Your Guide to the Best Things to Do in Naples, Florida
Introduction
Known for its world-class golf courses, high-end shopping, and stunning white-sand beaches, Naples, Florida is the epitome of a tropical paradise waiting for you to explore. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie, an art lover, or just looking to relax and unwind, this gem on Florida’s southwest coast has something for everyone. Our comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Naples, Florida will help you plan an unforgettable trip filled with authentic local experiences. So, let’s dive in and explore all Naples has to offer!
1. Soak up the Sun at Naples Beaches
There’s no denying that one of the biggest draws to Naples, Florida is its pristine, white-sand beaches. Not only do these beaches offer breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico, they’re also the perfect place for a variety of activities. From swimming and sunbathing to beachcombing and birdwatching, the opportunities are endless.
For instance, the iconic Naples Pier is a must-visit. The historic pier, originally built in 1888, is the city’s most famous landmark. Here, you can enjoy fishing, spot playful dolphins, or simply soak in the panoramic ocean views.
Then there’s the Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, a nature lover’s paradise. This park boasts one of the most pristine stretches of beach in Florida, excellent snorkeling conditions, and a multitude of bird species.
2. Explore the Local Cuisine
Naples, Florida is known for its unique blend of traditional Florida flavors and international culinary influences. From fresh seafood caught daily, to locally-grown produce used in mouthwatering dishes, to elegant dining establishments, the local cuisine will satisfy even the most discerning foodie.
Start your culinary exploration at Bleu Provence, an award-winning French restaurant that offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that changes daily to take advantage of the freshest ingredients. If you’re in the mood for seafood, Truluck’s Seafood, Steak, and Crab House offers a range of delectable dishes sourced from their own fisheries.
To experience the local food culture fully, consider taking a food tour. These tours not only give you a chance to sample a variety of dishes at different restaurants, but also offer insights into Naples’ history and culture.
Exploring the Natural Beauty of Naples, Florida
While Naples, Florida, is best known for its high-end shopping, sophisticated dining, and world-class golf courses, it’s also a haven for nature lovers. The city is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for those who love to explore the great outdoors. Let’s delve into some of the unmissable natural attractions in Naples.
Naples Botanical Garden
The Naples Botanical Garden is a 170-acre paradise featuring themed gardens that represent the culture and flora of the tropics. From the Asian Garden with its exotic plants and tranquil water garden to the Brazilian Garden with its modernist landscape, you’ll find yourself immersed in an oasis of beauty and tranquility. Children will love the interactive Smith Children’s Garden where they can play in a treehouse, water fountains, and even a butterfly house.
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
A little further afield, but well worth the drive, is the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. This 13,000-acre preserve is home to the largest remaining virgin bald cypress forest in the world. A 2.5-mile boardwalk meanders through marshland, prairie, and the impressive cypress forest, offering up-close views of the area’s wildlife, including alligators, white-tailed deer, and a variety of bird species.
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
Florida is famous for its beaches, and Naples is no exception. One of the top-rated in the area is Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park. This pristine, natural beach offers crystal clear waters, a bounty of shells, and a serene environment for relaxation. The park also offers opportunities for fishing, boating, picnicking, and bird-watching. Keep an eye out for dolphins and manatees that frequent the area!
Dive into Naples’ Rich History and Culture
While the natural beauty of Naples is enchanting, the city also boasts a vibrant cultural scene and rich history that deserve exploration.
Naples Historical Society’s Historic Palm Cottage
Step back in time with a visit to the Naples Historical Society’s Historic Palm Cottage. Built in 1895, this charming historic property is the oldest house in Naples and offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the house, view period furnishings, and explore the beautiful surrounding gardens.
Naples Depot Museum
The Naples Depot Museum is another site of historical interest. Housed in the city’s restored Seaboard Air Line Railway passenger station, the museum showcases the role of railroads in the development of Southwest Florida. It features exhibits filled with historic artifacts, antique train cars, and interactive displays that bring the region’s past to life.
The Baker Museum
Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss The Baker Museum, home to a diverse collection of contemporary and modern art. The museum’s 15 galleries showcase everything from American modernism to Asian art, and its outdoor sculpture garden is a must-visit. Besides its extensive permanent collection, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and special events.
Savoring Naples’ Cuisine
Naples, Florida, is a food lover’s paradise, with a plethora of dining options that cater to all tastes. The city is renowned for its fresh seafood, but its culinary scene offers much more.
