Naples Florida is a “perfect winter family escape,” touted a recent article in The Boston Globe.
As correspondent Caitlin Hurley points out, most families think Orlando when planning a Florida vacation, but there are many family-friendly activities in Naples in addition to its beautiful beaches.
What exactly are those family-oriented activities? The article mentions:
Naples Zoo
It’s a zoo, need I say more? No, but really, the Naples Zoo is an excellent place to see all kinds of animals and reptiles. And in some spots only a thick piece of glass separates you from the lions, tigers and bears. Oh my!
Naples Botanical Garden
Not only can you stroll through beautiful gardens at the Naples Botanical Garden, but you can also play bocce ball, walk through the butterfly garden, dig in the sand for treaures, climb the treehouse, and jump around in the water fountains (be sure to bring your suit).
Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples
This place is kids’ paradise with hands-on activities and exhibits galore. Visit the website to see all it has to offer.
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
This is a peaceful place (hence the word sanctuary) where you and the kids can stroll along the 2.25-mile long boardwalk, or the shorter 1-mile long boardwalk, and experience distinct environments. Plus, a children’s savenger hunt booklet can be filled out along the way.
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park & Clam Pass
Wiggins Park and Clam Pass run along stretches of Naples beach making them ideal for building sandcastles with the kids, swimming in the warm Gulf waters, canoeing or kayaking, or spotting birds. Wiggins Park is right on the beach, while Clam Pass is approached by a free golf cart shuttle ride down a boardwalk.
Thanks to Caitlin for the great write-up! And don’t miss out on these places, too:
North Collier Regional Park
Here you’ll find baseball and soccer fields, a great playground, and the Sun ‘N Fun Lagoon, which sports waterslides and a lazy river. There’s also a long path winding through the trees where you can in-line skate, walk, jog or bike.
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida
With fun nature adventures for the entire family, the Conservancy offers self-guided tours, boat rides, short films, and observations of wildlife being rehabilitated.
Germain Arena
If you’re feeling a little nostaglic for home, head over to Germain Arena where you and the family can enjoy public ice skating and a cup of hot cocoa. Hockey and figure skate rentals available.
