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.

Why does one-on-one time with your tween matter so much?

At this age, girls seem to live in two worlds at once. They are still playful and tender, but already reaching toward independence. Winnie is 11, perched right on the edge of the tween years, and I can feel how much she still needs time with me, even if she doesn’t always say it directly.

Since her baby brother arrived, I have become more aware of how easily everyday demands can crowd out that connection. We do our best to plan little mother-daughter dates: a Target run, a beach fishing trip, takeout in the car. Those small windows of attention matter more than we think.

This day felt like a gift because it gave us hours, not minutes. No dividing my attention. No multitasking. No rushing through errands. Just the two of us, together, for the better part of an afternoon.

What made the drive to Captiva feel like part of the day?

Even getting there felt special. We overpacked, of course, with extra clothes, books, crochet projects, and enough skincare to suggest we were staying a week instead of five hours. That, too, felt true to us.

The drive to Captiva from Naples is lovely in the way Southwest Florida can be lovely when you let it slow you down. We admired houses and water views and became noticers of beauty along the way. Captiva always feels slightly removed from ordinary life in the best possible sense—natural, island-y, and set apart.

At one point, in a very predictable “millennial on a weekend trip” moment, I started imagining a new life for us in one of the beach cottages we passed. Winnie shut that dream down immediately and emphatically. “MOM! NO! We could never.” Her passion made me laugh, and honestly, it was exactly the kind of conversation I had hoped the day might hold: silly, easy, and ours.

What is Captiva Landing at South Seas Resort like for families?

We arrived at South Seas Resort, checked in, got our wristbands, took selfies, and collected fluffy white towels before settling into our cabana. The setup made the whole day feel easy from the start. We tucked away our things, appreciated the resort-style prints and comfortable outdoor furniture, and discovered a generous stash of snacks plus a fridge full of water and soda. We were delighted before we had even stepped into the water.

The water park itself was beautifully designed and felt calm, clean, and well monitored. Lifeguards were visible, which always helps me exhale a little as a parent. The space struck a balance I deeply appreciate: fun for kids, relaxing for adults, and simple enough that the day never felt chaotic.

We loved the three water slides, the giant tipping bucket, and especially the lazy river. Winnie rode the slides what felt like one hundred times. I rode them fewer times, which felt appropriate and honest. Mostly, I watched her from a lounge chair with an ice-cold Diet Coke and a book, looking up often just to see her joy.

The top landing of the slides offers beautiful Gulf views on both sides of the island, which added to that distinct Captiva feeling of being somewhere special. It was the kind of place where you can play hard for a while, then rest in the sun, then do it all over again without ever feeling rushed.

Can a simple resort day become real family connection?

Yes, and that may have been the most surprising part of the day. The fun was real, but the connection was the deeper gift.

At lunch, the slides closed for the daily safety check from noon to 1 p.m., and that natural pause gave us time to settle into our cabana, eat together, and talk. We shared Greek salad, chicken fingers and fries, and vegetable egg rolls—an oddly perfect combination. There was live music and outdoor seating nearby, and even a cool-looking arcade adjacent to the walk-up restaurant, but the calm of the cabana suited us better.

After lunch, we spent more time in the large pool and then circled the lazy river again and again. At some point, we invented games—racing, chasing each other, and looping around the little island of Adirondack chairs sunk into the sand. There is something about a lazy river that lends itself to conversation. You drift, you laugh, you circle back, and nobody is in a hurry.

Connection often happens when there is enough space for it. Not necessarily through deep, dramatic conversations, but through shared silliness, repeated moments, and hours that are not being squeezed between other obligations.

Do you need a big outing to reconnect with your child?

What I came home remembering most is that we never even made it across to the beach. I had warned Winnie ahead of time that I wanted us to take a short walk over at some point, but we lost track of time in the best way. We were too busy playing together and talking.

That felt meaningful to me. The point of the day was not to maximize every amenity or check every box. The point was simply to be with her. We headed back to Naples in the late afternoon, and even the drive home was easier than I expected.

I would absolutely encourage families looking for a getaway that feels a world away from the hustle of Naples to consider Captiva and South Seas. It works well for a day, but I can also imagine it being a lovely place for a few nights. Still, what stayed with me most was not the destination itself. It was the reminder.

