One of our favorite non-beach activities is to visit the Naples Zoo. Getting a membership was actually the first thing I did after becoming a Florida resident!
Located just south of Golden Gate Parkway on Goodlette Road The Naples zoo is an easy drive from most locations in southwest Florida.
Parking is plentiful, and free! Ticket prices are $22.95 for adults, $14.95 for children, and free for those 2 years and under.
If you’re a Florida resident, definitely look into becoming a member. At $100 per year for 2 adults and all children that live in a household, its so worth it.
Why we love Naples Zoo
- The size
A one mile paved path winds around animals, lakes, flowers, a playground, and of course ice cream stands. It’s small enough that, depending on the age of your kiddo, you may not need a stroller. With a 5 and 8 year old we can meander along the path and take breaks when we need to on shaded benches.
- The Monkey Boat
This exhibit is actually called the Primate Expedition cruise, but to us, it’s the monkey boat! Board a pontoon on beautiful Lake Victoria and cruise around looking at primates who each live on different islands located on the lake! Your boat driver and tour guild will have all sorts of facts and nuggets about the primates as well as the history of the Naples soon. Spoiler alert, it used to be a botanical garden.
- The Grounds
The Zoo used to be a botanical garden and is absolutely beautiful.You’ll truly feel you’ve entered paradise here. For the green thumbs and garden aficionados, plants and flowers have placards with truly fascinating history and information. They’re also real pretty to look at.
- The Animals
How could I forget the animals? Our favorite things to do are feed the giraffes, see the alligator show, and try to find the rouge lizards that scamper around as we’re waiting in line for ice cream!
- The Playground
On your way in or out of the zoo don’t forget to stop at the playground. It has structors for all ages and my kids absolutely love it. Located next to the playground is a shaded structor with lots of picnic benches, making it a great place to cool off and have lunch.
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is located at 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd N in Naples, Florida. It is open every day from 9:00am-4:30pm.
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