North Port Happenings (Wellen Park and Beyond)

North Port is currently the fastest-growing city in Sarasota County. From community events at the vibrant, new master-planned community of Wellen Park to the natural wonders of local parks and mineral springs, North Port is a burgeoning destination that invites you to experience some of the best of Florida's Gulf Coast lifestyle. 

Here's your guide to the happenings that make North Port a must-visit destination of South Sarasota County.

CoolToday Park Stadium:

Baseball enthusiasts, rejoice! In 2020, the Atlanta Braves permanently traded their Spring Training home at Disney’s Wide World of Sports for a brand new state-of-the-art complex in North Port’s master-planned community of Wellen Park. CoolToday Park is a sporting haven where you can catch a Braves game, enjoy the Florida sun, grab a bite or beer and soak in the excitement of America's favorite pastime. Spring training runs from February through March and tickets can be purchased on the MLB website or at the box office.  

For those not fans of the sport, perhaps cinema piques your interest. During the summer, CoolToday Park's stadium becomes a giant outdoor theater for Summer Movie Nights, which takes place on most Sundays during the summer months. Featured films are shown on the scoreboard and begin at 5 pm. 

Downtown Wellen Park:

Experience it all in Wellen Park's vibrant new neighborhood, community and lifestyle. This downtown hub offers a gathering place with boutique shops, all-day eateries and cafes, a playground and splash park for kids, live entertainment and year-round events. From casual strolls and sunset kayaking to a farmer's market and outdoor concerts, Wellen Park is the beating heart of North Port. Visitors and residents alike can take part in weekly activities including: Walking Group Meet-up, Cycling Group Meet-up, Fall Music Series, the Fresh Harvest Farmers Market, Wind Down Wednesdays with cornhole and live music, Zumba and Tai Chi classes, Yoga on The Great Lawn, Outdoor Movies on The Great Lawn, 

The downtown area is not just a destination; it's a dynamic experience. Visit the all-new Welcome Center as a friendly starting place for you to find your next stop within Wellen Park, or schedule a tour! 

North Port Art Center:

Immerse yourself in North Port's artistic side at the North Port Art Center. Explore exhibits, attend workshops and witness the talent of local artists of all levels – adding a touch of culture and camaraderie to your North Port experience. Creatives can even take part in adult art classes and events from January to May, including Monday Night Art Parties, Open Studios, Drawing Figure Studies, Portraits in Oil, Acrylics After Hours, Mixed Media, Watercolor, Pastels For All, Photography & Photoshop, Wood Carving and more. Private lessons are also available in most mediums. 

Warm Mineral Springs Park:

Unwind and rejuvenate at Warm Mineral Springs Park, a natural hot spring believed to have holistic healing properties. This unique destination is both a cultural and natural treasure – offering relaxation in a serene setting. The 83-acre site has been known to attract more than 150,000 visitors annually to enjoy its spa-like recreation by soaking in its warm waters. At over 200 ft deep, you can soak, swim, free dive or even scuba dive in the 30,000-year-old sinkhole all year round. The park is open Sunday - Saturday, 9 am - 5 pm to the public.

North Port Performing Arts Center:

The North Port Performing Arts Center (PAC) is the second-largest theatre in Sarasota County with 995 seats. Located on the grounds of the North Port High School, catch a matinee or evening show. From musicals and chorus concerts to orchestra and plays, there's always something happening on stage at the PAC. Check out upcoming showtimes and purchase tickets at the box office or online here. 

Green Spaces:

North Port is dotted with family-friendly parks perfect for a day of outdoor fun. From playgrounds for the little ones to scenic trails for nature walks, places like Dallas White Park caters to all ages and is a great place to throw a birthday party, family picnic or just hang out and enjoy the shade under the pavilion. Paddlers and boaters can utilize the boat ramps while tennis players can have a match on the two lighted tennis courts. There are also sand volleyball courts, softball fields, a giant green space, a playground, outdoor grill and picnic tables.

Explore the natural beauty of North Port's rural landscape and recreation area, Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park. This expansive park offers hiking, off-road biking and horseback trails, boardwalks and opportunities for birdwatching, providing a tranquil escape for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is also home to the Myakkahatchee Creek Connector Bridge which connects the park to Sarasota County's Carlton Reserve.

Golf Clubs:

Grab the clubs and buds to play a round of golf down south. There are quite a few places to get on the green in North Port, including Heron Creek Golf & Country Club; Wellen Park Golf & Country Club; and Pelican Pointe Golf and Country Club. Set a tee time and spend an entire afternoon enjoying one of the pristine courses and premier facilities of North Port.