The top cities between Hollywood and Tampa are Sarasota, St. Petersburg, Naples, Fort Myers, Fort Myers Beach, Punta Gorda, Siesta Key, St. Pete Beach, Englewood, and Bradenton. Sarasota is the most popular city on the route. It's 3 hours from Hollywood and 1 hour from Tampa.
Naples is a well-known city located in southwest Florida, situated on the Gulf of Mexico. The region is famous for high-end retail options and golf courses. The Naples Pier, built in 1888, serves as the city's symbol and attracts many visitors interested in angling or spotting dolphins. There are miles of beaches with white sand that has a fine texture reminiscent of sugar, including Clam Pass Park and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park.
62% as popular as Sarasota
15 minutes off the main route, 41% of way to Tampa
Fort Myers Beach is a picturesque town situated on Estero Island in the southwest region of Florida. It boasts a beautiful, lengthy sandy beach that overlooks the Gulf of Mexico and the Ostego Bay Marine Science Center, which presents an array of marine life indigenous to the area. On its eastern side, Matanzas Pass Preserve natural sanctuary provides trails for visitors to explore.
38% as popular as Sarasota
26 minutes off the main route, 50% of way to Tampa
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Fort Myers, situated in Lee County, Florida, functions as the county seat and commercial hub. In 2010, the population was recorded at 62,298 individuals; however estimates for 2019 show a sizable increase to approximately 87,103 inhabitants. When visiting this area, one option is to take an early morning trip to Crystal River - a small rural town that boasts mild waterways such as Three Sisters Spring which are popular among manatees.
48% as popular as Sarasota
10 minutes off the main route, 52% of way to Tampa
Punta Gorda, a city in Southwest Florida and the county seat of Charlotte County, is part of the Sarasota-Bradenton-Punta Gorda Combined Statistical Area. With a population of 19,471 as per the 2020 U.S.
15% as popular as Sarasota
7 minutes off the main route, 61% of way to Tampa
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Englewood
Englewood is a census-designated place in Charlotte and Sarasota counties in the U.S. state of Florida. As of the 2020 census, it had a population of 20,800. It is part of the Sarasota-Bradenton-Punta Gorda Combined Statistical Area. Wikipedia.
10% as popular as Sarasota
20 minutes off the main route, 68% of way to Tampa
I'll never travel to Tampa without this trip planner again
Siesta Key is a picturesque barrier island located off the coast of Sarasota, Florida, boasting stunning sandy beaches and shallow waters. Siesta Beach, near Siesta Key Village, offers various amenities such as a playground and tennis courts. Crescent Beach provides access to Point of Rocks, featuring limestone outcroppings surrounding tidal pools and coral reefs. Further south, Turtle Beach boasts boat ramps and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.
26% as popular as Sarasota
16 minutes off the main route, 74% of way to Tampa
Sarasota, situated on the Gulf Coast of Florida and close to Tampa, was once a popular winter destination for the Ringling Brothers Circus. Presently, it provides an array of cultural institutions including the Ringling Museum of Art that features both old masters and modern art. Sarasota also offers access to several miles of stunning beaches with white sand and crystal-clear waters like Lido Beach and Siesta Key Beach.
Most popular city on this route
13 minutes off the main route, 76% of way to Tampa
Bradenton, a charming Florida city located on the Manatee River just south of Tampa, offers a mix of natural and cultural attractions. The South Florida Museum features exhibits on local history and nature, including the Bishop Planetarium and Parker Manatee Aquarium. Along the river, visitors can enjoy the scenic Riverwalk park. The Village of the Arts showcases galleries, studios, and shops housed in restored 1920s and ‘30s cottages.
14% as popular as Sarasota
12 minutes off the main route, 80% of way to Tampa
St. Pete Beach is a resort city situated on a barrier island, west of St. Petersburg, Florida. It is renowned for its beautiful beaches and the iconic Don CeSar Hotel that dominates the shoreline with its elegant pink Moorish-style architecture. Pass-A-Grille area offers visitors access to galleries, shops, and Gulf Beaches Historical Museum that showcases postcards and other relics from as far back as 1917 when it was a church.
23% as popular as Sarasota
17 minutes off the main route, 85% of way to Tampa
St. Petersburg, located on Florida's Gulf coast and part of the Tampa Bay area, has earned itself the nickname "Sunshine City" due to its pleasant weather. Popular activities include golfing, boating, fishing, and beach-going. Visitors can explore several museums such as the Dali Museum featuring surrealistic works of art or the Museum of Fine Arts showcasing ancient to contemporary creations. The Mahaffey Theater is home to the Florida Orchestra while waterfront parks offer scenic views.
62% as popular as Sarasota
9 minutes off the main route, 89% of way to Tampa
Best stops along Hollywood to Tampa drive
The top stops along the way from Hollywood to Tampa (with short detours) are Dolphin Mall, Sawgrass Mills, and The Dalí (Salvador Dalí Museum). Other popular stops include Siesta Beach, J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, and Fort Myers Beach.
Zoological Wildlife Foundation (ZWF) in Miami is an appointment-only zoo that offers intimate, guided wildlife tours with hands-on interactions. The foundation is committed to educating the public about the significance of protecting habitats for endangered species worldwide. ZWF's unique facility allows visitors and group tours by appointment only, keeping tour sizes small to ensure a personal experience for each guest.
A very informative experience, my kids got to not only interact with cool animals but also ask questions to learn more about them. In the middle homestead away from everything, so expect heat and bugs, I recommend coming during Florida Winter months because I am certain during the summer it would be a bit unbearable in terms of heat.
Yojana Rodriguez — Google review
We had such a great adventure and learned so much while there and having our magnificent animal encounters today. It was worth every penny and more. Once in a lifetime experience!!
The animals are well loved and cared for, the place is clean and very inviting.
Elizabeth Camp — Google review
We had the most wonderful experience on our tour and got to pet and feed many animals. The zoo has a great variety of animals that are not typical of regular zoos. I recommend doing the ZWF Wildlife Presentation (two-hours); it is well worth the money if you are an animal lover.
Etienne Cote — Google review
April, 17 with the child were in your Zoo, we all really enjoyed it! Everything was great!
There was a 40% discount on the site. But the office took full payment from us, they did not offer us a discount. Check the site! They are not interested in giving you a discount and leaving good impressions for you.
I feel cheated.
I wrote them a letter to the office, but they did not respond to it ((
N K — Google review
Everyone who works here is super passionate and extremely welcoming. The animals are loved in abundance and it shows throughout the facility. Definitely a must if you’re looking for an interactive wildlife experience. ☺️
Evelyn Molina — Google review
This was such a cool and fun experience, our tour guide showed us everything. She also gave us facts about the animals! We were able to hold and pet most animals p.s Michael Jacksons flamingos were sent here after his passing which was so cool! Also, the animals were lively and very well taken care of and most were very playful (excluding sloths, etc 🦥 ) the workers were clearly passionate with what they did too!
Kylee Ison — Google review
The lion peed on us… it was awesome! The whole experience was amazing! Definitely a must do! It was worth every penny. I would do it again for sure. She said it was the best birthday present ever. Lol
JP Guacaneme — Google review
What an amazing experience! My husband surprised me for my birthday by booking us an encounter with otters and a monkey. The lady who worked with us was so sweet. She was very knowledgeable of the animals and made for sure we had a great experience. The place is also gorgeous and has so many other animals to see. Thank you for having such a beautiful place for us to learn and interact with these amazing creatures. ❤️
Tara Sekora — Google review
We purchased ticket but didn't know we had to book a visit which they were very nice and made it happen regardless.
Our "tour guide" Michael was awesome, he was very knowledgeable and fun. We got to touch a snakes and a lemur and I got to play with a tiger!
They have way more felines than it seems like and you can see them from way closer than any zoo. They have different encounter offers with felines, slots and more.
Absolutely worth it!!
Alexia Ducanois — Google review
Jabari and Michaela were nothing short of incredible to us. They made sure we enjoyed every second of our tour and experiences.
What a great thing to receive the care and customer service those 2 provided. Jabari took the time to educate us with a variety of things we had no idea about. He doesn’t only care about the animals (all animals love him back) he cares about us being comfortable, enjoying and also knowing what is behind the life/habits of each animal and their uniqueness.
Absolute best decision to visit this location, and blessed for the 2 great team members that made it that worthwhile.
Mare SCruz — Google review
Our visit here was the highlight of our time in the Miami area!! The animals were beautiful and well cared for, and it was amazing to be so close to them! Our guide, Karina, was patient and so knowledgeable! I never felt rushed to move on to the next animal when I was really enjoying the one I was with. (With the animal enclosures being close to each other, the group could move on, and I could linger a few extra minutes with my favorites then easily re-join the group.) I absolutely LOVED feeding them and being able to hold our pet others. There was plenty of food, so you could even feed them multiple times!! It's obvious how much these animals are loved and cared for.
Take the two-hour tour like we did! You won't regret it!
Sue Joe — Google review
This facility is awesome! My husband and I recently did the Feline Experience and were able to feed lions, tigers, a liger, and hand feed servals. We were able to interact and play with a baby bob cat, juvenile serval, and an adult clouded leopard. Unfortunately, we were unable to do the tug of war, but our awesome keeper/guide Jay allowed us to feed more of the big cats. Jay was great and we appreciate her showing us all that ZWF does! This facility is pricey, but the money goes towards all of the amazing animals and those who care for them. In the past, I have visited to do multiple animal interactions including lion, jaguar, and tiger cubs (please note the cub photos were from 2015), as well as lemurs, gibbons, and more. Not many places offer these experiences, so if you want to see exotic animals up close, go to ZWF! The animals are definitely well cared for and it does not go unnoticed by how loved they are.
Amanda Allen — Google review
This is a fabulous place. Very personal experience. The animals are well cared for and some are allowed to roam free. We had a 2 hour tour. They allowed us to feed some of the animals and hold some of the animals in a safe way. We live near and will go back again many times. We first were going to Miami zoo and decided that zoo was too large for our needs. We are so happy we chose this instead. The road to get to the gate is rough and you think you may be going to the wrong place. You need to park on the street and call to let them know you are there and they will come let you in. Very well worth the visit.
Laura Welliver — Google review
I have visited here 4 times now and every time was a great and unique experience that is not something you find anywhere! I have visited 3 times in 2019, and once again very recently last week. There was a small complication with one encounter, but the tour guide was amazing and accommodated us with two extra experiences to make up for the inconvenience! There aren’t places in Florida that have close up and personal encounters with animals like the ones at this sanctuary. It is also very private and NOTHING like an overcrowded zoo experience. They offer discounts throughout the year which makes it easier to do multiple experiences. I recommend it as a fun activity with friends, family, or a date with a partner!
Lindsay Hiler — Google review
Never knew this place existed and I'm so happy I got to spend my birthday here! What an amazing place they have running in almost the middle of nowhere Redlands. They have so many exotic animals from little armadillos all the way to giant ligers and tigers and jaguars. We did the two hour tour with Caro (she was amazing) we got to see some of the facility and where most of the animals are housed. We learned most of the residents names, where they are native to and how they came to be at ZWF usually via rescue or donation from other places. At the end of our tour we sat in a very nice pavilion where we had a personal one on one interaction with multiple animals and got to feed them and hold them and take lots of pictures. I believe the owners names were Mario and Maria? They have a STUNNING place and I think everyone would love to check it out. Had an exceptional time here. Everyone was so friendly and knowledgeable and it was clean and well maintained and you can tell the animals have been raised here with love.
Brandi M. — Google review
The Zoological Foundation in Miami is a small piece of nature's paradise, and we also added the wolf experience (photos attached). Tamyra led our tour (she's AMAZING, by the way). The diverse range of species and a solid commitment to conservation make it a must-visit. Tamyra's expertise and passion elevated the experience and left us wanting to adopt her 😍. Highly recommend. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with all the rare animals, their unique personalities, and Tamara before she studies spiders in Australia!
Jordan Ewing — Google review
WOW! What an experience. If your an animal lover this an out of the world experience to attend. Private animals showing on some animals you don’t see too often. The up close experience as well as it being a private tour makes everything more intimate, as if it is just you and the animals. Our tour guide Madison was very informative and great with our young kids. This is truly a rare experience and must do if you love animals!
Dolphin Mall is a large shopping center with a food court, theater & bowling alley. It's close to Miami airport, and offers a variety of shops with good prices. The mall can be confusing to navigate, but had a great time with my daughter the first time we visited.
Great mall with so many varieties of stores for the family and home...amazing restaurants and Dave & Busters on site!!
Lorena Barrera-Shankle — Google review
Certainly, that's not stopping anyone though. The Pier's always busy, and I don't suppose that will change anytime soon. But after about an hour of walking around, finally deciding upon an overpriced menu, and consequently inching our way through respective lines, we'd had enough.
There were some hot spots, however: Trish's Mini Donuts, the Crab House, and Wipeout. Tourists definitely took notice. So, overall, Pier 39 harbors three stars, an A-OK. This review isn't meant to deter, by the way. If you haven't been, drop by. But for those who've strolled across the boardwalk before, maybe you'll agree: the Pier's replay value is a bit low.
Amanda Shaw — Google review
I enjoyed shopping at Dolphin Mall 😍❤️
Spacious corridors and they are always clean, including the bathrooms. There were a lot of dining options and great bargains from stores.
The mall layout is quite easy to follow, but if needed there were a lot of mall maps.
The only thing that could be improved is an increase in seating around the mall.
Christmas decor were just being set up.
ĸhristal ĸirĸ — Google review
Bass Pro shops at dolphin mall has a nice Xmas tree up at entrance.
Mall has good assortment of stores. Ample parking. Food court is on small side but there are restaurants available in mall as well.
Lauren Arkin — Google review
A shopping experience in a sea of shopping experiences but nonetheless a comfortable and pleasurable one. The vast number and variety of stores attracts millions every year and I got to experience why. Plenty of seating and bathrooms. Then there were numerous eating options as well. A great time was definitely had.
Janna Brathwaite — Google review
Great food options and overall just a great atmosphere. I went on a Sunday to grab some food at one of the restaurants and was genuinely surprised. There were so many other good food options I almost didn’t make it to the restaurant I had initially went for. It wasn’t that hard finding parking. I was impressed with the stage area/ patio of the sports bar. A great spot to hang out!
Calvin Calix — Google review
Good place to make your shopping. U can find a lot of good shops with good prices. It's a little bit complicated to not be lost in it, this is the only bad thing I would say. It's hard to find your way. But we had a great time with my daughter. This was our 2nd time there
Lowane Emerald — Google review
Busy mall with plenty of stores to explore if you have the time and you're patient. 4.5/5
Atmosphere: I decided to give this mall a try on a Saturday and it was really busy which is expected but it was not just busy it was crowded. I had plenty of Black Friday jokes once I stepped foot inside but once I got really inside the joke was on me.
I went to a store and waited 15 minutes in line cause they were so busy. One store had a line outside the building. It was wall to wall in that place.
You can end up behind people who are in groups of slow walking people and it feels like you are a toy on a factory belt moving at a snail pace.
