Florida’s beaches are beautiful. But there are so many other wonderful places to explore during your stay!
East end of SE 23rd Ter
Cape Coral
Phone 239-549-4606
Kayak Shack (seasonal): 239-574-7395
Hours: Daily 8:00 am – dusk (year-round)
Kayak Shack: weekends only (Nov–May, 8 am – 4 pm)
At 365 acres, this brackish wetland area features a walking trail, visitor center, Veterans Memorial Area, and seasonal kayak rentals. Visitors can explore the preserve via boardwalks. Wildlife sightings may include eagles, ibis, herons, migratory birds, raccoons, and snakes.
Note: The area can be swampy at times – be prepared for mosquitoes and deer flies.
5505 Rose Garden Rd
Cape Coral
Phone 239-549-4606
This 97-acre park offers something for everyone – families, nature lovers, and pet owners. Walk along boardwalks through mangroves or explore sandy paths through salt marshes.
400 Santa Barbara Blvd
Phone 239-574-05588
www.sunsplashwaterpark.com
Southwest Florida’s largest waterpark with 14 acres of slides, pools, and attractions. Enjoy thrilling rides like Cape Fear, Zoom Flume, and Electric Slide, or relax on the lazy river. Perfect for all ages.
One Wildlife Dr
Phone 239-472-1100
www.fws.gov/JN_Ding_Darlling/about.html
Open 7:30 am – sunset (closed Fridays). A drive-through refuge with world-famous bird populations. Home to over 245 bird species, plus manatees, alligators, and more.
2787 N. Tamiami Trail (US 41)
Phone 800-282-5805
www.shellfactory.com
Large collection of shells and marine items. The nature park features over 400 animals including alligators, lemurs, birds, reptiles, and more. Additional attractions include a fun park, climbing wall, and bumper boats.
1851 Fowler St
Phone 239-690-2359
www.thebutterflyestates.com
An eco-attraction with hundreds of butterflies in a glass conservatory, plus café and gift shop.
2350 McGregor Blvd
Phone 239-334-7419
www.edisonfordwinterestates.org
Over 20 acres of botanical gardens and historic buildings including Edison’s laboratory and museum. Offers guided tours and educational exhibits.
3450 Ortiz Ave
Phone 239-275-3435
www.calusanature.org
A 105-acre site with museum, trails, aviaries, and a planetarium. Learn about local wildlife and enjoy educational programs.
2000 Cranford Ave
Phone 239-321-7420
www.i-sci.org
A hands-on science museum and aquarium with interactive exhibits for kids and adults.
17455 Summerlin Rd
Phone 239-481-9666
www.zoomersamusementpark.com
18 acres of rides, games, go-karts, mini golf, and family entertainment.
6000 State Road 31
Phone 800-500-5583
www.babcockwilderness.com
Enjoy a 90-minute swamp buggy eco-tour through natural Florida landscapes with wildlife like alligators, deer, and birds.
Manatee World:
5605 Palm Beach Blvd
Phone 239-693-1434
www.manateeworld.com
Manatee Park:
10901 SR 80
Phone 239-690-5030
www.leeparks.org
View manatees in their natural habitat, especially during winter months.
27180 Old 41 Rd
Phone 239-992-2591
www.evergladeswondergardens.com
An 80-year-old botanical jungle with rescued animals and birds.
5076 Annunciation Circle #104
Phone 239-434-5337
www.orangejeeptours.com
Guided eco-adventure tours through untouched Florida terrain with wildlife sightings.
1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd
Phone 239-262-5409
www.napleszoo.org
A conservation zoo with a wide variety of animals including giraffes, lions, and primates.
525 Newport Dr
Phone 239-642-8818
www.see-manatees.com
90-minute eco boat tours to see manatees, alligators, and birds up close.
300 Tower Rd
Phone 239-530-5940
www.rookerybay.org
110,000 acres of protected mangrove forests and wildlife habitats. Offers kayaking, tours, and cruises.
2003 Lion Country Safari Rd
Phone 239-793-1084
www.lioncountrysafari.com
Drive-through safari adventure with over 900 animals and a walk-through amusement park.
Great Places For Kids Adventures offers Great.