The longer you stay when visiting Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach, the more fun you have, but Labor Day Weekend getaway can also be a blast. It's never too early to start planing, and those long weekends are the perfect excuse to come on down for adventure, downtime, or a bit of both. Add a hearty helping of delicious dining, stunning sunsets, and an almost endless array of activities, and you’re set for the whole weekend.
Labor Day Activities (That You Can Enjoy Year-Round)
There's always a lot to do in the area along with special Labor Day events, so here are a few ideas to get you started:
Punta Gorda Adventures offers themed cruises for every holiday, and Labor Day is no exception! Last year they had four different tours so it was easy to get out on the water at any time of day, including after dark.
IguanaLand, the world's largest reptile zoo, now has over 250 species, so plan to spend at least a couple of hours exploring. Book an animal encounter for fascinating behind-the-scenes access.
Take to the skies for unparalleled views of our beautiful area with Suncoast Biplanes. Choose from a variety of flights, from harbor to golden hour, and more. You can even customize your own!
It's always a good time to hop aboard a "swamp buggy" for a fun trip with Babcock Ranch Eco-Tours. Added bonus: their onsite restaurant, The Gator Shack, earns rave reviews.
Make Saturday a Punta Gorda Day
A visit to Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens is an amazing trip through world-class art installations and wild botanicals, with the added fun of the Butterfly Pavilion and feeding the koi.
Next up is Peace River Seafood and Botanicals for fresh seafood, an authentic “crab shack” vibe, and locally-grown and crafted wellness products. They're a favorite of locals and returning visitors alike. For some suds and authentic Thai food and sushi, check out Peace River Beer Company.
Don’t miss the Military Heritage Museum and its thousands of artifacts, flight simulators, virtual reality experiences, and much more. Nearby is Fishermen’s Village, a dining/shopping/live music/prime-sunset-viewing destination in itself. To visit both, arrange a free golf cart ride from the Village to the Museum and back by calling 941.456.3883. Right across from Fishermen’s Village is The Visual Arts Center. There’s always at least two exhibits going and their gift shop is the perfect place to find gifts and keepsakes.
Sunday Funday
Get out on the water: try kayaking or standup paddleboarding with any of our local vendors or rent a boat to explore on your own.
No matter how you get out on the water, you’ll see birds of all kinds, fascinating sea life, maybe a dolphin or manatee, and truly beautiful views.
Once you’ve had some adventure, it’s time for lunch at one of the tasty spots near Englewood Beach, then a leisurely stroll down the coast or a swim in the usually flat, calm waters of the Gulf.
Monday – No Labor Allowed
The day is yours, to do with what you please. Will you fish? Play golf? Grab a free loaner bike in Punta Gorda and explore at your leisure? Enjoy a leisurely shopping trip? Maybe just laze at the hotel pool if you've got one? You decide!
We hope some of these ideas for things to do over Labor Day Weekend inspire you to come visit us!