You do not need a resort day to build connection with your child. You need intention. You need attentiveness. You need enough margin to say yes when the moment presents itself.

What does connection with a tween actually look like at home?

As summer approaches, I keep thinking about how urgent this feels. Winnie is nearing the years when sports, academics, activities, and friendships will compete more aggressively for her time and attention. Making our home her favorite place to be is part of our work as parents, and so is protecting our relationship while she still wants to spend this kind of easy, playful time with me.

I do not believe connection with my tween girl requires a weekend away at Captiva Island, thankfully. More often, it looks wonderfully ordinary.

• Sitting together on the couch, crocheting and listening to an audiobook
• Running to Publix for butter so we can come home and make homemade biscuits
• Following one of her creative whims when I have the flexibility to do it
• Rolling through the neighborhood after dinner on rollerblades while Dad puts the baby to bed
• Choosing presence over efficiency when a moment to connect appears

Those are the moments that build trust and closeness over time. Those are the moments I want to keep saying yes to this summer, even when no would be easier.

What can parents in Collier and Lee Counties take from a day like this?

For parents in Collier and Lee Counties, especially those raising tweens, this was my takeaway: summer does not have to be packed to be meaningful. It does not have to be expensive, elaborate, or perfectly planned. Sometimes the best family memories come from simply setting aside time and letting the day unfold.

If you are looking for ideas close to home, browse Southwest Florida Family’s family events calendar, explore these day trips for families in Collier and Lee Counties, or cool off with this guide to splash pads for kids in Collier and Lee Counties. If your family loves the water, you may also enjoy our favorite family-friendly beach parks in Southwest Florida.

And if your older child is inching toward the teen years, it is worth thinking ahead about how to protect time together before schedules fill up. Resources like summer camps for teens and tweens in SWFL and educational summer camps in Collier and Lee Counties can help you shape a summer that includes both growth and breathing room.

For me, our Captiva family day trip from Naples was a beautiful reminder that connection is rarely accidental. It asks something of us. Energy. Intention. Enthusiasm. A willingness to pause what feels urgent for what is actually important.

So here is to a summer of saying yes a little more often. Yes to the drive. Yes to the lazy river. Yes to the grocery run, the audiobook, the rollerblades, the small conversations in the car. Yes to all the ordinary and extraordinary moments that tell our children, clearly and repeatedly, I want to be with you.

The post A Captiva Family Day Trip from Naples That Gave Us Real Connection 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.

Thursday, March 5, 2026

Ukrainian Easter Egg Decorating

Time: 10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Location: Golden Gate Branch Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples, FL

Many cultures celebrate Easter with decorated eggs, but few traditions are as intricate and meaningful as the Ukrainian art of pysanky. This hands-on program introduces participants to the traditional art of Ukrainian Easter egg decorating. Ages 13 to adult.

Registration: Required; call (239) 252-4542.
Event website: Collier County Library event page

Saturday, March 14, 2026

Twilight EGGventure Hunt

Time: 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
Location: Gateway Soccer Complex, 13260 Griffin Dr., Fort Myers

This unique Easter evening event adds a special twist to traditional egg hunts by taking place under the stars. Children ages 5–10 will be divided into age groups to ensure a safe and fun experience for everyone.

Event Website: https://forms.office.com/r/tuYFHBamtR

Tuesday, March 10, 2026

Kids Spring Crafts at South Regional Library

Time: 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Location: South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples

South Regional Library is hosting a spring craft extravaganza with a variety of hands-on, spring-themed projects for all ages. This is a fun option for families looking for creative Easter and spring activities in Naples.

Registration: Required.
Event website: www.collierlibrary.org/

Saturday, March 21, 2026

Easter Egg-stravaganza at Immokalee Community Park

Time: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Location: Immokalee Community Park, 321 N. 1st St., Immokalee, FL

Bring the whole family for a festive morning of Easter fun, games, and springtime activities. The event includes age-group egg hunts, face painting, crafts, a hayride, and refreshments. The egg hunt begins at 10:30 a.m.

Cost: Free.
Event Website: www.collierparks.com

Easter Ranch Roundup at Immokalee Pioneer Museum

Time: 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Location: Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch, 1215 Roberts Ave. W, Immokalee, FL

This family-friendly Easter celebration includes egg hunts for all ages, Easter crafts, sweets, and festive games in a welcoming community setting.

