The program runs from Armed Forces Day (Saturday, May 16) through Labor Day (Monday, September 7, 2026) — giving military families an entire summer of discovery at no cost.

Whether you’re living in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, Bonita Springs, or anywhere in between, these local participating venues are ready to welcome your family this summer.

Blue Star Museums is a national partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), Blue Star Families, and the U.S. Department of Defense — a collaboration that has connected military families with America’s cultural heritage every summer since 2010. Find the full, searchable list of venues at arts.gov/BlueStarMuseums. New locations join throughout the summer, so check back regularly.

Who Qualifies for Blue Star Museums Free Admission?

Free admission through Blue Star Museums is available to currently serving U.S. military members and up to five family members. Eligible branches and designations include:

• Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Space Force
• Reserves and National Guard (regardless of activation status)
• U.S. Public Health Commissioned Corps
• NOAA Commissioned Corps

Does the service member need to be present? No. Family members may visit on their own using a valid dependent ID. The active-duty service member does not need to be with them — this applies even if a spouse is deployed.

What ID Do You Need?

Show one of the following at the door:

• Geneva Convention Common Access Card (CAC)
• DD Form 1173 (military dependent ID)
• DD Form 1173-1 ID
• Next Generation Uniformed Services (Real) ID card

Important: Blue Star Museums covers general admission only. Special exhibits, IMAX films, or events with separate pricing may not be included. Check each venue’s website before your visit.

Blue Star Museums in Lee & Collier Counties — 2026 Participants

Here are the confirmed Blue Star Museum participants serving Southwest Florida families this summer, listed alphabetically. Always verify summer hours on each venue’s website, as schedules may vary from the regular season.

Lee County

IMAG History & Science Center — Fort Myers

Fort Myers’ hands-on interactive museum — formerly known as the Imaginarium — brings science and local history to life through immersive exhibits, live animals, and engaging experiences designed for curious kids and families.

📍 2000 Cranford Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33916
🌐 theimag.org

Collier County

Artis—Naples, The Baker Museum — Naples

Southwest Florida’s leading fine art museum, The Baker Museum features 16 galleries of modern and contemporary works, major traveling exhibitions from world-renowned artists, and an acclaimed permanent collection — all on the stunning Artis—Naples cultural campus in Pelican Bay.

📍 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples, FL 34108
🌐 artisnaples.org/baker-museum

Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (C’MON) — Naples

One of the finest children’s museums in Florida, C’MON is a 38,000-square-foot, hands-on learning playground packed with interactive exhibit galleries and STEAM-focused programs. Kids can become farmers, veterinarians, and world travelers — all in one afternoon.

📍 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples, FL 34109
🌐 cmon.org

Veterans History Museum — Naples

This free museum (formerly the Museum of Military Memorabilia) displays military uniforms, artifacts, and memorabilia spanning American conflicts from World War II through present day.

📍 3331 Tamiami Trail E, Naples, FL 34112
🌐 www.veteranshistorymuseumnaples.org

Naples Botanical Garden — Naples

A world-class 170-acre botanical sanctuary featuring lush gardens inspired by tropical regions across the globe — from the Caribbean to Asia to Brazil. A peaceful, gorgeous outing the entire family can enjoy, with a summer schedule that keeps hours comfortable for Florida heat.

📍 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples, FL 34112
🌐 naplesgarden.org

Blue Star Museums 2026 — Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Blue Star Museums program?

Blue Star Museums is a national initiative that provides free general admission to active-duty U.S. military personnel and their families at participating museums, botanical gardens, science centers, zoos, and more across all 50 states. It is a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and the Department of Defense, and has run every summer since 2010.

When does the Blue Star Museums program run in 2026?

The 2026 program runs from Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 16, 2026, through Labor Day, Monday, September 7, 2026.

How many museums participate in Blue Star Museums nationwide?

More than 2,000 museums and cultural institutions participate each year across all 50 states, Washington D.C., Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. New venues can join throughout the summer, so the list continues to grow after the May launch.

Can military spouses visit without the service member?

Yes. Family members may visit any Blue Star Museum independently using a valid military dependent ID (DD Form 1173 or 1173-1). The active-duty service member does not need to be present, and this applies even if the service member is currently deployed.

Does Blue Star Museums cover special exhibits or IMAX films?

The program covers regular general admission only. Special exhibits, premium experiences, or events priced separately from general admission may not be included. Always confirm with the specific venue before your visit.

Where can I find all Blue Star Museums near me?

The full searchable map of participating venues is available at arts.gov/BlueStarMuseums. You can search by state or city. New locations are added regularly throughout the summer.

Make the Most of Your Summer in Southwest Florida

The Blue Star Museums program is one of the best-kept summer secrets for military families — and now you know about it. From the art galleries of Pelican Bay to the wetlands paths of the Naples Botanical Garden, from hands-on science at IMAG to the WWII stories at the Naples Airport, there’s a full summer of exploration waiting right here in our own backyard.

Be sure to check arts.gov/BlueStarMuseums before each outing, additional Southwest Florida venues may join the program as the summer goes on. And always confirm hours and any reservation requirements directly with the venue, as summer schedules in Southwest Florida can differ from the regular season.

To every military family in Lee and Collier counties — thank you for your service. Southwest Florida Family is proud to share resources like this one, and we hope your summer is full of adventure, connection, and discovery.

Sources: National Endowment for the Arts (arts.gov), Blue Star Families (bluestarfam.org), and individual venue websites. Program details current as of May 2026; always verify at arts.gov/BlueStarMuseums before visiting.

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We verified current online offers where possible. Days, ages, purchase requirements, and participating locations may vary.

