The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Alva, Florida to Port Charlotte, Florida
Are you planning on taking a road trip soon? Well, you must include the scenic route between Alva, Florida and Port Charlotte, Florida in your itinerary. The journey is only about an hour long, but there are several great places to stop and take in the breathtaking sights.
Whether it’s your first time driving between the two cities or you are a seasoned traveler, this best-of list has got you covered. So, buckle up, roll down the windows, and let’s hit the road!
Manatee Park
Manatee Park is an excellent place to start your journey. You can stop here and experience these gentle giants up close and personal. The park sits along the Orange River, where hundreds of Manatees come to bask in the warm waters during cooler months. The park has a visitor center with plenty of information, and you can rent kayaks or canoes to paddle around the river.
If you’re lucky, you might be able to spot some other animals along the way, such as turtles, otters, and alligators. Pack a picnic or grab something from the snack bar to make the most of your time here.
Babcock Ranch Preserve
Second on our list is the Babcock Ranch Preserve. This 73,000-acre nature preserve lets you experience natural Florida at its finest. You can drive on a dirt road through the wilderness and spot all kinds of animals, including Florida Panthers, turkeys, deer, and snakes.
If you want a more adventurous experience, you can take a swamp buggy tour that takes you through the areas where the wildlife roams free. It’s the perfect place to take your kids or just spend some time with friends.
Fishermen's Village
If you’re looking for some cozy shops and restaurants, look no further than Fishermen's Village. This charming waterfront shopping center is home to 30 unique shops and restaurants that you can explore. You can also jump on a scenic pleasure cruise, rent a jet ski, or take a fishing charter.
If you’re a history buff, you’ll appreciate the Military Heritage Museum and the Punta Gorda History Park, which offers fascinating insight into the history of the area.
Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park
Located on the edge of the Charlotte Harbor, the Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park is a hidden gem. It’s a place where you can experience the rare Florida wildlife of the mangrove lined waterways and the large patches of seagrass beds. Here you can spot manatees, dolphins, ospreys, and other wildlife.
Hiking trails are available for those who want to explore the woods, and you can bring your lunch and have a picnic on a shaded picnic table while looking at the harbor.
Peace River Wildlife Center
The next stop on our journey is the Peace River Wildlife Center. It’s a rehabilitation center for injured or orphaned wildlife, and it’s a place where you can observe some of the rarest wildlife in Florida. You will see birds, reptiles, and mammals that have been nursed back to health and are ready to be released back into the wild.
The center is a great place to teach kids about the importance of treating animals with kindness and respect, and you can even support the center by adopting an animal.
Conclusion
The journey between Alva, Florida, and Port Charlotte, Florida is full of exciting stops and breathtaking sights. Whether you’re looking for nature preserves, shopping, or wildlife observation, you’re guaranteed to find it. So, grab your map, pack a lunch, and hit the road for a road trip to remember.