Event Website: www.colliermuseums.com

Wa-Ke Hatchee Easter Egg Hunt

Time: 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Location: Wa-Ke Hatchee Park, 16760 Bass Rd., Fort Myers, FL

This Easter event includes an egg hunt and a photo opportunity with the Easter Bunny. An indoor sensory hour begins at 9:30 a.m. and features low light, reduced sound, and wheelchair accessibility.

Meet the Easter Bunny at Cocoplum Village Shops

Time: 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Location: Cocoplum Village Shops, 7179 S. Tamiami Trl., North Port, FL

Hop over to Cocoplum Village Shops for free photos with the Easter Bunny, refreshments, and springtime fun near the main entrance, across from Five Guys.

Also happening: Saturday, March 28, 2026.

North Port Egg Hunt Egg-travaganza

Time: 6:00 p.m.–9:30 p.m.
Location: City Center Front Green, 4970 City Hall Blvd., North Port, FL

Families can enjoy egg hunts for ages 3–7 and an adaptive hunt beginning at 6:00 p.m., followed by an after-dark hunt for ages 8–12 at 8:15 p.m. The event also features food trucks, photos with the Easter Bunny, a coloring contest, and yard games. Bags will be provided for the first 100 participants, but bringing a basket is recommended.

Thursday, March 26, 2026

Easter Family Night at Bell Tower

Time: 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
Location: Bell Tower, 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers, FL

Celebrate the season under the Florida sky with the Easter Bunny. Kids can make spring crafts, collect eggs at the “Egg-Hopping Market,” take photos with the Easter Bunny, and visit the petting area.

Cost: Free.

Friday, March 27, 2026

East Naples Community Park Bunny Hopping Easter Event

Time: 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
Location: East Naples Community Park, 3500 Thomasson Dr., Naples, FL

Enjoy a festive evening of springtime fun with games, crafts, food trucks, and an Easter egg hunt. Bring your basket and Easter spirit for a fun-filled family event.

Saturday, March 28, 2026

Jungle Doria’s 2nd Annual Easter Fest

Time: 9:00 a.m.
Location: Jungle Doria’s Wildlife Park, 4192 SW Adventure Way, Arcadia, FL

This festive event includes egg hunts for little kids, big kids, and children needing special accommodations. Admission includes zoo entry and petting zoo feed. Families can also enjoy a bounce house, pop-up animal meet-and-greets, free face painting, and a golden egg prize.

Event website: Jungle Doria’s event link

Easter Egg Hunt at First Congregational Church of Naples

Time: 9:30 a.m.
Location: First Congregational Church of Naples, 6630 Immokalee Rd., Naples, FL

The Easter Bunny will be there, so bring your camera for photos.

Cost: Free and open to everyone.

Easter Celebration at Fleamasters Flea Market & Grand Pavilion

Time: 9:30 a.m.
Location: Fleamasters Flea Market & Grand Pavilion, 4135 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Fort Myers, FL

Celebrate Easter with family-friendly fun in a festive market setting. Check with the venue for updated activity times and event details.

Easter on the Farm

Time: 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Location: M&M Farms Wedding Venue, 5450 Higginbotham Rd., Fort Myers, FL

Families can feed the animals, enjoy the playground and bounce house, visit baby chicks, take hayrides, shop local vendors, build a bouquet at the flower truck, and join the Easter egg hunt. Bring your own basket.

Tickets: Limited.
Event website: Eventbrite tickets

Naples Doggie Easter Egg Hunt

Time: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Location: Veterans Community Park, 1895 Veterans Park Dr., Naples, FL

Bring your dog for a tail-wagging Easter egg hunt with prizes and treats. All dogs must be on a leash. Meet at the small pavilion near Rover Run Dog Park.

Cost: Free.
Registration: Call (239) 252-4682 or register online.
Event website: Online registration

Babcock Ranch Easter Eggstravaganza

Time: 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Location: Founders Square, Babcock Ranch, 42850 Crescent Loop, Punta Gorda, FL

This event features three age-specific egg hunts, including a special adaptive hunt. Families can also enjoy bounce houses, photos with the Easter Bunny, food trucks, and market vendors. Bring your own basket; there is a 15-egg limit.

Easter Egg Hunt at Estates Branch Library

Time: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Location: Estates Branch Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W, Naples, FL

Visit the library to meet the Easter Bunny, create a spring craft, and enjoy an Easter egg hunt on the lawn.