Aside from this it is a very decent/massive mall that is good to hang out with friends if you have the time and patience. The day you go may play a factor. I went on a busy day, and it is the holiday season so that may have played a part as well.
Stellar ?JJ - The Critical Nomad? Manifestations — Google review
This is a great outlet shopping mall with lots of good stores. This is by far the best outlet mall I have been to. It felt kind of like “outlet mall meets Disney Springs”. It has a Bass Pro Shop attached to it, along with some very popular restaurants such as PF Changs, Buffalo Wild Wings, Johnny Rockets and a Dave and Busters. They even had live music performances when I was there.
Rick Gee — Google review
The Dolphin Mall in Miami is a great attraction for many to attend. It has stores, restaurants, bars, live music, theaters……many more.
During the weekend, the mall gets packed. As soon as you go through an entry, the vibe is so superb…… there are people eating, live music, laughs, people having a good time.
Ralph Conklin — Google review
It's clean, the staff I interacted with is nice. They have a lot of different stores and it's pretty spacious. The only thing for me is that, although there are store brands, there isn't that many bigger brands (for example aritzia) or any store that sell sustainable products. Still worth a visit.
Vicky Do — Google review
Very Big Mall,lots to do here. Beautiful sights, about eight or nine different zones in this mall. Get ready to walk and have some fun. I've never seen so many places in one mall. Very extraordinary 🤩❤️
Queen Queen — Google review
Great, well-maintained mall with many different shopping options. I love the variety here and the general vibe. They always have good music playing here wherever you are within the mall. Parking is also not too difficult to find & they have numbered and lettered sections for each spot.
Emma — Google review
So recommend Dolphin Mall - Miami’s largest outlet shopping centre.
It never disappoints and has 240+ stores from high end to lower end, at extremely discounted prices.
Hungry, there’s eateries galore also.
It’s close to the airport and not too far if staying downtown.
Sarah J — Google review
Incredibly crowded and noisy. Filled with rude people and the mall is giving nothing about it. Expensive prices and people asking for tips at fast food restaurants to boot!
Russ Calibri — Google review
Good place, good prices, great atmosphere. It is a busy place so you will experience some waiting time, for me it was 45 minutes. Also the parking is busy, lots of parking spaces but it is busy.there are lots restaurants and a movie theater inside the mall. Overall it is a good place to shop and spend some time.
Pablo Saldana — Google review
It's such an incredible place for shopping !!!
We found all we were looking for !
The shops are just crazy🌞🌴👍👍
Nathalie Martinez — Google review
I like this place. You can dance at night, it has a lot of restaurants and shops. Dave and busters here is pretty cool. Is good for a family mall day , for a date or just to shop around
L — Google review
I absolutely love this place. There are so many stores to explore and visit. I always bring tourists and friends from other places here. It probably the best mall in Miami, in my opinion. There are many cool clothing stores, places to eat, and places to keep you entertained. My favorite store was the Nike store and Jordan store. I absolutely suggest this place to anyone who hasn’t yet seen it.
Simo — Google review
I'm appalled at all the cigarettes buts littered at the front entrance to the Cafe side or number 8 of the mall food court. Disgusting to say the least. Children play around this area when people are waiting for taxi. Shameful!
Also, not to be picky, but your female associates at the information desk where you buy lotto tickets are very rude. I needed a pen to pick out my lotto ticket, and the woman jumped at me rudely asking for her pen back. Manners go a long way, ESPECIALLY when dealing with international guests to the mall. Any other person would have kindly asked for the pen back and not attacked the person.
Virginia Dominguez — Google review
It’s a massive mall with lots to offer, from dining, entertainment and shopping options. You could literally get lost walking inside the mall and trying to find stores.
I really liked the vibe and of course enjoyed shopping there. Many great brands with many great and high quality products.
Flamingo Gardens is a family-friendly nature reserve and botanical garden situated in Florida. It features a diverse range of flora and fauna, along with an associated museum, shows, tram tours, and cafe. This sanctuary is dedicated to preserving the cultural and natural heritage of South Florida by showcasing its three dimensions. Though named after flamingos, there are many other animals present here as well.
This place is super cool. All donation based and relatively cheap for admission. The peacocks are just free roaming so you can get as close as you want to them. As well as the iguanas and the lizards. The trolly ride is free and very cool. The show was also cool. I would definitely come here again, it seems like they do care for the animals unlike some zoos.
Tyler Gorden — Google review
What a fabulous place to visit. We brought our young kids (9 and 5)
And had such a fun time. So much to see from all sorts of birds, panther, alligators, eagles and more. The botanical gardens are beautiful and well kept. The history behind the property was very interesting, especially visiting the old family house. They've done an excellent job maintaining this property. A must visit!!
Jose S — Google review
We visited Flamingo garden as it was included in our summer adventure pass. It's worth visiting only once . It's a beautiful garden with different species of birds, exotic flowers and trees. There are also rides that run every hour and take you through whole garden.
Children will enjoy this place. Flamingos are in one small section but there are lot of peacocks and they are used to humans. It's a beautiful place for picnicing. There is one food truck and ice cream shop inside.
Maitreyi Deshpande — Google review
Beautiful and fun place for the whole family. Don't miss the schedule. When they feed the wildlife, the staff introduces the animals, such as James, the flamingo (last photo) . Had a chance to speak with a tram guide, I was told the cats there were abandoned, then they take care of them - neutering and feeding. It's an animal sanctuary, they do such amazing work taking care of those animals.
Simone C. — Google review
Beautiful garden with several different talks about animals, and a team your of the park. Lots and lots of friendly birds to watch, or feed. Butterfly garden, historic house to visit, Nat information house and many Florida animals. We saw a bear, panther, otters, alligators, birds x 1000 and more.
Ari Hirschman — Google review
My partner and i visited and it was a wonderful experience. We did the tram (free) which lasts about 30min, twice. we attended a presentation done by a lovely woman and my partner and i got to touch a python!
There were peacocks and birds, roosters and cats wandering.
There is so so much to see and to take pictured of, and its the best for nature and animal lovers. We saw the otters being fed, saw toucans, spoke to parrots.
I would definitely come here again.
The shop has a bunch of little gifts and the staff are super helpful and informative!
Tiffany Te — Google review
Founded in 1927, this Wildlife Sanctuary and Botanical Garden is a true hidden gem in Broward County. Shaded by exotic old growth trees almost 100 years old, the largest banyan tree especially is stunning. Thousands of orchids, thousands of other plants. A beautiful location for enjoying nature while helping to support wildlife rehabilitation and education programs. The plants, which are from all over the world, are beyond beautiful. The atmosphere is very tranquil, the staff is wonderfully kind and knowledgeable, the animals are well cared for. We are long time members and supporters, the membership is totally worth it. We especially love the panther and otter talks, the wildlife show, the absolutely delicious chicken wrap and fries at the cafe food truck and the tram ride. I also really enjoy just walking the tram trail which winds through an area thick with rainforest plants and tropical fruit trees, it's scenic and nicely shaded, and I think I can walk longer when I'm getting all that freshly oxygenated air. There's almost too much to do it all in one day. When I bring my son, there are so many hidden nooks to explore, we find mushrooms, lizards, snails, frogs, turtles, caterpillars, beetles, everything he is into. AND NOW THEY ARE DOING A DINO EXHIBIT THIS SUMMER! There's several new exhibits every year. The place is awesome, I highly recommend to both locals and out of towners.
Maggie E. — Google review
I decided last minute to go, as I've never heard of this place before. I absolutely loved it. Flowers and other plants are stunning, the otters are adorable and I've never seen so many peacocks in my life! Definitely a trip I'll repeat, was pleasantly surprised by my visit. I also loved their nature show.
Kelee Fisher — Google review
This is a nice human-sized park. It’s really peaceful just walking through the park and botanical garden.
The tram ride is a little on the short side but you get to drive through a mini rain forest which is pretty cool!
The river otters are a lot of fun to watch! Be sure to catch their feeding time!!
We didn’t get to see Josh the bear and the bobcat and panther were a little shy but they have beautiful birds (in cage for the birds of prey and roaming through the park for the peacocks and ibises!!), and alligators, tortoises, and of course Flamingos!!!
The animal encounter were fun and educational (we got to see a Burmese Python, a black vulture and a baby alligator up close!)
The little museum is a nice way to see how they lived back in the 30s.
Would definitely come back!
elizabeth demarque — Google review
This botanical garden & animal sanctuary is truly a one-of-a-kind gem. There are too many gorgeous flowers, exotic trees, and amazing animals to count here--one could easily spend a whole day wandering the grounds and not see everything. The aviary is especially impressive and includes a broad variety of fascinating birds of prey, and their orchid collection is stunning.
During our visit, every staff member we encountered was immensely helpful, polite, cheerful, and friendly. This is definitely a wonderful place to bring kids, visitors from out-of-town, and anyone else who wants to spend a fun day surrounded by nature.
David Matos — Google review
Very beautiful botanical gardens! I would recommend taking the trolley ride as well! The drivers are super informative and it is so fun to see the different types of fruit trees and exotic plants! And lots of different animals to see too! From peacocks and flamingos to alligators and turtles!
Liz Langhill — Google review
We will definitely be back, didn’t get to see the entire park since we got there little after 3. There are many different birds to see, and saw an alligator and a bear! The gift shop has lots of cool items too.
Christina Cruz — Google review
A beautiful day was spent here. Employees are friendly, and the animals are well cared for. The free tram with a tour guide was informative on the plant species. We spent about 4-5 hours just enjoying the trees, plants, and animals. The cats roam free and are super friendly. The food was tasty as well.
Thank you for the experience!
Hipnerd — Google review
We had a great day at Flamingo Gardens. Bring your kids and have a blast. Informative guides make the tour fun and interactive for all ages. Make sure you catch the animal show to meet some cool friends. 😎
Chaotic Hot Mess (ChaoticHotMess) — Google review
One of the most memorable moments in East Florida for us.
I’ve got all the useful information about the park from a lady in a gift shop (she was giving it to people with pre-booked tickets), but a person who sold us tickets on a cash-desk didn’t say a word about how to get most of the park.
Don’t miss the tram trip, our guide was so great and knowledgeable. Very fun.
1-1,5 hours in the park was enough for us, but I could spend more time there if we weren’t on a tight schedule.
Victoria Petrova — Google review
A hidden Gem! We were looking for something to do before catching our flight home and this was the perfect end to a perfect vacation. The prices to get in are reasonable, the place is huge and there is an amazing variety of plants and animals to check out. The best part? You get to feed the flamingos!! Highly recommended.
Mike S — Google review
You will need at least two hours to soak everything in and enjoy the nature. It’s time and money worth spent. Very beautifully maintained and during Christmas holidays the lighting adds to your experience.
You should definitely attend wildlife encounter show and take a tram ride that covers most of the massive acres of greenery and wildlife.
You will see peacock, bob cat, black bear, wild birds, exotic birds, native plants and trees, parrots, panther, ducks, alligators, birds of prey, otter, turtles and many more.
The food and drink in the garden is reasonably priced and there’s plenty of free parking around. If you are a senior or military, you also get discounted tickets.
Vijay Thakkar — Google review
Needs more maintenance. The animals are not impressive and they look sad.
The gardens ride are worth it for the $20 you pay. I would encourage the owners to have more kids oriented / educational programs. A streaming audio explaining the whole place.
MARCO MORLETT — Google review
I am convinced that this is the most magical place in the world. I pet ducks, cats, snakes, and flamingos (for the first time EVER, mind you), and even hand-fed the flamingo and the ibis birds. I saw a whole bunch of amazing animals such as peacocks up close, and took a really informative tram ride throughout the park. I knew I was in for a treat when I first found this place online, but my expectations were blown away and I spent the day as happy as I could possibly be despite it being boiling hot outside. I unfortunately didn't get to see the rest of the park, but that just gives me even more of a reason to come back. I think this is one of my new all-time favorite places. Thank you, Flamingo Gardens, for the highlight of my year so far!!
Anathema Device — Google review
Beautiful botanical garden and bird sanctuary! It is a large property with many areas to explore so plan for several hours for the full experience. The free-range birds (mostly peacocks) are friendly and allow you to get close, especially if you have bird feed ($1 in the gift shop). There are some amazing predatory birds (in enclosures) and a large flock of flamingos. There are also otters that are so playful! The animals appear extremely well taken care of and are in large enclosures. The botanical gardens are lush and well tended, with plenty of shady areas.
Rachel King — Google review
First time going and had a great time. It was a group tour, our educational supervisor we're amazing, super informative and knowledgeable pertaining each animal there. I enjoy outdoor, animals and nature if you have similar interests you wont mind the heat. This exceeded my expectations. Will go back to view the property that is on the premises left from Mr. And Mrs. Wray which left in their will for others to view and animals to rescue.
Tree Leroy — Google review
Flamingo gardens, what can I say? I mean, the experience was great. We went with our school on a field trip and the different animals to see was cool! We saw birds of prey like the bald Eagle and Red-Tailed Hawk and snakes as well. You know, everything was pretty cool to experience. It was definitely a great time. The children were amazed, asked questions and had a great time.
Playing. and meeting and seeing a panther for the first time. His name was buddy. It was really good. Really dope. Thus anyone wanting to go, I highly recommend it. You can go alone, with your spouse or as a family adventure. Mind anyone can actually go and have your imaginations come yo life!!
the Flamingo Gardens was absolutely an experience to remember.
Rick The Grandmastr — Google review
We had a truly magical experience at this place. My kids absolutely loved it, and we thoroughly enjoyed every moment. The real enchantment for us wasn't the flamingos, but the freely roaming peacocks. Their beauty and charm added an extra layer of delight to our visit.
We highly recommend allocating at least 6 to 7 hours to fully savor the experience. It's worth the time, considering the joy it brings, especially with the enchanting peacocks.
Don't miss the opportunity to feed the flamingos – it's a unique and enjoyable activity. Make sure to grab food packets at the entrance for just a dollar each. Feeding the flamingos added a fun and interactive element to our visit, creating lasting memories.
Lastly, the free parking was a pleasant surprise, especially considering it's a rarity in Miami. Overall, a delightful outing that we highly recommend for families.
Satish Kumar Dinakaran — Google review
My husband and I stopped here while in town for a cruise. The grounds were beautiful and it was really nice to see so many free roaming animals.
We ended up taking the tram ride twice because there was so much interesting information shared.
My only complaint would be that the food area is right next to the flamingo area, which is nice visually but had a very strong odor so we ended up taking our food to a bench further away.
Erin S — Google review
Visited twice during our southern Florida stay. Tram driver was knowledgeable and made it a fun trip. Loved all the birds and flowers. First time past the Fish Crows I didn't stop. Sadly they are underrated (they can talk). Aviary was great with many birds to see. Multiple flowers in bloom around every twist in the trails.
Nikole Drath — Google review
Beautiful place were animals that had been abused and imprinted by humans are treated for recuperation. Some like a black bear are beyond that. We humans are the worse.
