Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach is an artistically inclined and inspired community, which means you'll find art everywhere, from historical murals on buildings to traditional galleries to artful retail displays.
Punta Gorda
Punta Gorda boasts the largest free art gallery in the region, the Visual Arts Center. This expansive space offers three gallery spaces, an eclectic Gift Shop, and even an art supply store.
Find more original art at downtown Punta Gorda's true artist collective, Sea Grape Gallery. There are always artists on hand to answer questions and offer insight.
Not even a mile away (.7, to be specific) is another artist collective. This one, Stoneware Pottery by Jack Vartanian & Friends, is focused on the works—both functional and decorative—of 19 artists from across the country.
To truly experience larger-than-life-size art, up-close-and-personal, visit Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens. This one-of-a-kind spectacle of intriguing botanicals and mind-bending world-class art installations reflects the area's love and celebration of nature, conservation, and creativity. Their gift shop is full of curated treasures to take home.
Port Charlotte
In Port Charlotte, the charming Hatch Gallery offers all manner of wildlife and nature-focused art pieces rendered on driftwood, regular canvas, metal, wood, and more. Each creature is wholly unique! Take your favorite—or a commemorative t-shirt, hat, or other souvenir—home will you to remind you of your trip to the area.
The Port Charlotte Town Center Mall is a treasure trove, with everything from large retailers to niche shops as well as plenty of amazing eateries arranged around a fun manatee fountain. Shop to your heart's content in the refreshing air conditioning, have a bite, then maybe catch a first run movie at the Regal Town Center Cinema!
Englewood
In Englewood, don't miss a trip to the Barefoot Trader for souvenirs and unique swimwear, beach baubles, and more. And, if you don't have the time to find a perfect shell to remember your trip by, head over to Sheryl's Shell Shop for a large selection of local and exotic shells and gift ideas. For fun and funky souvenirs and keepsakes, head over to Old Florida Outdoor Center and Gallery.
Shopping in Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach is always fun, with tons of creative retail spaces, several open-air farmer's markets, a cozy independent book store, and even a dedicated menswear spot, Staghorn.
No matter if you're looking for original art, gifts or keepsakes, a new vacation outfit or jewelry set, the hottest beach read, or even fresh produce and antiques, Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach is an art (and retail) aficionado's dream come true.