APPLEBEE’S

5082 Airport Pulling Rd. N., Naples
239-434-7744 • applebees.com

8043 Dani Dr, Fort Myers
239-939-5569 • applebees.com

2228 Del Prado Blvd South, Cape Coral
239-458-5155 • applebees.com

15151 N. Cleveland Avenue, North Fort Myers
239-995-7999 • applebees.com
Kids’ menu meals for ages 12 and younger are $1.99 on Sundays. Some locations also offer “Kids Eat Free” Tuesdays with purchase of an adult entrée (varies by franchise). Dine-in only.

BEEF O’BRADY’S

7385 Radio Rd., Naples
239-348-2100 • beefobradys.com/naples
Kids Combo Sundays mean that kids 12 & under get a meal for $1.99 with the purchase of an adult entrée. Dine-in only.

BURNTWOOD TAVERN

10035 Gulf Ctr., Fort Myers
239-288-4068 • burntwoodtavern.com/fortmyers
One free kid’s meal for 12 & under with each adult entrée purchased every Monday.

DENNY’S 

3871 Tamiami Trl., Naples
239-427-1921 • dennys.com/naples

9340 Marketplace Rd, Fort Myers
239-768-5488 • dennys.com/fl/fort-myers
Kids eat FREE every Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. with purchase of an adult meal. At select Denny’s locations, kids can eat free every night of the week with the purchase of 2 adult entrées at $6 or more.

FAMOUS DAVE’S BAR-B-QUE

12148 South Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers
239-690-3283 • famousdaves.com/fortmyers
Every Tuesday, kids can enjoy a Lil’ Wilbur Meal on the house with the purchase of an adult entrée.

IHOP

1921 Davis Blvd, Naples
239-793-0704

6631 Dudley Dr., Naples
239-643-7500

27240 Bay Landing Dr., Bonita Springs
239-949-4340

www.ihop.com

Kids eat free every night of the week from 4 pm–10 pm with the purchase of an adult meal.

MILLER’S ALE HOUSE

6320 Hollywood Dr., Naples
239-591-0125 • millersalehouse.com/northnaples

6827 Collier Blvd., Naples
239-213-3604 • millersalehouse.com/southnaples

22810 Via Villagio, Estero
239-484-5687 • millersalehouse.com/estero
Kids eat free on Tuesdays with the purchase of a $10 food item. 

MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL

6434 Naples Blvd., Naples
239-594-0065 • moes.com/naplesblvd

7335 Radio Rd., Naples
239-352-1212 • moes/radiord

1016 Immokalee Rd., Naples
239-593-4998 • moes/immokaleerd

23050 Via Villagio, Estero
239-948-9071• moes.com/estero

Weekly free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult meal for Moe’s Rewards members. 

PERKINS RESTAURANT & BAKERY

3585 Gateway Ln., Naples
239-596-0700 • perkins.com/naples

1551 Del Prado Blvd. S., Cape Coral
239-984-6697 • perkins.com/capecoral

20320 Grande Oak Shoppes Blvd., Estero
239-498-8773 • perkins.com/estero

Kids eat free from 4pm-9pm on Tuesdays & Saturdays.

PINCHERS CRAB SHACK

1200 5th Ave. S., Naples
239-434-6616 • pinchers.com/naplestincity

28580 Bonita Crossings Blvd., Bonita Springs
239-948-1313 • pinchers.com/bonita springs

One free kid’s meal every day with the purchase of adult entrée.

RIB CITY

9191 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples
239-591-3500 • ribcity.com/northnaples

621 North 15th St., Immokalee
239-657-4003 • ribcity.com/immokalee

10431 Corkscrew Commons Dr., Estero
239-949-1006 • ribcity.com/estero

Kids eat free with the purchase of each adult meal every Monday-Wednesday, 2-6 pm. 

Ruby Tuesday

9001 Park Royal Dr., Fort Myers
239-267-898 • rubytuesday.com
Kids 12 and under eat free with the purchase of each adult meal every Tuesday after 5 p.m. and all day on Friday. Dine-in only.

 Always check websites or call the restaurant prior to visiting, as promotion details can change.

The post Where Kids Eat For Free (or at a Discount) in Collier and Lee Counties appeared first on SWFL Family.

The Collier Children’s Advocacy Center (Collier CAC) holds its annual “Pinwheels at the Pier” event on Friday, April 3, at 8 a.m., at Lowdermilk Park, 1301 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples. The event marks National Child Abuse Prevention Month and is free and open to the public.

Pinwheel gardens sprout up all over the U.S. each April to symbolize every child’s right to a safe and happy childhood. Pinwheels at the Pier is thought to be the largest pinwheel garden in the country, and the only one planted on a tropical beach.

Now in its 10th year, the pinwheel garden takes a unique art form, each created by a different team of volunteers under the direction of Collier CAC, The Children’s Advocacy Center of Collier County. In prior years it has bloomed as a giant pot of flowers, a heart embraced by loving hands, and an undulating silver and blue ribbon along the shore. In 2023, it was a giant palm tree. In a gentle breeze with sunbeams dancing on the shiny metallic pinwheels it gave the illusion of swaying feathery fronds. The sparkle is visible more than a mile along the beach in each direction.

The design is traditionally secret until the morning of the event. Early morning walkers can watch it evolve and guess what it will be. The child-friendly display makes a memorable family selfie spot, and a supply of pinwheels is kept aside for children drawn to the sparkle who would like to plant one in the garden.

Planting begins around 8 a.m. and continues until noon. Beachgoers, members of the media, law enforcement, and several local children’s support agencies stop by to plant a pinwheel. Afterwards, the pinwheels are gathered up to be re-imagined as next year’s creation. The pinwheel team ensures that nothing remains except footprints and seashells. 

To learn more about “Pinwheels at the Pier” or to purchase a pinwheel, visit caccollier.org/patp.

“Their plight is often invisible.”