We learn about the benefits the animals provide to humans and we don't know. At least l didn't.
I really recommend this place.
Bathroom are very clean. You can walk and then ride a tram. They even have a place for weddings.
Bring your family it's 👍 !
Maria Blanco — Google review
Wonderful place! Would recommend the tram, the otters, the flamingos, and going inside the aviary! They also have impossible burgers and refreshing smoothies! We spent about three hours there. Would recommend going on a weekday if possible. Also, you can get tickets online for a specific time.
Emily Blaker — Google review
It's such a beautiful place. There is lots to see here: flamingos, birds, lots of other animals. I spent 5 hours here. But I was also by myself and loved just walking and looking at all the plants and flowers. I loved that my favorite flower, the orchid, was blooming here.
Paula Gomez — Google review
Visited today while in town for a cruise. My granddaughter and I had a fabulous time. We loved seeing the animals and birds. The tram around the park was very educational. The butterfly garden was outstanding. Highly recommended
Deep in Sunrise, you'll find Sawgrass Mills - a shopping centre with a large supermarket, plus well-known stores like Starbucks and Macy's. You'll also find restaurants and banks nearby. It's perfect for those looking for convenience and plenty of choice when it comes to shopping.
The best shopping experience ever! Seems to have every name brand that exit; 400 stores! Could be a little overwhelming. Definitely wouldn’t take a toddler or small child. Also plenty of places to eat like Texas de Brazil, Cheesecake Factory, Seasons, then food court.
Dr. Rosie Ann Riley — Google review
[Sawgrass Mills: Where Style Meets Variety in a Shopping Extravaganza.] A retail paradise sprawling in Sunrise, Florida, is a shopper's dream realized. Its vast expanse houses an incredible diversity of clothing, catering to every style imaginable. From high street fashion to boutique finds, the shopping options are as varied as they are extensive.
The culinary journey within Sawgrass Mills is equally impressive. The food court is a melting pot of flavors, offering a diverse range of cuisines to satisfy any palate. From quick bites to leisurely meals, the dining options ensure a satisfying refuel amidst the shopping excitement.
For those seeking a touch of luxury, Sawgrass Mills doesn't disappoint. High-end, glamorous brands are strategically placed in an outdoor area, providing a lavish ambiance to complement the opulence of the products.
Navigating Sawgrass Mills is an adventure in itself, with the layout designed for exploration and discovery. The fusion of mainstream and high-end brands, combined with the culinary delights scattered throughout, creates an immersive shopping experience. Whether you're in pursuit of the latest fashion trends, indulging in gourmet delights, or treating yourself to luxury splurges, Sawgrass Mills offers a retail haven that's as vast and diverse as your shopping desires. 🛍️✨
Artur Zeno — Google review
If you like shopping, get your comfy shoes ready because you will walk for hours visiting each store when in shopping mode. Even if you're getting a couple of things, you might stay and walk a little longer than planned. Great selection of brands, stores and good deals. If you don't like crowds, I recommend going first thing in the morning, you'll great parking spots and a fast in and out experience.
Jaime Montero — Google review
A place everyone should visit it has everything you need and more prepare to get deals and shop eat and have fun it’s for all ages
Nordia Powell Ferguson — Google review
This is the biggest single-story outlet mall in America. It has items from famous brands like Nike, Calvin Klein, Armani. Everything is super cheap compared to the retail prices. There are many restaurants to eat at, it has a target, and 2-3 minutes away, there is a Walmart.
LogD0v — Google review
Wow I've been to lots of outlets in Europe but this one takes the cake... brilliant... something for everyone and the staff are all pleasant and fourth coming.... I spent loads of money 💰💰💰 on my 3 Girls and son ...The wife spent almost aswell .... my credit card is burning... Lunch was good and at a very reasonable price. I can recommend a visit here... check out the pics... I wish everyone a nice day out with the family.
Darren Reid — Google review
What a place! Has a circus vibe! Visit on a rainy day for some inside fun. Get lost. Walk around outside when the rain stops. Get something to eat. Check out the expensive stuff. Had a blast!
Cheryl Wood — Google review
Good place to buy clothes, perfumes and stuff luxury, I don’t recommend to go at night, shops close really early…like 8 pm, even the restaurants and caffe close at the same time.
The place is clean and with no too much noise. The sellers don’t push you to buy, thanks god.
Alejandro Sosa — Google review
Sawgrass Mills is a huge outlet mall located on Sunrise Blvd. Whatever you're shopping preference is, this mall will have it. They also have an outdoor shopping area and even a movie theater.
There are plenty of food courts and restaurants around the mall so you're not stuck with just going to one location.
My favorite part is The Colonnade! The design allows you to move between stores easily to shop. It's never congested or too crowded which is also a benefit of the open-air parts of this mall.
Oriana S — Google review
One of the top malls in soflo! It's changed over the years and recently has been given a good face lift! You will find some awesome deals. Really big mall with tons of deals and some of the best prices you'll find!
Ryan Mcclinton — Google review
Get your walking shoes on and prepare to make a day of it. There is way too much to see, lots of food. Lots of Stores, obviously. If you're just getting steps in, this place is where to go. I was there back in the day when it opened, and it was impressive back then. It's the 7th largest mall in the country. So, between the actual stores and kiosks everywhere, you will have a busy day.
Smc — Google review
Walked in to a welcome. The first thing I saw was all the dresses, they have an immense variety of dress to choose from. The ladies want to help, but I just wanted to look to see if anything popped out at me. I found a gew dresses, I am picky and hard to shop for so I was ecited when I found some I like. Tried them on and found the perfect one.
The employees here made my experiance a good one. I have been to over 20 different places to find a formal dress and this is by far the best.
Overall, this was great experience. My daughter loved this place as well. If I ever need another special occasion type of dress I will definitely be coming here first.
Going Places — Google review
Excellent shopping center, they have carts that can be for babies or adults. Very convenient! Lots of store at good price!!
Angie Mok — Google review
Lots of places to shop. Can get very crowed though so I wouldn’t go on Fridays or Saturdays. It’s also a lot of walking. So wear good shoes and maybe bring a water or two.
Katie Acevedo — Google review
Sawgrass Shopping Mall goes above and beyond in catering to shoppers with its extensive array of stores. In addition to the wide range of brands previously mentioned, the mall also houses popular retailers like Target, TJ Maxx, Five Below, Bloomingdale's, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, and Nordstrom Rack. This diverse mix ensures that shoppers have access to everything they could possibly need or want, all conveniently located under one roof. Whether you're hunting for bargains or indulging in luxury finds, Sawgrass Shopping Mall has something for everyone, making it a shopping destination that truly stands out.
Alisa M. — Google review
Sawgrass Mills is our Miami outlet shopping destination 🛍️🛍️🛍️
Sawgrass Mills is a fantastic shopping destination, located approximately 40 minutes from Miami. We highly recommend being specific about what you want to buy before you visit. With its enormous size, shopping there can easily take between 2 to 5 hours or more. To make the most of your visit and save time, it's a good idea to plan ahead and know exactly which stores you want to visit and where they are located in the mall. This way, you can have a more efficient and enjoyable shopping experience.
BHBB USA LLC — Google review
It is probably the largest mall in Miami. There are so many different stores that one day is not enough to see them all. However, the places that sell such expensive luxury goods are rather concentrated outside.
Satisficer한량 — Google review
Not great. Very crowded and a lot of the stores had staff that wasn’t very attentive. There wasn’t a lot of great deals either.
Coolest part by far was the F1 car on display in a store.
Daniel Ordonez — Google review
I personally say this is the best mall in Florida. It has literally everything.
Food - I cannot explain how much I love the food from small businesses and large businesses. Authentic, good price, and delicious.
Stores - Overall excellent employees and organized buildings. Employees are always on the lookout just in case someone does something bad.
Cleanliness - Stores are clean, floors are clean, bathrooms are clean, everything is clean. I have not seen a single particle of dust.
Esteban Evangelista — Google review
I like to buy in this place. It is a very big mall with many different stores. You will find very good deals. If you are coming to Miami or Fort Lauderdale this is the place to find very good deals. It has free parking and you can rent shopping cars big enough to carry your luggage
The Shark Valley Visitor Center is a popular tourist destination boasting an animal observation area and trails. The center is located on the northern edge of the "River of Grass," a vast area of freshwater prairie and slough.
We spent a great day riding bicycle. The tower is half way the 15 mile loop and is great to enjoy the panoramic view of the Everglades. Shade and restrooms are available but it is 7 or 8 miles away from the bike rental shop. You can bring your own bicycle or use the Tram as well. With the Tram it would be much faster, you won't be as exposed to the elements and you'll save a lot of energy. It took us 3 hours to bike the whole thing. Bring more water than you expect to use and preferably use insulated bottles otherwise even if you have frozen bottles of water they will all be melted and hot between 1 to 2 hours
Marco Pereira — Google review
While I don’t regret visiting, this is not a place I would plan to visit again simply because once you’ve seen it, you’ve seen it. There’s basically one paved loop road that’s about 15 miles and you have the option of either renting bikes or taking a tram tour (which you have to pay for separate from your park entrance fee). We took the tram tour and our guide Juan was great! He was funny and informative. We did see lots of gators and birds. The observation tower was great. All that being said, after our tour was finished, there really wasn’t anything else to do or see. So, good to visit but would not be a place I would go to twice.
Amanda Daigle — Google review
I didn't take the tram tour as they only leave at limited times during the day, so there was not a lot to see here. I did walk the boardwalk and a short bit of the tram trail, but didn't see any gators at all. Just saw fish and crows. I have an America the Beautiful card so I did not have to pay the $30 per car admission fee. There's a per person tram fee that the card doesn't cover, so seems like it would be an expensive stop for a family.
Lisa Skalecki — Google review
We loved visiting this place!! We recommend planning the visit carefully to match the time for the tours or, if you will do the trail by bike, check the weather conditions. The hot temperatures of the summer may not be ideal for visit, particularly for sensitive groups, and doing the tour by walk is thus not recommended. We also recommend visiting in the early spring to see more alligators, although many animals can be spotted any time of the year!! Don’t forget to bring a gear for hiking and sunscreen. Some trails may be closed if flooded.
We loved how friendly the park rangers are!! They were very helpful and supportive, and answered all our queries.
We love coming back to this place in different times of the year, as there are many things to observe as the seasons change.
Plus: don’t forget to add the National park stamps at the shop!!
Highly recommended for family vacations!!
Yessie Herrera — Google review
Great spot to stop and see Everglades National Park. We took the two hour tram tour and it was well worth it. It was the perfect way to see a lot in a relatively short amount of time. Our tour guide Mike did a great job and had a lot of interesting information. The driver Kelly was phenomenal! Not only was she taking us around, but she was spotting a lot of the wildlife and stopping to make sure we all got a good look. If you’re visiting the Everglades and don’t know what to do I would highly recommend starting here.
Emma Swanson — Google review
Beautiful place. Bring your bikes if you enjoy biking and taking your time. Lots of views, birds, and gators.
Tram is a little pricy, but worth the ride and the view from the observation deck. Purchase a week or more before your trip if possible. We got lucky and made the stand-by list. Only because everyone before us gave up and left.
Tram operators and guides are with a private company. Ours were so fun and informative. Tip them some cash at the end.
Ed Clapper — Google review
The walking path was amazing - tons of wildlife viewing options within the first mile of the trail. It was very hot, so we decided to skip the biking tour option - which paid off. It felt better to walk as there are many small details to be seen in the park, so walking made for a better experience to spot gators, fish, birds, and other wildlife. Highly recommend coming to Shark Valley if you want an eco-friendly and at your own pace adventure.
Joseph Kraemer — Google review
Great part of the Everglades to tour on your own with a bike. The views are spectacular. Just slow down and enjoy the wind on your face, the great hearing flying above you and the alligators basking in the sun. The horizon looks so wide. I'm definitely coming back. Don't forget the sunblock and shades. Bring an umbrella for shade if you walk instead of ride. They have a tram tour also.
Carlos Rodriguez — Google review
I haven’t been here since I came with a school trip in grade school. I was very pleased to see how well the paved path is maintained. My closest friend flew in from out of town and we rode the full 15 mile loop with my dad and brother. Just as beautiful and serene as I remember. Please remember to drink plenty of water before and during! You can fill up at the parking lot or at the observation tower which is about halfway. The staff was very nice and let me use their air compressor to fill my bike tires.
The Numberjack — Google review
Very nice park and plenty of wildlife to see, especially Gators and birds if you visit at the right time. During the Summer your best chance to spot wildlife will be early morning. Bike rentals are affordable but the tram ride is worth it too. The Rangers are great and really give you insight into the parks history and past. We had Ranger Ross and he was fun and knowledgeable. Plenty of photo opportunities at the tower. Try some of the shorter trails but definitely carry water.
Brent West — Google review
A very nice and well organized center for tourists. The whole place and bathrooms are clean. Lots of parking and seats at the waiting area. EV charging stations are available. Friendly staff and snacks are usual prices, unlike at tourist prices. The bike rentals are the best to travel into the wilderness. I didn't see any gators like others, but I enjoyed the breeze, plants, birds, and varieties of grasshoppers. Highly recommended.
John — Google review
We had a lot of fun visiting the park. We parked along the road and brought our own bikes which saved a lot of time as the parking lot had a 1.5 hour wait. It cost $35 for the two of us to enter the park on our bikes. They only accepted credit cards. There were bathrooms at the beginning and at mile 7. Lots of gators directly on the path, I was happy to be on a bike, not walking. When we left the observation tower for the remaining 8 mile return we were met with an extremely strong head wind. We are fit people and this pushed our limits. It would have been impossible to bike back with kids. I would make sure it wasn’t too hot if a day or windy when you visit. They have bike rentals and a team ride, we didn’t do either.
Jennifer Thomas-Sassone — Google review
Shark Valley is a perfect introduction to the Everglades! There is a 15 mile paved route that you can travel via tram, bike or on foot. It takes you out to an observation tower that gives you a great view out over the wetlands. The tram ride is excellent as you can see a lot and don’t need to worry about close encounters with the wildlife. The rangers guiding the tour are excellent and you can learn a ton in an enjoyable way. It’s also great for walking or biking. They have bikes for rent or you can bring your own. In the cooler months there’s a good chance you’ll see gators out sunning along the path. Well worth a visit!
Alison Joslyn — Google review
Amazing wildlife sightings! So many alligators and beautiful birds. We rented bikes and had a wonderful time. The bikes were a bit rundown, so hopefully the park will replace them some day. But still worth it for an incredible experience of the everglades!
Stephanie Burcusa — Google review
Shark Valley @ Everglades National Park. A must visit. Witness the beauty of the Everglades Ecosystem. You can walk, bike or travel by the tram. Either way, wildlife abounds. Tip: Go early before the parking lot is at capacity and the heat is unbearable especially in the summer. Make sure to bring sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, hat and water.
Big Cypress National Preserve is nearby , also highly recommended.
dave — Google review
Nice center. You can book a trolley tour through the area. With a bit of luck you see trees :) and lots of birds and maybe some alligators as well depending on the time of year. In addition you get a lot of insights if the area and what was done to preserve the Everglades.
