2023 Newcomers Guide

12 | SOUTHWEST FLORIDA • NEWCOMERS GUIDE TO PARADISE Port Charlotte has more than 165 miles of waterways providing access to Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico. Tippecanoe Environmental Park offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing through 380 acres of scrub and pine fl at-woods. PUNTA GORDA The city is the only incorporated com- munity in Charlotte County. It reinvented itself after Hurricane Charley in 2004 but retained its Old Florida feel with its charm- ing historic downtown that has restaurants, shops and galleries. Situated along the water where the Peace River meets the Charlotte Harbor, it attracts people to the Harborwalk and Fishermen's Village. The Charlotte Harbor & Events Center also has a variety of shows and events. SARASOTA This city was once the winter home of the Ringling Brothers Circus and offers a blend of culture, fi ne dining, pristine beaches and shopping opportunities. Attractions include the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Ca' d'Zan Mansion and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. St. Armand's Circle, Burns Square and Main Street downtown are popular shopping spots. VENICE Venice takes its name from its more famous Italian namesake. It has a charming historic mainstreet with northern Italian architecture and beautifully landscaped bou- levards full of quaint shops and restaurants. Venice also is known as the "Shark Tooth Capital of the World." Vacationers enjoy the beaches, golf courses, nature trails and other outdoor activities. WELLEN PARK Wellen Park is a collection of commu- nities in both North Port and Venice with resort-style amenities and planned ac- tivities. Each have different builders and atmospheres. The nearby CoolToday Park is home to the Atlanta Braves spring training but also has multi-purpose fi elds for year- round activities including youth sports and special events. FILE PHOTO The Venice Area Chamber of Commerce has a large shark tooth sculpture that has become a popular place for photos for visitors and residents. PHOTO BY JOSEPH JOHN ORCHULLI II The city of Venice Beautification Project was honored as Outstanding Public Improvement Project by the Florida Main Street Association. FILE PHOTO The Tiki Bar, located at the Four Points by Sheraton Punta Gorda Harborside hotel right on Charlotte Harbor, is a popular watering hole for locals and visitors alike. METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

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