“Unlike many nonprofit organizations, we aren’t able to put faces to the need,” says Jackie Stephens, CEO of Collier CAC. “Our work is privacy-driven for the children’s safety.  So, this colorful, artistic approach is our way to spotlight the often-invisible plight of abused children and the services we provide. Pinwheels at the Pier generates surprise and delight, resulting in new awareness and more children being helped.”

“As a community we can all become more alert.”

  “It’s always a beautiful experience.” says popular NBC-2 anchor Peter Busch, who has been a supporter of Collier CAC’s work for nearly a decade and often comes to give a dedication. “As the parents of three daughters, my wife, Rachel, and I are acutely aware of the dangers children can face, even within a family or from trusted adults in their lives. We take our responsibility very seriously to provide a safe and happy place to grow up. As a community we need to know that child advocacy organizations like CAC are available, at no cost, day or night, 24/7, and my hope is that we all become more alert to the plights of children in crisis. That’s why I’m honored to be part of this awareness event every April.”  

About the CAC

Collier CAC is a 501(c)3 immediate response facility serving victims of physical abuse, sexual abuse or neglect. Its medically directed Child Protection Team (CPT), therapists, counselors, and advocates assist over 2,500 children and their family members each year. While they come from all socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds, they share a common experience of lasting emotional scars. CAC often works with a child for several years. To learn more about Collier CAC or to become involved, visit CACcollier.org. To report abuse, call 1.800.962.2873 

The post Pinwheels at the Pier to Commemorate National Child Abuse Prevention Month is on April 3, 2026 appeared first on SWFL Family.

Before you book, check age minimums, safety requirements, and summer heat policies.

Where can we do family-friendly trail rides in Naples?

If your child dreams of riding beyond the arena, Naples has options for guided trail experiences.

Rusty Daisy Ranch (Naples)

Rusty Daisy Ranch is the only place where guests can ride trails through the Picayune State Forest. Owner Michelle Bock describes it as “a nice beginner friendly trail ride,” adding, “We cover about two miles of trails. They see all kinds of wildlife.”

One mom, Carrie Christopher, loves trail riding with her daughter Ava, 11: “It is an unbelievable experience… There is nothing like riding a horse in the wild, open and free. It is an unbelievable thing to do as a family.” Ava agrees: “It’s quiet and peaceful and the horses love nature.”

Rusty Daisy’s summer camps are especially immersive: kids ride in the ring and on trails (English, western, and bareback), groom horses, learn horsemanship and barn management, meet the farrier, try obstacle courses, and build new riding skills. “It is very immersive,” Bock said.

West Coast Blessed Ranch (Naples)

West Coast Blessed Ranch offers a two-hour trail ride experience that begins with an introduction and time with the horses, followed by an hour of riding through woods near the farm. “We have really calm horses,” owner Antonio Medina said. The ranch also has a bunny pen where guests can pet and feed rabbits. (Lessons are available; no summer camps.)

Which Naples programs are best for confidence-building and inclusive riding?

For families seeking an inclusive environment—especially when your child benefits from extra support—Naples has a standout option.

Naples Therapeutic Riding Center (Naples)

During most of the year, Naples Therapeutic Riding Center provides lessons for children and adults with special needs. In the summer, camps are open to everyone, giving kids the chance to learn alongside children of all abilities. “It is inclusive,” said Christian Vanorsdale, the center’s director of programs, marketing, and outreach. “It is a great time for them to step into their world.”

Campers ride, do crafts, enjoy guest speakers, cool off on a water day, and show off new skills on a final show day. For more inclusive camp ideas across the region, see Local Summer Camps for Children with Special Needs.

Where can kids find “extras” like pool time, western riding, or parent-and-child programs?

Some equestrian camps add special experiences that can be a big win for younger riders or kids new to horses.

Reddawn’s Ranch of SWFL (Naples)

Summer riding is hot—so Reddawn’s Ranch of SWFL adds a swimming pool break. Campers brush horses, clean hooves, bond with the animals, ride, make crafts, play games, swim, and cool down with snow cones.

Owner Cheyenne Bechtol says her specialty is western riding: “We do barrel racing and [pole bending]. We teach anyone from beginners to those that want to go to shows and compete.”

Cornerstone Farm South (Naples)

Cornerstone Farm South offers a “Mom and Me” program for ages 4–6, designed for kids who want to experience horses with a parent. “There are a lot of parents that want to be hands-on and involved,” owner Leslie Terry said.

Cornerstone also has a volunteer and mentoring pathway. Riders who show strong work ethic can begin volunteering as young as age 10. “We want to build responsibility and encourage those who want to learn more horsemanship,” Terry said. Four high school students per year are chosen for paid internships paired with industry professionals.

Summer camp groups are divided by skill level, with curriculum tailored to interests and ability. “We are not cookie cutter,” Terry stressed.

Whistling Dixie Farms (Naples)

Whistling Dixie Farms offers lessons and summer camp. Owner Julie McFalls says, “A typical day consists of crafts, horse care, horse training, and riding.” (Camp details are typically announced in spring.)

Weather Watch Performance Horses (Naples)

Andy and Christina Wilson, owners of Weather Watch Performance Horses, teach lessons to children ages 10 and up. (No summer camps.)

What’s available in Bonita Springs for lessons, camps, and pony programs?

Bonita Springs has two kid-focused options—one known for a pony-centered Saturday program and one featuring equine vaulting.

Providence Equestrian Center (Bonita Springs)

Providence Equestrian Center offers Pony Pals, a Saturday program where children groom and tack, ride, learn horsemanship, and enjoy crafts and games. Dana Marino, 11, says, “Riding is good because you get to bond with the horses.” Her mother, Amanda, adds, “It’s great for her confidence… it teaches responsibility.”