Michael Wiedemann — Google review
Went the last day of September and went on the tram. The guys who ran the tram were great and informative. Told us we came the worst time of the year to see wildlife. My wife and I saw multiple gators, baby gators and several birds and snakes. Amazing place and need more than one day to see the glades!
Scott Coverstone — Google review
Well maintained and well designed visitor center with friendly and helpful park staff.
You can do a tram tour, or rent a bike, or walk the trails. There is also a short boardwalk near the visitor center.
Clean bathrooms and plenty of parking.
We chose to do the tram tour and did not regret it!
Part of the trail was covered in water during our tour - call in advance if you plan to walk or bike the trail.
Nick W — Google review
I highly recommend stopping in at the Shark Valley Visitor Center when visiting the Everglades National Park from the North. The rangers there are very helpful and can offer valuable information for your visit. There is a nice gift shop and concession area, as well as clean restroom facilities and picnic area. The building and grounds are well cared for. I suggest getting there early especially if you want a tram tour as it can get quite busy. Be sure to get your National Parks Passport stamped here.
ray weithman — Google review
Arrive early to beat the crowds. Entrance to the park is slow if the parking lot is full. Arriving cars are admitted only as cars depart. Park outside the park at your own risk (of break-ins, according to park personnel), if you have your own bike. Many people do. The daily National Park entrance fee is $35.
Bring your own bike, if possible. Rentals are $25 each for a clunky and poorly maintained bike. If you rent, reserve in advance to avoid waiting or disappointment. Arrive before noon to guarantee your rental, even with a reservation.
The 14.7-mile trail is paved and flat, an easy ride. Bring plenty of water, especially on hot days. Look for alligators, crocodiles and a variety of birds along the way. Near the halfway point, an observation tower gives expansive views of the Everglades “sea of grass”.
The gift shop has a selection of packaged ice cream for an after-ride treat.
David Sajdak — Google review
12/31/2023: We were fortunate to have been able to get two tickets to the 2pm 2-hour tram tour at this Everglades National Park site. We were waitlisted and were able to get on! The tour itself was great! Our tour narrator, Ricky, was very knowledgeable and personable! Our driver, Greg, kept us safe. We saw over 50 alligators… right alongside the tram road. We also saw crocodiles, a turtle, a snake, many birds, and some pretty flowers. It was an awesome experience!
FYI: The movie at the Visitor Center was not working.
Marianne Ward — Google review
This is a unique experience in Everglades National Park. The visitor center is just inside the entrance. There is a 15 mile paved loop trail to an overlook. No vehicles are allowed on the trail other than the park tram. Pedestrians and bicycles only. We took our bikes with us, but you can rent bikes there. We encountered a number of pedestrians for the first two and last two miles, but after that it was only bicycles. The alligators did not disappoint. We saw one or two per mile the entire trail. I expected the overlook to be the highlight of the trail, but it was disappointing. The view of the expansive park was ok, but I saw only one gator from the tower. Be aware the parking lot fills up early in the day especially on weekends and they implement a one out \ one in rule, which can cause a long wait. Since we had our own bikes, we joined many others in parking along the highway outside the park and then riding our bikes to the pedestrian entrance, bypassing the line of cars. If you have the chance, I recommend this experience.
Bob Duran — Google review
Shark valley will not disappoint! So pretty and calm, just go and look how long this trail is lol 😂. Is a pretty long trail you can easily spend your entire day here. They have bicycle rentals which I didn’t know. Anyways my point is get prepared and you will have such a good time.
Yenis Nunez — Google review
If you made it here, do the team tour. If you get lucky you'll have Kelly who is very knowledgeable about the fauna and quite entertaining. If you don't do the tram, you may be a little underwhelmed, but there is plenty of opportunity to see alligators, birds, and such along the tram trail or the
short trail through a mangrove thicket. If you are pressed for time and cannot do the tram, this is one to skip. You are likely to wait to enter as well.
Marc was an amazing tour guide! He was very knowledgeable and shared facts about alligators, and showed us multiple homes threw the everglades and told us a little about each one! Highly recommend booking a tour with him!! Also a great photographer (:
Courtney Pepin — Google review
Great fun time!! It was educational (they knew their stuff!), exceeded our expectations. We saw about 10 gators, many birds, & went in & out of a bunch of Everglade side paths. He gave a good amount of time for questions and pointed out cool finds🐊🐊. Mark has been doing this for a long time and you don’t have to worry about getting lost or eaten out there ! 🙈
Stacey STGR0343 — Google review
This was a great tour and Mark was fantastic. He has been doing this for a while and it shows; he is a wealth of knowledge, has a great sense of humor, and truly cares about the Everglades.
James Bagdasarian — Google review
My family and I took this tour, easy to get to right in our own backyard.
What a local little gem!
The guides are super-knowledgeable about the whole Everglades Eco-System and impart this during the tour. There is even an educational visitors center.
Depending on the time of year you go determines which and how much wildlife you will see. In the Winter months the alligators are more dormant and less active.
There are great opportunities for some fantastic photos of the herons and other birds. We took visiting family and friends and they thoroughly enjoyed it. A must do if you plan to be in the area!
Peter Carlesimo — Google review
GREAT TIME! To say our guide had a great deal of knowledge about the area and the wildlife would be a total understatement! Very informative about all aspects of the wildlife and the plant life. Totally enjoyed every minute. Well worth the time and money. Will probably go again next time we come to town.
Vernon Weinkam — Google review
What a wonderful trip. Our hot amazing guide was very knowledgeable and a true conservationist. We saw many gators and bird nests. Our tour was at 1pm and it was about 75 degree, bring a jacket and sunglasses. They provided ear protection. We will do this again on our next trip. Thank you for a wonderful experience.
Laura La Cagnina — Google review
Very knowledgeable when it comes to the open area and all of the Everglades wetlands. It was amazing to see that all the wildlife and see in person from the comfort and safety of the boat. Would recommend this tour to anyone who lives north of Boca aka West Palm Beach, etc as I drive all the way to fort Lauderdale when you can experience things right here.
Michael Brugger — Google review
Excellent adventure! Mark is a great guide. He answered all our questions, and he was very attentive. We spotted gators as soon as we began the tour. I counted at least 10 and lots of birds and nests. We did the first tour of the day (10 AM), and as others commented, it was ideal because the temperature was mild and we saw lots of animals. We felt safe in the boat. Noise didn't bother. If you are using Waze to get to the place, just keep it driving until the end of Loxahatchee road (at least for me, Waze stoped 1.5 mile short).
R L — Google review
We totally enjoyed this tour! Very nice father & son team!! Beautiful day & they were very knowledgeable about the ecosystem!!
I highly recommend them!!
LA 1960 — Google review
We had a lot of fun on the boat, and the guide was really knowledgeable about the Everglades and its plants and animals. We saw many different birds, but also alligators. I wish we could have gone a little further into the swamp and see some mangrove swamps too, but it's just 1.5 hours, so that's probably all you can get from this location.
Gabi Gabi — Google review
Did a 50 minute tour. Overall, the tour was great. Mark was our guide and he did a great job making it an enjoyable experience, very knowledgeable and could answer all questions. We saw a lot of alligators, probably 30-40 from as small as a foot long to one 5' gator, and a bunch of birds.
If I had any gripe, it was finding the place. Google Maps, as well as the website's map shows the location as being on the right of the road. There is a sign at the end of the road that points to the left. Was confused by this, but went that way because the road to the right was gated off. We showed up 30 minutes early as instructed at booking, but there was nothing there to indicate where to go. There was an airboat at the public ramp and we asked them, and they told us to go back to the other ramp and wait there. There was another group waiting there and they were just as confused as we were. Eventually the boat showed up and all was well.
Also worth mentioning, the site mentions that boats are operating at 50% capacity due to covid, but the boat was completely full. Didn't bother us at all, but if your strict with social distancing, it's not happening here.
Wooten's Everglades Airboat Tours is a great way to see the wildlife in the Everglades. The airboats are fast and provide a great view of the animals. The swamp buggy is not as fun and provides a less exciting view of the animals. Make sure you make reservations in advance to avoid long wait times.
We drove down from North Ft. Myers and had a pretty good time. The fan boat ride was a blast. Our captain was educational and made the boat ride a blast. We got to see some gators and learn about the habitat. The buggy ride was just okay. The driver was good, and getting to see the Native and logging homes was cool. That being said, if I were to go again, I'd skip the buggy and go for a longer ride through the Everglades. Just my opinion though!
Dustin Boicourt — Google review
The airboats were tons of fun. It’s a great way to see wildlife and landscapes you wouldn’t be able to see close up any other way. The guides are extremely knowledgeable and friendly. Gift shop is very low priced! I recommend morning tours so you don’t miss the alligator shows.
Nikia Zaremba — Google review
Purchased the private combo package for 4 on a smaller air boat and swamp buggy run.
The swamp buggy ride was fun and and the driver had some great information about the swamp area.
The captian of the air boat was very knowledgeable about the area and with being on a smaller air boat we were able to go places in the everglades the larger air boats could not go through. Seen a few alligators and other wild life. We would definitely go again.
J kbisch — Google review
I highly recommend taking a trip to Wooten's. Our family had a wonderful time. We rode the airboat with Captain Jake and the swamp buggy with Ralph. They were excellent hosts and we enjoyed every moment. We loved the alligator show, too! The trainer (I am so sorry I don't know his name!) was great with kids. Everyone was personable and knowledgeable. We made life-long memories at Wooten's.
Christy Witte — Google review
We booked at private tour for Dec 1 at 2:30 pm. If I had never been on an Everglades airboat tour, I might have thought this one was good.
To my readers: BOOK A TOUR THAT GOES NORTH OF HIGHWAY 41. South of the highway is not the natural Everglades. It’s all mangrove forests because the highway blocks the flow of water. North of the highway is more authentic.
Our guide—who never stated his name one time— spoke with a tone that was over-compensating for lack of true understanding of the area. He recited a few paragraphs of memorized facts, but his lack of knowledge was apparent in his inability to provide context and broader view.
We saw one gator—“old reliable”—that is more like a pet than wild. No birds or turtles or anything else.
Their “zoo” was more interesting than the tour. They have dozens of gators and crocodiles in cages. I think most of them are rescues. I was pleased that I was not able to see their Siberian Tiger in a small cage. Not sure why he was off exhibit.
Matthew Wilson — Google review
I originally wanted to go somewhere not so Comercial but glad we changed our minds. This place was awesome. We booked the combo and had a blast. We had Captain Matt for our Airboat tour and he is the man! Very fun and knowledgeable about the area. The swap buggy tour was really cool and saw some really cool stuff including bear tracks. I cannot recommend this place enough.
Anthony Riviera — Google review
Definitely worth stopping for. Do the air boat. Skip the swamp buggy. Make sure you make reservations prior to going and get there early. It was a long wait even after having a reservation. Our online reservation was at 1 but was maybe 2:15 or 2:30 when we went out. Swamp buggy was a disappointment. The driver kept stopping and showing us pictures on his phone of what we might have seen there because there wasn't much to see. I'd rather spend more time on the air boats. The animals were cool too. Their tiger could be the biggest cat I've even seen. I would definitely go back.
Joseph Gullett — Google review
We decided to drive to Everglades after coming back from our cruise in Miami. It was hard to find a place that doesn't take reservations the day off and we are so happy we found this place and we were able to explore the Everglades by air boat and a swamp buggy. The tour guides are really informative and they get payed off tips so take some cash. Also a big bonus of this place is that they have alligators, crocodiles, tigers and lions. They also have a really cool and informative show with a Gator named Charlie and at the end of the show we were able to hold 2 small alligators. The guy giving the show is funny and patient answering questions the children and adults have. He also accepts tips. We highly recommend this place.
Belladventures — Google review
We had a blast at this airboat tour. We didn’t need reservations and it was fairly priced. We took some of our family members that had never been before. Our captain was great and very knowledgeable about the area. We saw two small gators and fish. The animals back at the facility were neat to see and we got to hold a baby gator. If you are ever in the area definitely give them a try. Would highly recommend stopping in and enjoying this place for everything it has to offer.
Jennifer Alvaro — Google review
Okay, a lot to say. The airboat tours were AMAZING and when you were on them, it felt like flying and it was as fun as a roller coaster! The swamp buggy was so fun as well. It was a very bumpy ride though, so if you get motion sick easily, it may not be a great choice. Both guides were super kind and helpful. The gift shop was small but, cute. The animal sanctuary however, was pretty sad :( The enclosures were small and made of concrete and the lion had what appeared to be some sort of skin issue all over his body. None of the animals appeared to be underweight though, so they are probably being fed well. Another plus is that the bathrooms were super clean.
Fantastic Films L.J.B — Google review
Really enjoyed our airboat ride. It was our first. The captain took through mangrove tunnels and cut cookies in the open waters. We saw three alligators and many birds. He stopped often to tell us of the flora and fauna and the ecology of the area. Then we went to the animal sanctuary. There were otters, 43 alligators, 6 crocodiles, turtles, and of course, the man who got into the fenced-in alligator, Charlie. He told us many interesting facts about gators and then grabbed Charlie by the tail and drug her to the center. Then he pulled open her mouth and held it open with his chin. After this, we were able to hold a couple of baby gators. Great experience.
Robert Loudon — Google review
I always worry about animal cruelty when supporting a business like this and honestly, I’m still unsure of it. Airboat ride was a lot of fun! Swamp buggy tour was interesting. The animal sanctuary was a little sad. The enclosures are not very large and it’s mostly cement with a wood platform. The river otter enclosure was very stinky. The live gator show was very cool and the handler seemed to genuinely care about the gators. Handling the small alligators was very cool. They were held in a small covered box, I hope that’s not where they stay all of the time. The alligators did seem to enjoy being pet around their ears. I would feel better about it if the enclosures were cleaner and actually had anything stimulating for the animals.
Lisa Meminger — Google review
Such a positive first experience for us. Group of 9 - trying to find an airboat tour last minute over Spring Break. We found Wooten's! 3 adults and 6 teens ages 16, 16, 15, 15, 14 & 13. We booked the ORIGINAL TOUR - 30 min airboat and 30 min buggy tour with alligator show for $74.00. I was nervous about the cost. Totally worth it to us. Something for everyone. Cool but short airboat tour, funny swamp tour guide, and the GEM for us the little 'zoo' of animals and informative and funny alligator show! And holding the alligators!
Do not miss spending the time exploring the entire animal area we almost missed some cool things way in back!
Overall very well run and just great service too. We had to have two people get really sick the night before who had to cancel very last minute. Despite their clearly stated 24 hour refund policy we emailed them after hours as our tour was first thing in the morning and it was fixed, refunded, and all set again before we even arrived!!!! Just great service and a really fun experience. One heads up though - Their bathrooms are really limited and have issues with water pressure. Just be warned that it is not a quick potty break!!!!
Thanks for the amazing memories!
