Tin City Waterfront Shops
Website: https://www.tincityofnaples.com/
Address: 1200 5th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102
Every visitor to beautiful Naples, Florida should stop by Tin City Shops, located on the Gordon River for a very unique experience. Tin City has the "Old Florida" charm with a mix of waterfront dining, boutique shopping and unique attractions. There are a number of stores that sell everything from coastal decor to handmade jewelry. If you're hungry, Tin City's waterfront restaurants have excellent seafood with views of Naples Bay.
Aside from shopping and dining, Tin City has a variety of waterfront adventures such as dolphin and manatee tours, jet ski rentals, or fishing charters. I have been out fishing with Pure Florida a number of times now and it has always been a blast.
Fifth Avenue South
Website: https://www.fifthavenuesouth.com/
Address: 800 5th Ave South, Naples, FL 34102
There are so many great activities, restaurants, events, shops and more on Fifth Avenue South that it's hard to even find a place to start. This is the city's premier shopping, dining and cultural district. Lined with palm trees and elegant architecture, this vibrant street offers upscale shopping and dining yet it still carries a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're looking for fresh seafood, incredible steaks or just a slice of pizza, 5th Avenue South is the place to go. The shops feature clothing, jewelry, fine art and more. Check out the official website for a directory of stores and locations.
Historic 5th Avenue South is also known for it's year-round events. There are art festivals, live music and more. One of my favorite events each year is the chalk art on the streets. 5th Avenue is blocked off and local businesses, schools and groups come out and paint huge squares of the street. Visitors purchase tickets, which raises a lot of money for charities, and hand those tickets to the artists. Each ticket is a vote for the best art and winners are announced at the end of the day. It really is a lot of fun!
Celebration Park
Website: https://celebrationparknaples.com/
Address: 2880 Becca Avenue, Naples, FL 34112
Celebration Park is located in the Bayshore Arts District and was founded in 2018 as a gathering spot for food trucks. There are so many great food trucks to choose from which provides an enormous amount of variety and so there's something for everyone. Plus, there is a rotating lineup of food trucks so there's always something new to try. There's live music to enjoy as well.
I love the location of Celebration Park as it sits on the Gordon River and has great views of the waterfront. I've always found the crowd to be very friendly and a great place to meet new people, socialize, and just have a great experience.
Third Street South
Website: https://thirdstreetsouth.com/
Address: Naples, Florida 34102
This is one of my favorite places for a walk in Naples. The landscaping, fountains and tree-lined streets are beautiful and there's so many things to see along the way. The street is mostly known for shopping as there are over 100 shops and boutiques. There are art galleries, gift shops and home decor stores as well.
When it's time to eat, you'll have no shortage of restaurants to choose from. There is world class restaurants like The Continental, Campiello, or our personal favorite, Sea Salt.
Finally, you'll want to check the calendar on their website because there are always great events happening. There are weekly events like the famous Third Street South Farmer's Market but my favorite event is the annual holiday parties. The streets are blocked off and "snow" falls from the lamp posts. There's live music and entertainment through the entire street so you can just walk and take in the sights. It's a must-see Naples tradition.
Golisano Children's Museum of Naples (C'MON)
Website: https://www.cmon.org/
Address: 15080 Livingston Road, Naples, FL 34109
As a parent of two boys, I've spent a lot of time in the Children's Museum of Naples (C'MON) and enjoyed it each time. The building features a variety of areas where children of different ages can play and learn. There is a grocery store (complete with carts!), a big kitchen with toy food, a tree that children can use to climb to the 2nd floor, a library and even a "teens only" area and more. You can head outside for even more fun where there is a large water feature with plenty of toys and objects for the kids to use.
A great feature of C'MON is that there is a large area as you enter that changes periodically. Exhibits will come and go which keeps the entertainment fresh for the kids.
This is a great option for when it rains so keep it in mind! Day passes are available but consider a membership if you're going to go more than a few times.
Finally, one fun fact is that you will see that the elevators there were donated by the "Farrugia's." Yes, that's my last name but no, we didn't make that donation!