In summer, children in grades K–8 can attend themed weekly camps (examples include Christmas in July and carnival). Providence has an air-conditioned building for breaks and a covered arena for riding in the shade. Camp may include a water day, bareback riding, and time with farm animals like chickens, goats, pigs, and cows.

Faith Garcia, 10, a long-time camper, says, “There is a lot of stuff to do here… You learn about tack and the horses’ emotions and how to tell how the horses are feeling.” Owner Heather Cassese adds that hard-working students may have opportunities to volunteer and work for riding credits.

Florida Everglades Equestrian Center (Bonita Springs)

Florida Everglades Equestrian Center highlights equine vaulting—gymnastic-style movement on a horse—as a signature offering. “The equine vaulting sets us apart,” owner Joanna Sime said. Vaulting is available during lessons, camps, and birthday parties.

During summer camp, children ages 6–14 may enjoy lessons, horsemanship, crafts, equestrian games, scavenger hunts, swimming, and vaulting, ending with a horse show where they demonstrate new skills.

Where can kids ride in Lee County (Cape Coral and North Fort Myers)?

Lee County families can find robust lesson programs and camps, including certified instruction and scholarship support.

Saddlewood Horse Club (Cape Coral)

Saddlewood Horse Club offers one of the most extensive programs for kids, with certified instructors teaching both English and western riding. Lessons include riding, grooming, and horsemanship and are listed at $60 per hour. Every other month, Saddlewood hosts Horse Interaction Day—an entry-level way to introduce kids to riding at a lower cost. “It is just a fun day at the farm,” owner Christina Sdrenka said.

Saddlewood also offers birthday parties (with an air-conditioned house), a small petting zoo (bunnies, miniature goats, and mini horses), and summer camps with covered-arena riding, crafts, games, and skill lessons—including equestrian vaulting. Sdrenka says vaulting is “a wonderful way to develop coordination, balance, strength, and creativity while working in harmony with the horse.”

Expect lots of horseback games during camp—egg-and-spoon races, obstacle courses, relay races, and more. “We have a humongous amount of games we play on horseback,” Sdrenka said. “Especially for young kids, it is a fun way to learn.”

Gregory Ranch (North Fort Myers)

Gregory Ranch is a small family-owned ranch offering lessons, homeschool classes, camps, and events. Owner Aslin Gregory also runs Hoofed Heroes, a nonprofit that provides summer camp scholarships. “We try to make it so all kids can go,” she said. “I come from a low-income family so this is very important to me.”

Campers ride in the ring and around the property, interact with chickens and goats, play indoor and outdoor games, make crafts, and swim in a pool. Gregory describes the camp structure: “We do stations: grooming, riding, all things horses, morning chores.” She adds an important reminder for new riders: “They are big majestic beautiful animals, but they are also a lot of hard work.”

The ranch also hosts seasonal events such as Rider Reindeer (a holiday fundraiser) and a fall Trot or Treat event, plus a Trailblazing Teens program focused on community service.

What should I ask before signing up for horseback riding lessons or camp?

Use this quick checklist when you call or email. A few minutes now can prevent surprises later—especially during summer.

• Age and skill level: What ages do you accept, and do you group riders by ability?
• Safety requirements: Do riders need their own helmet and boots, or are helmets provided?
• Heat plan: What’s the schedule for shade, water breaks, and indoor cool-down time?
• What’s included: Is grooming/tacking part of the session, or just riding time?
• Discipline options: Do you offer English, western, trail riding, or specialty programs like vaulting?
• Make-up policies: How do you handle weather cancellations and missed days?

Next step: If you’re comparing multiple camps, visit the SWFL Family Summer Camp Fair.

If you go: Southwest Florida stables and programs (by city)

Naples (Collier County)

• Cornerstone Farm South — 1761 Rock Rd., Naples — 239-595-7618 — cornerstonefarmsouth.com — cornerstonepony@gmail.com — Camps for ages 8+, June & July
• Naples Therapeutic Riding Center — 206 Ridge Dr., Naples — 239-596-2988 — naplestherapeuticridingcenter.org — Camps for ages 4–16, June & July
• Reddawn’s Ranch of SWFL — 3195 21st Ave. S.W., Naples — 239-285-6800 — Check Facebook — Camps for ages 4–12, June & July
• Rusty Daisy Ranch — 5450 Stable Way, Naples — therustydaisyranch.com — 239-289-4966 — therustydaisyranch@gmail.com — Camps for ages 6–16, June–August
• Weather Watch Performance Horses — 235 Center St., Naples — weatherwatchph.com — 239-823-6330 — Lessons for ages 10+
• West Coast Blessed Ranch — 3400 Smith Rd., Naples — wcbrnaples.com — 239-289-3837 — wcbrnaples@gmail.com — Trail rides, petting zoo
• Whistling Dixie Farms — 3880 16th Ave. N.E., Naples — whistlingdixiefarms.com — 239-571-9566 — Camp details typically announced in spring

Bonita Springs (Lee County)

• Florida Everglades Equestrian Center — 10811 Strike Lane, Bonita Springs — floridaevergladesequestrian.com — 239-287-1413 — floridaeveqcenter@gmail.com — Camps for ages 6–14, June & July
• Providence Equestrian Center — 13731 E. Terry St., Bonita Springs — providenceequestriancenter.com — 941-677-8606 — Camps for grades K–8, June–August

Cape Coral and North Fort Myers (Lee County)

• Saddlewood Horse Club — 16111 Saddlewood Lane, Cape Coral — capehorses.com — 239-738-9300 — Christina@CapeHorses.com — Camps for ages 5–15, June–August
• Gregory Ranch — 8401 Henderson Grade, North Fort Myers — gregoryranchnfm.net — 239-785-9454 — gregoryranchnfm@gmail.com — Camps in June & July (call for ages)

Ready to plan? Start with the barn that matches your child’s age and interests (trail rides, western events, vaulting, or a first pony experience). Then save dates and compare options using our camp directory and calendar.

