Living in- or near- the city of North Port in Florida’s Southwest Coast enables you to enjoy a wide variety of activities, from exciting outdoor pursuits to lifestyle and culture offerings. If you don’t know where to start, check out 17 of the best things to do in North Port, FL below.
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RELAX AT WARM MINERAL SPRINGS PARK
The Southwest Coast already experiences balmy weather most of the year, but that doesn’t mean you should strike out a visit to Warm Mineral Springs Park from your list of things to do in North Port, FL. Its main attraction is the natural warm spring- hence the name- which is said to originate from over 30,000 years ago when an underground cavern collapsed. The spring is said to be heated by a subterranean vent, which keeps the water’s temperatures to a comfortable 85 degrees Fahrenheit all year round.
Photo by Sky Scape Pix
Warm Mineral Springs Park also attracts wellness enthusiasts as the spring is believed to have one of the highest mineral contents of any other natural spring in the country. If you are currently experiencing body aches or pains, a good and long soak might help you ease your discomfort.
Purported healing qualities and the consistent water temperature aside, there’s one more reason to go to Warm Mineral Springs Park: its role in local history. The spring and the building complex around it are both listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Fans of archaeology and paleontology might also find it interesting that fossils of sloths and saber-toothed tigers were once found within the vicinity.
Since Warm Mineral Springs Park is a North Port attraction, city residents all get to enjoy discounted admission rates. Just remember to bring proof of residency to avail your benefit. For more information, click here.
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GO KAYAKING OR CANOEING ON THE MYAKKA RIVER
North Port is only about an hour’s drive away to Myakka River State Park, one of the jewels of Sarasota County. There, you can enjoy an endless amount of outdoor recreational pursuits, but the riverine activities- kayaking and canoeing- are among the most popular things to do. After all, the Myakka River flows for nearly 70 miles and also happens to be Florida’s first designated wild and scenic river. As you paddle, you might encounter various fauna from roseate spoonbills to alligators. Canoe and kayak rentals are available at Myakka Outpost.
If water levels are low and boating activities are out of the equation, worry not. The Myakka River State Park also hosts several in-land activities such as horseback riding, biking, and hiking. There are 37,000 acres of park to explore, and in the process, you might also spot some common as well as rare birds. For those who aren’t afraid of heights, try crossing the Myakka Canopy Walkway– it extends for 100 feet through the hammock canopy at 25 feet above the ground.
There’s so much to cover at Myakka River State Park that a day trip might feel insufficient. So if you want to stay for a few days, the state park offers camping options as well as log cabins for rent.
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TAKE A HIKE AT MYAKKAHATCHEE CREEK ENVIRONMENTAL PARK
Covering approximately 160 acres, the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park‘s lush woodlands is a wonder to explore. Its network of winding rustic paths and trails take visitors back in the time of “old Florida.” It’s up to you how you want to wander: on foot, on a bicycle, or on horseback. All in all, there are over 3.7 miles of multi-use trails within the park that connect to the Carlton Reserve via the Myakkahatchee Creek Connector Bridge.
Of course, the park is not all trails and pathways. Throughout Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park are designated picnic areas, wildlife and birdwatching spots, as well as public restrooms. Primitive camping is allowed but requires a permit for anyone who wants a more immersive experience by spending a night under the tree canopy and star-gazing.
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PLAY GOLF
For golf aficionados, fantastic tee opportunities are available in and around North Port.
Within the city is Heron Creek Golf and Country Club, one of the premier golf facilities in the North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota metropolitan area. It’s renowned for its 27-hole championship golf course designed by none other than Arthur Hills, who has designed over 200 golf courses during his lifetime. Heron Creek’s course is divided into three 9-hole segments- Oaks, Creek, and Marsh- that offer unique terrain and tee conditions. As for those who want to work on their swing, the practice facility is always open.
Photo By Sky Scape PixNorth Port is also home to Charlotte Harbor National Golf Club (formerly known as Bobcat Trail Golf Club). Advanced golfers frequent their challenging golf course, which was designed by Bob Tway and Lee Singletary. Over the years, the golf club has also undergone several changes and updates that include a redesigned golf shop and clubhouse.
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GO BEACH-HOPPING
Although North Port is located inland, it’s only a short drive from several beaches that line the Southwest Coast. Pick any day, pack your favorite beach essentials, and feel free to visit any of the following beaches near North Port:
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Blind Pass Beach (approx. 30 minutes away) in Manasota Key offers gulf-to-beach access and plenty of space to lay out under the sun or play a beach volleyball match or two, whichever you prefer. Visitors can also easily spot pods of dolphins while kayaking or combing the beach for shells. Another major attraction is the mangrove forest, which you can explore through a trail.
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Caspersen Beach (approx. 25 minutes away) in Englewood is famous for shark-tooth hunting and its clear waters, which lend well for snorkeling. For these reasons, Caspersen Beach attracts a lot of visitors, but if you want a more peaceful beach experience, almost the majority of the beach’s southern end is relatively quiet and natural. Amenities available at Caspersen Beach include a fishing pier, restrooms, a children’s playground, and picnic facilities.
