17 Fun Things to Do in Naples, Florida with Kids
Looking for fun things to do in Naples, Florida with kids?
Naples is a fantastic destination for families. The weather is warm and sunny throughout most of the year, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. Your kids will love the many activities available, from beach days to water sports. Plus, Naples offers unique wildlife experiences and fun-filled attractions for the whole family. With so much to do, it’s the perfect spot for a memorable family vacation.
Living nearby, I’ve had the chance to experience many of Naples’ kid-friendly activities with my own family and friends. We’ve explored the beaches, taken boat rides, and discovered hidden gems around the city. From visiting the zoo to kayaking through mangroves, there’s always something new to do. With each visit, I find more reasons why Naples is perfect for families looking for fun and adventure.
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Fun Things to Do in Naples with Kids
Naples is packed with fun activities and adventures that the whole family can enjoy doing together. There are plenty of ways to keep the kids entertained in our piece of paradise.
1. Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
Kick off your family adventure at the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens! This tropical oasis combines a beautiful garden setting with plenty of opportunities to get close to amazing animals.
The zoo’s layout is perfect for families, with wide pathways shaded by lush trees and plenty of benches for relaxing in-between animal exhibits. Your kids will love meeting cheetahs, black bears, zebras, giraffes, orangutans and lots more in their natural habitat.
Don’t miss the zoo’s highlight: the Primate Expedition Cruise! This 20-minute narrated boat ride takes you on Lake Victoria, where you’ll circle around islands inhabited by monkeys, lemurs, and gibbons. The boat’s guide shares fun facts about each species. This was the first thing we did when we visited the park. Boat rides start at 9am till 3:50pm.
The zoo also offers interactive experiences, such as Feed the Giraffes, where kids (and adults) can hand-feed lettuce to the giraffes and learn about these gentle giants. The zoo also has Meet the Keeper talks throughout the day. Check the daily schedule for times and locations.
Practical Tip: If possible, plan your trip in the morning when the animals are most active.
➡️ Google Maps / Open daily from 9:00am to 4:30pm
2. The Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples
A visit to the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (known as C’mon) is a must for families with curious kids! This hands-on museum is designed for children of all ages to explore, discover, and play.
With interactive exhibits that spark creativity, kids can step into a world of imagination – whether it’s building forts in the construct zone, learning how to be a vet in a pet clinic, or “shopping” in the kid-sized grocery store.
C’mon is set up with a variety of exhibits to engage kids’ minds and keep little hands busy. They can explore a walk-through banyan tree, take on the climbing wall, or cool off with the hands-on water play station.
For younger visitors, there’s a special ABC Tot Lot with age-appropriate activities to encourage their early sense of wonder. With a focus on learning through play, C’mon is the perfect spot for family fun – even you might find yourself wanting to join in!
Practical Tip: Visit early or reserve tickets in advance, as the museum can fill up on weekends. And remember to check the calendar for special themed events, from science shows to creative art projects that add extra fun to the experience!
➡️ Google Maps / Open Thursday to Tuesday from 10:00am to 4:30pm
3. Conservancy of Southwest Florida
For an unforgettable day of wildlife and nature exploration, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida is an ideal stop. This conservation center offers families hands-on experience with local wildlife, making it as educational as it is fun.
Start with the Electric Boat Tour along the beautiful Gordon River, where the whole family can look for native birds and turtles in their natural habitat! The 45-minute tour, led by a knowledgeable guide, is perfect for kids who love spotting animals and learning about Florida’s diverse ecosystem. Boat rides start at 10am to 3pm and are included in the ticket price.
Back on land, head over to the Dalton Discovery Center, where your kids can engage in interactive exhibits that teach them about the habitats and animals of Southwest Florida. They’ll get to examine critters in the touch tanks and explore the Everglades Wonder section to see what makes this ecosystem so unique.
We enjoyed our visit so much that we became members!
Practical Tips: Be sure to set aside a few hours here – the boat tour, Discovery Center, and walking trails offer plenty to explore! And don’t miss the daily live animal presentations for a close-up look at the Conservancy’s animal ambassadors.
➡️ Google Maps / Open Tuesday to Saturday from 9:30am to 4:00pm
4. Naples Botanical Gardens
A trip to the Naples Botanical Garden is a treat for all ages! Spread over 170 acres, the garden is a tropical paradise with colorful blooms, winding pathways, and themed gardens that showcase plants from around the world.