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What makes the Wonder Gardens’ 90th anniversary special for families?

Turning 90 is rare for any attraction, especially for a small, privately started roadside stop. From the beginning, the Wonder Gardens has been rooted in family — both the Piper family who created it and the generations of local families who have visited.

For parents, this anniversary is a chance to share a beloved piece of Southwest Florida history with your children while seeing how it’s evolving into a modern, humane, and educational animal experience.

• One of the few remaining historic roadside attractions in Florida.
• A 90-year story of rescuing, caring for, and showcasing animals.
• A walkable, shady garden that works for toddlers, big kids, and grandparents.

How did Wonder Gardens begin 90 years ago?

On February 22, 1936, brothers Lester and Bill Piper opened the Everglades Reptile Gardens in their backyard. They collected alligators, crocodiles, and snakes from the surrounding area and created simple enclosures so visitors could see animals they might never encounter otherwise.

Local children would bring snakes to the Pipers and earn a dollar. Teenagers caught sharks to sell as alligator food. The Pipers planted trees and tropical plants to create a wilderness feel, and soon they added panthers, bears, and otters. Admission was just 25 cents.

For decades, what is now the Wonder Gardens looked like a traditional mid-century zoo. Panthers and bears paced on concrete floors behind black bars in small cages. Alligators and turtles crowded into concrete pits. Yet even in that setting, there was a deep care for animals. Lester Piper, who left school after the fifth grade, taught himself how to care for and even heal local creatures. He began breeding panthers and released some back into the wild.

There was no I-75 or even a completed US 41 when the Wonder Gardens began. Old 41 was the main road through town, and both locals and tourists would stop to see the creatures the Pipers collected. Families came to meet Tom, the black bear who starred in the film The Yearling, and to gawk at Big Joe, a 1,200-pound North American crocodile believed to be the largest in captivity.

Over time, Lester’s children and grandchildren all worked at the attraction. When Lester died in 1992, his grandson David Piper Jr. took the helm. The Wonder Gardens remained a familiar stop for road-tripping families and a point of pride for Bonita Springs.

How did the Wonder Gardens survive when other attractions closed?

From the 1930s through the 1980s, roadside attractions dotted Florida highways. Southwest Florida had its share, including Waltzing Waters in Cape Coral and the Shell Factory, which started in Bonita Springs and later moved to North Fort Myers. There was even a Sugar Cane Museum in Fort Myers. Around the state, families stopped to see animals, pearls, driftwood, and lime rock formations.

Most of those attractions are gone.

In 2013, it looked like the Wonder Gardens might follow. When David Piper Jr. moved to Georgia for health reasons, the attraction went up for sale. A commercial buyer could easily have replaced the gardens with new development.

Instead, a nonprofit group stepped in to save the Wonder Gardens. It secured a loan from the city, took over the property, and began the long work of honoring its history while bringing it up to modern standards.

• Mammals such as panthers and bears were placed in new homes.
• The focus shifted to birds and reptiles that could thrive in the gardens.
• Local photographer and conservationist John Brady cleared overgrown greenery and created winding pathways.
• Directors added educational programs and new species over time, including free-roaming peacocks and colorful parrots.

Current leader Neil Anderson calls this balance the key to the Wonder Gardens’ survival. “The biggest key is to have a vision and a plan,” he said. That vision pairs new experiences that today’s families will love with a commitment to preserving the historic character of the place.

What new experiences mark the 90th year of Wonder Gardens?

As the Wonder Gardens marks its 90th anniversary, families will notice that the fences, bars, and blank concrete walls of the past are disappearing. In their place are more natural habitats and viewing areas designed with children in mind.

Anderson recently opened a new otter attraction, one of the biggest hits with young visitors. He also raised money to build a night house for the flamingos so they can be safely sheltered when needed.

“Especially now with the new otter exhibit, kids can really connect with some of our favorite animal residents,” Anderson said. “There is no place else where you can put your hands up and the otters are putting their paws up. The wonder is having those types of experiences. Ultimately, we want to get the children connected with nature. The moments of wonder are what we are trying to recreate.”

Future improvements are planned to carry Wonder Gardens into its next decades:

• A new animal care center to support the growing collection.
• An event center overlooking the Imperial River.
• A new home for the alligators with underwater viewing.
• A discovery zone and play area with a dino dig.
• A natural history museum with hands-on activities.
• A treetop canopy walk and treehouse where guests can walk above the foliage alongside tamarins.

For families, these changes mean more ways to experience animals up close, more play spaces, and more reasons to come back year after year.

How are kids connecting with Wonder Gardens today?

With the redesign, the Wonder Gardens is once again a busy hub for local and visiting families. Attendance is growing, and the attraction recently broke its daily record with almost 1,000 guests.

“We are designing new habitats with visitor experiences that go along with that,” Anderson said. “Before, everything was designed to lift your kid up over the walls to see things, so we are taking away the cement walls and replacing them with viewing panels, so the youngest visitors can have an opportunity to connect.”

Kids are already forming their own favorite memories.

“Zulu is my favorite,” said 7-year-old Rose Seiger, as she interacted with a violet turaco. “I want to be a zookeeper when I grow up so I can work at the Wonder Gardens.”

“The otters are my favorite,” said 6-year-old William Rusk.

For the Piper family, seeing these new connections during the 90th anniversary year is especially meaningful.

“The place is lovely and we are very proud of it,” said Buck Piper, Lester Piper’s grandson.

“I am thankful to everyone and to the community that they preserved … the legacy of the Wonder Gardens,” said Ashley Piper, Buck’s daughter.

