awards and Recognition
Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens has been profiled by Florida Rambler. Its opening was covered by publications including the Boston Globe and Travel Weekly.
The Military Heritage Museum received a 2022 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice award and was profiled by Florida on a Tankful.
Lodging and Accommodations
Punta Gorda offers a variety of places to stay. Three recommended hotels for this itinerary are Four Points by Sheraton Punta Gorda Harborside, SpringHill Suites Punta Gorda Harborside, and The Wyvern Hotel, which are all within easy walking distance of restaurants, art galleries, and boutique shopping.
Culinary Adventures
Punta Gorda offers a wide variety of popular eateries serving everything from fresh seafood to classic Southern fare.
For breakfast, check out Dean’s South of the Border, which serves American and Tex-Mex fare or Burg’r Bar for a selection of hearty breakfast favorites.
At lunchtime, try Peace River Seafood and Botanicals for seafood platters or Pizza Gorda for wood-fired pizza and wine.
For dinner, try Leroy’s Southern Kitchen & Bar, The Captain’s Table on Charlotte Harbor, or Harpoon Harry’s.
Required Certifications or Licenses
A state-issued ID is required to borrow a city bike.
When to Visit and Seasonal Differences
There are fewer visitors in the area during summer. Summer is also hotter and more humid than the rest of the year and rain and thunderstorms are more common, especially in the afternoons.
The hours for the botanical garden vary based on the season. If you visit the botanical gardens during the holiday season, you’ll see it decorated for the holidays. The gardens also stay open later this time of year to allow visitors to view light displays.
Surprises/Bonuses
Some activities on this itinerary are free or nearly free. Punta Gorda has the first free bicycle loaner program in the state, and Alligator Bay Distillery Tours are free.
Watch for a variety of interesting bird species and dolphins in Charlotte Harbor.
Rules
Children 6 years of age and older are allowed on the sunset cruise, and children under 10 must wear a life jacket. Cruises are limited to six passengers per boat.
Advice
It’s customary to tip your captain after an enjoyable sunset cruise.
Make sure to download the city’s mural map to your phone or pick up a printed copy at the Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce.
When scheduling your trip, keep in mind that Alligator Bay Distillers is closed Sundays and the Military Heritage Museum is closed Sundays and Mondays.
How to Book
Register online in advance for Cruisin’ Tikis sunset cruise.