Heather Rettler — Google review
This was the best trip ever. We had our own boat and Captain Matt was amazing, personable and very knowledgeable. He taught my grandsons quite a bit about the mangroves, the Everglades, the ecosystem and the alligators. The swamp buggy tour was okay...not near as thrilling as the air boats, but definitely very educational. These guys know their stuff and you can tell they LOVE what they do and take great pride in protecting their environment and sharing their knowledge. It was cool to hold an alligator too!
Sonja Racke — Google review
We booked the Total Everglades Combo as part of our 10 year anniversary celebration. I loved every minute of it! Every captain was knowledgeable and friendly! I love people with a sense of humor and all 3 definitely had one 😊The gator handler was also very knowledgeable and you could tell that he cared about his gators! We want to come back to Florida again and this place will definitely be on our list again!
Danielle Lilly-Mischke — Google review
The actual boat ride was fun, though the ear covers still let in quite a bit of the 110 decibel noise. The gator park part was interesting, but the most exciting part was a group of birds who would eat out of your hand. Also a random lion...
We thought we'd get more from our captain than we did this time.
Preserve across 2,200 acres offering swamp buggy tours where visitors can see snakes & alligators.
The last few years have not been kind so it needs some TLC. We had a great time!
kurlye2011 — Google review
I've never had more fun at an adult field trip before. I felt like a kid again -- only this time paying attention. But seriously from start to finish 8 to 5pm I enjoyed myself so much and learning more about the Seminole tribe. If you are a history buff like me, or want to know more about the Everglades and native lands this is it for you. I wouldn't recommend if you have toddlers and below because I know my niece gets antsy after a full day but there really is entertainment for everyone. The airboat was awesome, saw about 10 gators! The wildlife shows and then the museum--their staff is A+. They are so knowledgeable I really am glad I came and can't wait to bring family from out of town. They are a little further out than other tour groups but well worth it to get the bang for the buck. Their customs are beautiful and im so happy I got to learn all that I did . They are way beyond casinos and duty free tobacco. The husband and wife tour guide duo (I forget their names) were excellent. So many cool items at the gift shop too. If you're debating don't hesitate to come here!
Miso Jones — Google review
It is hard to get to Billie Swamp Safari but it is worth the effort. Right now, it is still not fully operational after the Covid Pandemic but it is still worth the effort to go there, especially when yiu also visit the Seminole Museum which is just a mile or so from there.
Don Wynn — Google review
Love Billie Swamp Safari! Restaurant/Cafe Is Open select days of the week Wed- Sunday make sure to call ahead before going out there. They can cater small groups and have a few nice locations for groups to have lunch and meet around areas of the cafe. Exhibits and tours are not running currently but you can still walk around and see animals out in the wetlands around the restaurant and the alligator and croc exhibit is still open for viewing🐊 capybara exhibit is still there too! They are so friendly!
Beach bbunny — Google review
Great attraction. Worth the price n long drive. Shows were great. Employees were friendly n knowledgeable. Kyle was great dune buggy driver. Critter show guy was funny and very interactive. Reptile Guy awesome n very knowledgeable fun Venezuelan guy.
Orlando Martinez — Google review
This place was wonderful! Plenty to do in one day. We originally went because of a Groupon and were surprised by the petting Zoo and various animals and the shows. Hank was our airboat driver and he was very friendly and knowledgeable! He was also a really fun driver and made the ride fun! We saw a variety of wild animals and of course an alligator! I definitely want to go again and try the swamp buggy tour!
Tyra Soucy — Google review
What an amazing experience! My kids loved it. They got to see, pet and hold so many animals. We are Florida natives but we don’t always get a positive encounter with alligators, snakes or turtles. This place has it all and is growing. The Florida panther is a sight to see. Also the airboat and buggy rides are well worth the time. Definitely a great family adventure day!
Bryan Prather — Google review
beautiful scenery. clean and entertaining.
Second visit even better. Armando was really nice in the boat ride, thrill ride and tour in one, best so far. The bungee ride was really good, lots of things I've not seen in a long time, other I've never see in the wild. Lots of nice pictures.
Ludwig O'Hallorans — Google review
A few women and I went today and were very impressed. The airboat ride lasted about 1/2 hour and the guide was informative and engaging. The swamp buggy ride was almost an hour and couldn't have been better. The guide had been there for many years and was full of information. A few times he got off the buggy to get leaves and and fruit for us to smell and look at. The critter show was also terrific. We thoroughly enjoyed our day and will be back soon.
Jody Sanders — Google review
We had a great time today at Billie Swamp Safari. When we first arrived, we were told that the boats and buggies may not go out due to thunder and lightning in the area so we visited all the exhibits. So much to see and do, even without the boat rides. We fed alligators and crocodiles along with otters and parakeets. See my pictures and you will see all that they had to offer. The weather cleared out while visiting the facilities and we went out on an air boat ride. Great staff and a great time to be had. Two thumbs up.
Michael LeBlanc — Google review
This is definitely a hidden gem. Excellent place to walk around and do buggy or air boat rides. Nowhere close to the actual Everglades experience, but this is a different league in itself.
I did the one hour buggy ride (VFM at 25 bucks) and was thoroughly impressed with the service and the guide / driver. The walk around later around the property was fun too, with a few animals on display.
Must do if you are around this side.
Vishal Salunkhe — Google review
I took my daughter there for her birthday. Just to get away and feel secluded. I was really impressed with the amount of animals and Wildlife they have there. They had a nice nature walk and it was very secluded. It was a wonderful day with the kids. It was quite the drive to get there but well worth it. The food is very reasonably priced and delicious. And the only other thing you have to pay for is the Airboat Rides or buggy rides which I believe is only about $20 and they have a cute little gift shop with plenti to choose from. What a nice day getaway.
charlotte guy — Google review
Love this place! It's a bit of a drive, but definitely worth it. It's a small complex about four buildings. There's a nice restaurant and Bar with mostly American fare and some Native American dishes thrown in. The Critter show is really fun. They bring out a super friendly, super tame deer and they give the kids pieces of Apple to feed the deer. They also bring out a skunk, gray fox, and baby alligators that people can touch and hold. The snake show has venomous snakes in it and it is very interesting. I highly recommend it! The Swamp Buggy ride was really informative and they have a ton of wild animals and you can see them in natural Preserve and not cages. Even a very friendly ostrich. The airboat ride was not scary or loud, just super fun! Bring the kids, a hat and sunscreen, and enjoy!
Tigertail Beach is a stunning stretch of white sand that boasts a tidal lagoon, ideal for bird watching and shell collecting. This 32-acre habitat is renowned for its wintering and nesting shorebirds and has been listed among the best all-around birding locations in southwest Florida. Visitors can explore the area's captivating lagoon, which separates Tigertail Beach Park from the Big Marco Pass Critical Wildlife Area.
We had so much fun at Tigertale beach! Newly updated prices as of January 2022 is $10 to park. Credit cards only. You should try to park in the farthest parking lot possible as it decreases the long walk. Also try to use the restroom before you walk out because it’s about a 10 minute walk to the beach. The sand is not super soft because there are lots of shells, but we found some super cool ones! Beach is well populated but not crowded. Overall great beach day!
Paige Reese — Google review
Beautiful and Peaceful place. I love ❤ the white sand and the feeling just looking at the nature : shells - please do not take live shells is against the Law-, little fishes and birds. Depends on the tide, you can walk true the pond and get to the shore. Mud ? Yes, but is worth it!!
Zoila Velez — Google review
Tigertail beach itself is very rocky and full of seashells that are hard to walk on with barefeet. However you can wade across the bay or walk around to get to a very nice beach by the ocean. There are restrooms and showers in the parking lot but they were pretty dirty. The parking fee is cheap though so it's a good way to spend your day if you don't mind the walk out to the nice beach.
Karissa Eckert — Google review
It’s a long walk from the car park! Never seen such a huge swathe of sand , very clean and spacious. It’s a lovely walk up by the lake . Sea was very cold (January) so didn’t brave a dip. Bring your own gear and food as nothing was offered once down by the water
Neale Phillips — Google review
The beach is clean with light and pleasant sand. Lots of seashells on the beach. Water was cool this time of year. The walk from the parking lot is very long, beware if you have little kids.
Dmitriy A — Google review
Beautiful long beach with powder like sand and lots of different types of shells. Definitely worth the long walk if you are interested in long walks. You can also catch the most beautiful sunset.
Iggy Deez — Google review
I liked it. If you're trying to go to the beach, when you drive into the parking lot hang to the left and take the long dirt road all the way to the end. This will save you a half mile of walking. Otherwise you'll walk into the lagoon first and have to then walk around it to get to the beach. Amazing shells and a great sunset.
Anthony Church — Google review
Beautiful beach! White sands, water is pretty clear. Great for shelling ! Found great shells, and sand dollars for the kids. You have to walk near a mile, but it's worth it. Saw dolphins swimming, crab, and beautiful shells ! Very nice oveei!
Steve Popdan — Google review
Highly recommend! You can't go through the lagoon anymore, but the walk around is doable and totally worth it, and little crabs are so cute over there. Look for them on the sides of the path. Bring snacks and spend some time. Don't get stuck at sunset....while it's beautiful, there is a little hike back, and the mosquitoes are so bad right there because of the lagoon. There are good shells, but the better ones are on the "South Beach," opposite sides of the beach stretch. You're welcome 😊 😉
My Life - DIY — Google review
Nicest beach on Marco. Has wildlife refuge, playground, facilities, and a beach much less busy than the main drag.
$10 entry
Be Pol — Google review
A nice, clean beach.⛱️ Very large. The distance to walk was a good 10 min walk from the parking lot. 🚗 The sand was soft and beautiful. A good place to find shells 🐚
Shelly Richardson — Google review
We loved the beach - beautiful sunsets, and amazing shells - and so many!!! It a beautiful spots I can’t compare to some of the more pristine, fine sanded beaches. It’s different but well worth the visit to find some shells and enjoy the wildlife - tortoise, iguana, crabs and whatever lives in some of the shells.
Josiah Dahlstrom — Google review
Beautiful state beach park! We ended across the inlet to get to the far side and we enjoyed a beautiful day searching for shells and bird watching. The water was still quite warm for December.
Sheri Farag — Google review
Beautiful and clean Wildlife Refugee and beach all in one.
The best way to get to the beach is to cross the lagoon . It’s not that yucky at all as long as you wear flip flops or water shoes. Low or falling tide is the best to cross the lagoon as water is around up to your waist. Keep in mind to go to the beach using path will take literally 20 min as when you get to the beach it sooo wide like endless 😂We did once out of curiosity .
To see wildlife the best is to visit early in the morning and late afternoon closer to sunset. There is a wide variety of shore birds as well as bunnies , raccoons and iguanas.
For shell picking you need to check the tide again . Come 2 hours before low tide not earlier . We found a lot of shells there especially fighting conch once. There are so many if you walk down to the vey end of the beach in direction of Marco pass .
dilkachor29 — Google review
Connected to Tigertail Beach is a lagoon pictured above. This lagoon is a prime example of how hurricanes can change coastlines. Before 2005, the lagoon pictured above was non existent. The thin strip of sand shaped like a tiger’s tail separating the Gulf of Mexico (left) and the lagoon (right) was pushed inland from hurricane Wilma. In short the tiger had grown a longer tail after the hurricane.
Because there is a lagoon between the public parking lot and Tigertail Beach…to reach the beach from the street entrance, you have two options. There is the short way or the long way. But, I’ll warn you…distance is not your primary deciding factor.
The short way involves walking through a lagoon with water that could be anywhere from knee to chest deep and a squishy bottom. If you decide on this option, you have to put out of your mind the critters lurking in the lagoon as you slog toward the other side. If that isn’t for you…you can choose to walk the 1/2-mile sandy path around the lagoon. We opted for door number two, which thankfully was minus the murky water and hidden critters.
The lagoon of Tigertail Beach is a place where hundreds of protected wildlife call home. The Ibis pictured above is just one of many birds you can see while exploring the area.
I guess random Shell Trees along the beach are a thing in southwest Florida. I wondered about the purpose of hanging shells on trees. The tree caught my attention when I stumbled upon it. Hoping to find an answer to my question when I returned home, I snapped a picture.
You just never know what treasures the ocean will offer up. Check out the cool barnacle cover piece of wood pictured above. The ocean is home to a lot of fascinating things.
Public parking for Tiger Tail Beach is not too far away but be prepared to do some walking. There is a daily parking fee no mater how long you stay. This beach is also a nice place for a decent sunset pic.
CJ — Google review
We loved this beach park. Well worth the entry/parking fee. It was pretty full when we got there but thankfully were able to get in & find a spot.
It was quite a hike to get out to the actual beach but again, well worth the effort. The beach is nice & wide and water is great. We will definitely be coming back!
Naples Botanical Garden is an outstanding botanical garden in Florida that features a variety of gardens and programs for visitors. The gardens are set on 170 acres of land with lush vegetation and beautiful views. The gardens are perfect for those looking for a little peace and tranquility, as well as opportunities to learn about plants and their ecology.
This garden is STUNNING! Full of amazing plants, wildlife, great walking paths and trails, and so much to look at and enjoy! If you’re new to the area or even a resident that hasn’t been - I strongly recommend checking it out! The price to get in was like $25 which was totally reasonable. We spent about 2 hours walking around and exploring. Try to get there earlier when they open up because it does get pretty crowded mid day. They do have a little cafe with a decently large menu so you can do an early lunch or midday snack. The gift shop is full of cute gifts and unique items to take home with you! Check out this local gem!!
Drew Miles — Google review
We visited this in October on a Saturday in 2023. We were very impressed at the size and amount of fauna on site. The staff was very friendly. We caught a tour that was very informative and the girl was very clear with her speech. They do warn you to bring bug repellent and suntan lotion. We used a free pass but I think it's probably worth the cost of admission.
Bill Palis — Google review
A great place to learn about some of the many plants and trees from around the world. This botanical garden is just beautiful. Very nice walking paths with plants labeled well along with interpreters strategically placed to answer your questions. Wildlife opportunities here too. Saw an osprey, egrets, cormorants and even a small wild crocodile. Yes, a crocodile and not an alligator. Nice gift shop and clean restrooms too. Did not visit the restaurant, but it looked nice.
Timothy Raney — Google review
This place was incredible! I can't say enough about the beauty. It was so much bigger than we expected. Very family friendly! The workers go above and beyond to educate the visitors and take care of the grounds. There are paid tours as well as self guided QR code tours. Free wheel chairs, a gift shop, a Cafe, very clean restrooms, and did I mention just gorgeous. It's very cool, definitely check it out if you have time!
Tatyana Kuster — Google review
Awesome place to visit. Even though it was 90°, there was a nice breeze through out the gardens. Several shady areas to sit and rest and take in the beauty. The cost to enter is $25.00, and I would say well worth it. You can also get a nice lunch there. We did and the food was pretty good, maybe a bit pricy, but super convenient with an option to sit inside with AC, or eat outside with beautiful views. Highly recommended!!!
