14 Fun Activities For Kids In Naples, Florida

Are you planning a family vacation to Naples, Florida and wondering how to keep your kids entertained? Look no further! Naples may be known for its luxurious beaches and high-end shopping, but there are also plenty of fun activities that kids will love. From nature hikes to interactive exhibits, we've put together a list of 14 fun activities that will keep your little ones engaged and happy throughout your trip. Ready to make unforgettable memories with your family? Let's explore Naples!

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens

Characteristic	Description
Name	Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
Type	Zoo in Collier County, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 5,565
Address	1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd, Naples, FL 34102
Phone	(239) 262-5409
Hours	Thursday - 9 AM–4:30 PM Friday - 9 AM–4:30 PM Saturday - 9 AM–4:30 PM Sunday - 9 AM–4:30 PM Monday - 9 AM–4:30 PM Tuesday - 9 AM–4:30 PM Wednesday - 9 AM–4:30 PM
Profiles

If you're planning a family vacation to Naples, Florida and you have kids, then the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens should definitely be on your to-do list. This zoo offers a unique experience compared to other zoos – you'll get to explore the lush gardens filled with native and exotic plants alongside the animal exhibits.

Located on 43-acres, the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is home to over 70 species of animals. You'll find everything from African lions and giraffes to Florida panthers and alligators. The zoo offers a variety of programs and activities throughout the day for visitors of all ages.

One of the highlights of the Naples Zoo is the Primate Expedition Cruise, which takes you through the islands of monkeys. You'll get a close-up view of primates like lemurs, monkeys, and apes, while cruising through islands of mangroves and banyan trees.

Kids will also love the Safari Canyon Expedition, which is a guided tour through a replica of the African savannah. You'll get to see animals like zebras, gazelles, wildebeests, and more. Plus, you'll learn about the conservation efforts the zoo is making to protect these animals in the wild.

Aside from the animal exhibits, the Naples Zoo also offers a variety of activities for kids to enjoy. There are daily animal encounters, where kids can get up close and personal with animals like sloths and alligators. There's also a petting zoo area, where kids can interact with friendly farm animals.

If you're visiting during the summer months, make sure to check out the zoo's splash pad. This area is perfect for kids to cool off and play in the water while still enjoying the animals and gardens.

In conclusion, the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is a must-visit attraction for families with kids. With a variety of animal exhibits and activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, the unique combination of animal exhibits and botanical gardens makes this zoo a one-of-a-kind experience.

Sun-N-Fun Lagoon

Characteristic	Description
Name	Sun-N-Fun Lagoon
Type	Water park in Collier County, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 1,475
Address	15000 Livingston Rd, Naples, FL 34109
Phone	(239) 252-4021
Profiles

Naples, Florida is known for its gorgeous beaches, upscale dining, and world-class shopping. However, if you're traveling with kids, you're probably looking for some family-friendly fun. Luckily, Naples has plenty of options! One of the top picks for families is Sun-N-Fun Lagoon – the ultimate water park for kids of all ages.

Located within the North Collier Regional Park, Sun-N-Fun Lagoon is truly a water park like no other. With over 37,000 square feet of aquatic attractions, there is no shortage of fun and excitement to be had. Your kids will love exploring the park's many pools, slides, and water play areas.

One great feature of Sun-N-Fun Lagoon is its variety of attractions. There are areas specifically designed for younger children, such as the Tadpole pool and Tot Spot play area. These spaces provide a safe and fun environment for toddlers to splash around in. For older kids, the Family Falls area is a must-visit. This thrilling attraction features three twisting water slides that will have your kids racing to go again and again.

One of the most popular attractions at Sun-N-Fun Lagoon is the Dolphin Dive pool. Here, kids can practice their diving skills and try to retrieve dive rings from the bottom of the pool – all while surrounded by playful dolphin statues. And no visit to Sun-N-Fun Lagoon would be complete without taking on the park's signature attraction – the five-story tall, 300-foot-long water slide appropriately named the Free Fall.

