The Ultimate Guide to Naples, Florida
10 Must Do Things in Naples, Florida
Naples Botanical Gardens
By far, one of the best places to visit in Naples is the Botanical Gardens. Covering a total territory of 170 acres, this tropical paradise is home to 1000 plant species. One step is enough to be greeted by the peace and quiet of the lush greenery and to feel like you have found a secluded oasis away from the crowded touristy streets. Visitors can admire various different blooms depending which time of the year they will be stopping by. If you are a garden enthusiast you might also want to join one of the guided tours running from November until April and learn interesting facts about the different species.
Naples Zoo
One of the best places to see in Naples, Florida when visiting with kids is the zoo! While the zoo might not be massive, it is still home to close to 70 different animal species, some of which are not only majestic and beautiful, but are also extremely rare, such as the Asian barking deer and the native to Madagascar, Fosa. Make sure to check the zoo calendar as they are also running daily feeding events, which are definitely worth attending, especially if your kids want to get a closer encounter with their favorite animals.
Fifth Avenue South
It’s impossible to visit Naples without taking a stroll down the popular Fifth Avenue South. Packed with boutique shops and fine dining restaurants, the main pedestrian street is the heart of the city. You will immediately dive into the fusion of historic, modern, sophisticated and laid-back. Even though, a bit pricey, it’s the crown jewel of Naples. Fifth Avenue South is definitely worth exploring.
Historic Palm Cottage
Another must-see place in Naples, especially for the history buffs is the Palm Cottage. Built all the way back in the 1900s, this is the oldest building in the city. Nowadays, this charming cottage has been transformed into a museum holding antique furniture and art pieces. You can explore on your own, but it is also worth joining a guided tour for a sneak peak into the local history and legends.
Tin City
On the rare occasion that you are visiting Naples on a rainy day and you would like to hide somewhere for a few hours, you should head toward Tin City. You can literally spend hours exploring this rustic shopping center, which will immediately grabs your attention with its old Florida charm. From little handmade souvenirs to delicious treats, you will be able to find a bit of everything in Tin City. Once the sun is up again, make sure to join one of the boat tours, which will also give you the chance to experience the iconic Naples waterways.
Snorkel at Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
Covering close to 170 acres, Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is home to some of the most pristine white sandy beaches across Florida. Hence, it should be no surprise to you that most visitors here want to spend the day sunbathing, relaxing and swimming in the crystal clear waters. The preserved area, however, has a lot more to offer as it is home to a hard bottom reef with lots of colorful corals and a plentiful marina wildlife. Activities such as kayaking, paddle-boarding and fishing are also popular in the area, so you are not going to be bored when visiting Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park.
Hike in Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
With over 1000 miles of coastline, Florida is a place known for its beautiful beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing. If you are a nature enthusiast dreaming of lush greenery and a bit of a hike then you should definitely visit the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. Home to a rich flora and fauna, the 13,000 acre preserve is the place to go if you would like to find a secluded oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city. To fully experience the area, follow the 2 mile boardwalk and keep your eyes open as you might catch a glimpse of alligators, otters or white-trailed deer.
Watch the Sunset From the Naples Pier
No trip to Naples, Florida would be complete if you have not strolled down and admired the sunset from the iconic Naples Pier. With over 1000 feet in length, the pier is the local fisherman’s favorite. Nothing can beat the majestic views as the sun kisses the ocean goodnight and the waters of the Gulf of Mexico are illuminated in shades of gold, red and orange colors.
Go on a Shopping-Spree at the Village of Venetian Bay
Widely known as one of the best Florida cities for high-end shopping, it would be a shame if you have been to Naples without going on a shopping-spree at the Village of Venetian Bay. With more than 45 luxurious boutiques and shops, you will be able to find various famous fashion brands offering everything from clothing to art pieces. It is also worth grabbing some lunch or dinner in one of the fine dining restaurants located right on the waterfront!
Eat at Celebration Park
Once the day is coming to an end and you are looking for the best spot in Naples to indulge in some delicious food, you should head toward Celebration Park in the Bayshore Arts District. While the entire neighborhood is fairly popular for its unique old Florida vibe, it is the food truck park, which attracts both locals and tourists every night! From mouth-watering burgers to fresh seafood meals, you will have a wide range of options to choose from. Pick a table by the waterfront and admire the beautiful sunset scenery, while treating your taste buds to an explosion of flavors.
Visiting Florida is all about the outdoors, and Naples has it all, with pristine state parks, easy beach access, and plenty of other outdoor activities. One of the best things about visiting Naples, Florida is the fun to be had for the whole family!
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