Free Things to Do

No-cost entertainment in Punta Gorda/Englewood beach is plentiful, with so many natural areas and parks and lovely views whichever way you look. As you explore, you’re sure to find your own favorite free fun, and we have a few suggestions:

Take a self-guided tour of the 30+ historic murals in Punta Gorda. Install the free Otocast app on your phone or tablet to follow while you're here, or open the site on a computer to explore before you visit.
Hop on a free loaner bike in Punta Gorda and pedal along the 2.5 mile Harborwalk or explore the Punta Gorda Pathways. A bike ride is also a great way to explore the historic murals!
Take in the always-free art exhibits at The Visual Arts Center of Punta Gorda. Not only do they usually have two major exhibits up, all the transition spaces and even the gift shop are full of incredible art as well.
Bike or walk the scenic Cape Haze Pioneer Trail. This 8.5 mile trail is dog-friendly and offers historic features, picnic tables, restrooms, and stellar wildlife viewing.
Visit Tippecanoe Environmental Park and stroll the nature trail and do some bird watching or canoe, kayak, or standup paddleboard the Sam Knight Creek.
Drop a line from any of our freely-accessible fishing piers. We love the Boca Grande Fishing Pier, but all piers come complete with wondrous water views and a good chance to catch something, so you really can’t go wrong.
For even more art, step inside the fascinating Sea Grape Artists Gallery in downtown Punta Gorda. This is an artist collective of the highest order. They’re celebrating their 35th year, and they showcase everything from hand-crafted kaleidoscopes and knives to traditional paintings, pottery, jewelry, and mixed media.
Peace River Wildlife Center offers free admission (but does accept donations) and up-close views of rescued wild animals and birds. If you’re there around 2:30 pm, you may get to see the pelicans getting their lunch.
Socialize with the vendors, relax, shop and enjoy some live music at the Punta Gorda Downtown Farmer’s Market (Saturdays) or the Punta Gorda History Park Market (Sundays)