As you and your kids make your way around Sun-N-Fun Lagoon, you'll find plenty of places to relax and refuel. The park features several snack stands and a full-service café offering everything from burgers and hot dogs to fresh salads and smoothies.

In summary, Sun-N-Fun Lagoon is a fantastic water park in Naples that will provide a fun-filled day out for the entire family. With so many attractions to choose from, you and your kids will never get bored – and you'll come away with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Golisano Children's Museum of Naples

Characteristic	Description
Name	Golisano Childrens Museum of Naples
Type	Children's museum in Collier County, Florida
Website	Go to website
Address	15080 Livingston Rd, Naples, FL 34109
Phone	(239) 514-0084
Hours	Thursday - 10 AM–5 PM Friday - 10 AM–5 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5 PM Sunday - 10 AM–5 PM Monday - 10 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–5 PM Wednesday - Closed
Profiles

If you're planning a family vacation to Naples, Florida, you won't want to miss out on a visit to the Golisano Children's Museum of Naples. This family-friendly attraction is a great place to spend an afternoon with your kids, offering interactive exhibits, hands-on learning experiences, and plenty of fun activities for children of all ages.

One of the highlights of the museum is its outdoor play area, which includes a giant banyan tree structure that kids can climb on and explore. There's also a butterfly garden, water play area, and a place for children to build and create using natural materials like sticks, rocks, and leaves.

Inside the museum, your kids will have the chance to learn about science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) through a variety of exhibits and activities. The "Wonder Garden" exhibit invites children to explore a garden and discover the different types of plants and animals that live there, while the "Brain Train" exhibit teaches kids about the human body and how it works.

Other popular exhibits include the "Wetland Wonders" exhibit, which features a boardwalk and interactive displays that teach kids about the local ecosystem, and the "Full STEAM Ahead" exhibit, which offers hands-on learning experiences in subjects like robotics, physics, and more.

In addition to its exhibits, the museum offers a variety of classes, workshops, and special events throughout the year, from science camps and theater performances to holiday-themed celebrations and family nights.

If you're looking for a fun and educational activity to do with your kids in Naples, the Golisano Children's Museum is a must-visit destination. With its interactive exhibits and engaging activities, your children are sure to have a memorable experience that they'll remember for years to come.

Naples Pier and Beach

Naples with Kids: Naples Pier and Beach

Naples, Florida is an amazing place to take your family for a relaxing and fun-filled vacation. With its pristine beaches, unique attractions, and family-friendly activities, you'll find that there's never a dull moment in this picturesque city. One of the best places to visit in Naples with your kids is the Naples Pier and Beach.

Naples Pier is one of the most popular attractions in the city, and it's not hard to see why. The pier is an iconic landmark that stretches out into the Gulf of Mexico and offers spectacular views of the water and the beach. Kids will love walking out on the pier and feeling the saltwater spray on their faces as they take in the stunning surroundings. The pier is the perfect place to enjoy a family picnic, catch some fish, or watch the dolphins play in the water.

The Naples Pier is also a great spot to watch the sunset. Kick back and relax while you enjoy the beautiful colors of the sunset and listen to the sound of waves crashing against the pier. You and your family will create memories that last a lifetime.

The Naples Beach is also worth exploring. Spend the day on the golden sand beach, soaking up the sun or playing on the waves with your kids. The beach is perfect for building sandcastles, collecting seashells, and enjoying water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking.

If you're looking for a more exciting adventure, take a guided Jet Ski tour. You and your kids will have a blast as you race across the water and take in some breathtaking views of the coastline. Naples Beach is also home to several waterfront restaurants and shops, so you can grab a bite to eat or shop for souvenirs with the family.

Overall, Naples Pier and Beach is the perfect destination for families looking to have some fun in the sun. Whether it's walking on the pier, watching the sunset, or building sandcastles with your kids, you'll find that there's something for everyone at this incredible spot. So, pack your bags and head over to Naples, Florida, and create some memories that will last a lifetime.

Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge

If you're headed to Naples, Florida with your family, be sure to add Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge to your itinerary. This protected area encompasses over 35,000 acres of mangrove islands, tidal creeks, and estuaries and provides a unique opportunity to observe the local ecosystem, including a variety of wildlife that call this area home.

The Ten Thousand Islands are an ideal destination for families with its diverse array of activities. You can take a guided boat tour with local captains who are knowledgeable about the area, and understand how to safely navigate the waters. Kayaking is another popular activity that allows visitors to explore the smaller and more secluded islands with their kids. You will see wildlife during the tour such as mangrove cuckoo, bald eagles, manatees, and dolphins, which will make the excursion unforgettable for your children.

If you are looking for a more immersive experience, consider staying in one of the primitive campsites. Visitors can explore by day and then retreat to a tent or a primitive cabin at night. It’s a great way to spend some quality time under the stars with your kids.

If your family is interested in hiking or walking, there are a few trails around the area. The Marsh Trail is one of the most popular, as it passes through a variety of habitats, including mangrove swamps, hardwood hammocks, and grassy tidal flats. There is also the Wilderness Waterway, an eighty-mile trail that passes through the heart of the Ten Thousand Islands and takes you through some of the most remote sections of the refuge.

The Ten Thousand Islands provide ample space for fishing, boating, and picnicking, as well as lounging on the beaches and enjoying the beautiful views. Spend a day exploring the islands, and let your kids learn about conservation efforts to protect local species like the manatee.

In conclusion, Naples, Florida offers unique opportunities, especially the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, to explore and learn about local ecosystems and wildlife. With a wide range of activities and accommodations, a visit to the area will make your family vacation a memorable one.

Mound Key Archaeological State Park

When visiting Naples with kids, there are countless family-friendly activities to explore. One of the most unique and educational stops is the Mound Key Archaeological State Park.

Located just a short drive from Naples, Mound Key Archaeological State Park is a fascinating historical site and natural wonder. This park is located on an island in the Estero Bay and was once home to the Calusa Indians from around 1500 AD until the 1700s.

The island is made up of several mounds and is surrounded by mangrove forests and lush vegetation. The park offers guided tours that take visitors on a journey through the Calusa history, which includes stories of their advanced water management system and complex political structure.

Visitors can also explore the island on their own, with informational signs placed along the trails. Kids can search for shells and fish along the shoreline while learning about the island's ecosystem and history.

For the adventurous family, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available for rent, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the mangrove forests and the island itself.

The park also features a picnic area, providing a great spot for families to relax and enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the beautiful scenery.

Overall, the Mound Key Archaeological State Park is an excellent experience for families visiting Naples. It is a great opportunity to learn about the Calusa Indians' rich history, explore the lush ecosystem, and enjoy time spent together in nature.

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

If you're planning a family trip to Naples, Florida, and wondering where to take the kids, look no further than Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. This 13,000-acre natural wonder is a must-visit for families who want to experience the beauty of Florida's unique ecosystem up close.

Exploring the Boardwalk Trail: The main attraction of Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is the 2.25-mile boardwalk trail that winds its way through the cypress forest and wetland habitats. The boardwalk is stroller-friendly and offers plenty of benches and rest stops along the way. As you walk, be on the lookout for wildlife, such as alligators, turtles, woodpeckers, and warblers.

Guided Tours: If you want to learn more about the flora and fauna of Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, you can join a guided tour led by a trained naturalist. These tours are offered throughout the year and are a great way to deepen your understanding of the ecology of the area.

Junior Ranger Program: For kids who want to get in on the action, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary offers a Junior Ranger Program. This program allows kids to learn about the natural world and earn badges by completing activities such as scavenger hunts and wildlife observation.

Butterfly Garden: In addition to the boardwalk trail, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary also has a butterfly garden that's brimming with colorful flowers and, of course, butterflies. This is a great spot to take a break from walking and let the kids explore.