Ages: All ages.
Registration: Not required.

Golden Gate Community Center Spring Fling Celebration 2026

Time: 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Location: Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples, FL

Families can enjoy an Easter egg hunt for ages 2–12, Easter-themed games, inflatables, music, dancing, food trucks, and more. Bring your Easter basket.

Cost: $4 per child; $1 per adult.

Underwater Easter Egg Hunt

Time: 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Location: Eagle Lakes Community Park, 11565 Tamiami Trl. E, Naples, FL

Collier County Parks & Recreation is offering a creative underwater egg hunt for children ages 1–12. Bring a basket and get ready for photos with the Easter Bunny.

Cost: $3 per person.
Event website: Collier Parks calendar

Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Parent Toddler Easter Egg Decorating

Time: 10:00 a.m.–10:45 a.m.
Location: Golden Gate Community Park, 3300 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples, FL

Parents and toddlers can enjoy Easter egg decorating using a variety of techniques and supplies.

Ages: 1½–4.
Cost: $10.
Contact: Call (239) 252-4530 or email AdaptiveInclusiveRec@collierl.gov.

Friday, April 3, 2026

Golden Gate Community Park Easter Fun Day

Time: 7:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Location: Golden Gate Community Park, 3300 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples, FL

This daytime Easter event was listed with limited details in the original source.

Cost: $15.
Contact: Call (239) 252-4530 or email AdaptiveInclusiveRec@collier.gov.

BCIRP Family Easter Egg Hunt

Time: 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
Location: Big Corkscrew Island Regional Park, Naples, FL

Families can enjoy crafts, music, food, games, prizes, and an egg hunt. Online registration closes at 3:00 p.m. the day of the event, and wristbands can be picked up during the week before the event.

Cost: $3 per person.
Event website: Collier Parks event page

Saturday, April 4, 2026

Kiwanis Cape Coral Easter Egg Hunt

Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Lake Kennedy Park, 400 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral, FL

This community event is limited to the first 300 children and includes age-group egg hunts for ages 0–2, 3–4, 5–6, 7–8, and 9–10. Families can also enjoy photos with the Easter Bunny, games, and visits from local community groups.

Cost: Free.

Estero Easter Eggstravaganza

Time: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Location: Estero Community Park, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., Estero, FL

Enjoy a morning of Easter fun with the Easter Bunny, a prize egg search, and an art project to take home. An adaptive division for children with special needs is available at 10:00 a.m.

Registration: Pre-registration required.
Event website: Lee County Parks event page

City of Naples Easter Egg Hunt

Time: 10:00 am (up to 4 years old), 10:15 am (ages 5-7), and 10:30 am (ages 8-12)
Location: Fleischmann Park, 1600 Fleischmann Blvd., Naples, FL

Bring your basket and your best egg-hunting skills for this City of Naples Easter event.

Cost: Free admission.
Event website: City of Naples

Mightly Mussels Easter Egg Hunt

Time: 5 p.m. (Gates open at 4:30 p.m.)
Location: Hammond Stadium, 14100 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy, Fort Myers

Families with children 12 and under can enjoy an on-field Easter Egg Hunt before the Mussels vs Clearwater baseball game.

Event website: Mighty Mussels

Four Freedoms Park Glow in the Dark Egg Hunt

Time: 6:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m.
Location: Four Freedoms Park, 4818 Tarpon Ct., Cape Coral, FL

This unique nighttime hunt invites younger children to search for glowing eggs with flashlights. Crafts, games, and prizes are also included.

Cost: $20.
Registration: Required.

Sunday, April 5, 2026

Margaritaville Easter Brunch Buffet

Time: 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Location: Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach, 251 Crescent St., Fort Myers Beach, FL

Celebrate Easter in paradise with a festive brunch buffet.

Cost: $65 per adult and $24 per child, plus tax, gratuity, and beverages.
Event website: Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach events

Easter Together Family Fun Day

Time: 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Location: Estero Church, 8088 Lords Way St., Estero, FL

This free family event includes a giant Easter egg hunt, bounce houses, face painting, snow cones, a cake walk, and a hot dog lunch.

