10 Surprising Family Attractions in Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach

By Visit Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach on Dec. 17, 2025

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 you can get up close and personal with three capybaras living their best lives in Englewood, Florida? Book a visit and give the kids, and yourself, a genuinely unusual afternoon with HappyCapys.

2. Motor City Mini Acres

Almost as surprising as capybaras are mini highland cows, donkeys, and goats you can actually pet at Motor City Mini Acres.

3. Treasure Lanes

Treasure Lanes is so far beyond just bowling, with a seriously upgraded, climate-controlled arcade, plus food and drinks to keep everyone busy.

4. Military Heritage Museum

DTN - STL - Military Heritage Museum Check out the Vietnam-era Huey helicopter, try virtual reality or a ship or airplane simulator, then explore thousands of artifacts and interactive displays at the Military Heritage Museum.

5. Stump Pass Beach Park

The trail at Stump Pass Beach State Park gives you Gulf views on one side and intracoastal views on the other, this park offers more than a typical beach day. Add shelling, shark teeth, and sunset views, and it becomes a full experience.

6. Reel Fishing Charters

Captain Danny Latham specializes in family-friendly fishing trips. He is adept at teaching anglers of all ages and levels, and even offers a “Catch Fish, No Excuses” guarantee.

7. Ponce de Leon Park

The dry beach (meaning a beach offering no water access) at Ponce de Leon Park offers wide-open water views, perfect for watching the passing boats and the sunset. Nearby, launch a kayak or boat from the park's ramp, and catch a selfie with one of the statues of the park's namesake to remember your trip.

8. The Escape Ventures

Grab the kids and try one of the immersive experiences at The Escape Ventures in Port Charlotte. They offer engaging rooms for all ages.

9. Kidstar Park

Kidstar Park is a big play place for kids. Ball pits, tunnels, a climbing wall, an arcade, and even go-karts will keep them busy for hours. Grab a snack and relax while they wear themselves out.

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!

Author

Visit Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach

Visit Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach was established in 1997 and supports local businesses by promoting Charlotte County as a premiere travel destination, domestically and internationally, to consumers, meeting planners, travel trade and sports-rights holders.
We advocate for and promote Charlotte County as a warm, welcoming, and beautiful destination with positive economic growth and a focus on the preservation of natural resources to build a sustainable future for visitors and residents alike.
Learn more on our About Us Page and visit our Events Page to stay up to date on happenings in the area.
Blog content is created and reviewed by our amazing staff, (locals of course!). Through our posts we share those “in the know” tips, the “where the locals go” info, and the “places not to miss” to inspire travelers to visit. We share our knowledge by highlighting activities and events, the area’s unique natural appeal, and our prioritizing of conservation, sustainability, and accessibility. Our social media, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube in particular, focus on all there is to do, see, and eat in the area. Social posts and videos are created and shared by the VCB, by visitors, and sometimes by sponsored travel writers (always disclosed).
Visit Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach, the Charlotte Harbor Gulf Island Coast, is Florida’s premier ecotourism destination, free from crowds and off the beaten path yet still offering the comfort and amenities discerning travelers seek. Our location on Charlotte Harbor means endless miles of natural shoreline and outdoor assets like beaches, nature preserves, and waterways of all kinds. Visitors can find unlimited outdoor pursuits like sailing, boating, world-class fishing, paddling, birding, biking, dining and arts. Come find out why “Our Best Side is Outside℠.”