Near Fort Myers: Discover Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens

Considered one of the best things to do near Fort Myers, FL, the Zoo at Caribbean Gardens in Naples is a must visit!

Famous for its picturesque beaches, lush parks, and lively culture, Fort Myers is a top destination in the Sunshine State. Throughout the year, this charming city attracts visitors with its outdoor adventures, delicious seafood, distinctive entertainment options, and exciting annual events that add a touch of culture and enjoyment to every visit.

However, one of the must-visit attractions while in Fort Myers is not actually in the city itself but in the neighboring city of Naples, just a 42-minute drive away. Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is an incredible place for unique animal encounters, set in a historic and spectacular lush environment — and it’s guaranteed that kids will love it!

Curious to learn more? In this blog, we’ll give you an overview of Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, highlight its main attractions, and share some helpful details.

Before we start, here’s a little about Us

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Ready for a unique outdoor exploration through this amazing attraction?

The Zoo

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is a vibrant family-friendly destination renowned for its commitment to wildlife conservation and education. Established in 1969, the zoo features a diverse array of animals, including big cats like lions and tigers, as well as primates, reptiles, and native Florida wildlife. One of the highlights is the “Primate Expedition Cruise,” a guided boat tour that offers an up-close view of monkeys and other animals in their natural habitats. Visitors can also enjoy interactive experiences like giraffe feeding, providing memorable encounters with these gentle giants.

The zoo is set within the stunning Caribbean Gardens. Established in the early 20th century, the gardens feature a diverse collection of tropical plants, flowers, and trees, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the Caribbean region. The landscape is designed to create a picturesque setting, with winding paths that allow you to explore various themed areas and discover unique flora. The garden also offers educational opportunities focused on conservation and horticulture, guided tours, special exhibits, and events that highlight the importance of preserving plant species and ecosystems.

Historical Tidbits

Originally as a small, privately owned zoo with a focus on conservation and education, Naples Zoo was established in 1969.  Over the years, the zoo expanded its animal exhibits and educational programs while preserving the lush botanical surroundings.

It was built on the grounds of Caribbean Gardens, a historic tropical garden created in the early 1900s by botanist and conservationist  Dr. Henry Nehrling. In 1919, Nehrling purchased the Naples property to escape the disastrous freeze that had impacted his plant collection in central Florida two years earlier. His new establishment, the renowned “Tropical Garden,” was among the first plant collections in Florida and occupied the northern area of what is now the Gardens. Many of his original plantings remain and inspire ongoing horticultural efforts.

Main Attractions & Activities in Naples Zoo

Animal Exhibits

Naples Zoo’s animal exhibits are designed not only to entertain but also to educate and inspire visitors to appreciate and protect wildlife. Some of the most captivating creatures you’ll have the chance to see up close include primates like capuchins, lemurs, and macaques, incredible reptiles such as snakes and turtles, and Florida’s native wildlife, including American alligators, panthers, and other species that are significant to the region’s ecosystem.

However, the big stars of the zoo are the big cats—lions, tigers, and jaguars—and the magnificent creatures in the African Safari Exhibit, such as zebras, meerkats, and giraffes. Other exhibits include an aviary filled with hundreds of colorful birds and the Farmyard Area, where children can interact with domesticated animals like goats and sheep.

Primate Expedition Cruise

No visit to Naples Zoo would be complete without embarking on this fantastic cruise. The Primate Expedition takes you on a short adventure (around 25 minutes) aboard a catamaran, exploring islands where primates thrive in natural habitats. During the ride, a professional guide provides interesting information about these enchanting creatures.

This cruise offers a rare chance to encounter three primary types of primates: monkeys, lemurs, and apes. With many of these species now considered endangered in their native regions, seeing them up close is an extraordinary experience.

Giraffe Feeding

Have you ever thought about feeding a giraffe? At Naples Zoo, this is possible! Many visitors say that getting personal with these gentle giants is a touching and memorable experience.

From a designated platform designed to bring you eye-to-eye with the giraffes, you’ll have the opportunity to feed them. The platform also offers a unique perspective, allowing you to observe their long necks and expressive eyes up close. This attraction not only provides a chance for a closer encounter but also lets you learn more about these fascinating animals while participating in their care. Staff members are typically on hand to share interesting facts about giraffes, including their behavior, diet, and conservation status.

Check the schedule so you can plan your visit around the Giraffe Feeding experience.

