It's no secret that Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach is known for its miles of beaches, beautiful golf courses, great dining and more, but a lot of the appeal of the area can be found in a few family-friendly hidden gems you may not know about!
1. Happy Capys
Did you know there are three sweet and amazing capybara living the good life in Englewood, Florida? It's true, and the whole family can get up close and personal with them, either with a visit or with Capy yoga. Give the kids—and yourself!—the experience of a lifetime, literally, at HappyCapys!
2. Starry Night Florida
It's never too early to encourage a child's interest in space and the night sky, and Starry Night Florida is the perfect opportunity to do just that. Head to Hathaway Park, just 10-15 minutes from Punta Gorda, and experience the stars like never before with a powerful telescope. Note: children must be at least 5 years old.
3. IguanaLand
If anyone in the family is a fan of lizards and turtles and the like they'll be very excited to visit IguanaLand, the largest reptile zoo in the world. With over 250 species from around the world housed in comfortable habitats, families can usually tour the entire park in 1.5 to 2 hours. They also offer VIP and Animal Encounter tours for behind-the-scenes and up-close-and-personal time with the animals.
4. Stump Pass Beach Park
Stump Pass Beach State Park has a hiking trail with a pristine Gulf beach on one side and views of the intercoastal on the other. The beach side offers unparalleled water—and sunset!—views and shell trees, a local tradition where people find and hang a seashell on a piece of driftwood and make a wish. It’s also a great place to fish and launch a kayak or standup paddleboard!
5. Babcock Ranch Eco-Tours
If you're looking for a uniquely fun, funny, and educational experience, an outing with Babcock Ranch Eco-Tours i the perfect thing for you! You get to see wildlife and nature up close and personal.
The "swamp buggy" (converted school bus) takes you on a fun and bouncy ride through four separate eco-systems while your funny guide tells you stories and fun facts about the history of the area.
You'll see animals galore, from horses and historic Cracker cattle to alligators (lots and lots of alligators), birds, and more!
6. Ponce de Leon Park
Ponce de Leon Park counts as a two-in-one hidden gem: it's a waterfront park with a wildlife center right next door.
The water views from the dry beach can't be beat and be sure to take a selfie or three with one of the several statues of Ponce de Leon.
The Peace River Wildlife Center next door houses rescued local wildlife. Donations are suggested and no dogs are allowed at the park (with the exception of certified Service Animals) or at the Center.
7. The Escape Ventures
Grab the kids and try one of the most engaging and stimulating activities around—an escape room! The Escape Ventures in Port Charlotte pride themselves on creating immersive and fun experiences.
8. Military Heritage Museum
From touring a real Huey helicopter to experiencing Virtual Reality programs and both ship and airplane simulators that run like hyper-realistic video games, to exploring thousands of artifacts and interactive displays, it's a good bet that everyone in the family will find something fascinating at the Military Heritage Museum.
9. Kidstar Park
Kidstar Park is a big play place for kids—big as in BIG! Kids can play in the ball pits and tunnels for hours. There's also an arcade where kids can win tickets and exchange them for fun prizes, a snack bar, a climbing wall, and Go-Karts.
10. Maracaibo Kidspace Park 
Maracaibo Park features one of the most elaborate playgrounds in the area alongside sheltered picnic tables, restrooms, and open space. Note: dogs are not allowed in this park.
Come on down with the family to enjoy these hidden gems and even better, discover your own!