Linwood Straight — Google review
Love the orchids garden, there r so many varieties and all beautiful. Relaxed by the pond and watched the waterfall. Took a walk on a highland trail, and enjoyed the fresh air. Love this place. Oh, and we were able to buy the tickets at the gate
blue sky — Google review
"From the moment I stepped into the Naples Botanical Garden, I was transported into a world of lush beauty and serene natural splendor. This 170-acre paradise is a symphony of vibrant colors, exotic fragrances, and the melodious sounds of nature. Each garden, meticulously themed and flawlessly maintained, offers a unique journey through different botanical landscapes.
The Brazilian Garden, with its bold tropical plants and the stunning water feature, was a highlight. It felt like a vibrant celebration of life and color. Equally impressive was the Asian Garden, where tranquility reigns, and every turn reveals a new, meticulously designed vista, complete with a peaceful Asian-inspired structure.
For families, the Children's Garden is a wonderland of interactive play and learning, where the little ones can connect with nature in the most delightful ways. The Butterfly House is another must-visit, offering an up-close experience with these ethereal creatures in a rainbow of colors.
What truly sets Naples Botanical Garden apart is its commitment to sustainability and education. Their conservation efforts are evident throughout the park, making each visit not just a visual treat but also an enlightening experience.
Whether you're a gardening enthusiast, a photographer looking for the perfect shot, or simply in need of a peaceful retreat, Naples Botanical Garden promises an unforgettable visit. The blend of art, nature, and conservation makes this not just a garden, but a living, breathing masterpiece. A must-visit for anyone in Naples seeking beauty and inspiration."
jordan — Google review
Best botanical gardens I’ve been to! $70 for 2 adults and 2 kids. We ate lunch at the cafe (pricey and no kids menu) The gardens were gorgeous and lots of photo ops. During our visit the musical swings were up and the kids loved it! Lots of benches and places to stop and relax if you can’t walk long distances.
Melissa Stephens — Google review
Amazing! Paradise. Anyone would find it beautiful. A place for those interested in botany. A sacred place for those interested in understanding and appreciating rare collections of trees and plants. Beautiful place to go with family 👪 nice and clean place to eat. The food was excellent.. they also have wines, beers, Coke, water. Etc. Nice outdoor dining area next to a lake. Go have fun and enjoy. Highly recommend. There is a trail around the lake. Go comfy tennis shoes 👟 so you can walk this amazing place. 10 starts 🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Maria Garache — Google review
Beautiful and stunning for any nature enthusiasts.
It was really really a class apart garden , the sheer number of flora this location has is amazing.
I was short on time as I arrived near to 12:30 and the garden closes at 2 PM. I wish I had arrive early at garden to spend time.
Make sure you have at least 3 hrs to visit every sub gardens they have in here.
They have a lot of seating area to sit around amazingly beautiful flowers and plants.
Parking is available in abundance
Asim Nabi — Google review
Very nice garden to visit. Well maintained with beautiful flowers. Nice walking paths with some shade for the warm Florida days. Lots of other things to do around this area. Head over to the beach after and have something to eat and enjoy the ocean views 💕
Serge de Winter — Google review
A beautiful garden. Great place to walk. Amazing amount of work has been done to make this a world class operation. Also have a very nice cafe. Plants available to purchase.
John Angevine — Google review
Wow! So gorgeous! Definitely worth the admission price, I spent about 2 hours here and would have stayed a bit longer if I'd had the time. Bring a hat and a water bottle. There are water fountains for refilling, and some shaded seating dispersed on the main garden areas. Easy parking.
Lisa Skalecki — Google review
We saw many many things on our 7 day Florida vacation but I have to say that the Naples Botanical Garden made the top 3 for me!
Anyone who enjoys plants and gardening will have an absolute blast here. I was impressed with everything. I send my most sincere compliments to the folks who maintain and create the various botanical displays, they are phenomenal and all perfectly kept.
We visited during a very heavy rainstorm and practically had the place to ourselves, I found it to be immersive, diverse and truly wonderful.
I'm the gardens we saw a turtle, birds, fish, lizards, a giant cricket, and some of the coolest lily pads I've ever.seen.
Be sure to walk the longer paths on the outskirts too, we saw a neat bird hunting fish in the water, diving and swimming under the bridge. How cool!
Kaitlyn Baker — Google review
By far the best Botanical garden we have been to, rivaling even Gardens by the Bay in Singapore. Outstanding organization of thematic gardens which makes it so fun to explore. This is a true delight to visit.
Aleksei Shchekotikhin — Google review
Nice place to spend a couple hours wandering around seeing all the different plants. The plants are grouped by the area of the world in which they grow. Many of the larger specimens have plaques that show the common name and the scientific name. There are many QR codes that you can scan for more information. They also offer 3, 45 minute tours daily that provide more in depth information about the plants. If in the area again in the summer I would attend again.
William — Google review
This is just a beautiful botanical garden worth to visit in Naples. The landscape is wonderfully designed, full of plants and flowers. We loved tours offered in price of the tickets and a lot of places to sit in quiet and enjoy the nature
Kateryna Kaca — Google review
Beautiful, must see attraction in Naples, Florida! I recommend signing up for the (free with ticket purchase) daily walking tours. The tours were interesting and informative. They are about 45 mins. each hour and audio pieces are provided. Bathrooms are clean and sanitized. Staff is friendly and helpful to answer any questions. Cafe, eating area on site. Lots of Beautiful blooming orchids, plants, trees and more! Need about 2 hours to walk the botanical gardens peacefully. A great experience in Naples!
Allison — Google review
One of most beautiful places to visit in Southwest Florida and in all of Florida! This place is perfect for a peaceful stroll or for some time of reflection. I recommend that you come early! We arrived shortly after they opened, and we felt like we had the whole place to ourselves. Enjoy the photos!
Abraham Velazquez — Google review
Beautiful gardens to wall thru appreciating all the different varieties of plants, flowers and trees.
The kids will enjoy the musical swings and the waterfall area is picturesque for photographs.
The gift shop was a little pricey but had some unique items.
The only concern we had was the handout map was not very clear on where we were. More "you are here" maps physically placed would certainly help.
Phil Vania — Google review
So fun! We lucked out with perfect weather for our visit, which coincided with the musical swings interactive installation as well. The botanical garden is beautifully maintained, well labeled, and has many delightful places to sit down and soak it all in. Be sure to check their daily menu of tours and programs.
Carrianne Dillon — Google review
We had a lovely time here and always do. We've been here a few times over the past couple of years. Lots of beautiful plants and flowers to see. We usually spend about an hour and a half here. We really enjoy that they change the exhibits with the seasons, so there's always something new.
Jessica Rogozinski — Google review
Came too late for a guided tour (last tour was at 1:30 on the day we visited). No worries, we walked around ourselves. Saw the most beautiful lily pads…lots of gorgeous nature arranged beautifully. Kids had fun too. Really enjoyed ourselves for a few hours.
Zina L — Google review
This is a very good place to spend a weekend. The garden has a cafe, restrooms, a souvenir shop, and benches for relax. I liked the musical swing the most. And be sure to have comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot .
The Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a protected wetlands area that features a scenic boardwalk trail and an observation tower, offering visitors the opportunity to observe native wildlife in its natural habitat. This private park provides great information about the early Florida conservationists who helped establish and maintain the sanctuary.
What an amazing place! The lady who checked us in was super informative and sweet. Saw so much wildlife and the information on the tour was terrific. Lots of great Info about the early Florida conservationists and great minds behind the Sanctuary. Ranger also helped us spot gators (though we had just missed otters! Bummer) Totally worth the $$$.. it’s a private park and the boardwalk is great and accessible. A beautiful stroll through time. Saw tons of herons, egrets, ibis, woodpeckers, wood storks, hawks, black vultures, deer and a gator. Also saw lichen and many 800 year old bald cypress ! Will be back for the ghost ;)
A Flyswatter — Google review
Fantastic!!
Most of the time you are in the shade. I went in June so there wasn't much water yet. Tons of wildlife. Gators, baby gators, raccoons, woodpeckers, vultures, hawks, frogs, lizards, owls, butterflies, and many many birds.
Tip: we were passed by almost everyone because we would take a few steps, stop, listen, and look around. That is how I found the gators and the raccoons as well as many birds.
Target Priority — Google review
Absolutely wonderful experience here! Quietly walking through the park is so interesting. It’s really a great place to experience nature and see amazing animals and plants. Coming from PA, I saw so many things I’ve never seen before! I loved walking the trail and looking and listening to all that the swamp has to offer. I also enjoyed my conversation with Art, a volunteer who was out on the trail to share information with visitors. He was so genuinely kind and helpful and my family and I had a nice time chatting with him. Overall, it was one of my favorite things I got to experience in Naples.
Nathaniel Legg — Google review
What an absolute delight of a habitat! My hubby and I are both biologists, avid birders, and native plant nerds, and we had an amazing morning on the boardwalk. This habitat is endemic to our state and can't be found anywhere else!! We saw salt and pepper square stem wild flowers and salt marsh mallow in full bloom and don't even get me started on the scarlet hibiscus! Just gorgeous! This is a truly special place that should be preserved for our future. We love that they only allow so many people on the boardwalk because we were less likely to be disturbed when getting the awesome bird photographs that we came early for. If you love Florida native plants and ecosystems as well as our lovely native wildlife than this is the place for you. We will absolutely be back for more of real Florida.
dani hall — Google review
Loved the sanctuary itself. It was beautiful and well kept.
However, we used to faithfully give to Audubon for many years, but after they use their charity in a political way we no longer will donate or support them. Which actually very much saddens my heart to do so but we won't stand by while our beliefs are mocked. They are a charity, for birds. It's unfortunate they have to politicize that.
Ashley Nicole — Google review
First time here and we, couple in the 40's, really enjoyed this place. Majority of the board walk are in shade. We arrived around 10 am, took a leasure walk, oh and ah on air plants, looked for orchids, birds, ground animals. Took pix at the calusa land mark. Would we come back? Why not? Love this peaceful place ...
blue sky — Google review
I had a fantastic day hiking/walking along the boardwalk today (it is all boardwalk). Took me about an hour to get around once.
The first quarter-mile or so goes through grasslands, so no shade, but the rest of it, except for the very end where it goes through grasslands again, is mostly shaded by the very tall trees.
Sunday afternoon it was pretty crowded, but that was good because there were other eyes picking out the alligators, turtles, etc.
Don't forget to look up, so you can find the owls and other birds, flowers, lichen, raccoons, and of course, look down so you can see the alligators, lizards, turtles, etc.
Keep your ears open for the multitude of birds, which I could never actually find because my eyes are not trained for that, and for the various bullfrogs, who were quite vocal today.
Nice visitor center and restrooms, lots of parking. There is a $17 charge to get in, but it's really worth it - plus it's for the Audubon Society.
The loop is about 2 miles, and since I had time, I ended up walking the trail twice and saw different things each time.
Some people were commenting on not seeing wildlife, but you really need to look hard for it sometimes and don't go in there with the expectations of seeing dozens of alligators. I saw three. Four raccoons. One owl. A dozen lizards, one turtle, etc. but it was all very nice.
Leslie Smith — Google review
Amazing! A wonderful walk along the boardwalk showing off a protected mature cypress forest. Rich in plant and animal life. Suitable for entire family. Saw many birds, alligators (and baby alligators!!), racoons, and plants. Informational signs along the way. Was a wonderful day!
K H — Google review
I am neither a biologist or an arborist. I am a mom of three children (8, 11, 14) who were not at all convinced that a swamp was a worthy way to spend their morning. Upon arrival at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, however, their spirits were quieted and they gave space for it to be bearable. In the end, and to their surprise, we all really enjoyed it! I didn’t hear one complaint until it was time to leave.
Understanding my role of mom, you will allow me to show you the swamp as my boys saw it. My oldest, a daughter, read the plaques and enjoyed the expected sights, such as the hidden bittern we spotted (pictured—you gotta look carefully!). My boys, on the other hand, saw things such as the cypress tree eating a hand rail and the nice tree hugging the other tree (aka the Strangling Fig—a misnomer in their opinion). They continued to notice more cypress trees trying to consume handrails or “melting” onto the edge of the boardwalk, but occasionally had their attention turned to the swamp beyond the boardwalk by raccoon families, a (false) sighting of a ghost orchid, and—most impressively—a very big alligator.
Along the way, guides helped us see things our novice eyes did not spot. Our questions to them were simple and easily answered, but I overheard some very in depth exchanges between the guides and more knowledgeable guests than we. They were helpful in both situations.
I would recommend this for any age! One consideration for those who might struggle to walk for a long while—there are benches along the way, but if you or a loved one has difficulty with distances, rest may not be as accessible as needed. There are rails to lean on along the entire boardwalk.
Tamara G — Google review
Great family activity. We came at the end of March so it was dry season. The first hour, we didn’t see much. Just lots of walking to see many trees and a few birds. Close to the end, it was a bit more swampy and so it got more interesting. We saw many birds and alligators. I recommend going when it is less dry so that you could see more.
Evelyne Nguyen-Khac — Google review
Beautiful hike plan to get theirs early as they do close the trail around 1:00 since the hike takes about 1:30-2hrs. Love walking here to see all the beautiful unique air plants, any of the animals and all the bird sounds!
Doga Doga — Google review
Such a peaceful, beautiful place. It is absolutely amazing to experience some of Florida's natural habitats and see land that is untouched (less the boardwalk providing you said view!)
I took my seven year old with me for our first girls "hike". She was able to keep up, even taking the extended path (3mi.)
Being from the north, I wasnt sure what I was getting into going to a swamp. Certainly not at all like the stero type I grew up with!
Plenty of picture taking opportunities. A great way to connect with nature and only 20 minutes or so from the residential communities of Naples.
The gift shop had so many choices to bring home a keepsake from your visit, so be sure to bring your wallet!
They offer a few snacks and bottled beverages, but you'll want to make sure you had a meal before or plan to after.
Restrooms at the entrance but not along the boardwalk. This didn't cause issue for us, but something you'll want to take note of before you get out there!
Alexandria Sandell — Google review
Beautiful park. Well maintained. Very friendly staff. There’s a nice facility at the entrance with restrooms and lots of information on the area. The entire thing is a handicap & stroller accessible boardwalk. Costs some money, like $20 an adult, but given what they do to protect our Florida ecosystem it’s well worth it. We were lucky enough to see a gorgeous owl perched on a branch not even 15 feet away. Very memorable.
Tim Chase — Google review
Wonderfully well-kept buildings and boardwalks. The preserve itself encompasses several types of habitat and really shows of the beauty of this region's nature. If you love the play of sunbeams through a thick forest canopy and trees from a thousand years ago, all in the cooling shade with a fresh scent of water, tea-stained but very clear, and to hear the songs of many birds and the soft croaking of an alligator to her hatchlings, and to catch sight of hawks riding the thermals out above the marsh, then this vast silent isolated sanctuary is for you! If you can avoid groups of people along the boardwalk, you will be rewarded with the profound quiet of nature: no distant rush of traffic, not even passing aircraft, something actually hard to come by in our area. This sanctuary has been in place long enough that you will see many cases of trees' boles growing around/incorporating the handrails of the boardwalk, and many others where the rails have been cut back to give the trees room. It's a great walk, whether you actually spot animals or not :-) OK, I know it sounds like I'm totally enthralled, and just for balance: I'm not fond of their gift shop, it's large enough and has many things, but it doesn't seem to connect with what is outside their doors. In general I like gift shops, this one just seems to me to have too much kitsch and not enough connection. Perhaps it just suffered by comparison to the gorgeous swamp we had been traversing!