Seed To Table
Website: https://seedtotablemarket.com/
Address: 4835 Immokalee Rd, Naples, FL 34110
Are we really putting a grocery store on the list of best things to do while in Naples, Florida? We are. Is it more than a grocery store? Oh, it sure is.
Yes, Seed to Table is a grocery store and a really great one at that. The produce is the best in town, the meat is always fresh and a great selection, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. But, did you know that you can eat at one of the restaurants inside of the grocery store? You can even pick your own steak and take it to them to cook for you while you shop! There are events at night and it turns into a club of sorts. There's live music, dancing, wine tastings and so much more. Check out their full calendar for upcoming events!
Pro tip: Get some guacamole. I think it's the best I've ever had!
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
Website: https://www.napleszoo.org/
Address: 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd, Naples, FL 34102
I'll admit, I'm a huge animal lover so the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens doesn't disappoint. The zoo itself is small compared to most zoos in big cities but it has so many exhibits that are fantastic and a lot of trails to explore. There are shows throughout the day, a pontoon boat ride on the large lake to see various primates, a playground, a gift shop, and a cafeteria. But, the show stopper for me are the giraffes. For $5, you can purchase romaine lettuce and hand-feed the giraffes. They're extremely gentle so even smaller children can have that experience as well.
Tickets for the zoo are a bit pricey in my opinion with adult tickets (ages 13-64) at $27 and $18 for children (3-12). However, the zoo offers free entry on the first Saturday of each month for Collier County residents.
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Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
Website: https://www.audubon.org/corkscrew
Address: 375 Sanctuary Rd W, Naples, FL 34120
This is another one of my family's favorite spots. The sanctuary is located in the Western Everglades and the main feature is the 2.25 mile boardwalk where you can walk through the largest remaining old-growth bald cypress forest. The boardwalk is elevated over the land so it is quite safe. You are guaranteed to see all sorts of wildlife as you hike along and you'll encounter special areas with benches to sit and quietly observe the nature surrounding you.
The sanctuary also features a visitor center that has various exhibits throughout the year. You can purchase single-day tickets online at their website or an annual membership if you plan on enjoying the park multiple times throughout the year.
Naples Botanical Garden
Website: https://www.naplesgarden.org/
Address: 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples, FL 34112
Located in the Bayshore Arts District is this incredible attraction that every local has certainly been to! Simply put, it is beautiful! It's more than just a garden though. As you walk through, you'll see plants from all over the world from the swamps of Florida to the Asian water garden. I love the Orchid garden as there are so many different varieties to take in. There's a fantastic cafe and a children's area as well!
The Village Shops on Venetian Bay
Website: https://www.venetianvillage.com/
Address: 4300 Gulf Shore Blvd N, Naples, FL 34103
It's hard to put into words but the Village Shops on Venetian Bay just feels like Naples, Florida. There's something about shopping or dining right on the beautiful Venetian Bay that is extraordinarily special. There are plenty of high-end shops and restaurants to visit and you can see the full directory here. My personal favorite restaurant is M Waterfront Grille where the food is great and the setting is even better. My wife and I also love Bayside Seafood because of the view.
It's important to note that there are often events at The Village Shops so check out the calendar!
Coral Cay Adventure Golf
Website: https://coralcaygolf.com/
Address: 2205 E. Tamiami Trail Naples, FL 34112
Coral Cay is putt putt at it's finest. This is your classic mini golf course with bridges, hills, multiple holes, water hazards and more! I can tell you from experience that it is not too hard for younger kids yet still hard enough that it is fun for adults. There's a snack bar for drinks and treats.
One of the great things about Coral Cay is the location. It is about a mile from Tin City so very easily accessible for those visiting. I think pricing is fair too. Teens and adults golf for $14 and ages 5-11 are $12. Go have some fun (and don't cheat!).
Conservancy of Southwest Florida
Website: https://conservancy.org/
Address: 1495 Smith Preserve Way Admission Cost, Naples, FL 34102
I've included the Conservancy of Southwest Florida under things to do on land but it is really a mix of both land and water activities. There are a number of things to do at the Conservancy and it is worth the cost of admission.
