Top 5 Things to Do in Naples, Florida with Kids
Amazing white sand beaches and beautiful sunsets are the huge draws to visiting Naples, Florida. But, did you know there is so much more to a fun, family vacation in Naples than the beaches?
As a child gowning up lucky enough to visit family every year in Naples, I learned early on what a magical place Naples can be. We were able to explore the beaches but also the great nature preserves, Naples Zoo, Tin City, and more.
Follow along with me as I give you the Top 5 Things to Do to make it a magical place for your kids, too.
Naples Zoo and Caribbean Gardens
What kid can resist visiting the animals at the zoo?
This smaller-sized zoo, which started as a tropical garden in 1919, has a lot to offer. A unique feature of the zoo is its Primate Expedition Boat Cruise which goes around islands where you can view primates in a natural environment. This is always a big hit with the kids.
You will also find lots of alligators, birds, lions, bears, zebras, and much more.
The best part about this zoo is you are close to the animals so even the little ones will be able to spot all the animals.
Address: 1590 Goodlette Rd. Naples, FL
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
If you’re headed to Florida with kids, you probably want to see some alligators while you’re there. You are sure to find a few swimming at the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary.
This fun and easy 2.5-mile boardwalk takes your family through the Pine Flatwoods, wet prairie, around a marsh, and into the largest forest of Bald Cypress trees in North America. But let’s face it, your kids don’t care about the trees. They want to see all the creatures.
On our last family visit, from the safety of the boardwalk, we were able to see tons of alligators, birds, turtles, snakes, frogs, and more.
Make sure to grab a wildlife bingo sheet that is provided at the main entrance and the kids will love searching for all the wildlife.
Also, at the main entrance and visitor center, you will find bathrooms, a store, and a small café. The boardwalk is stroller friendly which make it an easy walk for all ages. Enjoy a fun family day out in nature.
Address: 375 Sanctuary Road, Naples, FL
The Golisano Children’s Museum/C’Mon
The Golisano Children’s Museum (C’Mon) is a can’t-miss children’s museum boasts 15 different exhibit areas for the kids to learn and explore! Wander through the Everglades, create a building in the construction area, make some art, learn the science of baseball, pretend to be a veterinarian, and so much more. This is a great place to head to when it rains or just to take a break from the sun. The museum is geared toward younger children and I would recommend it for kids ages 10 and younger. The museum also offers a small café to get a quick bite to eat or snack.
Address: 15080 Livingston Road, Naples, FL
Shopping at 5th Avenue and Tin City
Naples is also known for its great restaurants and shops that you won’t want to miss out on. All over town you will find several different shopping areas but let me tell you about two distinctly different areas. One is high end and the other is a fun, eclectic, touristy area. Try them both and see which your family enjoys more.
5th Avenue South
5th Avenue is located in the heart of Naples and is known for its mix of high and mid-range shops and tremendous restaurants.
Stroll down this lively street for fun window shopping and people watching. Stop with the kids to eat an amazing meal or have an ice cream at the famous Kilwin’s Ice Cream shop. If the kids get bored, head over to the nearby Cambier Park (755 8th Street South, Naples) to burn off some energy at their great playground. Check out all the shops and restaurants in the link below.
https://www.fifthavenuesouth.com/
Tin City Waterfront Shops
Where 5th Avenue is upscale, Tin City is more family-friendly and admittedly touristy, but hey, you’re a tourist so sometimes you just have to go with it.
Also located on 5th Avenue but a little bit east on the inland waterway, you will find the Tin-roofed shops and restaurants. Built originally for the commerce along the waterway in the 1920’s, it was redeveloped in the 1970’s to its current beloved shopping area. Enjoy a meal on the docks watching the boats go by or head inside to find some fun Naples souvenirs for the kids.
Free parking is available but it does get very crowded at dinner time.
Address: 1200 5th Avenue South, Naples FL
Watching the Sunset on Naples Pier
A tradition of both locals and tourist is to watch the amazing sunsets on the famous Naples Pier.
Bring the kids down to play in the sand while you wait for the sunset or take a family stroll along the pier.
At the Pier, you will find bathroom facilities and places to wash the sand off your feet. You will also find a small concession stand to grab a snack or ice cream cone. This area becomes very popular at sunset so make sure to get here a little early.
You will find non-resident paid parking at a city lot one block east of the Pier.
Address: West End of 12th Avenue South, Naples FL
https://www.naplesgov.com/parksrec/page/naples-pier
I hope your family will enjoy all the fun things to do in Naples as much as mine does. Use these fun ideas and make the trip your own. Enjoy!
Visit Teresa’s blog at HappyMomHacks.com and remember that sharing is caring!
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All photos were courtesy of Teresa Reinhofer from HappyMomHacks.com. Used with permission
2 Comments
I heard that Florida was getting hit with some nasty weather recently. I am glad I left Florida just in time before all that mess. When I can’t get a run in outside while I am away, I usually do a workout video. Hopefully you get a few nice days while you are down there.
We live down in Florida and do get the icky rainstorms this time of year. But the sunshine the rest of the year makes up for it 🙂