Naples is known for Gulf beaches, golf courses, and waterfront dining, but there is much more to explore beyond the usual vacation stops. Visitors can walk through tropical gardens, see an impressive collection of rare automobiles, paddle through mangrove forests, and venture into the Everglades.
Some of the best things to do in Naples highlight the natural environment and history that make Southwest Florida different from other beach destinations. Add these experiences to your itinerary when you are ready to discover another side of Naples.
Explore Naples Botanical Garden
Naples Botanical Garden is one of the city’s standout outdoor attractions. The 170-acre property focuses on plants and habitats from tropical and subtropical regions around the world, with cultivated gardens and natural areas to explore.
The Garden’s Preserve includes wetlands, pine flatwoods, and coastal scrub. More than 200 bird species have been spotted within the property, making it an interesting stop for travelers who enjoy wildlife as much as plants.
If you are staying in any of our Naples vacation rentals, the Garden offers a change of pace from a day at the beach. Check current hours and programming before visiting, especially since schedules can change seasonally.
See Rare Cars at Revs Institute
Revs Institute gives visitors a close look at automotive history. Its Miles Collier Collections feature more than 100 significant automobiles displayed across four themed galleries. The museum covers 80,000 square feet and three stories.
Many vehicles are preserved in their original condition, and the cars are displayed without protective barriers. Tickets must be purchased in advance, so this is one Naples attraction that requires a little planning.
Revs Institute is one of Naples’ hidden gems for visitors interested in engineering, racing, design, and automotive history.
Experience Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens combines wildlife viewing with a historic tropical garden. The site’s botanical history dates to 1919, while animals were first introduced to Caribbean Gardens in 1969.
Today, visitors can see animals including lions, giraffes, monkeys, bears, pythons, and giant anteaters along a paved path that winds for nearly a mile. The nonprofit zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
For families deciding where to stay in Naples, having attractions like the zoo within easy reach can add variety to a beach-focused vacation.
Paddle Through Southwest Florida’s Mangroves
For a closer look at Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystem, head onto the water at Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Guided kayak tours explore mangrove tunnels, mudflats, oyster reefs, bays, and creeks.
Wildlife sightings vary, but dolphins, manatees, rays, osprey, wading birds, and other animals may be seen in the reserve.
Keep the weather in Naples in mind when planning a paddle. Conditions can affect any outdoor excursion, so check the forecast and current tour information before leaving your Naples vacation homes for the day.
Look for Wildlife in the Everglades
A Naples vacation also puts you within reach of Everglades National Park. The park’s Gulf Coast entrance in Everglades City serves as a gateway to the Ten Thousand Islands, a maze of mangrove islands and waterways explored primarily by boat.
Everglades National Park supports more than 350 bird species and 40 mammal species, along with alligators, crocodiles, manatees, and many other animals. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but exploring this protected landscape offers a memorable look at South Florida’s natural environment.
Final Thoughts
Naples offers plenty to discover beyond its beaches. Botanical gardens, rare automobiles, wildlife encounters, mangrove paddling, and Everglades excursions can all bring something different to your Southwest Florida itinerary.
Choosing Southwest Florida vacation rentals with golf carts or other useful amenities can also make downtime at your rental part of the experience. Balance your favorite attractions with time to enjoy the property and surrounding community.
Book Your Naples Vacation Rental with ALL IN Property Management
At ALL IN Property Management, we help guests find the right home base for exploring Naples and Southwest Florida. Our professionally managed properties include options for golf trips, winter stays, family vacations, and longer seasonal visits.
Our signature ALL IN approach combines high-touch customer service with 24/7 availability. From choosing the right property to getting assistance during your stay, our team is here to make your Naples vacation easier. Browse our Naples vacation rentals and start planning your Southwest Florida getaway with ALL IN Property Management.
Sources
- Naples Botanical Garden: Visitor Information
- Naples Botanical Garden: The Preserve
- Revs Institute: Visitor Information
- Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens: About the Zoo
- Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens: History
- Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve: Kayak Tours
- National Park Service: Everglades National Park Visitor Centers
- National Park Service: Everglades Wildlife