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is a beloved Naples nonprofit focused on protecting the region’s water, land, and wildlife—and inviting the public to be part of that mission through hands-on experiences at its Nature Center. A highlight is the guided electric boat tour along the Gordon River: a quiet, 45-minute cruise where captains point out mangroves, birdlife, and the area’s unique ecology.
Equally popular is the von Arx Wildlife Hospital, where trained staff treat injured, sick, and orphaned native animals with the goal of returning them to the wild. The hospital admits over 4,000 patients each year, and many injuries stem from human–wildlife interactions—making the on-site education just as important as the rehab itself.
When my sons were little, this was a frequent stop. They loved going on the boat and really enjoyed the educational programs the staff puts on. I can still picture my son at around 5 years of age looking in amazement at a corn snake a woman was holding. It's that sort of thing that keeps the kids coming back!
Consider getting a family membership. At $100 for the year, 3 adults and 4 children can go as many times as they'd like.
The Alamo Gun Shop and Range
Website: https://alamorange.com/
Address: 2390 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, FL 34109
Naples, Florida is lucky to have such a great gun shop right in the heart of North Naples. The Alamo has a huge selection of guns, ammunition, knives, gear, safes and everything in between. There are a number of ranges and they allow shotgun and rifle shooting as well--a rare find in an indoor gun range. You can bring your own guns to shoot at the range or a large selection of guns to rent are available.
My wife, myself and a couple of friends took our concealed carry course at The Alamo and it was outstanding. There are also some really important classes on gun safety that I would recommend. This is a really fun place to visit and a sleeper pick for a really good date.
Website: https://www.collierparks.com/collier_park/sugden-regional-park/
Address: 4284 Avalon Dr, Naples, FL 34112
Sugden Regional Park is a local favorite for families and fitness walkers alike, set on the shores of 60-acre Lake Avalon—home to one of Naples’ only public freshwater beaches. A paved path circles the lake (about 1.5–1.7 miles), perfect for an easy walk or jog with scenic water views, butterfly garden stops, and plenty of benches to catch your breath.
On the water, you can rent paddle boats, kayaks, and canoes, or sit back on the sand while the kids enjoy the playground and picnic areas. The park also hosts a sailing center and offers waterskiing programs, making it an easy add to your “things to do in Naples” itinerary when you want a change of pace from the Gulf beaches.
I know what you're thinking and I'm thinking the same thing too. Would I get in that freshwater alligator farm they call the lake? Nope. But, if you're braver than I am you're in for a treat!
Kowiachobee Animal Preserve
Website: https://kowiachobee.org/
Address: 2861 4th Ave SE, Naples, FL 34117
Looking for a low-key, up-close wildlife experience? Head to Kowiachobee Animal Preserve in east Naples. It’s a 501(c)(3) educational facility that does guided tours by reservation only—typically small groups at set times—so you’ll actually hear the stories behind the animals and ask questions along the way. Book ahead (no walk-ins) and plan on an educational, hands-on style visit led by the keepers.
What will you see? A little bit of everything—big cats (think lions and tigers), plus exotic birds, reptiles, and plenty of barnyard favorites like goats and pigs. It’s a rescue/education operation that runs on community support, so they’re always grateful for donations, whether that’s a few dollars, items from their supply wish list (towels, cleaning supplies, etc.), or sponsoring an animal. If you’re able, bring something to drop off or give online—it truly helps feed and care for the animals you just met.
They're located right out in Golden Gate Estates near the intersection of Everglades Blvd. and Golden Gate Blvd. E.. It is definitely a great place to check out.
Collier County Parks and Recreation
Website: https://www.collierparks.com/
Address: 15000 Livingston Road, Naples, Florida 34109
I am a huge fan of Collier County Parks and Recreation. We are so lucky to have so many phenomenal parks in this county and a plethora of programs for kids as well as adults. Whether you want to join a soccer league, play some pickleball, hike o a trail through a park or get involved in an adult softball league, our Parks and Rec department has you covered. They also have a number of events throughout the year that you can discover on their calendar of events.