Gift Shop: No visit to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is complete without a stop in the gift shop. Here, you'll find a variety of souvenirs, such as books, t-shirts, and nature-themed toys. You can also purchase snacks and drinks to enjoy during your visit.

Overall, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a fantastic destination for families who want to connect with nature and learn about Florida's unique ecosystem. With its boardwalk trail, guided tours, Junior Ranger Program, butterfly garden, and gift shop, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Airboats & Alligators

Naples, Florida is a great destination for families traveling with kids. There are plenty of outdoor activities and attractions that both children and adults will enjoy. One such activity that is very popular in Naples is taking an airboat tour to see the alligators.

The Everglades is known for its vast wetlands and diverse wildlife, including the American alligator. Naples is just a short drive away from Everglades City, which is the gateway to the Everglades. Many airboat tour companies operate from the city and offer various tours that include a visit to the alligator habitat.

An airboat tour is an exciting way to explore the Everglades. The airboat speeds through the marshes, swamps, and shallow waters of the wetlands, allowing passengers to experience the beauty of the environment up close. The tours can last from an hour to a half-day, and they typically cover a wide area of the Everglades.

The highlight of the airboat tour is, of course, the alligators. Passengers are guided to the alligator habitat, where they can see the reptiles swimming in their natural habitat. The alligators are harmless, but they are wild animals, and visitors are advised to keep a safe distance.

In addition to the alligators, airboat tours offer other opportunities to see the wildlife of the Everglades. Passengers may see various species of birds, snakes, turtles, and other reptiles. Some tours also stop at remote islands and provide guided walks through the mangroves.

When taking an airboat tour with kids, safety is of utmost importance. Most airboat tour companies provide life jackets for passengers, and they ensure that their boats are equipped with proper safety equipment. Parents should ensure that their children follow the rules and guidelines provided by the tour company and remain seated at all times during the ride.

In conclusion, an airboat tour to see the alligators in Naples is an adventure that kids and adults will enjoy. It is a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the Everglades and encounter its diverse wildlife. With proper safety measures in place, families can have a safe and memorable trip that will be cherished for years to come.

C'MON Golisano Children's Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	Golisano Childrens Museum of Naples
Type	Children's museum in Collier County, Florida
Website	Go to website
Address	15080 Livingston Rd, Naples, FL 34109
Phone	(239) 514-0084
Hours	Thursday - 10 AM–5 PM Friday - 10 AM–5 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5 PM Sunday - 10 AM–5 PM Monday - 10 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–5 PM Wednesday - Closed
Profiles

If you're planning a family trip to Naples, Florida, you'll find plenty of things to do with kids. One popular attraction that shouldn't be missed is the CMON Golisano Children's Museum.

The Children's Museum is a hands-on, interactive space filled with exhibits that allow kids to learn and play at the same time. From a pretend grocery store to a life-sized pirate ship, there's something for every age and interest.

One of the most popular exhibits is the Golisano Children's Hospital, where kids can pretend to be doctors, nurses, and patients. They can use stethoscopes to listen to their own hearts, weigh and measure themselves, and even learn to give injections.

Another popular exhibit is the Animal Care Center, where kids can learn about taking care of pets. They can groom and feed the animals, learn how to keep them healthy, and practice being responsible pet owners.

For kids who love science, the Healthy Harvest exhibit is a must-see. Here, they can learn about growing crops, harvesting food, and preparing healthy meals. They can even make their own smoothies using pedal-powered blenders.

Other exhibits include a bubble room, a music studio, and a maker space where kids can use their creativity to build and create.

In addition to the exhibits, the museum also offers educational programs and workshops. These include summer camps, homeschool classes, and birthday parties.

The CMON Golisano Children's Museum is a great destination for families visiting Naples. With its hands-on exhibits and interactive activities, kids are sure to have a blast while learning something new!