Share the story with your kids as you walk: how a backyard reptile garden survived almost a century, changed with the times, and still feels like a place out of a storybook.

How does Wonder Gardens balance history and the future?

Preserving history is at the heart of the 90th anniversary. As donors help fund new habitats and family spaces, the Wonder Gardens team is careful to keep the original character intact.

Donations paid for the flamingo night house and the new event center. Money is now being raised to build the treetop walkway. At the same time, an original cottage on the property will serve as the new museum, giving families a place to learn about the early days of the attraction.

“We want to keep that historical perspective,” Anderson stressed. “We want to take you back to the beginnings of the Wonder Gardens. It is really keeping trust in the true Wonder Gardens; what it used to be and bringing it up to modern standards with the historic feel. There is something special here. Part of that is the history.”

As you visit during the 90th anniversary year, point out the old and the new: the vintage feel of the paths and buildings, and the modern, animal-friendly habitats and educational exhibits.

If you go: Wonder Gardens 90th anniversary details

The Wonder Gardens 90th anniversary Bonita Springs is the perfect excuse to plan a family outing, revisit an old favorite, or bring visiting relatives to one of the area’s most enduring attractions. Families in Collier and Lee Counties can easily pair a visit with other Bonita Springs stops or make it the main event.

• Name: Wonder Gardens
• Address: 7180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs
• Phone: 239-992-2591
• Website: www.wondergardens.org
• Hours: 9 a.m.–4 p.m. daily (last admission at 3 p.m.)
• Admission: $17 for adults and $12 for children
• Bonita Springs Days: First Sunday of the month, admission is $12 for Bonita residents.
• Events and programs: Check our family events calendar for Collier & Lee Counties for Wonder Gardens happenings and other Bonita Springs family events.

Make a plan to visit during this milestone year. Whether your child falls in love with the otters, the flamingos, or the shady garden paths, you’ll be part of the Wonder Gardens story as it steps into its next 90 years.

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During meetings on Jan. 20, the Lee County Board of County Commissioners and the Fort Myers City Council presented proclamations recognizing Valerie’s House for a decade of service to the community.

Growth across three Southwest Florida locations

Over the past decade, Valerie’s House expanded to serve families through three locations across Southwest Florida and now employs 37 staff members.

That growth includes the Fort Myers “Family is Forever Home,” a dedicated space designed for grief support and healing, along with a clinical counseling department and a volunteer training program that prepares more than 60 volunteers each year to support families.

Valerie’s House also partners with local schools, law enforcement and higher education institutions, including collaboration with Florida Gulf Coast University’s social work program. The organization says these partnerships help broaden grief education and support in the community.

A mission rooted in personal loss

Valerie’s House was founded by Angela Melvin Churchill following the loss of her mother, Valerie, who died in a car crash in 1987 when Churchill was 10 years old. The organization was created so that no child in Southwest Florida would have to grieve alone.

Today, Valerie’s House offers peer support groups and related programming for children and caregivers in Fort Myers, Naples and Punta Gorda, providing a place to connect with others who understand and find hope for the future.

Valerie’s House is continuing its anniversary celebration with initiatives planned throughout 2026, including:

• A “Where Are They Now?” storytelling series highlighting early Valerie’s House families.
• A candlelight vigil and gratitude event honoring original families, donors and supporters.
• A Florida Everblades fundraising and awareness night on March 7, featuring Valerie’s House children singing “God Bless America” before the game.
• A redesigned website and the debut of a Valerie’s House app.
• Community billboards across Southwest Florida to help connect grieving families with support.
• Children’s Grief Awareness Month activities in November, including an open house and the third annual Sunset Soiree at the Family is Forever Home.
• Special fundraising initiatives tied to the 10-year anniversary.

How families can get support

Valerie’s House is a United Way partner agency and is supported through community donations and grant funding. Families seeking grief support or community members interested in helping can learn more at valerieshouse.org.

Editor’s note: Valerie’s House offers programming in Fort Myers, Naples and Punta Gorda for children, teens and caregivers navigating the death of a loved one. If your family is grieving, support is available.

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The Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation is once again awarding up to 15 new $20,000 college scholarships ($5,000 per year) to deserving 12^th grade students from eligible high schools in Collier County.

The application and eligibility list can be found online at www.SchulzeFamilyFoundation.org. The deadline for all submissions is April 1, 2026. 

Successful candidates will show they have distinguished themselves through school, community and/or church activities while showing strong academic achievement in high school and meet the following criteria:

• A 2026 graduate of an eligible Collier County high school
• Have a minimum of a 3.0 unweighted cumulative GPA (4.0 scale)
• Show unmet financial need through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
• Not be receiving need-based federal grant assistance (Pell Grant)
• Enroll in a four-year accredited college or university as a full-time degree-seeking student

Established in 2014, the Schulze Family Foundation College Scholarship Program is designed to help students graduate from college with minimal student debt. To date, almost 150 local students have received one of these competitive awards. 

Six years of Schulze scholars have already graduated from college and are now gainfully employed or enrolled in a post-graduate program working to pursue their dreams of becoming engineers, doctors, teachers, nurses and so much more.

The Schulze family understands the value of a good college education and is committed to helping students from middle-income families who do not qualify for federal grant assistance but still need financial support to pay for college.

“We believe life in the U.S. has become harder for middle-income families,” said Mary Beth Geier, Florida Director of the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation. “This scholarship allows us to ease the burden for local families who are working to make college a reality for their son or daughter.”

