4 minute read
A Desired Destination
Discover scenic wonders and extraordinary experiences for every type of adventure you can imagine.
By Vanessa Molina Santamaria
Since its humble beginnings in 1886, the City of Naples has flourished as one of South Florida’s top destinations. First established by General John S. Williams and Walter Haldeman from Louisville, Kentucky, the town quickly grew to become a premier beach and resort destination. Whether you’re looking for world-class shopping, mouthwatering dining experiences, tropical shores, or exciting activities, Naples has you covered.
Here are a few things in and around Naples you won’t want to miss.
Travel Back in Time
Just one block east of the iconic Naples Pier, Palms Cottage is a must-visit for the history buff in your group. The Naples Historical Society has preserved the cottage just as it was when a newspaper publisher from Louisville known as Walter Haldeman called it home in 1895.
Discover the Forest
The Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a short drive inland and a must-see for amateur arborists. Home to the world’s largest remaining old-growth Bald Cypress Forest, the sanctuary’s incredible old trees are relatives of the redwood and reach heights of more than 130 feet. A well-maintained boardwalk provides accessible passage through the swamp.
Airboat Cruises
Everglades National Park is the premier location for an authentic Southern experience: an airboat tour. Wading birds, dolphins, manatees, and even alligators are just some of the many animals you might see while exploring the “sea of grass” on a thrilling airboat adventure.
Sail into the Sunset
Naples offers a wide variety of sightseeing and sunset cruises, perfect for those looking for a tamer water excursion. It’s easy to spend a day in Naples learning about the city’s past and taking in the natural beauty without ever leaving the water. With so many options — from daytime sightseeing to sunset dining excursions — cruising around Naples on a boat is a must-do experience.
Stroll the Beaches
Naples is surrounded by miles of stunning white-sand beaches, waiting for you to explore. Keep a lookout for precious shells, as you can collect many beautiful ones here. You may even find a spotted, cream-colored junonia, one of the rarest shells in the world and home to deepsea slugs. These shells are usually found on neighboring islands after a hurricane or tsunami, but you may get lucky!
Visit the Museums
If a bit of cultural enrichment is on your docket, visit the Marco Island Historical Museum, where you can learn about the Calusa Indians who used to inhabit the land. The Naples Holocaust Museum is a powerful remembrance of a dark time in history and provides a meaningful connection to many residents of Southwest Florida. Many other captivating museums dot the city, so be sure to check out the list of our top picks in the Arts & Culture feature.
Explore the Wildlife
The Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens offers all the amenities of a big city zoo but brings you closer to animals in a beautiful tropical setting. The zoo is home to Athena, a rare Florida panther who was rescued as a kitten from the Big Cypress National Preserve in 2017. For even more family fun, visit the Conservancy of Southwest Florida and its interactive nature center.
Taste the Flavors
Have a foodie in your group? The seafood here is fresh and second to none. Be sure to try the grouper sandwich, a local delicacy of Naples. Try the delicious local dishes as well as mouthwatering global cuisine that is sure to whet your appetite. You’ll also find breweries, lounges, and cigar bars with a unique flair for a more relaxed, casual atmosphere.
Shop ’til You Drop
You’ll have no trouble checking off your shopping list in this world-class destination. With a large variety of local shops, top names, and vintage finds, the Naples shopping scene has something for everyone. The two main shopping areas are Third Street South in the heart of Old Naples and Fifth Avenue South for a sophisticated mix of boutiques, bistros, and jewelers. Don’t miss the growing Naples Design District in downtown Naples for art, antiques, and other unique finds.
Not sure where to start? Your hotel concierge can recommend tours and activities all around Naples and beyond, or you can set out on your own for adventure and excitement.
