Visiting Naples with Kids? Do These 10 Activities

Family vacations are all about fun and relaxation… but planning that memorable family getaway is another story! It can be challenging to choose where to stay and what to do, especially if your kids enjoy different activities or are too young to enjoy certain attractions.

Fortunately, Naples is an extremely kid-friendly destination, with beautiful scenery and gourmet restaurants for mom and dad and exciting things to do for even the pickiest kids. From botanical gardens and zoos to the children’s museum and water parks, you can’t go wrong with selecting Naples as your family-friendly vacation spot. Check out our favorite things to do in Naples with kids for some vacation inspiration!

1. Greet Friendly Animals at the Naples Zoo

Nothing beats a trip to the zoo, especially if your kids are animal lovers. As one of the top things to do with kids in Naples, the Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is sure to delight. The experience is especially fun because the zoo is set within a tropical garden, making you feel like you’ve been immersed in the animals’ natural habitat. From primates and birds to alligators and cheetahs, a day at the zoo is a kid-friendly activity with something in store for the whole family.

2. Make a Splash at Sun-N-Fun Lagoon

All of the best things to do in Naples feature water and sun, and the city’s water park does not disappoint. Sun-N-Fun Lagoon is a family-friendly water park with features like a lazy river, water slides from easy to advanced, a splash ground, and plenty of chairs and umbrellas to lay back and soak up the sun. Entertain toddlers, teens, and any age in between.

3. Combine Learning and Playtime at the Golisano Children’s Museum

Naples is known for its year-round sunshine and pleasant weather, but that doesn’t mean we don’t get the occasional rainy day. Even if the weather doesn’t take a turn, you might just need a break from the hot sun! Bring your kids to the Golisano Children’s Museum, a must-see kids attraction in Naples. From the ABC Tot Lot (great for kids 0-3 years old) to the Art Studio, your kids will be entertained all day. This Naples museum offers great kids activities like the hedge maze, Inventioneer’s Lab, Journey Through the Everglades, and other exhibits.

4. Explore the Everglades on a Kayak Adventure

Kayaking is a wonderful family activity since older kids can paddle together while toddlers can ride with their parents. Everyone is sure to be amazed at the incredible landscape of the Florida Everglades, the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. There are so many places to explore! Paddle the 10,000 Islands and encounter wildlife like manatees, dolphins, beautiful birds, turtles, and other critters.

5. Visit Naples’ Best Beaches

It wouldn’t be a trip to Florida without a day at the beach. Treat your kids to some fun in the sun! White-sand beaches, warm, clear water, and shells galore make Naples an excellent family-friendly beach destination. Not to mention, many of the local beaches have playgrounds and other amenities like chair and umbrella rentals and concessions so there’s no need to overpack. We recommend visiting Delnor Wiggins State Park, Barefoot Beach Preserve County Park, and Clam Pass Beach Park. Don’t forget your mask and snorkel!

6. Sightsee from the Water

Water fun is a given on a Naples vacation with kids! Your whole family is sure to love taking a relaxing boat cruise along the coastline, especially at sunset. Not only will you see the city from an entirely different perspective, but you’ll also have the opportunity to snap your next holiday card photo. Bonus points for spotting dolphins!

7. Explore the Botanical Garden

Naples’ subtropical climate makes it the ideal place to grow beautiful plants from around the world. Wander 170 acres of lush gardens, restored natural habitats, and manicured walking trails. See cypress trees, orchids, and other exquisite plants and flowers. There’s even a children’s garden area for the little ones! Be sure to wear comfortable shoes so you can explore all the tranquility the Naples Botanical Garden has to offer.

8. Take a Day Trip to Everglades National Park

Naples is known for its close proximity to Everglades National Park, a must-see destination in Southern Florida. This 1.5-million-acre national park provides a vital habitat for rare plant and animal species, and it’s one of the most-visited national parks in the country. Mangroves, cypress groves, lush forests, and nature abound.

There are so many ways to explore the Everglades, no matter how young your kids are. From airboat and kayak tours to alligator experiences, and more, you can’t skip a trip to the Everglades. Get travel recommendations and book your experiences online in advance.

9. Stroll the Naples Pier

Stretch your legs and gear up for a beach day with a walk along the Naples Pier. Located at the west end of 12th Avenue South, this historic site boasts amazing views of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s also a great place to stock up on beach supplies and grab a quick bite to eat at the concession stand. Come early in the morning to spot dolphins.

10. All Aboard for the Naples Depot Museum

If you’ve got any little train enthusiasts you can’t miss the Naples Depot Museum, set in the city’s restored Seaboard Air Line Railway passenger station. Step back into the roaring twenties and see exhibits on trains, swamp buggies, wagons, and canoes. The Naples Train Museum is located on site, with interactive train models and rides that are sure to delight your kids.

Hopefully you’ve got plenty of ideas for your trip to Naples with kids. These fun things to do will keep the whole family entertained and make your Florida vacation one to remember. Read more about Everglades tour ideas from Naples.