If you have questions about the Schulze Family Foundation College Scholarship Program in Florida, please contact Ana DiMercurio at amdimercurio@schulzefamilyfoundation.org or 239.451.3033

About the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation

The Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation was created in 2004 by Best Buy founder, Dick Schulze, to give back to the communities where Dick and his family grew up – in Minnesota, where he built Best Buy to become the world’s largest consumer electronics retailer, and in Florida, where he now maintains a permanent residence. The Schulze Family Foundation creates grant partnerships with organizations that generate meaningful results in human and social services, education, and health and medicine. In all its activities, the Foundation embraces its founder’s vision to strengthen and support initiatives that lead to change within our communities. For more information, please visit our website.

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Nordin is a lifelong Collier County resident, public school graduate, and mother of four who brings extensive, hands-on experience in education, community leadership, and school governance to the race. She is the founder of Autism Collier, a nonprofit organization created to support families navigating education and related services, and the co-founder of Autism Collier Charter School, developed in collaboration with educators, district leadership, and state partners.

Through this work, Nordin has spent years working directly with families, teachers, administrators, and policymakers. She has served on advisory councils and committees that inform school district decision-making, giving her firsthand experience with school governance, budgeting, accountability, and policy development.

“I’m running because I believe our school board needs leaders who are prepared, collaborative, and grounded in real experience,” Nordin said. “Strong schools require more than good intentions; they require thoughtful leadership, responsible decision-making, and a deep understanding of how policies impact students, families, and educators.”

Nordin’s campaign focuses on student success, strong family partnerships, support for educators and staff, responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, collaboration, and expanding opportunity and innovation across Collier County schools.

The kickoff event drew broad support from elected officials and community leaders across Collier County, underscoring early momentum behind Nordin’s candidacy. Those in attendance included Collier County School Board Member Tim Moshier; former Collier County School Board Chair Jen Mitchell; Collier County Property Appraiser Vickie Downs; Everglades City Councilman Mike McComas; Collier County Commissioners Burt Saunders and Rick LoCastro; and Marco Island City Council Members Tamara Goehler and Deb Henry, along with numerous educators, parents, advocates, and community leaders from across the county. Nordin has also earned early support from Florida State Representative Meg Weinberger, and additional endorsements from elected officials and community leaders are expected in the coming weeks.

Additional Candidates

• Michelle Albergo
• Tim Moshier

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Why Indoor Air Quality Matters for Children

Children breathe more air per pound of body weight than adults, making them more susceptible to indoor pollutants. Poor air quality can trigger asthma, cause long-term lung damage, and increase the risk of cancer or developmental delays.

Common Indoor Air Pollutants in Florida Homes

• Radon: A radioactive gas that seeps in from the ground. It’s the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. and is found in 1 in 5 Florida homes above the EPA’s safety limit.
• Carbon Monoxide: An odorless, invisible gas from fuel-burning appliances. Poisoning is deadly but preventable with alarms.
• Mold: Florida’s humidity allows mold to thrive, worsening asthma and allergies.
• Lead: Found in homes built before 1978. Even low levels can harm brain development in young children.

Simple Steps to Keep Your Home’s Air Safe

• Install carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home.
• Test for radon, even if neighbors’ homes tested safe.
• Fix leaks and reduce indoor humidity to prevent mold.
• Keep your home smoke-free and limit burning candles or wood indoors.
• Use exhaust fans and open windows when weather allows for fresh air circulation.

What Parents Should Know About Lead

• Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint—especially dangerous if it’s peeling or chipping.
• Children with pica (eating non-food items) may ingest lead from soil or dust.
• Be cautious with imported spices, supplements, or candy which may be contaminated with lead.
• Follow your healthcare provider’s lead screening recommendations and retest if levels are high.

Make Your Home a Safe Haven

With just a few simple precautions, you can improve indoor air quality for kids and ensure the air your children breathe is as healthy as the love that surrounds them.

Visit www.lee.floridahealth.gov for more information and resources.

The post How to Improve Indoor Air Quality for Kids in SWFL appeared first on SWFL Family.

Anxiety is now the most common mental health disorder in children and teens nationwide. Since COVID-19, local counselors report a sharp spike in SWFL students who feel overwhelmed by schoolwork, social media, and nonstop pressure. The good news: there are clear signs to watch for, and real help available here in Collier and Lee Counties.

Why are so many SWFL students feeling anxious about school?

Local therapists say there isn’t one cause. It’s a mix of pandemic disruption, academic expectations, lifestyle changes, and constant digital noise.

“The basic one is Covid, and even after five years, we are still seeing a lot of issues with social anxiety,” said Meagan Weems, lead child therapist at the David Lawrence Centers in Naples.

Many young children spent crucial developmental years without playgrounds, playdates, or in-person kindergarten. Instead, they learned to relate through screens. That gap shows up now as trouble joining groups, making friends, or speaking up in class.

Social media also fills a bigger space in kids’ lives than ever before. During the pandemic it was a lifeline, but it came with a cost.

“We do see the benefits,” Weems said. “Kids love social media, but it opens up a different avenue for bullying. We have been seeing social media becoming more and more of a problem.”

Naples counselor Jennifer O’Toole sees the same pattern.

“There are studies that show that being outside in nature reduces anxiety,” O’Toole said. “When you are constantly on screens and social media, you are getting messages that you are not enough, and there is always someone who is richer and thinner and prettier. That creates a lot of anxiety.”

How has school changed since we were kids?

Another major trigger for anxiety in SWFL students is school itself. The expectations look very different from what many parents remember.

Kindergarteners now have academic days with one short recess and no play kitchens or toy corners. Second graders may be reading complex texts and multiplying numbers. High school students cram in AP classes, dual enrollment, sports, and clubs so they look “good enough” for college.

“There is always academic pressure on kids and now the teenagers are in a very competitive stage that brings a lot of anxiety because they want to be the best,” Weems explained.

She recalled a teen who had eight hours of homework for her AP and honors classes. “There was no wind-down time,” Weems said. “She said, ‘I work until I sleep.’”

