The City of Punta Gorda runs more than 20 parks, and some of the best ones sit right on the water within a short walk or bike ride of downtown. Here are seven worth knowing, with addresses and what you’ll find at each.
Harborwalk
The Harborwalk is the city’s walking and biking path along the downtown waterfront. Bring comfortable shoes or a bike and plan to stop often for the views.
Gilchrist Park
Gilchrist Park sits right on the harbor and has a small beach, a fishing pier, a gazebo, pickleball, tennis and basketball courts, a playground, pavilions, picnic tables, grills and restrooms. A second playground area with its own pavilions and restrooms sits at 400 West Retta Esplanade. Only service animals are allowed.
Where: 1000 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda
Laishley Park
Laishley Park sits on the harbor next to the city’s municipal marina. You’ll find a fishing pier, an observation deck, open lawn, pavilions, a playground, grills and restrooms, and it’s one of the parks where pets are welcome. It also hosts community events, including the free Neighborhood Fall Festival.
Where: 100 Nesbit Street, Punta Gorda
History Park
History Park has a garden and a museum a few blocks from the waterfront. It’s a good stop for anyone curious about local history.
Where: 501 Shreve Street, Punta Gorda
Nature Park
Nature Park is the quiet option. It has a nature trail, a fishing pier, benches and picnic tables, and it’s a good spot for birding. Pets are welcome.
Where: 1555 Aqui Esta Drive, Punta Gorda
Peace River Wildlife Center at Ponce de Leon Park
Peace River Wildlife Center cares for injured and orphaned wildlife at Ponce de Leon Park, which the city also lists as a birding spot. The center is building a new Education Center on Henry Street, and you can read about the move here. Visit prwildlife.org before you go.
Where: 3400 Ponce de Leon Parkway, Punta Gorda
Phone: 941-637-3830
Hounds on Henry
Punta Gorda’s dog park is on West Henry Street, for pets that need a place to run.
Where: West Henry Street, Punta Gorda
Good to Know
- Pet rules vary by park. Gilchrist and History Park allow service animals only, while Laishley Park, Nature Park and Hounds on Henry welcome pets.
- Pavilions at several city parks can be rented. Call the city at 941-575-5050 or use the park rental request on the city website.
See the full list of city parks at ci.punta-gorda.fl.us.
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