Registration: Required for egg hunt participation.
Event website: Estero Church event page

Plan Ahead for Easter Weekend

Many of the biggest Southwest Florida Easter events take place on March 28 and April 4, so it helps to plan ahead. Some events require registration, some have age-group hunt times, and others may have limited capacity. Bringing a basket, arriving early, and checking event details before heading out can help your day go more smoothly.

Go to the Neapolitan Family Calendar of events for other family-friendly events in SWFL.

The post Southwest Florida Easter Events 2026: Egg Hunts, Bunny Visits, and Family Fun 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.

The post Where to Find Horseback Riding Lessons and Camps in Collier and Lee Counties appeared first on SWFL Family.

This partnership brings new tools and support to families across Southwest Florida, including those in Collier and Lee Counties. The newest feature is a Calm & Comfort kit that any guest can request during a visit to CMON.

What is the new sensory-friendly Calm & Comfort Kit?

Through this expanded partnership, CMON and Golisano Children’s Hospital are working together to make museum visits more accessible and welcoming. Their shared goal is to support children’s well-being, accessibility, and meaningful engagement in a busy, hands-on environment.

A key part of this effort is the Calm & Comfort kit, now available at CMON. These kits are designed specifically for children with autism and other physical, neurological, and sensory processing differences, but they are available to any guest who requests one.

By bringing hospital expertise into a playful community setting, the partnership helps families experience sensory-friendly museum experiences in Naples, not just in medical spaces. It is another way families in Collier and Lee Counties can feel supported as they enjoy time together.

Where and how can my child use a Calm & Comfort kit?

The Calm & Comfort kits are now available at CMON and can be requested by any guest. When you arrive, you can ask a staff member for a kit so your child has extra support from the beginning of your visit.

Your child can use the items anywhere in the museum as they move through exhibits and activities. The goal is to help children manage sensory input, self-regulate, and feel safe and supported while they explore.

This partnership builds on Golisano Children’s Hospital’s work in sensory-friendly certifications and specialized programs. Those same inclusive principles are now reaching families in community spaces where children learn, play, and grow.

What is inside the Calm & Comfort kits for my child?

Each Calm & Comfort kit contains thoughtfully selected, sensory-friendly tools. Every item is geared toward one or more of the eight sensory systems and is designed to help children self-regulate and feel calmer during their visit.

Items in the Calm & Comfort kits include:

• Texture timer
• My feelings mirror
• Tactile hex
• Light fidget spinner
• Soft oral wristlet
• Therapy brush
• Scented stickers
• Pop tube
• Resistance band

These tools can give your child something safe to hold, squeeze, look at, or move with when the museum feels exciting or overwhelming. The goal is to support your child’s comfort without taking away from the fun of exploring.

Who are these sensory-friendly tools designed to support?

The Calm & Comfort kits are designed for children with autism and other physical, neurological, and sensory processing differences. However, they are available to any child who might benefit from extra sensory support during a museum visit.

CMON leaders see this as a meaningful step toward welcoming more families and removing barriers to play. “This partnership allows us to better support the diverse sensory needs of the children and families we serve,” said Jonathan Foerster, Chief Executive Officer at CMON. “By offering these Calm & Comfort kits, we’re helping remove barriers and ensuring CMON is a welcoming place where all children can explore, learn, and play comfortably.”

Golisano Children’s Hospital shares the same commitment to inclusive environments. “At Golisano Children’s Hospital, we are deeply committed to creating inclusive, supportive environments for children, within our hospital walls and across the places where children learn, play, and grow,” said Alyssa Kasiewicz, the VP and Chief Nurse & Operations Executive for Children’s Services at Lee Health. “Our sensory-friendly certifications and specialized programs reflect that commitment, and this expanded partnership with the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples allows us to extend those principles into the community. Together, we want families to feel welcomed, understood, and supported wherever in our spaces.”

How does CMON support playful learning for my child?

CMON is Southwest Florida’s first museum dedicated to children and families learning through play. The museum offers immersive, hands-on exhibit galleries where visitors can explore, imagine, and discover together.

Your child can journey through the swamps of the Everglades, climb a towering banyan tree, and experiment with interactive water play. They can become a weather forecaster, farmer, chef, fisherman, or artist while exploring the sounds, sights, and forces of nature.

