Why Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is a Top Attraction Near Fort Myers

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

No vacation feels complete without a well-curated list of must-visit attractions. From the Colorado Rockies to the Outer Banks and Florida’s Emerald Coast, exploring a destination’s most popular spots lets you enjoy the best of what it has to offer.

If Fort Myers Beach is next on your list of vacation destinations, be sure to add the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens to your bucket list. Located in the neighboring city of Naples, just a 42-minute drive away, this must-see attraction offers unique animal encounters set in a historic, lush botanical garden.

Here’s a little something to spark your curiosity:

• The Zoo: Family-friendly destination blending wildlife with lush tropical gardens since 1969.

• What You’ll See and Do: Lions, tigers, primates, reptiles, Florida wildlife, giraffe feeding, and the Primate Expedition Cruise.

• Historical Tidbits: Originates from Dr. Henry Nehrling’s early 1900s tropical garden; expanded into today’s zoo.

• Animal Exhibits: From big cats and primates to Florida wildlife, reptiles, and a colorful aviary.

• Primate Expedition Cruise: A 25-minute guided boat ride circling islands with free-ranging primates.

• Giraffe Feeding: Eye-level encounters with giraffes on a raised feeding platform.

• Boo at the Zoo (seasonal): Halloween-themed fun with costumes, candy stations, and spooky animal encounters.

• Caribbean Gardens: Over 1,000 plant species, rare tropical trees, serene ponds, and flocks of butterflies and birds.

• Mission & Details: Focus on conservation and education; facilities include cafés, picnic areas, and gift shops. Tickets: Adults $26.95, Kids $17.95, Seniors $25.95. Open daily 9 AM–4:30 PM.
  
  

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

Ready for a unique outdoor exploration? Let’s dive in!

The Zoo

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens blends wildlife encounters with a lush tropical garden setting, perfect for families, animal lovers, and anyone who wants a day filled with wonder. Since opening in 1969, the zoo has grown into a place that champions conservation and education while keeping the experience exciting and interactive.

What You’ll See and Do

• 🦁 Big cats like lions and tigers, plus primates, reptiles, and native Florida wildlife.
  
  

• 🚤 Primate Expedition Cruise: a guided boat ride past monkey islands and other animals in natural habitats.
  
  

• 🦒 Giraffe feeding for those up-close, unforgettable animal moments.
  
  

• 🌴 Walk among 100-year-old tropical plants, towering trees, and colorful blooms in the historic Caribbean Gardens.
  
  

• 🌺 Guided tours, exhibits, and events focused on conservation and the importance of protecting ecosystems.

Historical Tidbits

Naples Zoo has grown a lot since it first opened its gates in 1969. What started as a small, privately owned zoo with a mission for conservation and education has expanded into a vibrant destination filled with animal exhibits, interactive programs, and lush surroundings that still honor its botanical roots.

How It All Began

• The zoo sits on the grounds of Caribbean Gardens, a tropical oasis dating back to the early 1900s.
  
  

• It was created by botanist Dr. Henry Nehrling, who moved his plant collection here in 1919 after a devastating freeze in central Florida.
  
  

• His “Tropical Garden” was one of Florida’s very first plant collections, and many of his original trees and plantings still thrive today.

Why It Matters

• The zoo is as much about plants as it is about animals, blending conservation, history, and natural beauty.
  
  

• Those early gardens continue to inspire horticultural projects, making it a living legacy that connects past and present.
  
  

Main Attractions & Activities in Naples Zoo

1. Animal Exhibits

Naples Zoo makes learning about animals exciting with exhibits that are equal parts fun and educational. You’ll get to see an amazing variety of creatures up close, each with its own story to tell.

Who You’ll Meet

• Primates: Capuchins, lemurs, and macaques showing off their playful personalities.
  
  

• Florida Wildlife: American alligators, panthers, and other native species that highlight the region’s ecosystem.
  
  

• Reptiles: Incredible snakes and turtles that captivate both kids and adults.
  
  

• Big Cats: The zoo’s stars, lions, tigers, and jaguars, are always a highlight.
  
  

• African Safari Exhibit: Zebras, meerkats, and giraffes bring the savanna to Florida.
  
  

• Aviary: Hundreds of colorful birds fill the air with movement and sound.
  
  

• Farmyard Area: A hands-on spot where kids can meet goats, sheep, and other gentle animals.

2. Primate Expedition Cruise

No trip to Naples Zoo is complete without hopping on this one-of-a-kind boat ride. The Primate Expedition is a 25-minute catamaran cruise that circles islands where primates live freely in natural-style habitats. Along the way, your guide shares fun facts and stories about these incredible creatures.

Why It’s Special

• Short but exciting boat ride (about 25 minutes) through the zoo’s lakes and islands.
  
  

• See monkeys, lemurs, and apes thriving in lush, open environments.
  
  

• A rare chance to get close to endangered species without cages or barriers.
  
  

• Professional guides keep the trip lively and educational with fascinating insights.
  
  

• Great for everybody: kids love spotting animals, and adults appreciate the conservation angle.

3. Giraffe Feeding

Yes, you can actually hand-feed a giraffe here, and it’s just as amazing as it sounds! Visitors often say this is one of the most touching moments of their zoo visit.

What Makes It Special

• A raised platform puts you eye-to-eye with these gentle giants.
  
  

• Get a close-up look at their long necks, velvet noses, and expressive eyes.
  
  

• Learn fun facts from staff about giraffe behavior, diet, and conservation.
  
  

• Perfect photo-op for a memory you’ll always smile at.

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

4. Boo at the Zoo (seasonal)

Halloween meets wildlife at this annual favorite. Boo at the Zoo turns the Naples Zoo into a festive, family-friendly adventure with candy, costumes, and just the right amount of spook.

What You’ll Love

• Trick-or-treat stations sprinkled throughout the zoo.
  
  

• Costume contests for kids (and grown-ups too)
  
  

• Animal encounters and themed presentations with a spooky twist.
  
  

• Exhibits dressed up in Halloween décor for extra fun.
  
  

• A unique way to see the zoo after dark, packed with seasonal spirit

The Caribbean Gardens

When you visit Naples Zoo, don’t miss the historic Caribbean Gardens, the lush green heart that makes the whole place feel extra magical. The gardens and the zoo truly complement each other, blending wildlife and nature into one vibrant experience.

What You’ll See While Strolling the Gardens

• 🌺 Over 1,000 plant species, including rare and endangered varieties.
  
  
• 🌴 Towering royal palms, fragrant plumerias and hibiscus, and unique finds like chocolate plants and cannonball trees.
  
  
• 🦋 Birds and butterflies that flock to the gardens, adding even more color and life.
  
  
• 🌊 Serene ponds tucked between winding paths for those stop-and-soak-it-in moments.
  
  
• 📚 Educational signs that tell the stories of each plant’s origins and ecological role.
  
  
  
  

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 in 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.

Wondering Where to Stay in Fort Myers Beach

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