If you're new to Naples and looking to make friends here, I highly recommend getting on an athletic team. There are teams and sports for all skill levels and it can be so fun to get back into sports again as an adult. I played coed softball at North Collier Regional Park (pictured above) for years and it was definitely one of the highlights of my week. Although I had to quit after an injury, I'm still friends with so many of my teammates that I would not have met otherwise.
The Holocaust Museum and Cohen Education Center
Website: https://hmcec.org/
Address: 975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd Suite 108, Naples, FL 34110
The Holocaust Museum in North Naples is an important part of Naples and a center everyone should visit at least once in my opinion. The museum has over 1,000 original photos and artifacts pertaining to World War II and The Holocaust. You are able to download their app on your phone and listen as you walk through a self-guided tour (headphones required). An amazing piece of history is the 1919 Boxcar, a 10-ton Holocaust-era relic that has traveled the world. It was used to carry prisoners in Germany and a humbling item to see.
You can also arrange a group tour which the museum hosts after hours so your group will have the entire museum to yourself. Whether in a group or self-guided, the museum is a must-see here in Naples.
Be sure to check the hours of operation before going as it is open during a small window of time each day.
Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
Website: https://rookerybay.org/
Address: 300 Tower Rd, Naples, FL 34113
There is no shortage of things to do at Rookery Bay. Whether you're visiting the nature center or exploring the 110,000 acres on the coast of Southwest Florida, you will not be disappointed! In my opinion, the highlight of Rookery Bay are the Eco-Tours. There are trips to go shelling, kayak through mangroves, birdwatch at sunset, or take a boat to see the beautiful sunsets we're so lucky to have here.
The facility hosts recurring events throughout the year that might surprise you. For example, there is a digital photography class that you can take and even a classic car show! There is an endless supply of things to do at Rookery Bay so be sure to check out their events calendar.
I also want to mention that Rookery Bay can use the help of the public. Please consider a donation or help by volunteering. It is such a great place and a huge part of Collier County and we want to see them continue to provide an incredible facility with so many events and things to do.
Naples Bicycle and E-Bike Tours
Website: https://www.naplesbicycletours.com/old-naples.html
Address: 1106 3rd St S, Naples, FL 34102
We all know that Old Naples is a beautiful place but have you really taken a good look at it recently? This is a great opportunity to hop on a bike and take a liesurely ride through Old Naples, stopping at the beach and various landmarks. If pedaling a bike isn't for you, e-bikes are available for a fee. Drinks and snacks are included.
Cambier Park
Website: https://www.naplesgov.com/parksrec/park/cambier-park
Address: 755 8th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102
Cambier Park is more than just a playground. There is so much to do and explore on their 12.84 acres in the heart of Downtown Naples. There is a community center, the Arthur L. Allen Tennis Center (pretty amazing!), huge playground, softball field, a bocce ball court, shuffleboard, softball and more.
Many of our city's events are hosted at Cambier Park and you can see what is coming up on the event calendar. You can also reserve sections of the park for your own event. Just get in touch with them!
Bird Gardens of Naples
Website: https://thebirdgardensofnaples.org/
Address: 1060 Purple Martin Dr, Naples, FL 34120
The Bird Gardens of Naples is a peaceful sanctuary for about 200 relinquished and abandoned birds. Visitors can walk through winding paths and step into large aviaries to see a variety of birds, including beautiful macaws, chatty African Greys, and dancing cockatoos. The caregivers are known for their kindness and knowledge, and their dedication to the birds is evident. Tours typically last around two hours, and there is no admission fee, though donations are greatly appreciated to support their work.
Fleischmann Park
Website: https://www.naplesgov.com/parksrec/page/fleischmann-park
Address: 1600 Fleischmann Blvd, Naples, FL 34102
Fleischmann Park is a sprawling green space in the heart of Naples, offering a wide array of activities for all ages. The park's main feature is its recently renovated, baseball-themed playground, complete with a water splash zone, sun shades, and a variety of modern equipment. It's a perfect destination for families, providing plenty of room for kids to run and play. The park also boasts an impressive lineup of sports facilities, including lighted fields and courts for racquetball, volleyball, basketball, and pickleball, as well as baseball and football fields. It’s a hub of activity for local sports teams and a great place for a casual pickup game.
