Located right in the Gulf of Mexico in southwest Florida, Naples is a high-end destination for thousands of people each year. The city is located in Collier County, one of Florida's most green and lush destinations. This guide is not only suitable for tourists but is also an excellent tool for Naples residents who are looking for a day of fun. Here are the best places to visit based on your favorite activity.
Outdoor or Indoor Things to Do
Naples is a place where you can find an adventure on land, in water, and on human-made masterpieces.
Here are some of the best outdoor or indoor things to do in Naples:
Visit a National Park or Reserve
With a wide part of Naples covered in vegetation, there is no shortage of animals to see and ecosystems to explore. Here are some of the most famous:
- Rookery Bay National Estuarine Reserve: Located on the most northern part of Florida's gulf coast, the Rookery Bay Reserve is one of the last remaining undisturbed mangrove estuaries. A visit to this beautiful reserve will reveal hundreds of the most endangered and rare bird species.
- Big Cypress National Reserve: This reserve is home to the Turner River where kayaking is a popular sport. Visitors can paddle their way along the river and into the Everglades forests for breathtaking views.
Visit a Museum or Gallery
To feel genuinely connected to Naples, you must first explore the history of how the area came up. With over six nationally acclaimed museums and 100 galleries, Naples holds the title "The No. 1 Art Town in America."
Von Liebig Art Center is one of the most treasured art community centers in Naples. The art center was established by the Naples Art Association to showcase the culture in Naples through art.
Fun Things to Do
Naples is the best place to be in Florida because there are so many fun things to do. Here are our top picks:
Go to Tin City
Tin City is truly a city within a city. There's always a lot of stuff to do. From the best affordable restaurants to shopping stalls and markets, Tin city is a place you must visit while in Naples.
Visit Some Wildlife
There are thousands of animals kept in zoos and sanctuaries all over Naples. Most of them are endangered or rare and in need of protection. Some of the best places to interact with animals include:
- Naples Zoo: This zoo is a tropical garden with over 70 species of animals.
- The Bird Gardens of Naples: This is a sanctuary for wild parrots in the Corkscrew Swamp area.
Things to Do in Downtown Naples
Downtowns is the hub of activity in Naples with numerous places to visit and stuff to do. Here are things to do in downtown Naples:
Take a Walk Along the Pier
A crucial part of visiting Naples, FL, is taking a walk on the pier. Built in 1888, the pier used to be a dock for cargo ships and passengers from all around the United States. It is now a beautiful place to relax and hang out by the water.
Go Shopping
Located just a few blocks from Fifth Avenue, Third Street is the best place to shop from high-end boutiques. The area is a picturesque place with stores such as Four Winds Gallery, Marissa Collections and even Jose Aragon Jewelers.
Unique Things to Do
Naples is a unique and unusual place to be with its numerous buildings and destinations. There's always a multitude of cool things to do. Here are some unique things only found in Naples:
Palm Cottage
Located at the intersection of 12th Avenue South and Gulfshore Boulevard, Palm Cottage is a frozen and unusual piece of Naples from the 1800s. The house is one of the oldest in the area and is an exemplary representation of what life was like way back.
Revs Institute for Automotive Research
If you're a fan of vintage cars and the history of automobiles, then the Revs Institute is a cool place to visit. The institute is home to some of the most popular cars from as far back as 1896 to as recent as 1995.
Romantic Things to Do in Naples
Choosing to have a romantic getaway in Naples is one of the best decisions for you and your partner. Here are some of the more pleasurable activities for couples:
1. Take A Scenic Drive
The Naples roads are packed with numerous adventurous things to see and places to stop. Always watch out for unique butterflies, deer and Florida panthers, which you will most likely encounter. Some of the most scenic routes include:
- Turner River Road
- Janes Scenic Drive
- Loop Road
Visit a Theater
Naples has some of the best theaters and shows that attract thousands of Florida residents every year. There are numerous types of shows for all sorts of couples. Some of the most famous theaters include:
Things to Do in Naples at Night
While Naples is an excellent area for enjoying the beach and playing golf during the day, there's a lot to be experienced at night. Here are some of the best things to do in Naples at night:
Go Out for A Drink or Food
Naples is home to numerous restaurants and bars that offer opportunities to try new drinks and exotic cuisines. Here are some great places:
- Caffé dell'Amor: Caffé dell'Amor is the best Italian restaurant and is highly rated by local celebrities, and this is not without good reason. The restaurant sits right along Gulf Shore Boulevard North, thus providing a calm and serene environment to enjoy a meal.
- 7th Avenue Social: The 7th Avenue Social is a haven for food lovers who enjoy handcrafted food and drinks. It is decorated in eclectic modern pieces and comfortable seating, making it a beautiful and comfortable relaxing place.
Visit the Seminole Casino Hotel
Owned by the famous Seminole Tribe of Florida, the Seminole Casino offers a variety of table games and slot machines for casino lovers.
Things to Do in Naples for Young Adults
Naples is a hub of both local and international events that attract thousands of young people each year. Here are some of the most popular things to do in Naples for young adults:
The Winter Wine Festival
The Naples Winter Wine festival is a 3-day charity event held every year to raise funds for underprivileged children in Collier County. The festival also features high-quality wine from over 20 wineries all around the world. The winter wine festival is also known to attract numerous celebrities who make it a highly anticipated social event.
Enjoy the Sun at the Beach
If there's one thing that young adults love, it's the beach. There are thousands of beaches in Florida; however, Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is one of the most beautiful you'll ever come across.
Things to Do in Naples with Kids
Naples is a family-friendly city with hundreds of things for both toddlers and teenagers. Here are some things to do in Naples with kids:
Attend a Christmas-Themed Event
Christmas is a time when Naples comes around with events all through December. The Christmas Boat Parade is one of the best and most exciting things to do in Naples with kids.
Held in early December, the Christmas Boat Parade on Naples Bay is a colorful and beautiful event for Naples kids. The event is a chance for boats along the bay to light up the Naples night sky in an array of colors.
Attend a Sports Game
The children of Naples are highly talented and ambitious individuals who someday hope to play for teams all around the world.
The FBL National Championship, a five-day event, is a celebration of top youth football players from all over the United States. The championship is also a place where upcoming local players between the 6th and 8th grades showcase their talents.
Free and Cheap Things to Do
Naples may generally be a high-end area; however, there are always free and inexpensive things to do wherever you turn. Here are some of the most pocket-friendly places:
Watch Some Live Entertainment
There's always live entertainment on most street corners and even in malls. Some of the best places include:
- Third Street South
- Village shops on Venetian Bay
- Fifth Avenue South
Take A Bike Ride
Bikes are always available for hire throughout the city. You can then explore the area on your own or get a bicycle tour at a very affordable price.
Whether you're a lone traveler looking to explore Florida or a family of 5 on a road trip, Naples is a city for every kind of person. It caters to both a fast-paced lifestyle and a relaxed and slow way of life. The weather is favorable, with over 300 sunny days each year for outdoor activities and fun. Naples, FL, is truly a perfect destination.