Waterfront Dining
With Naples’ stunning coastal location, it’s no surprise that waterfront dining is a popular option. Restaurants like The Dock at Crayton Cove and M Waterfront Grille offer beautiful views alongside delicious seafood dishes. From watching the sunset over the Gulf while enjoying fresh stone crab, to having breakfast with a view of the marina, waterfront dining in Naples is an experience not to be missed.
Local Delicacies
While in Naples, be sure to try some local delicacies. Key lime pie, a classic Florida dessert, is a must-try, while conch fritters and grouper sandwiches are local favorites. Naples is also known for its farm-to-table restaurants, with establishments like The Local and Three60 Market focusing on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
World-Class Wine
For wine lovers, Naples does not disappoint. The city has a vibrant wine scene, with wine bars, tasting rooms, and even vineyards to explore. Sea Salt, with its extensive wine list featuring over 100 sea salt varieties, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Naples, Florida, with its blend of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, rich history, and culinary delights, offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, foodie, or art lover, you’re sure to find plenty to enjoy in this vibrant city.
Immerse Yourself in the Arts and Culture Scene
When in Naples, the arts and culture scene is not something to be overlooked. Naples takes pride in its rich heritage and vitality that is deeply rooted in every corner of the city.
The Baker Museum
Bearing a stunning modernist design, The Baker Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. It houses a comprehensive collection of contemporary and modern art pieces. Rotating exhibits allow returning visitors to see something new every time. Moreover, the museum is home to a diverse range of works from both local and international artists, showcasing various mediums from paintings, sculptures, installations, and more.
Naples Historical Society’s Historic Palm Cottage
If you’re into history, the Naples Historical Society’s Historic Palm Cottage is the perfect place for you. As Naples’ oldest house, it has been meticulously preserved and restored. A tour here will take you back in time, providing you with a glimpse of life in Naples during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The house is well-kept, with a beautiful tropical garden surrounding it, making it a peaceful and picturesque spot to relax and soak in some local history.
Naples Players Sugden Community Theatre
For live performances, the Naples Players Sugden Community Theatre is a must-see. This theatre is known for its top-notch performances, ranging from classic plays to modern musicals. The theatre is located in the heart of downtown Naples, making it a great spot to catch a show before or after dinner at one of the city’s fantastic restaurants.
Indulge in the Local Cuisine
Naples, Florida, is a food haven for many, offering a variety of cuisine that caters to every taste bud. The city is famous for its fresh seafood, which is often the star of most local dishes. But there’s more to Naples’ food scene than just seafood.
Turtle Club
For those who enjoy waterfront dining, Turtle Club is a popular spot. This restaurant is known for its exquisite seafood menu and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Their signature dish, the ‘Crunchy Grouper,’ is a must-try. The grouper fillet, coated in a light batter and fried until crispy, is served along with a tangy sauce, providing the perfect contrast of flavors.
Barbatella
If you’re in the mood for some Italian cuisine, head over to Barbatella. A charming and elegant establishment, Barbatella offers a wide variety of Italian dishes. Their pizza, made in a traditional wood-burning oven, boasts a perfect balance of crunch and chewiness, while their pasta dishes, made fresh daily, will surely satisfy your cravings.
Sweet Caroline’s Bakery
No meal is complete without dessert, and Sweet Caroline’s Bakery is just the place for that. Known for their homemade pastries, cakes, and cookies, this quaint bakery has something for everyone. Don’t forget to try their famous Key Lime Pie, a Florida favorite.
Experience Naples’ Natural Beauty
Naples is also known for its stunning natural landscapes. There are several parks and nature preserves within and around the city that nature lovers will certainly enjoy.
The Naples Botanical Garden
The Naples Botanical Garden is a 170-acre paradise, home to a myriad of plant species from around the world. The garden is divided into several thematic sections, each representing a particular region or ecosystem. Walking through the garden, you’ll encounter everything from tropical rainforests to desert landscapes.
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
For a more immersive nature experience, visit the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, a protected area that preserves a significant portion of the region’s wetlands. Here, you can take a stroll along the 2.5-mile boardwalk, where you could see alligators, otters, turtles, and a variety of bird species.
Whether you’re interested in arts and culture, food, or nature, Naples, Florida offers an array of activities and attractions that cater to all sorts of travellers. This gem of southwestern Florida is full of surprises waiting to be discovered and cherished.