Heather Preston — Google review
You and I, dear reader, don’t know each other. We may or may not like many of the same parts of the day.
If you respect your fellows and admire nature with a hushed reverence commonly shown in the awe of a centuries-old place of worship, we have common ground.
If you are looking for flashing lights, blaring music and dancing bears, you are in exactly the wrong place.
The most exciting non-human mammals spotted during our mid-day March visit were raccoons and squirrels. We have too many of these at home to be interested.
Several on the boardwalk noticed a dark, ridged stripe basking in the sun. Probably a gator’s back. Could have been sculpted. Many small skinks and kin escorted us through the greenery.
Several birds, from anhinga to ibis to ted-shouldered hawk.
Lots of plant life unfamiliar to this northerner. Tall cypress, small water spangles, and lots in between.
It was less eventful than I hoped - even expected - but I loved it. I could spend many days wandering these boards. I’d be sure to spot something new each time.
Paul Maguire — Google review
It was a nice cooler day to visit. The nature and beauty are unbelievable. It is a nice boardwalk path that you take for 2 miles, no way to get lost. You stay on the boardwalk the whole time. Use the restroom before you start. It does take a good hour and half to walk the whole way. We saw a raccoon, birds, a gator in 2 different areas, an anahinga (look it up)drying its feathers with wings spread out and a baby bald eagle in its nest. There are not too many creatures in the water except for the gator. Had a small lunch in the Café and a nice gift shop to look through. Nice visit. 17$ for adults. We bought our tickets in advance online.
Lisa Hill — Google review
Our first time here and we thoroughly enjoyed the walk through the Audubon corkscrew swamp sanctuary. The full walk is about 2.5 miles on a boardwalk. The boardwalk goes through the swamp with safe guard rails. You get to see many areas of the swamp, some fields and prairies that are marshes as well.
We saw many birds, including herons, ibis, warblers, and many more. About 30 species during our hike.
There are many stops along the way with benches where you can sit in the peace and quiet and enjoy the foliage and the wildlife. I recommend it for a place of tranquility. This was my first visit through a swamp, and it was much more pleasant and enjoyable than I ever thought it would be.
There are tour guides that give tours on Sunday mornings. We ran into some of these tour guides during our walk on the boardwalk. They are very knowledgeable and sometimes will point out birds, orchids and other sightings as you walk on the boardwalk. I was very grateful to run into these tour guides.
There is a very nice gift shop in the visitor center with lots of gifts around birds. There’s also a little café where you can buy food. They have salads, sandwiches, and drinks that you can purchase, as well as hotdogs and condiments.
If you really like your visit, you can purchase a membership on the way out, and they will credit your ticket purchase toward the membership. I highly recommend visiting this place, if you would like a pleasant hike, and to see the beauty of the swamp as well as the birds.
M. B. — Google review
Pretty place to spend the day in nature. There are public restrooms at the entrance as well as a small cafe and gift shop. The boardwalk leads through a prairie areas as well as swamp. You may see alligators, birds, deer, raccoons and if you are super lucky panthers and bobcats. The path is pretty safe since you are on the boardwalk the entire time. There are lookouts along the way and sitting areas also. Online tickets were required for Thanksgiving however you may be able to purchase tickets when you arrive. I suggest calling first.
Paula Bonna travels — Google review
We went on the last day before 2 weeks of upgrading. Due to our earliest many animals and bird were in the move. We heard an alligator roar very close, saw raccoons, owls, frogs, ospreys, etc. There are 4 different types of environment, not just straight mangrove. Shop was open. Rest rooms at start but not on 2+ miles boardwalk.
Mike Sweeting — Google review
So beautiful and peaceful! Saw so much wildlife on the large loop walk. Really easy boardwalk path with lots of benches along the way. The area is very well preserved.
The Naples Zoo is a local favorite with its impressive variety of animals. Visitors can marvel at such creatures as lions, giraffes, and bears while learning about their habitats and personalities. The zoo has been nationally accredited and underwent several reformations in order to keep up with the latest trends in animal care.
I don't love zoos normally because I'm against animals in captivity but this zoo appears to have a strong conservation element with many programs underway to help animal populations around the world. The zoo offers lots of shaded areas, ample water and bathrooms, and is set up so that there's lots of room and space to walk around. I wish they would offer more vegan choices in their food court - definitely bring your own food if you're vegan. Some of the exhibits were closed which was disappointing but there was still lots to see. There were also lots of Lego animal displays that were really neat!
Jessica Doyle — Google review
We loved our visit to the Naples Zoo! 😍
They have a great variety of animals, and the zoo is not huge, so you can explore it and visit all exhibitions in one day!
The staff is super professional and friendly, they are walking around with some animals (as you will se in the picture) and they are all wiling to share information and teach very interesting facts about the zoo and different animals.
The venue is well maintained and the animals looks happy; in my opinion and based on what we saw and learn, they are more like a conservation place than a zoo (which is great because their mission is protecting the animals, more than taking advantage)
We have been there only once, but we are definitely looking forward to come back soon 💪
100% recommended 👍
Antonio Perez Coss — Google review
Beautiful animals and enclosures. But there was not enough shade, a lot of construction, and no snack bar or drink locations open throughout the park. We unfortunately didn’t even stay an hour because it was just so hot even at 9 am.
E. H. — Google review
The Naples zoo is amazing!
So many fun animals, that were all out and visible in their enclosures. The landscaping, scenery, and flora are beautiful too, it's basically a botanical garden within a zoo.
Lots of enclosures have zookeepers give speeches throughout the day, teaching you about the animal, showing you training tricks, and feeding them. Everything was reasonably priced.
I do wish they had an aquarium or reptile/amphibian section. However, the animals they have are great.
Chance Moore — Google review
The Naples Zoo is one of the nicest we have ever been to. The zoo and exhibits are the perfect size to go with the cost of admission. The grounds upkeep are immaculate, very clean, and beautifully done. There was a wide variety of animals that are kept in large, clean areas for viewing. You can pay to feed the giraffes and have your photo taken with one, which was a fun experience. There were several different options for food and drinks spread throughout the zoo. All in all, the Naples zoo is a great way to spend an afternoon!
Mark Hyland — Google review
The Naples Zoo is beautiful! It’s perfect for little ones because it’s not very large so you can get through it pretty quickly or take your time and circle a couple times checking out the animals. The giraffes were probably the highlight for us because you can feed the giraffes if you wish to pay extra and get a picture taken. The Lions were also spectacular and the cheetahs. My little guy was too young for the boat ride but that’s a really nice option to take a boat ride around to see the monkeys swinging from the trees. Definitely visit if you have an hour or two to spare while visiting Naples!
Elizabeth Claunch — Google review
Love going here! It was hot, there is construction and the animals were sometimes hard to find, but that's not the point. It was being with family, seeing beautiful nature and knowing they are fixing it up to make it even better. Remember we just had a hurricane not to long ago! Had a great time as usual! Make you own fun with it! Look at the beautiful trees 🌳 and flowers 💐 too! Mumma and I had a great time as you can see in the pictures 📸!
Melissa Rowe (Missy) — Google review
FREE ADMISSION FIRST SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH IF YOU'RE A COLLIER COUNTY RESIDENT. Nice smaller zoo, and just got Orangutans that were very active and playful. Best to go early and get on the boat tour to see the monkeys when they're most active as we've seen them swing and heard them sing. They are an absolute blast. (and they're more active when it's cooler!). Loved the feeding the giraffes as you get a great view since they're all pretty much out in the open. First Saturday of each month is free for Collier County Residents, so take advantage of that if you're local. You won't regret it.
Dan Johnson — Google review
I'm normally not a zoo person but this was really great. The zoo is small enough that you can easily see everything in a few hours and the exhibits are nice and big, so it really feels like the focus is on the animals welfare and not about making money off them. We really enjoyed the free alligator talk / training / feeding session, and definitely take the free boat to see various species of monkeys and apes living on a few small islands. We arrived at 2pm on a weekend and there were not a lot of people. Entry free is $27. Definitely worth it.
Thomas G — Google review
Such an amazing zoo! The staff was very friendly and the environment was quiet and enjoyable. The foliage is so fascinating since it was previously a botanical garden. You’ll see a lot of huge tropical trees and unique plants. It feels like you’re walking through a jungle. The animal exhibits are big and the animals are comfy and clearly treated well and with respect. I highly recommend
Tiffany Smith — Google review
I have to say I was pretty disappointed. I was here 8 years ago and it seemed so much more alive. Monkey island was exciting and incredible 8 years ago but today it was so unactive. What few monkeys we could see were not active. Giraffes looked bored and no desire to come up close. All animals everywhere in the zoo were sleeping. Just seems like the zoo was so much better 8 years ago.
terri betts — Google review
Beautiful grounds to walk, lovely trails, and the boat was awesome! On the other hand, it was incredibly scorching hot and areas where there was no shade. The animals were hot too so they were hiding in the shade and we missed several animals. One lady complained to get a refund or store credit for her 30min experience of seeing not one animal. They did not honor any of these request except for a rain check, since there is no guarantee to see the animals. Perhaps the entry fee should come with a warning.
Overall, I would not recommend to come during the high peak summer time. I would love to return in the fall or spring as the zoo it self is very beautiful.
Ashlynn Sastre — Google review
Wow! We thoroughly enjoyed this zoo. It felt like we stepped into an 'old Florida' zoo with plenty of foliage and shaded areas to relax. I was happy to see the paved walkway for easy wheelchair access. Oh, and the boat ride was super fun! The price point at around $22 was super affordable.
Jill Diers — Google review
This zoo was a great day trip and is just the right size to be worth the admission price but not overwhelming. The animals were healthy looking and all appeared to have adequate room. The orangutans and the Florida panther were very active on our visit and very fun to see. The playground and the gift shop at the end of the zoo were a huge hit as well.
M Perry — Google review
Really fun place. Honestly exceeded expectations. Decent size, animals are very easy to view. The giraffes feeding is a cool experience. Has a playground at the exit/entrance. Pricing was overall fair. A beer $10, chips $3, dots ice cream around $10. Expected pricing for a theme park of any type. Makes for a fun day and the boat tour is free!
Alfred Button — Google review
This is such a wonderful zoo!!!! The talks with the trainers are very informative!!! They also help you actually see the animals because the animals were so excited to see their trainers!!! It is great that they have the times listed in all the right places so everyone can make it to the talks!!!! Another highlight was the free boat ride!!!! We were able to see lots of primates without any fences because like the Capitan explained.....the water is a natural fence for them to live on their islands!!!! I recommend doing the giraffe feeding.....they are so huge and cool to see and feed!!!! It is an extra $5 but was totally worth it!!! Plus they have photographers there to capture the moment!!! I highly recommend checking this place out.....it was a great experience!!!!
Emily Darow — Google review
I recently visited this zoo with my family, and it was an unforgettable experience! One of the highlights for my nephews was the fantastic jungle gym.
But the excitement didn’t stop there. We got the chance to meet some incredible live animals, including the charming Elmo the bird. The kids were mesmerized by Elmo’s colorful plumage and friendly personality. It was a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with such a fascinating creature.
Feeding the giraffes was another unforgettable moment. The kids were thrilled to hand-feed these gentle giants, and the experience left them with big smiles on their faces.
To add to the adventure, we took a boat ride around the zoo’s waterways, which offered a refreshing change of pace and allowed us to observe various wildlife in a more natural setting. And of course, learning about different types of monkeys was both fun and educational. The zoo’s knowledgeable staff provided interesting facts and stories about the monkeys, making it a great learning experience for the kids.
Overall, this zoo provided an amazing mix of entertainment and education for the whole family. We left with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation for the animals It’s a must-visit for families looking for a day of fun and discovery!
Ericca Jane Rios Stylist — Google review
I’ve been coming here for years. Every year on vacation, we make a trip to this zoo. The employees are friendly and offer lots of information when you see them by the animals. They are patient with the giraffe feeding option, letting the giraffes choose when to come.
The additions done with the orangutans is amazing! I’m excited to see what the new welcome centre is going to look like! It’s open now, but I missed it by a week, next trip!
Sarah A — Google review
We decided to take our kids to the zoo. Was clean employees were nice and informative. Was very disappointed that there wasn't as many different animals as other zoo. Not worth it for what we had to pay to get our family in. If you
Lowdermilk Park is a public beach and park located on Gulf Shore Boulevard North in Naples, Florida. It features a sandy beach, concession stand, volleyball courts, and gazebo. The park is popular among locals and tourists alike for its incredible ocean views.
A great beach with a controlled environment and not overly crowded, even when you have to struggle for a parking space. We went for a romantic sunset and walk in the sand... it was perfect, but isn't everything when you're with the right partner? 💕 💥 💖 ... the one person you were meant to be sharing that moment with 💙
Randal J. Lyons — Google review
Best beach I think in Naples !
Parking is very close to the beach You don't have to walk very far. There is an awesome snack shop with drinks good food. They have umbrellas with chairs if you want to rent one so you don't have to drag your stuff down
Beautiful beaches very clean
Not too many kids at that time
Kayak rentals and boogie board rentals are available
I'm from Canada and this was definitely the best place on my vacation to Florida Will be back
Melody Culp — Google review
Good place, chair, umbrella and, kayaks for rent. Food for sale on site, don't have high expectations about the food, would post a picture but it was too small lol. Fyi, they want to charge $22 for sunblock
Paul — Google review
Beautiful park. Very clean. There is paid parking and concession stand. The parking wasn't terrible. But the food was little to desire. Otherwise, it was a gorgeous beach. Bring beach things (umbrella, towels, goggles, swimwear, etc) and your own refreshments, and you'll have a great time.
Don't feed the seagulls! 🦤
Armah The Trainer — Google review
Really loved this beach. Kid friendly, some shaded areas, lots of sunny areas, shells and sand. It was perfect. It is pretty crowded close to the main entrance but more spacious if you walk a little. We were there end of March and got there around 9:15am. We parked easily but within an hour there was no parking left and people were circling forever. We enjoyed our day and can't wait to be back.
Jodi M Mosley — Google review
Wonderfully soft white sand beach with a mature family vibe! Amenities include rest rooms as well as affordably priced food. Few shells to be had. Convenient parking right off the beach. Tiki huts available for the early arrivals.
Dennis Bloom — Google review
The beach is easily accessible and they have public showers to wash off afterwards. It gets pretty crowded and you don't have much personal space but from my experience all of the people were very nice. The atmosphere is amazing!