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Englewood Beach (approx. 25 minutes away) in Englewood is one of the most famous beaches in the area and draws its fair share of visitors every day. It’s especially busy during winter, when snowbirds from colder climes flock to the Southwest Coast’s warmth. But despite the crowds, there are lots to love and look forward to at Englewood Beach. These include a line-up of incredible beachfront restaurants, beach sports facilities, covered pavilions you can rent for special occasions, and picnic shelters. If you forgot to bring your beach umbrella or chair with you, don’t worry because you can rent whatever gear you need from the “Beach Guy.
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Manasota Key Beach (approx. 25 minutes away) in Manasota Key is only roughly 14 miles from North Port. It offers a long list of public amenities, including parking, boat and trailer lanes, dedicated picnic areas, and outdoor showers for when you want to wash off all that sand and dried seawater. Visitors who brought watercraft with them can launch their boat from here using Manasota Key Beach’s ramp.
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Nokomis Beach (approx. 30 minutes away) in Nokomis is recognized as the oldest public beach in Sarasota County. You can get a sense of its rich history by checking out the Beach Plaza, which was built in the 1950s and designed by Jack West from the Sarasota School of Architecture. There’s a wide array of public amenities to make your visit comfortable, such as beachside restrooms, picnic shelters, and a boardwalk where you can take stunning photographs of the area or watch the sunset.
Photo by Sky Scape Pix
Photo by Sky Scape Pix
Photo by Sky Scape Pix
GO ON THE WATER
Since you’re already down by the gulf, why not board a watercraft and see the Southwest Coast from the water? Island Jet Ski Tours and Rentals in Englewood offers jet ski rentals as well as guided dolphin tours. You can also head to Tampa Bay, which offers an entry point to the Gulf of Mexico with its many waterways and bay access.
For those with motorized boats but no private launches, the area is littered with marinas that provide either gulf or river access. One of these is Marina Park right here in North Port. This location can be your starting point if you would like to access the lower Myakkahatchee Creek as well as Myakka River. You don’t even need to leave the park as fishing opportunities are available on-site.
SPLASH AROUND AT NORTH PORT AQUATIC CENTER
The North Port Aquatic Center is the go-to destination for anyone who wants to take part in water-based activities without leaving the city. At the heart of the facility is a 25-meter competition pool. But if you want a more relaxed way to enjoy the water, check out the aquatic center’s lazy river that encircles the complex. For younger visitors, the North Port Aquatic Center is home to a 2,600-sq. ft. children’s pool with play structures and various spray features. Other amenities include a bath house with locker rooms, a dive pool, numerous shade structures, three big waterslides, and a concession area.
It’s not all fun and games at the North Port Aquatic Center, however. You can also pick up a few handy skills here, too. They offer aquatic classes and programs such as CPR training, baby-sitter certification, and a Junior Lifeguard camp.
SAVOR THE CATCH OF THE DAY AT LOCAL SEAFOOD RESTAURANTS
It’s not everyday that you’ll be in the mood to go to the beach or head out to water. Fortunately, there’s another way to enjoy the bounties of the Southwest Coast while staying dry: dining at North Port’s seafood restaurants.
One of the standouts is Sharks Fish House along Tamiami Trail. This local dining spot prides itself for its high-quality seafood at reasonable prices. Sharks Fish House is open from Tuesdays through Saturdays. While you’re here, don’t miss their world-famous fish and chips. Made with lightly battered Alaskan pollock and then deep-fried to golden-brown perfection, it will become one of your favorite meals in North Port.
Another must-try seafood restaurant is Greek Grille, which has made a name for itself with their Mediterranean-focused menu. Some of their seafood entrees include wild-caught red snapper grilled the way Greeks do, shrimp saganaki that’s sauteed in rich olive oil, and baked barramundi served with a selection of grilled vegetables and your favorite side dish.
CHECK OUT THE LOCAL MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT SCENE
Looking for something different to do? Explore an aspect of North Port’s local culture scene: live music and performances. When you can, catch the North Port Symphony, which holds annual concert seasons centered on popular, classical, and contemporary music at the North Port Performing Arts Center. The North Port Symphony is composed of homegrown musicians who are dedicated to their craft and eager to share their love of music with the rest of North Port and the Southwest Coast.
Common Grounds Meeting Hall is another important figure in the North Port live music and entertainment scene. Inspired by vintage coffee houses and Irish dancing halls, musicians both local and from far and wide gather at Common Grounds Meeting Hall for intimate performances, many of which are broadcasted live by WKDW 97.5 FM. Wednesday nights are dedicated to open mics with Bud Buckley, which you can join as a performer or as a spectator- or both! For the former, come before 6:30 PM to sign up. Reservations are all on a first-come, first-serve basis.
FIND MORE THINGS TO DO IN NORTH PORT, FL AS A LOCAL
When you base yourself in North Port, you’ll have all the time in the world to experience North Port and discover new, exciting activities in the region. Take the first step towards this lifestyle by exploring North Port, FL real estate with Bernard “BJ” Jones. With a number of certifications and designations under his belt, BJ is more than qualified to assist you in finding your dream home in North Port or the surrounding areas.
Work with a local real estate powerhouse by your side. Get in touch with BJ today at 941.661.9993 or send him an email to find your dream home in North Port, FL.