Throughout the day, special activities encourage children to try something new and stay engaged. CMON also offers educational programs, classes, camps, and special events that build creativity, curiosity, and early learning. Later this year, the museum will open a new Early Learning Center, expanding its impact for young learners across Collier and Lee Counties.

Explore upcoming programs and events at cmon.org and look for opportunities that match your child’s interests and needs.

How can I plan our visit and stay connected?

To learn more about CMON, you can visit cmon.org or call 239-260-1604 for details about hours, tickets, and programs. You can also follow CMON on Facebook and Instagram at @childrensmuseumofnaples to see updates on exhibits and family events.

Families across Southwest Florida, including Collier and Lee Counties, can benefit from both the playful exhibits at CMON and the expertise of Golisano Children’s Hospital. Together, they are working to make a sensory-friendly museum experience easier and more welcoming for every child.

The post Support for Sensory-Friendly Experiences for Kids in SWFL appeared first on SWFL Family.

Why connect Black innovators with hands-on activities?

When kids only read about history, the people they learn about can feel distant. But when they try STEM activities for kids inspired by Black innovators, those stories suddenly become personal and exciting. Your child is not just learning about someone else’s creativity—they are practicing their own.

Seeing a wide range of people represented in science, technology, engineering, and math helps children understand that innovation is not limited by race, background, or circumstance. These inventors and scientists often faced big challenges, yet they kept experimenting and creating. Talking about that resilience can encourage your child to keep trying, even when something feels hard.

As you explore these stories together, you also open the door to meaningful family conversations. You can talk about fairness, opportunity, and how small ideas can grow into something that changes the world. Each activity becomes a chance to practice problem-solving and empathy at the same time.

How do these activities build creativity?

Every project below connects directly to the work of a Black scientist, inventor, or explorer. That makes it easier for your child to see how imagination turns into real inventions. Instead of just hearing what someone discovered, your child tests ideas, observes what happens, and tries again.

These STEM activities for kids inspired by Black innovators are designed to be simple and flexible. You can use what you already have at home, adjust for different ages, and follow your child’s interests. The goal is not a perfect result—it is to encourage questions, experimentation, and playful learning.

10 Black innovators with creativity-boosting STEM activities

1. George Washington Carver: creative scientist and inventor

Known as the “Peanut Man,” George Washington Carver developed hundreds of products from peanuts, including peanut oil and paper. He also promoted sustainable farming practices that protected the soil and helped farmers grow more food.

• Try this: Crush roasted peanuts, wrap them in a paper towel, and press down with a heavy object. Watch the oil seep out and ask your child to imagine new products that could be made from peanuts or other foods.

2. Mae Jemison: first Black woman in space

Mae Jemison is an astronaut, physician, and engineer who became the first Black woman to travel to space in 1992 aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour. She continues to encourage young people to dream big and pursue STEM.

• Try this: Make a simple “rocket” with a plastic bottle, baking soda, and vinegar. Set it up outside, stand back, and watch the reaction launch your mini rocket. Invite your child to design a mission for their rocket, just like Jemison did.

3. Garrett Morgan: traffic safety innovator

Garrett Morgan invented the three-position traffic signal, making roads safer for drivers and pedestrians. He also created a breathing device that later influenced modern gas masks.

• Try this: Build a traffic light model with cardboard, colored paper, and a flashlight. Let your child “direct traffic” with toy cars and brainstorm other inventions that could make roads safer.

4. Katherine Johnson: math that took us to the moon

Katherine Johnson was a mathematician whose calculations were critical to NASA space missions, including the Apollo 11 moon landing. Her work inspired the book and movie Hidden Figures.

• Try this: Draw a simple “space path” on paper and create a math problem that uses angles or distances. Have your child calculate and sketch the path a spacecraft might take, then decorate the page with planets and stars.

5. Benjamin Banneker: clockmaker and astronomer

Benjamin Banneker was a self-taught mathematician and astronomer who built the first clock made entirely in America. He also published almanacs with information about astronomy and weather patterns.

• Try this: Make a sundial with a paper plate and a pencil. Place it in a sunny spot and check the shadow throughout the day. Challenge your child to design and decorate a creative clock face of their own.

6. Dr. Patricia Bath: sight-restoring eye surgeon

Dr. Patricia Bath was an ophthalmologist and inventor who developed a laser technique for removing cataracts. Her work restored sight to many patients who might otherwise have remained blind.