Introduction
Known for its world-class golf courses, high-end shopping, and stunning white-sand beaches, Naples, Florida is the epitome of a tropical paradise waiting for you to explore. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie, an art lover, or just looking to relax and unwind, this gem on Florida’s southwest coast has something for everyone. Our comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Naples, Florida will help you plan an unforgettable trip filled with authentic local experiences. So, let’s dive in and explore all Naples has to offer!
1. Soak up the Sun at Naples Beaches
There’s no denying that one of the biggest draws to Naples, Florida is its pristine, white-sand beaches. Not only do these beaches offer breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico, they’re also the perfect place for a variety of activities. From swimming and sunbathing to beachcombing and birdwatching, the opportunities are endless.
For instance, the iconic Naples Pier is a must-visit. The historic pier, originally built in 1888, is the city’s most famous landmark. Here, you can enjoy fishing, spot playful dolphins, or simply soak in the panoramic ocean views.
Then there’s the Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, a nature lover’s paradise. This park boasts one of the most pristine stretches of beach in Florida, excellent snorkeling conditions, and a multitude of bird species.
2. Explore the Local Cuisine
Naples, Florida is known for its unique blend of traditional Florida flavors and international culinary influences. From fresh seafood caught daily, to locally-grown produce used in mouthwatering dishes, to elegant dining establishments, the local cuisine will satisfy even the most discerning foodie.
Start your culinary exploration at Bleu Provence, an award-winning French restaurant that offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that changes daily to take advantage of the freshest ingredients. If you’re in the mood for seafood, Truluck’s Seafood, Steak, and Crab House offers a range of delectable dishes sourced from their own fisheries.
To experience the local food culture fully, consider taking a food tour. These tours not only give you a chance to sample a variety of dishes at different restaurants, but also offer insights into Naples’ history and culture.
Exploring the Natural Beauty of Naples, Florida
While Naples, Florida, is best known for its high-end shopping, sophisticated dining, and world-class golf courses, it’s also a haven for nature lovers. The city is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for those who love to explore the great outdoors. Let’s delve into some of the unmissable natural attractions in Naples.
Naples Botanical Garden
The Naples Botanical Garden is a 170-acre paradise featuring themed gardens that represent the culture and flora of the tropics. From the Asian Garden with its exotic plants and tranquil water garden to the Brazilian Garden with its modernist landscape, you’ll find yourself immersed in an oasis of beauty and tranquility. Children will love the interactive Smith Children’s Garden where they can play in a treehouse, water fountains, and even a butterfly house.
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
A little further afield, but well worth the drive, is the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. This 13,000-acre preserve is home to the largest remaining virgin bald cypress forest in the world. A 2.5-mile boardwalk meanders through marshland, prairie, and the impressive cypress forest, offering up-close views of the area’s wildlife, including alligators, white-tailed deer, and a variety of bird species.
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
Florida is famous for its beaches, and Naples is no exception. One of the top-rated in the area is Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park. This pristine, natural beach offers crystal clear waters, a bounty of shells, and a serene environment for relaxation. The park also offers opportunities for fishing, boating, picnicking, and bird-watching. Keep an eye out for dolphins and manatees that frequent the area!
Dive into Naples’ Rich History and Culture
While the natural beauty of Naples is enchanting, the city also boasts a vibrant cultural scene and rich history that deserve exploration.
Naples Historical Society’s Historic Palm Cottage
Step back in time with a visit to the Naples Historical Society’s Historic Palm Cottage. Built in 1895, this charming historic property is the oldest house in Naples and offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the house, view period furnishings, and explore the beautiful surrounding gardens.
Naples Depot Museum
The Naples Depot Museum is another site of historical interest. Housed in the city’s restored Seaboard Air Line Railway passenger station, the museum showcases the role of railroads in the development of Southwest Florida. It features exhibits filled with historic artifacts, antique train cars, and interactive displays that bring the region’s past to life.
The Baker Museum
Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss The Baker Museum, home to a diverse collection of contemporary and modern art. The museum’s 15 galleries showcase everything from American modernism to Asian art, and its outdoor sculpture garden is a must-visit. Besides its extensive permanent collection, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and special events.
Savoring Naples’ Cuisine
Naples, Florida, is a food lover’s paradise, with a plethora of dining options that cater to all tastes. The city is renowned for its fresh seafood, but its culinary scene offers much more.