From Friday to Monday 10am to 12pm, your family can participate in the W.O.N.D.E.R. (Walk, Observe, Navigate, Draw, Explore, Read) program. Activity packets are available at the Visitor Center and will guide you through the program.
You will love the Florida Garden and the Asian Garden, where boardwalks and bridges lead to lily-filled ponds and shady bamboo groves that feel like stepping into another world. There’s also a dedicated bird-watching tower with views of the lake, where kids can try spotting local bird species.
Practical Tips: Be sure to visit early in the day, especially in warmer months. And if you’re visiting in December, check out Night Lights in the Garden, where the gardens are beautifully illuminated for the holidays.
➡️ Google Maps / Open Daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm
5. Lowdermilk Beach Park
Lowdermilk Beach Park is a wonderful spot for a family outing, offering plenty of amenities to make the day enjoyable and convenient. You can relax and grab a bite at the Flip Flops concession food pavilion, with easy access to restrooms and showers nearby. Here you can rent beach chairs, umbrellas, stand-up paddleboards and kayaks.
The Park offers ADA beach access mats, and you can rent a beach wheelchair at the concession stand.
Your kids will love the dedicated play area, and there are picnic tables too. If you are looking for active fun, you can enjoy a game on the sand volleyball court. The park is also known for being well-maintained and clean.
Parking is available by the hour, making it easy to spend as much time as you’d like soaking up the sun and enjoying the beach.
➡️ Google Maps / Flip Flips Concession Stand Open Daily from 9:00am to 6:00pm
6. Good Mood Ranch
The Good Mood Ranch in Naples is a delightful spot for a family day out! Kids can hop on a train ride around the farm, feed and pet friendly animals, and even receive a sweet kiss from the resident alpaca. You may even get the opportunity to bottle-feed baby goats!
The fun doesn’t stop there – there’s rock climbing, a mini zip line, bounce houses, and even plastic axe throwing for adventurous little ones. With so many hands-on educational activities and charming animals, the Good Mood Ranch makes for a day full of smiles and lasting memories. Perfect for kids of all ages!
➡️ Google Maps / Open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10:00am to 4:00pm
7. City of Naples Fire Rescue – Station #1 Tour
Touring the City of Naples Fire Rescue – Station #1 is an exciting and educational experience for kids! The Fire-Rescue team has created an interactive program just for young visitors, giving them a hands-on look at what it’s like to be a firefighter.
Children can suit up in real bunker gear, try out a fire hose to knock down targets, and even get to sit inside a fire engine! Plus, they can snap a photo with a firefighter – if there’s no emergency call.
It’s a great way for kids to learn about fire safety and the daily life of firefighters in a memorable, fun setting. To book a family tour, simply call the station.
➡️ Google Maps / Call to schedule a tour: (239) 213-4900
8. Coral Cay Adventure Golf
Coral Cay Adventure Golf is a good spot for the family to enjoy a round of mini golf together. You’ll find two 18-hole courses – the Cave Course and the Falls Course – set in a tropical oasis with cascading waterfalls, hidden caves, and scenic bridges.
The course features an on-site food truck and a concession area with snacks, drinks, and ice cream. Located a mile and a half from downtown Naples, Coral Cay Adventure Golf makes it easy to add a little adventure to your day!
➡️ Google Maps / Open Daily from 10:00am to 11:00pm
9. Baker Park – Let the Kids Loose!
Baker Park in Naples is a fantastic spot for families looking to spend an active day outdoors! Kids can run free and explore the splash pad, climb around the play area, or enjoy the tot lot designed just for little ones.
The climbing area has a soft, rubberized surface, adding an extra layer of safety as kids play. There are scenic walking paths for a leisurely stroll, and even a dog park – leashed pups are welcome in the playground area too!
With plenty of green space and picnic spots, it’s a perfect place to relax and soak up the sunshine. Open from sunrise to sunset, Baker Park has something for everyone!
➡️ Google Maps / Open Daily
10. Naples Trolley Tour
The Naples Trolley Tour is a great way for you to see the best of Naples! This hop-on, hop-off tour takes you all around the city, with stops at popular attractions, shopping spots, and scenic areas.
You can relax on-board while learning fun facts about Naples, then hop off whenever you’re ready to explore more. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or at the Naples Experience office at 1010 6th Avenue South. If you stay on the trolley, the tour lasts about two hours.