• Try this: Build a simple pinhole “camera” using a shoebox, wax paper, and aluminum foil. Explore how light travels and forms images, then talk about why protecting our eyes and vision matters.

7. Lewis Latimer: lighting up everyday life

Lewis Latimer worked with Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell to improve the light bulb and telephone. His carbon filament invention helped light bulbs last longer and made electric light more practical for families.

• Try this: Use a battery, wires, and a small bulb to make a basic circuit. Encourage your child to experiment with turning the light on and off, then imagine how life changed when homes first had electric lights.

8. Marie Maynard Daly: heart health chemist

Marie Maynard Daly was the first Black woman in the United States to earn a Ph.D. in chemistry. Her research explored how hypertension affects arteries and how diet influences heart health.

• Try this: Test the acidity of everyday items such as lemon juice, vinegar, and baking soda using pH strips. Invite your child to sort foods into groups and talk about what helps keep hearts and bodies healthy.

9. Elijah McCoy: “the real McCoy” engineer

Elijah McCoy invented an automatic lubricator for steam engines that helped trains run more smoothly and efficiently. His work was so respected that people began asking for “the real McCoy.”

• Try this: Build a simple model train or car and talk about friction. Add a small drop of safe oil to gears in a toy and notice how smoothly they move, then ask your child where else reduced friction might help.

10. Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson: telecommunications trailblazer

Physicist Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson’s research led to advances in telecommunications technology, including innovations like touch-tone phones and fiber optics.

• Try this: Make a string telephone with two paper cups and a long piece of string. Pull the string tight and speak into one cup while your child listens in the other. Talk about how information travels along wires and cables today.

What’s your next step?

These stories and STEM activities for kids inspired by Black innovators show how imagination, persistence, and courage can change the world. Choose one or two innovators to explore this week, gather simple supplies, and let your child guide the questions and ideas.

Look for local museum programs, school events, and STEM nights in Collier and Lee Counties that highlight science and history. Check the Neapolitan Family events calendar for family-friendly opportunities, and keep returning to these activities all year long as you nurture your child’s creativity and love of learning.

The post STEM Activities for Kids Inspired by Black Innovators appeared first on SWFL Family.

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.

The post Wonder Gardens 90th Anniversary: A Roadside Treasure for Families in SWFL appeared first on SWFL Family.

Revisiting LEGOLAND Florida with an Older Kid

My daughter turned 11 in September, and I wondered how a day at LEGOLAND would hit now that she’s five years older. Would the mention of a day trip to the park still illicit squeals of joy? I decided to find out.
We planned to travel to Lakeland anyway on Oct. 31 for the state elementary school cross country race and stayed at a nearby Hampton Inn. Winnie was decidedly pumped to spend the day after the race at LEGOLAND when I confirmed the trip, but I was curious if many of the rides geared toward younger kids would still hold the same appeal for a fifth grader. Thankfully, a few other families from her school’s cross country team also decided to spend the day at the park.

Our hotel was about 10 minutes from LEGOLAND. Because of LEGOLAND’s special Halloween events, we decided to arrive 20 minutes before the park opened. We spent time taking selfies and enjoying a clear, crisp, very-Florida-cold morning.

Because I anticipated the park getting busier as the day progressed, we made a beeline for our favorite rides before sauntering around the park and taking in the scenery. At 10 a.m., after what felt like forever, the park opened, and we headed straight for our favorite ride: The Dragon. Set in LEGOLAND’s medieval-themed area, The Dragon is a short, fast entry-level roller coaster. We rode it three times in a row.

We progressed through all our favorite rides, running around the park and enjoying some time before the crowds arrived. The weather remained cold, but clear and sunny. Unfortunately, because of the weather, I knew we wouldn’t make it to the water park that day. Our blood is very thin and resists any activity that requires us to remove our sweatshirt layer when the temperature dips below 75 degrees.

Our favorite rides at LEGOLAND are what I would consider low-level roller coasters and are as follows:

• The Dragon
• Coastersaurus
• The Great LEGO Race

We rode these roller coasters so many times that I lost count. And Winnie continued to ride them with friends, without me. Even as the number of people in the park increased, these rides still boasted minimal wait times (10 minutes or less). LEGOLAND attracts families with young children who don’t necessarily enjoy fast and somewhat intense rides. On Feb. 27, LEGOLAND is introducing another ride geared towards older children called Galacticoaster – it’s an interactive, immersive experience, and I can’t wait to try it out with my kids.