Waterfront Dining
With Naples’ stunning coastal location, it’s no surprise that waterfront dining is a popular option. Restaurants like The Dock at Crayton Cove and M Waterfront Grille offer beautiful views alongside delicious seafood dishes. From watching the sunset over the Gulf while enjoying fresh stone crab, to having breakfast with a view of the marina, waterfront dining in Naples is an experience not to be missed.
Local Delicacies
While in Naples, be sure to try some local delicacies. Key lime pie, a classic Florida dessert, is a must-try, while conch fritters and grouper sandwiches are local favorites. Naples is also known for its farm-to-table restaurants, with establishments like The Local and Three60 Market focusing on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
World-Class Wine
For wine lovers, Naples does not disappoint. The city has a vibrant wine scene, with wine bars, tasting rooms, and even vineyards to explore. Sea Salt, with its extensive wine list featuring over 100 sea salt varieties, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Naples, Florida, with its blend of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, rich history, and culinary delights, offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, foodie, or art lover, you’re sure to find plenty to enjoy in this vibrant city.
Immerse Yourself in the Arts and Culture Scene
When in Naples, the arts and culture scene is not something to be overlooked. Naples takes pride in its rich heritage and vitality that is deeply rooted in every corner of the city.
The Baker Museum
Bearing a stunning modernist design, The Baker Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. It houses a comprehensive collection of contemporary and modern art pieces. Rotating exhibits allow returning visitors to see something new every time. Moreover, the museum is home to a diverse range of works from both local and international artists, showcasing various mediums from paintings, sculptures, installations, and more.
Naples Historical Society’s Historic Palm Cottage
If you’re into history, the Naples Historical Society’s Historic Palm Cottage is the perfect place for you. As Naples’ oldest house, it has been meticulously preserved and restored. A tour here will take you back in time, providing you with a glimpse of life in Naples during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The house is well-kept, with a beautiful tropical garden surrounding it, making it a peaceful and picturesque spot to relax and soak in some local history.
Naples Players Sugden Community Theatre
For live performances, the Naples Players Sugden Community Theatre is a must-see. This theatre is known for its top-notch performances, ranging from classic plays to modern musicals. The theatre is located in the heart of downtown Naples, making it a great spot to catch a show before or after dinner at one of the city’s fantastic restaurants.
Indulge in the Local Cuisine
Naples, Florida, is a food haven for many, offering a variety of cuisine that caters to every taste bud. The city is famous for its fresh seafood, which is often the star of most local dishes. But there’s more to Naples’ food scene than just seafood.
Turtle Club
For those who enjoy waterfront dining, Turtle Club is a popular spot. This restaurant is known for its exquisite seafood menu and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Their signature dish, the ‘Crunchy Grouper,’ is a must-try. The grouper fillet, coated in a light batter and fried until crispy, is served along with a tangy sauce, providing the perfect contrast of flavors.
Barbatella
If you’re in the mood for some Italian cuisine, head over to Barbatella. A charming and elegant establishment, Barbatella offers a wide variety of Italian dishes. Their pizza, made in a traditional wood-burning oven, boasts a perfect balance of crunch and chewiness, while their pasta dishes, made fresh daily, will surely satisfy your cravings.
Sweet Caroline’s Bakery
No meal is complete without dessert, and Sweet Caroline’s Bakery is just the place for that. Known for their homemade pastries, cakes, and cookies, this quaint bakery has something for everyone. Don’t forget to try their famous Key Lime Pie, a Florida favorite.
Experience Naples’ Natural Beauty
Naples is also known for its stunning natural landscapes. There are several parks and nature preserves within and around the city that nature lovers will certainly enjoy.
The Naples Botanical Garden
The Naples Botanical Garden is a 170-acre paradise, home to a myriad of plant species from around the world. The garden is divided into several thematic sections, each representing a particular region or ecosystem. Walking through the garden, you’ll encounter everything from tropical rainforests to desert landscapes.
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
For a more immersive nature experience, visit the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, a protected area that preserves a significant portion of the region’s wetlands. Here, you can take a stroll along the 2.5-mile boardwalk, where you could see alligators, otters, turtles, and a variety of bird species.
Whether you’re interested in arts and culture, food, or nature, Naples, Florida offers an array of activities and attractions that cater to all sorts of travellers. This gem of southwestern Florida is full of surprises waiting to be discovered and cherished.