This up-and-coming community is between Tampa and Fort Myers on Florida’s West Coast.
A popular choice for retirees but also for young families attracted by the laidback Florida lifestyle, North Port has plenty of amenities to suit residents of all ages. Because it’s a small town, North Port offers a more relaxed lifestyle that comes with numerous advantages, such as fewer crowds and less traffic.
North Port may be a small, tight-knit community, but there are lots of things to do and see in the area. Nature lovers can enjoy exploring the huge oak trees and scenic waterways, trails, and bike paths.
RECREATION & THE OUTDOORS IN NORTH PORT
While North Port is slightly inland, residents can still enjoy the beach life. In fact, some of the best beaches in the state are within a short 20 to 45 minute drive.
13 Miles: Port Charlotte Boat Launch
19 Miles: Manasota Beach
19 Miles: Englewood Beach
19 Miles: Venice Beach
22 Miles: Nokomis Beach
22 Miles: Casperson Beach
22 Miles: North Jetty
22 Miles: Blind Pass Beach
28 Miles: Stump Pass Beach
31 Miles: Turtle Beach
33 Miles: Siesta Key Beach
Warm Minerals Springs
The city is home to a mineral hot spring that it’s believed to make you 20 years younger, or at least what’s what the locals say. The Warm Minerals Springs is surrounded by lush grass and large oak trees and it’s a very popular attraction for those who believe in the healing power of nature.
Boundless Adventures Playground
Highlights:
Green Space
Nature Garden
Parking Lot
Picnic Tables
Playground
Restrooms
Walking Trails (Paved)
Butler Park
Highlights:
Aquatic Center (See Highlights Below)
Basketball Court
Canoe/Kayak Launch
Community Center
Dog Friendly
Fishing
Green Space
Multi-Purpose Fields
Parking Lot
Pavilion Without Electricity
Picnic Tables
Restrooms
Vending/Concession Stand
Walking Trails (Paved)
North Port Aquatic Center at Butler Park
Aquatic Center Features:
25-meter stretch competition pool.
4-ft. moveable bulkhead.
Eight lap lanes.
Two 1-meter diving boards.
9,000-sq.-ft. lazy river.
Five stair entrances.
Various spray features.
Water walk
Underwater shelf.
2,600-sq.-ft. kids activity pool.
Zero-beach entry.
Active water features.
Bowl slide.
Shade structures.
Bathhouse with locker rooms.
Atwater Community Park
The entire family can enjoy an amazing day out at the Atwater Community Park. The water area provides lots of fun for the kids (including a splash pad), and the park has designated picnic areas with tables and seats.
Highlights:
Baseball Fields
Batting Cages
Green Space
Outdoor Grill
Parking Lot
Pavilion With Electricity
Picnic Tables
Playground
Restrooms
Splash Pad
Vending/Concession Stand
Walking Trails (Paved)
Myakka State Forest
Located just south of North Port, Myakka State Forest is an excellent spot for nature lovers, as it has lots of hiking trails and opportunities for camping. Bird lovers shouldn’t miss the sanctuary on site, which is home to numerous local species. The Myakka River flows just west of North Port, allowing opportunities for fishing, kayaking and more.
Deer Prairie Creek Nature Preserve
Florida is known for its excellent horseback riding opportunities, and the Deer Prairie Creek Nature Preserve is one of them. Located just a 20-minute drive from North Port, this is an excellent place for beginners as it offers professionally guided lessons for adults and children.
50+ Golf Courses in Sarasota County!
Golf lovers can enjoy the Heron Creek Golf Course, one of the highest-rated golf courses in Florida. Those new to golf can benefit from a top-notch training facility, but the golf course offers challenges for golfers of all skill levels.
Heron Creek
Residents in North Port have convenient access to 50+ golf courses throughout Sarasota County! Here are just a few of the more popular courses just a short drive from town.
Heron Creek Golf Course
Sarasota National Golf Club
Plantation Golf and Country Club
Capri Isles Golf Club
Venice East Golf Club
Lake Venice Golf Club
Pelican Pointe Golf & Country Club
Venetian Golf and River Club
Venice Golf & Country Club
Waterford Golf Club Venice
UNIQUE ACTIVITIES IN NORTH PORT
Cool Today Park
North Port is also the new home of the Atlanta Braves Spring Training facility. Cool Today Park sits on the edge of town near Venice and is a popular venue for baseball games, outdoor concerts, farmers markets and other events.
North Port Performing Arts Center
From band and symphony to choral – the North Port Performing Arts Association offers nearly 20 annual events; it’s possible to buy tickets individually or for the entire season. Featuring state-of-the-art lighting and sound system, the auditorium has nearly 1,000 seats, is fully handicap accessible, and has been open for almost two decades.
Check out their website for ticket prices and their calendar of events.
West Coast Auction Company
For adventurous travelers interested in exploring new horizons and experiencing something different, checking out an estate auction at West Coast Auction Company would be a great way to do both.
As one of the largest and most successful auction houses in the area, West Coast specializes in business and estate liquidations and holds regularly scheduled auctions that are open to dealers, collectors, and the public.
Estate auction items may include art, jewelry, housewares, electronics, and sports equipment. Like shopping at antique stores and flea markets, there may just be a rare treasure or two – that’s half the fun.