Many of the rides geared toward smaller children listed wait times of 30 minutes or more. Thankfully, the actual wait times were often far less than advertised on the digital displays around the park. The rides designed for older children and adults, though, listed wait times of 15 minutes or less. For Disney-goers, 30 minutes is nothing. LEGOLAND enthusiasts, though, know that 30 minutes seems like an eternity.

Reasons I love LEGOLAND

• The park is absolutely doable in a day. You can get there in about 2½ hours, spend 5-7 hours at the park, and get home by 7:30 or 8 pm.
• You can walk from end to end in less than 10 minutes. If you want to go on a ride at the opposite end of the park – no big deal!
• Rides are happy and fun with low-ish wait times (depending on the day).
• The parking lot is relatively close to the entrance. Logistics at LEGOLAND are not an issue.
• The rides are enjoyable for a variety of ages.

Rides I would recommend for older children

• Merlin’s Challenge
• LEGO Movie Masters of Flight (simulator)
• Mia’s Riding Adventure
• Battle of Bricksburg
• LEGO Ninjago
• Battle of Bricksburg
• Unikitty’s Disco Drop

Winnie and I loved our day at LEGOLAND. I probably would not go two days in a row, but I would go with her again. For our family, fun with an older “tween-ager” is all about our own level of enthusiasm, even in the midst of various moods or whims. Regardless, Winnie had a blast – lots of squeals of delight! We are looking forward to going again soon.

The post LEGOLAND Florida: Still Fun for Older Kids? appeared first on SWFL Family.

Christmas Movie in the Park: The Santa Clause 2

Friday, December 5 — 5:45–8:00 pm
Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs
The City of Bonita Springs will host a free movie night under twinkling holiday lights at Riverside Park. The 2002 family-favorite The Santa Clause 2 will screen at dusk, offering a cheerful holiday outing for families and friends. The event is open to the public, with no cost for admission.
More info

Movies on the Turf: The Polar Express

Tuesday, December 9 — 6:00 pm
The Mini Bar, 1200 Central Ave Suite 106, Naples
A casual, open-air screening organized by NaplesLive239 — bring blankets or chairs for seating on the turf. The timeless holiday classic The Polar Express will set the festive mood while the relaxed venue encourages a laid-back, community-style movie night.
More info

Movie on the Lawn: The Santa Clause

Thursday, December 11 — 5:00–8:00 pm
Naples Area Board of REALTORS, 1455 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples
This screening offers a festive, community-oriented evening. $15 for children or $20 for adults, or guests may bring a brand-new, unwrapped toy to benefit the Guadalupe Center. Admission includes pictures with Santa, pizza, candy, popcorn, and beverages. A great way to combine holiday giving with family fun.
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Movies on the Lawn: Elf

Tuesday, December 16 — 5:45–8:15 pm
Mercato, 9132 Strada Place Suite 11103, Naples
Mercato’s holiday-season “Films Al Fresco” series presents the beloved comedy Elf in the open-air piazza. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for a cozy viewing under the stars. The event is free and family-friendly.
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Marco Island Christmas Movie in the Park: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

Friday, December 19 — 6:00–8:30 pm
Marco Island Veterans Community Park, 901 Park Ave., Marco Island
This community event brings holiday cheer to Marco Island with a screening of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever — a warm, family-oriented story perfect for younger children and multi-generational viewers.  Food and beverages will be available for purchase.
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Movie in the Parking Lot: Elf

Friday, December 19 — 6:30 pm
Fort Myers Brewing Company, 12811 Commerce Lakes Dr., Fort Myers
An outdoor screening of Elf in the parking lot, combining movie night with food trucks and live music. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets, pillows, and lawn chairs. The event is free and family-friendly.
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Pajamas Movie Night: Rudolf The Red-Nosed Reindeer

Sunday, December 21 — 4:00–6:00 pm
M&M Farms Wedding Venue, 5450 Higginbotham Rd., Fort Myers
A cozy, barn-style holiday screening where families are invited to come in pajamas. The classic Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer will bring festive joy in a rustic, family-friendly setting. Tickets are sold in family packs for up to 4 guests. 2 and under are free; however, they will not have a chair. Please bring a stroller.
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