Patty DeVost, a licensed clinical social worker and founder of Patty’s Place Concierge youth mental health care in Cape Coral, notices the same pressure in boys and teens she sees.

“A lot of kids suffer from anxiety from having too much on their plates,” she said. “I used to play outside until dinner time. You could just be a kid. Those days are gone. These kids are freaking out.”

One student she worked with described what many local children feel every day.

“Just yesterday, I noticed a student taking deep breaths while he was talking — almost like a nervous tic,” DeVost said. “When I asked if he felt nervous, he told me, ‘I feel rushed. I feel rushed in the morning, and I feel rushed to finish my work at school.’ A child shouldn’t feel that way.”

Which kids are carrying invisible stress?

Some children in our community are carrying more than homework and tests.

DeVost sees particularly high anxiety in children of immigrants. Some take on adult responsibilities, like grocery shopping, because their parents are afraid to be seen in public.

“They have talked about contingency plans; about where to go and who will take care of them if their parents are no longer there,” she said. “The families are on lockdown; they are not going out. They are hyper scared. There are a bunch of children in Collier County in that situation.”

Dr. Jason Saba, a licensed psychologist with Kids’ Minds Matter, hears similar stories from children in Lehigh Acres and across Lee County.

“My providers in the Lehigh office have seen that,” Saba said. “We want to get the word out that we don’t have to take any identifying information. We are going to help anyone who walks in the door.”

What does anxiety look like at different ages?

Anxiety has always been part of childhood, but the intensity and number of children affected have changed.

In toddler and preschool years, separation anxiety between 18 months and 3 years is a normal stage. Young kids might fear monsters or bad guys and need extra reassurance at bedtime.

As children grow, worries shift. Elementary and middle schoolers may lie awake worrying about grades, a hurricane, or whether their parents might divorce. Teens may worry about school shooters, social status, or college admissions. Lockdown drills can reinforce those fears, even when schools are trying to keep kids safe.

Signs of school anxiety can include:

• Frequent stomachaches or headaches before school
• Trouble sleeping or early morning waking on school days
• Crying, meltdowns, or refusal to get dressed or out of the car
• Clinginess, panic, or “what if” questions about safety
• Perfectionism, erasing work repeatedly, or fear of making mistakes
• Sudden drop in grades, missing assignments, or school avoidance

The New York Times reports that nearly one-third of adolescents have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder at some point, pointing to screen time, reduced play, and increased academic demands as key drivers. Those national trends show up clearly in Collier and Lee County classrooms.

How do screens, social media, and gaming add to anxiety?

Parents often suspect that phones and games are part of the problem, and local experts agree.

O’Toole notes that when kids scroll constantly, they absorb a steady stream of “not enough” messages about their bodies, clothes, and lives. That can make even confident kids feel on edge.

Weems also sees more fear-based anxiety linked to unsupervised internet use.

“I am seeing a lot of unsupervised internet access,” she said. “For example, Poppy Playtime and Five Nights at Freddy’s – the titles and style are catered toward children, but they are actually horror games. There is fear-based anxiety from that.”

Social media and gaming can also crowd out sleep, exercise, and face-to-face time with friends. Those are the very things that protect kids’ mental health.

When should we consider counseling for school anxiety?

If school anxiety in Collier and Lee Counties is stopping your child from learning, sleeping, or enjoying activities they once loved, it may be time to call in extra support.

Weems uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with many of her young clients at David Lawrence Centers.

“A lot of my clients missed out on crucial developmental times socially because they were not surrounded by their peers,” she explained. “So, we play Jenga or a card game to help with their socialization skills.”

She tailors each plan to the child.

“Everyone is different. There are so many different avenues,” she said. “Some of these kids are exposed to traumatic events.”

Kids’ Minds Matter, an initiative of Lee Health and Golisano Children’s Hospital, helps families find care, even when cost is a barrier. Founded in 2016, the program funds services and sends mental health experts into local schools to provide free counseling. They currently have five offices in Lee County and are opening one in Collier County.

“We look for the gaps in services in the community,” Saba said. “We don’t turn anybody away for lack of money. If they don’t have insurance, we find a way to take care of it, and we have the means to do it.”

There is one big challenge: access.

“We have a waitlist of over 300. We are helping kids as quickly as we can, but access is a big problem,” Saba said, noting that waits can range from a few months to a year.

What can parents in Collier and Lee Counties do right now?

While you wait for an appointment, or even before anxiety spirals, parents can make a powerful difference at home.

Saba stresses prevention and early action.

“Being present with kids is essential,” he said. “When parents are present, they hear what their children are thinking and feeling. Those conversations help give kids the tools they need to cope.”

Practical steps you can take include:

• Slow the schedule. Look at your child’s week and remove at least one activity if they seem constantly rushed or exhausted.
• Build in calm time. Protect a short daily block for free play, reading, or quiet time with no screens.
• Limit social media and scary content. Keep devices out of bedrooms at night and review games or videos with your child.
• Get outside together. Walk, bike, or play at a park. Time in nature can lower anxiety for both kids and adults.
• Partner with school. Reach out to your child’s teacher or school counselor if mornings are a battle or grades suddenly change.
• Talk about feelings early and often. Name anxiety when you see it and let your child know it’s okay to ask for help.

For low-pressure family time that can help everyone reset, explore local parks, beaches, and community events. Neapolitan Family’s Collier and Lee County calendar lists kid-friendly activities that can give your child a break from school stress while keeping them connected in healthy ways.

If school feels like too much for your child, you are not failing, and neither are they. School anxiety in Collier and Lee Counties is a community-wide issue with real causes. With your steady presence, support from local providers, and small daily changes, your child can learn to cope, grow, and feel safe at school again.

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