Naples Botanical Garden

If you're looking for a fun and educational activity to do with your kids in Naples, Florida, a trip to the Naples Botanical Garden is a must. With over 170 acres of beautifully designed gardens and nature preserves, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the highlights of the Naples Botanical Garden is the Children's Garden, which is designed specifically with kids in mind. The garden features a butterfly house, a treehouse, and even a miniature farm with goats and chickens. Kids can learn about the different habitats found in Florida, and see numerous native plants and animals up close.

Another great feature of the Naples Botanical Garden is the "Ask the Gardener" program, where kids can ask the gardeners questions about the plants and wildlife they see in the garden. This is a great way to encourage kids to develop an appreciation for nature and learn more about the environment around them.

For older kids, the garden also offers guided tours and educational programs on topics such as plant science, sustainability, and conservation. These programs are designed to inspire kids to become stewards of the environment and encourage them to think about how they can make a positive impact on the world around them.

Overall, the Naples Botanical Garden is a wonderful destination for families with kids of all ages. With so much to explore and learn, it's the perfect place to inspire a love for the natural world and spend quality time with your loved ones. So, why not plan a visit to the Naples Botanical Garden on your next family vacation to Naples, Florida? So, Naples Botanical Garden is a must-visit place while visiting Naples with kids.

King Richard's Family Fun Park

Going on a family vacation to Naples, Florida with kids can be tough. Keeping children engaged, entertained and happy can be a struggle, especially if you're not familiar with the area. Fortunately, King Richard's Family Fun Park is one of the best attractions in Naples for children that can keep them engaged and entertained for hours.

The park's main attraction is the go-karts. They offer single and double-seater karts, which allows even young children to participate with their parents or guardians. The track is long enough to ensure the ride is enjoyable, but not too long that it becomes monotonous.

If go-karting isn't your thing, there is also mini-golf, which features two 18-hole courses with different themes. The first course is themed around a tropical rainforest, and the second course is themed around prehistoric dinosaurs. The miniature golf is challenging enough to keep older children engaged, but not so difficult that younger children get discouraged.

Another attraction that is perfect for younger children is the Splash Park. The Splash Park features different playground equipment such as water sprayers, dump buckets, and a water slide, all designed to keep children cool and happy in the Florida heat. It is perfect for children who are not tall enough for larger water parks.

In addition to these attractions, King Richard's Family Fun Park also offers bumper boats, batting cages, an arcade and more. The arcade features various games such as air hockey, basketball, skee-ball, and a selection of video games, which is sure to keep older children entertained while younger children play in other areas of the park.

There are also food and drinks available at the park's cafe, making it easy to spend the whole day there without having to leave for meals. The cafe offers a selection of snacks, drinks, hotdogs, burgers, and pizza, which everyone in your group will enjoy.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a fun-filled day for your family in Naples, Florida, King Richard's Family Fun Park is an excellent option. With its many attractions, your children are sure to have a great time, and you can relax knowing your family is entertained all day long.

Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge

When planning a family vacation to Naples, Florida, there are plenty of kid-friendly activities to choose from. One unique experience that both kids and adults can enjoy is visiting the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge.

Located just a short drive from Naples, the refuge is home to the endangered Florida panther, as well as other native wildlife such as black bears, bobcats, and alligators. The refuge was established in 1989 to protect and restore vital panther habitat, and to promote public awareness and education about these magnificent animals.

One of the best ways to explore the refuge is by taking a guided tour. The refuge offers several different types of tours, including buggy tours, walking tours, and driving tours. Each tour provides a different perspective on the refuge and its inhabitants, and gives visitors the opportunity to learn more about the wildlife and conservation efforts in the area.

One highlight of any trip to the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge is seeing the panthers themselves. These elusive cats are extremely rare, with an estimated population of just 120-230 individuals remaining in the wild. While there is no guarantee that visitors will see a panther during their visit, the refuge does offer panther spotting tours that increase the chances of spotting one of these majestic creatures.