Boo at the Zoo (seasonal)

Boo at the Zoo is a popular Halloween extravaganza that takes place at the zoo. This family-friendly and fun-filled celebration features activities like trick-or-treating, where children can visit various stations throughout the zoo to collect candy and treats as they explore. There are also costume contests and themed decorations, with some animal exhibits decorated for the occasion. Also, special animal encounters and presentations tie into the Halloween theme, educating visitors about wildlife in an entertaining way. This is a great chance to experience the zoo in a very unique way.

The Caribbean Gardens

When visiting the zoo, checking out the historic Caribbean Gardens is a must. In reality, the two attractions complement each other—the lush gardens provide a tranquil backdrop for the zoo’s wildlife.

Caribbean Gardens is organized into various themed sections and features over 1,000 species of plants, including rare and endangered varieties, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the Caribbean region.

As you stroll through the gardens, you’ll see royal palms, chocolate plants, plumerias, hibiscus, and cannonball trees, while scenic walking paths offer opportunities to relax and immerse yourself in nature. Adding to the magical allure of this incredible attraction, the gardens attract various species of birds and butterflies and feature serene ponds. If you’re a plant and flower lover, you’ll also find educational signs that provide information about the plants, their origins, and their ecological significance.

Mission & Details

• Their mission: To inspire people of all ages to respect, value and help conserve wildlife and our natural world.
  
  
• Facilities: The zoo and gardens feature facilities like a gift shop selling cute souvenirs, educational materials, and local crafts, as well as dining options like Café Roar and Lakeside Café. The latter is close to the giraffe habitat, allowing you to relax with a delicious beverage in hand while watching the magnificent giraffes from a distance. There are picnic areas where you can enjoy meals in a scenic setting. Coolers and picnic lunches are welcome, but visitors are not allowed to bring their own alcoholic beverages (beer and wine are available for purchase).
  
  
• Guided tours: If you’d like detailed information about the zoo, a guided tour is available. An expert conservation educator will lead your group on an informative and engaging tour through the zoo. You can book a tour on their website.
  
  
• Ticket Prices: Admission prices vary for adults, children, and seniors. You can buy your tickets in advance on their website. Here’s a breakdown of the admission fees:
  
  

• Adult (Ages 13 – 64) — $26.95
  
  
• Child (Ages 3 – 12) — $17.95
  
  
• Infant (2 or under) — Free
  
  
• Senior (Ages 65+) — 25.95
  
  

• Hours of operation: The zoo typically operates daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The last admission into the Zoo is at 3:30 PM.
  
  
• Address: Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is located at 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd, Naples, FL 34102 — just South of Golden Gate Parkway on Goodlette Road.
  
  
• Parking: All Parking is FREE at Naples Zoo.

Discover Naples Zoo and Caribbean Gardens Just Minutes from Fort Myers

Do you like the idea of including Naples Zoo and Caribbean Gardens in your Fort Myers itinerary? Here are some other things you can do in Naples during a day trip from Fort Myers: 

Vanderbilt Beach

Vanderbilt Beach is a beloved destination in Naples, known for its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Visitors often come for the day to enjoy water sports or simply relax under the sun. The beach is also renowned for its stunning sunsets, making it a perfect evening hangout for couples and families alike.

Naples Pier

The historic Naples Pier is a must-visit, offering breathtaking scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a hotspot for fishing enthusiasts, with no fishing license required for pier fishing. The pier is also a prime location for dolphin watching, and its picturesque setting makes it a popular spot to catch Naples’ signature sunsets. A stroll down this iconic landmark offers both relaxation and a glimpse into the area’s history.

Tin City

Tin City is a unique waterfront shopping district with a rustic charm, offering a step back in time to Old Florida. Its historic buildings house a variety of boutiques, seafood restaurants, and specialty shops, making it a great place to explore for souvenirs or local goods. Visitors love the eclectic atmosphere and the opportunity to enjoy waterfront dining while watching boats pass by along the Gordon River.

Artis — Naples

As Naples’ cultural cornerstone, Artis — Naples is home to both the Baker Museum and the Naples Philharmonic. It’s a premier destination for art lovers and those seeking live performances, offering a wide array of art exhibits, concerts, and theatrical productions. Visitors can explore world-class art collections, attend symphony performances, or take in a Broadway show, making it a vibrant part of the city’s cultural scene.

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