With friendly guides and a flexible schedule, the Naples Trolley is perfect if you want to see the sights at your own pace. It’s a fun, easy, and educational way to experience the charm of Naples!
➡️ Google Maps / Tours Run Daily (except Thanksgiving and Christmas)
11. Tin City Waterfront Shops – A Place to Shop and Eat
Tin City is a unique and family-friendly spot in Naples, perfect for picking up souvenirs and enjoying a meal by the water! This historic waterfront marketplace has a great mix of shops where you can find fun and memorable gifts.
After shopping, you can grab a bite to eat on the dock at Pinchers Crabshack or Riverwalk Restaurant, enjoying views of the water and the lively atmosphere. And for a real treat, don’t miss the famous Monkey Bread – it is one of our favorite places to visit with the kids.
Tin City is also the starting point for sightseeing boat tours of Naples Bay and fishing excursions.
Located close to 5th Avenue South in Downtown Naples, Tin City has a parking lot as well as street parking. Tin City is a must-visit for a laid-back, fun few hours with the family!
➡️ Google Maps / Open Daily
12. Eco-Shelling Tour to Keewaydin Island
For a unique family-friendly adventure in Naples, the Eco-Shelling Tour to Keewaydin Island is a must. This 3-hour narrated boat tour departs from Tin City, with an experienced captain guiding you through Naples Bay and along the beautiful waterways. As you cruise, you’ll pass some of Naples’ most stunning mansions in the Old Naples area, offering a glimpse of the city’s luxury waterfront living.
The tour is not only scenic but also an opportunity for wildlife sightings – keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, and diverse bird species that call these waters home. After the leisurely cruise, you’ll spend about an hour on Keewaydin Island, where you can search for seashells along the sandy shores or take a swim in the Gulf waters.
Be sure to bring your essentials, as Keewaydin has no facilities. Occasionally, vendor boats are available along the beach, offering snacks and drinks.
This eco-tour is an unforgettable way to explore Naples’ natural beauty and marine life. It’s also the perfect family outing in Southwest Florida.
➡️ Book your Eco-Shelling Tour to Keewaydin Island now!
13. Guided Electric Trike Tour Around Downtown Naples
For a fun and engaging way to explore Naples is to take a Guided Electric Trike Tour. It is perfect if you are looking to see the city from a unique perspective. You will meet at Tin City for this 90-minute tour. Your guide will take you through Naples’ historic downtown. There will be stops at the Naples Pier, Palm Cottage, Naples City Dock, and the beautiful Port Royal neighborhood.
Riding on electric trikes is easy and fun for the whole family. Plus, it lets everyone cruise through town and take in the sights. The tour is fully narrated, and a knowledgeable guide shares fascinating stories. You’ll also hear insights about Naples’ history, architecture, and coastal culture.
A trike tour is a memorable way to see why Naples is worth visiting. You and the kids will enjoy the fun, easy ride on the electric trikes.
➡️ Book your Naples Guided Electric Trike Tour now!
14. Sun-N-Fun Lagoon
Sun-N-Fun Lagoon in Naples is a very nice water park perfect for family fun! This kid-friendly spot has four pools, five exciting waterslides, a lazy river, a splash playground, and even a diving pool. You will appreciate the convenient amenities, including a concession stand, changing rooms, lockers, and restrooms. And it is across the street from the Golisano Children’s Museum.
The park’s hours vary by season: it’s open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout the summer, and weekends only from February through May and again from August through September. Be sure to check the latest hours on their website, especially as weather can sometimes affect availability.
➡️ Google Maps
15. Swamp Buggy Races
The Swamp Buggy Races in Naples are a one-of-a-kind experience if you are looking for some local adventure! Held at the Florida Sports Park, this thrilling event takes place three to four times a year, drawing crowds eager to watch the iconic buggies speed through the muddy swamp track.
Our son went to a race, and said it’s an exciting mix of skill and splashes. The drivers tackle mud pits and water-filled challenges while fans cheer them on. Kids and adults alike will be captivated by the big, unique vehicles and the fun, high-energy atmosphere.
Tickets go on sale 30 days before each race, so be sure to grab yours early for this unforgettable family outing!
➡️ Google Maps / Check out the website for schedule and tickets!
16. Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream
Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream in Naples offers a sweet treat with a side of science! Watching them make ice cream with liquid nitrogen is like seeing a live science experiment. The staff mixes fresh ingredients and then uses a blast of super-cold nitrogen to freeze it all right in front of you.