In addition to the wildlife, the refuge boasts a variety of scenic landscapes, from pine flatwoods to wetlands and cypress swamps. Visitors can also take advantage of multiple hiking trails, which range from easy to challenging and offer the chance to see a variety of native plants and animals.

Overall, the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge offers a unique and educational experience for families visiting Naples with kids. By learning about these incredible animals and the importance of conservation efforts, visitors can come away with a deeper appreciation for the natural world and a desire to help protect it for generations to come.

Vanderbilt Beach

Naples, Florida is known for its luxurious lifestyle, pristine beaches, and high-end shopping. But what about for those who are traveling with children? Vanderbilt Beach is an excellent destination for families seeking some fun in the sun.

One of the best parts of Vanderbilt Beach is the large, expansive stretch of sand. This provides ample space for kids to run around, build sandcastles, fly kites, and play games. Parents can relax under an umbrella and soak up the sun while keeping an eye on their little ones.

There are also plenty of water activities available for families to enjoy. Visitors can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and jet skis to explore the Gulf of Mexico. For those who prefer to stay on land, the beach has a beautiful walking path that runs parallel to the water. Rent bikes or bring your own to enjoy the scenic route.

When it's time for a break from the beach, Naples has plenty of other family-friendly activities to offer. The Golisano Children's Museum of Naples is a must-see destination for families with young children. The museum has interactive exhibits and play areas for kids to learn and explore. The Naples Zoo offers a unique experience for families, showcasing rare and endangered animals in a lush and tropical setting. And for a real treat, the Sun N Fun Lagoon water park is a perfect family activity for those hot summer days.

In conclusion, Vanderbilt Beach is an excellent destination for families traveling to Naples, Florida. The beautiful beach, abundance of amenities, and plentiful activities make it an ideal destination for families with children. While there's plenty of fun to have in the sun, be sure to take advantage of other family-friendly activities in Naples as well.

Naples Depot Museum

Naples is not just a stunning destination for adults; it’s also kid-friendly. There are so many exciting things to do in Naples with kids, and one of them is the Naples Depot Museum.

The Naples Depot Museum is a historic train station located in Downtown Naples. It’s a perfect spot for families with kids who love trains and history. Here’s what you need to know about the Naples Depot Museum.

History & Background

The Naples Depot Museum was built in the early 1900s as a station for the Seaboard Air Line Railroad. It was a focal point of transportation for people, mail, and freight in and out of Naples.

The museum displays exhibits highlighting Naples’ history and the impact of transportation on the city, including an interactive train exhibit and a restored railcar.

What to Expect

When you visit the Naples Depot Museum, you will be able to explore the station’s preserved interior complete with ticket counter, telegraph and signal systems, and the original waiting rooms. You’ll get to see how people traveled in the early 1900s.

While exploring the museum, be sure to check out the interactive train exhibit, which features a model train display. Additionally, there’s a restored 1947 SD-45 locomotive and a 1920s Pullman dining car. It’s a fabulous experience for kids and adults alike.

Things to Do

The Naples Depot Museum is great for families who enjoy learning about history, and the museum offers several activities suitable for kids. Some of the things to do include:

• Interactive Train Exhibit: Kids can make the trains move and learn about how railroads operated.
• Reading Area: There’s a cozy reading nook where children can read about transportation and history.
• Guided Tours: Visitors can take guided tours to learn about train travel and Naples’ history.

Tips for Visiting with Kids

When touring the Naples Depot Museum with kids, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Keep an eye on younger children. It’s an old station, and some areas require supervision.
• Be prepared to walk around. The museum is spacious, be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
• Make sure to bring your camera, as there are plenty of photo opportunities around the station.

In Conclusion

The Naples Depot Museum is a fantastic destination to explore Naples' history and transportation. The museum offers an opportunity for kids and adults alike to learn about historic rail travel, and it’s fascinating to visit and explore the preserved train station. It’s a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Naples, especially for families with kids.

Frequently asked questions