Beyond the fields and playgrounds, Fleischmann Park is a community center in itself. Its community center hosts a variety of classes and programs, from gymnastics and martial arts to dance and creative arts, making it a year-round resource for residents. The park is also home to special events, like the Art Fest Naples, which brings local artists to the beautiful park setting. With its well-maintained walking paths, picnic pavilions, and ample open space, Fleischmann Park is an ideal spot to simply relax, enjoy the Florida sunshine, or have a fun family outing.
The Baker Museum at Artis-Naples
Website: https://artisnaples.org/baker-museum/
Address: 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples, FL 34108
The Baker Museum at Artis—Naples is a stunning and sophisticated art museum that serves as one of Southwest Florida's premier cultural destinations. Known for its emphasis on modern and contemporary art, the museum features a diverse permanent collection with significant holdings in American modernism and 20th-century Mexican art. Visitors can explore three stories of gallery space filled with paintings, sculptures, and drawings, and the building itself is an architectural masterpiece, with a glass-dome conservatory and a dazzling glass chandelier by renowned artist Dale Chihuly.
In addition to its permanent collections, The Baker Museum hosts a variety of special traveling exhibitions throughout the year, bringing world-class art to the Naples community. The museum is a dynamic hub for cultural engagement, offering educational programs, lectures, and events like "Art After Hours" that provide free admission and live music. It's a place where art comes alive, inviting visitors to not only view masterpieces but also to learn, engage, and connect with the creative world. The museum is part of the larger Artis—Naples campus, which also includes the Naples Philharmonic, making it a comprehensive destination for both the visual and performing arts.
CREW Bird Rookery Swamp Trails
Website: https://crewtrust.org/
Address: 1295 Shady Hollow Blvd., Naples, FL 34120
For an immersive nature experience, the CREW Bird Rookery Swamp Trails are a must-visit. These trails are a part of the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed, a vast protected area. The main trail is a 12-mile loop built on old logging tram roads, and it’s a remarkably easy hike for its distance, with mostly flat, wide, and grassy paths. While the full loop is a popular challenge for experienced hikers and bikers, a short walk from the trailhead takes you to a beautiful boardwalk, providing a rewarding glimpse into the swamp without a major time commitment.
What truly makes the Bird Rookery Swamp Trails special is the abundance of wildlife. The cypress and maple swamp is a natural habitat for a wide variety of creatures, and it’s common to see alligators, turtles, and wading birds right from the trail. It's a birder's paradise, with everything from songbirds and hawks to barred owls and the graceful swallow-tailed kites. The trails offer a chance to experience the raw beauty of Southwest Florida's wilderness and get up close with its incredible biodiversity.
Revs Institute
Website: https://revsinstitute.org/
Address: 2500 Horseshoe Drive S, Naples, FL 34104
This place is seriously cool. The Revs Institute is far more than just a car museum; it's a world-renowned research and preservation facility dedicated to the history of the automobile. Housed in an 80,000-square-foot facility, the Institute displays the Miles Collier Collections, a carefully curated assemblage of over 100 of the world's most significant and rare automobiles. Unlike static displays at many museums, the cars here are operational and meticulously maintained by a full-time restoration team. Visitors can get up close and personal with these vehicles, which are displayed without protective barriers, offering an intimate and unique viewing experience.
The collection is organized into four thematic galleries—Automobility, Vitesse, Revs, and Porsche—that tell the story of the car not just as a machine, but as an agent of social and economic change. You’ll find everything from a 19th-century Panhard et Levassor Wagonette to the first Ferrari racing car ever sold in the United States and a remarkable collection of Porsches. The Revs Institute is a haven for scholars, preservationists, and car enthusiasts alike, offering a one-of-a-kind look at some of the most influential and historic automobiles ever built. Due to its popularity and dedication to a quality visitor experience, tickets must be reserved in advance for specific dates and times.
What Did We Miss?
There are so many great things to do in Naples and this list just scratches the surface. If I missed something great, please email me and let me know. I'd love to update this list!