Kids are wide-eyed (including me) as clouds of mist swirl around the mixing bowls, creating a cool (and tasty!) lesson in chemistry. The end result? Deliciously creamy ice cream made just the way you like it. And it does not melt quickly, which is helpful in the Florida heat.
This is a perfect blend of fun and flavor, making it a memorable stop for your family.
➡️ Google Maps / Open Sunday to Thursday 12pm to 10pm, Friday and Saturday 12pm to 11pm
17. Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark
If you’re looking for a fun-filled day with the kids near Naples, consider visiting the Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark. You don’t have to stay overnight to enjoy all the fun – day passes are available!
With a full-day pass, you’ll get access to the waterpark plus extras like a game of Ten Paw Bowling, a round of mini golf, the adventure trail, and the ropes course. Half-day passes are also available for waterpark access only, making it easy to customize your visit.
Passes are limited each day, so be sure to make reservations to secure your spot for this family-friendly adventure!
➡️ Google Maps / Open Monday to Friday 10am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday 9am to 8pm
More Things to Do Near Naples with Kids
If you are looking for more fun family activities, please check out our article on the 33 Best Day Trips from Naples, Florida. You can take the kids to a spring training baseball game; ride an old school bus on an eco-tour at Babcock Ranch; visit Manatee Park in the cooler weather: or take an airboat ride through the Everglades. You can even take a boat ride to Keewaydin Island for a beach day on a barrier island. There are lots of things to do throughout Southwest Florida for the whole family!
Where to Stay in Naples with Kids
Naples offers several excellent family-friendly hotels, and two top choices are the Great Wolf Lodge and Naples Bay Resort & Marina.
The Great Wolf Lodge, newly opened in fall 2024, is an adventure-packed destination perfect for families. Known for its massive indoor water park, interactive games, and kid-centered activities, the Great Wolf Lodge keeps kids entertained from morning till night.
Spacious suites accommodate families comfortably, and the resort’s new partnership with Hilton Vacation Club allows club members to use their points for stays – a great perk for Hilton members.
The Naples Bay Resort & Marina is another fantastic option for families, blending resort luxury with the comforts of home. My family had a wonderful stay here, with spacious condo-style accommodations, multiple pools, a lazy river, and tennis courts.
Its prime location near Tin City and Fifth Avenue South gives easy access to shopping, dining, and scenic views along Naples Bay.
Both properties offer ample amenities for families, ensuring a memorable and fun-filled stay in Naples.
My Trip Planning Resources
These are the companies that I use when planning our trips:
– Flights: WayAway
– Hotel Reservations: Booking.com & Hotels.com
– Vacation Rentals: VRBO
– Portable Wi-Fi: Ryoko Pro
– Rental Cars: DiscoverCars.com
– Train Tickets: Rail Europe
– Tours: Viator, Get Your Guide and GuruWalk
– Travel Insurance: VisitorsCoverage
– Airport Lounge Access Program: Priority Pass
If you choose to buy through any of the provided links, we may receive a commission without any extra charges to you. Explore our Travel Resources page for additional service suggestions.
Best Time to Visit Naples
The best time to visit Naples, Florida with the family is between November and April. During these months, the weather is typically sunny and mild, with temperatures in the 70s and low 80s, making it perfect for outdoor adventures without the intense summer heat.
This season is ideal for exploring our beaches, zoos, and nature trails comfortably, and it aligns well with holiday breaks, which is great for families. Keep in mind it’s also the busiest season, so planning activities and accommodations in advance is a good idea.
Final Thoughts: Fun Things to Do in Naples, Florida with Kids
With so many exciting things to do, Naples is a fantastic destination for families seeking sun, fun, and adventure. From exploring nature on an eco-shelling tour, cruising around Primate Island at the Zoo to learning how to be a fire fighter in downtown Naples, there’s truly something for everyone.
Naples’ mix of outdoor activities, wildlife encounters, and kid-friendly attractions ensures your family will make unforgettable memories together. Even though we have lived in this area for over ten years, we are still finding more things to see and do with our family and friends.
Whether you’re here for a few days or an extended stay, Naples offers an abundance of family-friendly experiences that will have you looking forward to your next trip!
Please contact me if you have any questions about visiting Naples. Also, please refer to our Travel Planning services if you would like assistance in planning a trip.
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