Suzy Boehm — Google review
Peaceful and clean with bathrooms and showers. Sunset is perfection in visual joy. Occasional dolphin sighting is really cool. Also snack bar but bring your bank card for parking and double check your spot number so you don't have to go back and look.
Enjoy
CJ
CJ — Google review
This is another great beach in Naples. They have a cafe serving drinks, snacks, burgers and hot dogs— yum! You also can rent umbrellas and chairs, super great if you’re visiting from far. Clean beach, beautiful warm & calm waters. Outdoor showers available. Parking is tricky as they do have a parking lot but it gets very full on weekends. I recommend coming by on a weekday to avoid this issue.
Catherine D — Google review
This is the most beautiful beach. Ive been to many but this is my favorite and I will always default to coming here. The sunsets are gorgeous. I wish with all my heart that they figure out a way to add more parking. Theres “plenty” of parking but it really needs more if you’re not there before 8-am good luck getting parking. Other than that it has plenty of outdoor showers to rinse off. And also has a nice area to play volleyball.
Danijanet — Google review
Great beach. Parking is limited and you need to get there early in the morning for a spot. There's a canteen/hot food and covered area to sir down. Washrooms there. Outdoor shower to rinse off salt water.
Binder Vegas — Google review
It is hard to imagine a public-beach-access park that is nicer than this one. Lots of amenities from food service and tables to playground equipment and sand volleyball courts.
That said, Naples certainly owes it to its residents because public-access to the beach is quite limited. It would sure be nice if there were more access-points and parking capacity for Naples’ many residents that do not own beach property.
Lou Donkle — Google review
Only a short mile and a half drive off Tamiami Trail to the parking lot. This beach is popular and the parking lot fills early on a nice day. Parking spaces are $4/hr paid with a credit or debit card at one of 2 pay stations at either end of the parking lot. If you enter your cell number, you will be notified when your parking space is about to expire and you can extend your stay from the beach if you're having fun enjoying the sand, shells, sun and saltwater of the Gulf.
This spring and summer (2023) the snack bar is being remodeled, so be sure to bring your cooler and snacks with you.
The bathrooms and showers were still working so you can rinse off before driving off at the end of your visit.
Pete Rossmiller — Google review
Very clean beautiful water good showers and food ! But parking machine wouldn’t work for us ! Hence a $77.00 ticket !! I explained to the cop who said it worked at 7:15 am when I checked? Well it didn’t light up for us & we were not the only ones!! He didn’t give a rats behind ! I felt shaded like dealing with Barbie Fife from Mayberry Rfd ! So beware
Marie Ann — Google review
Amazing beach, very clean & calm waters, family friendly, easy parking access, we went in the morning & did not see any jet ski or other traffic on the waters. Wish the UK had such weather & beaches!
BALAJI Jay — Google review
Perfect beautiful white sand. This park has a great concession stand and showers to use before getting in the car. A lot of parking but on the expensive side at five dollars an hour.
Matthew Gray — Google review
Beautiful place in Naples. It's ridiculous that the "richer" area wont let you go to the beach, like its their private little world. So the plebeians share the common area lol.
Julie Castin — Google review
Had a very nice sunset walk along the beach starting at Lowdermilk Park tonight. Near the pavilion the beach is pretty crowded but as you get further down either way on the beach it becomes less so.
The park has always been very nice - parking can be tough, but they have a big picnic pavilion and restrooms. I wasn't there when the snack bar was open, so I can't say anything about that.
Always enjoy my time there, but then I always go for the sunset.
Leslie Smith — Google review
Beach is white sand and amenities are nice. The snack bar has great food options and the bathrooms are well maintained. They could use more washing stations for rinsing sand off but it works. Volleyball courts are also nice. Get there early though or you will be parking a ways away. Parking is definitely more expensive here as well than other beaches.
Tyler Wilsey — Google review
Great Naples beach with amenities like ample parking, a bath house and concessions. There's also a park for the kids. We watched the Naples Pier fireworks on New Year's Eve and it was the perfect viewing location for us. It was also easy for us to get out after, which was unexpected.
Amber Connell — Google review
I had a fun time there for my son first birthday whole family was there and we enjoyed our self. The only down part was a lot of people was smoking weed there around the kids and the bathroom was extremely dirty but other than that i had a great time
Samentha Theodore — Google review
We spent the afternoon here today and it was beautiful! We paid just over $10 for two hours of parking. We got there about 3:30 and struggled to find a parking spot. We had to wait while someone loaded up to leave. There is a short wooden walkway to get to the beach. It can be a little crammed with traffic walking both ways. The beach and park areas were both pretty busy, but everyone was nice and respectful of others. The grounds and beach were both really clean. There are showers to rinse off afterward. Highly recommend spending some time here!
Miranda Esper — Google review
Fabulous outdoor beach, this was my first time visiting but I hope to visit again someday they do have restroom facilities on site as well as food & drinks available for purchase.
Lacrosse Hydrocephalus Community Network — Google review
First time at this beach today and I loved it. The parking is close to the beach and there are a lot of spots. We used the QR code to pay for parking ( $4 an hour I believe) and we even got a 15 min warning text as our time limit approached. We arrived before 11 am and had no problem parking. There are clean washrooms along with change rooms and an outdoor shower. There is a small restaurant that even offers breakfast until 11am. The restaurant is also licensed to sell alcohol. We did not eat there so cannot vouch for the food. The beach itself is lovely with beautiful sand. We managed to get one of the tiki type umbrellas they have. I cannot wait to go back!
Ann Gratton — Google review
Very nice park with beautiful sunsets and friendly people. Also perfect for photo sessions.
Lovers Key State Park is a state park that is located in Fort Myers Beach. It offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, manatees, dolphins, and bald eagles. The beach is open 365 days a year and provides a perfect getaway for any beachgoer.
Lovers Key State Park is a really neat location with lots to do! We just got our annual park pass and decided to try this one out! They have an awesome shuttle to and from the beach. The beach views and sand are gorgeous! We did one of the walking trails which takes you through some jungle looking wilderness, past the butterfly gardens and next to a bunch of beautiful scenic waterways. I would highly recommend checking it out if you’re in the area and have some time to explore! They have a cute gift shop, rentals, discovery center and much more for the whole family!
Drew Miles — Google review
They have a new welcome center. We went kayaking and went to the beach. Love the tram driver. We went off our anniversary... Would you know we got on Fox 4 Now while we were there. We will come back. They have done a great job getting things up and running and open to the public.
Americo Menendez — Google review
I wanted to enjoy the paddleboards offered at Lovers Key again, but the day got away from me and I arrived too late. The boards need to be returned by 4:30 and it takes about 15 minutes it fill out paperwork and make it across the street where the boards are located. So be there by 3 at the very latest to enjoy a full hour paddling the channel, maybe you'll see a manatee while you're paddling. I made my way out to the beach. It is a short walk but there is a tram that runs from the parking lot to the beach. Ample room in the back of the truck for chairs and coolers. They have bathroom facilities in the parking lot and the tram drop off at the beach. The beach was wonderful, white sand and plenty of shells. Saw small sea birds, pelicans, dolphins and even a manta ray leap out of the water! The park closed shortly after sunset. The last tram waited for the people to clear the beach before pulling away. There was not much time after arriving in the parking lot to get in your car and go before they locked the restrooms and main gates. Found out they have several beach wheel chairs available for use!
Dayna Willson — Google review
Beautiful state park with wonderful beaches between Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs. There is plenty of parking for an entry fee of 8$ per car, which is very reasonable.
We went there several times with our kids during our Florida holidays and it was always an experience. Even the little tram ride from the parking spot to the south beach is great for them.
At the beach you have all facilities in place with restrooms, showers and picnic areas, as well as a little food truck.
The beach itself is amazing with clear water, white sand and tons of shells. We will definitely come again ...
Daniel Czemmel — Google review
We really enjoyed our day at this park. We mostly did a beach day but also did some hiking on the trails. Note that after parking you take a trailer ride to the beach from the parking lot. This was running continuously all day and seemed to be back every 10-15 minutes or so. This worked out well. They had good bathroom facilities at both sides of the trailer ride (adjacent the parking lot, and at the beach), so this was nice too. There is a gift shop next to the main parking lot and it has some ice cream and drinks there too, plus lots of gift ideas. There is also food available at the beach. The beach was great for shells, we got some good ones! It was a red flag day so the water was rough, but we did walk along the shoreline and that was nice. Lots of birds around and the water was a pretty color here. 2+ miles of shore here so you can walk a long ways. We had no problems parking but got here around 10AM-ish, I'd imagine at later times after noon it gets much busier. When we were leaving the lot looked pretty full. Highly recommend this place.
Maximilian — Google review
Great beach and many people visiting Ft. Meyers never make it here. This beach is hidden and you have to go over the bridge coming from Fort Meyers. Then you have to take a weird turn to get to the parking lot. You have to pay, it’s not free. The beach is pretty and there are a number of people fishing day and night at this spot or near by. It’s a hike to the nearest beach but you can go down further. It’s very pretty and there are several mangroves in the area. Some people are more adventurous where they go on a kayak in the mangroves near by or the coves. It’s not wilderness but use your common sense. If you swim keep in mind there are currents don’t underestimate the ocean.
Ian — Google review
beautiful place 10/10. easy access to a beautiful beach. i had a great experience in the canal with a paddle board (didn’t see any alligators). cheap fee and free tram that comes in fast intervals that takes you from parking lot to beach. showers and bathrooms right next to parking lot. friendly staff 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Nikolas Alvim — Google review
We absolutely adore this state park. Even if there’s a lot of people, there’s still plenty of room for everybody. They have trams to take you to another area of the beach if you don’t want to walk. They have a few different areas with concessions and bathrooms. The water is absolutely beautiful, you’ll want to spend all day here! Just don’t forget your sunscreen.
Ashlea W. — Google review
Beautiful park. We kayaked the canals and the scenery was nice, lots of birds. The manatee were a no show that day. Didn’t see any alligators either. The beaches are gorgeous. There are trails to walk/bike as well. Lots of accessories to assist disabled to beach.
Kim Shelton — Google review
I love it here! The guy who rents the umbrellas and chairs is so sweet. It is peaceful and pretty!!! And the is a trolley to pick you up and drop you off.
Dawn Battle — Google review
Loved this park! It was a scorching hot day so walking any paths was out for us, but the beach was so calm and peaceful. Lots of shells here too. There is a tram that takes you to the beach or you can walk. Walk would take about 10 minutes at an average pace. It’s $7 to park for the day. You can pay with cash or using your phone.
Kelly Wehrenberg — Google review
I haven’t been to that specific spot since hurricane Ian. But it’s was an absolutely stunning, special, place. And I’m sure they’ve done stuff with it since. But that beachwood……. Irreplaceable. I’ll share a photo of the beautiful beach and our Christmas “tree “ full of shells , sand dollars , wishes , people’s names , visitors and locals alike.
Karma Dharma — Google review
Visited this state park to catch the sunset, and it was breathtaking. The beach is beautiful, and you have the option of taking a tram or a half-mile walk to reach it. Keep in mind that the park closes around 6 due to hurricane-related issues affecting the lighting. Overall, a serene and picturesque spot for nature lovers.
Sarah C — Google review
What a stunning knock dead gorgeous place. Beautiful beaches, estuaries, and Discovery Center.
We first stopped at the Discovery Center to get the lay of the land, so to speak. We were met by Glenda, a docent who volunteers her time here. Very pleasant lady and very knowledgeable. She was able to answer all of our questions, and she pointed out things to do after leaving the Discovery Center.
The Discovery Center is amazing. Very well put together, giving you an excellent overview of the biodiversity of the marine life and land loving creatures. There are a lot of interactive displays for kids of all ages. There is a telescope there where you can spy in on a nesting pair of Ospreys. We strongly recommend that you visit this place first.
From there, we walked over and took the trolley down to the beach. The beach has been combed down to a depth of three feet to remove the hurricane derbis from hurricane Ian less than two years ago. Be careful if you go into the water. It is strongly recommended that you wear shoes in the water. Many hazards may still be on the ocean floor that can not be seen. There are restrooms near the beach area.
There are lots of trails, and you are allowed to ride your bikes on these trails.
Again, it is a must-see place during your travels to this area.
Kenneth Davis — Google review
Picturesque beach is characterized by pristine, white sand. Access to the beach is provided via a tram service that operates every 20 minutes and is included in the $8 entrance fee. Ample parking is available, and the beach is not excessively crowded. For those who prefer not to bring their own seating, there is an option to rent chairs and umbrellas at a reasonable cost.
William Smith — Google review
Great park with excellent trails through the mangroves. One of the better wildlife viewing areas we visited while in the area. Lots of birds. Saw a couple snakes. A bunch of lizards. And the endangered gopher tortoise! Wonderful education signs. It’s a great way to spend a morning. The trails weren’t busy but the beach and beach parking was very busy.
Jacob Blandford — Google review
Great State Park. Hiking trails that are wide and easy, very bike-able. Also kayak rentals, fishing and beach access with trolley option. Clean facilities and bathrooms everywhere. Great nature opportunities.
Scott Berger — Google review
Very well maintained areas and beach. Staff were courteous and helpful getting those with disabilities around, and beach wheelchairs were free to use. We were able to see dolphins and collect seashells to our hearts' content.
Rebecca Loduha — Google review
Just went back and our group rented Kayaks through Lover's Key Adventures. We had an amazing experience with three Manantee encounters. Plus our guide, Karen did an excellent job, kept us entertained while exploring the Estuary.
Bob L — Google review
Its a cute little statepark. The last hurricane unfortunatly took down the bridge to my favorite spot. Now the bus and the sidewalk just take you to the regular spot.
Nevertheless, a lot of wildlife, white beach with a lot of shells
Fort Myers Beach is a picturesque town situated on Estero Island in the southwest region of Florida. It boasts a beautiful, lengthy sandy beach that overlooks the Gulf of Mexico and the Ostego Bay Marine Science Center, which presents an array of marine life indigenous to the area. On its eastern side, Matanzas Pass Preserve natural sanctuary provides trails for visitors to explore.
38% as popular as Sarasota
26 minutes off the main route, 50% of way to Tampa
I'll never travel to Tampa without this trip planner again
Embark on a thrilling adventure with Key West Express, a ferry service that offers high-speed trips to Key West. The jet-powered catamarans provide a quick 3.5-hour journey, making it an ideal day trip option. Guests can enjoy amenities such as onboard entertainment screens and friendly crew members. While seating choices may require early arrival, the overall experience is praised for its ease of booking, convenient parking facilities, and efficient boarding procedures.
Great trip! Bar and bar food & snacks available for purchase. Boat goes fast!! Enjoyable ride and comfortable seating. We went for the Key West Day Trip. I recommend staying in Key West for at least an overnight as there is not much time to spend on the day trip. We got the sneak preview of key west. We bought tix for the conch train, which in hindsight, I would have not done.
Rebecca McNellis — Google review
The boat is cool, being a 12,000+ HP jet powered catamaran with food and drinks on board. That being said, the trip was like other mass transit options. Lots of waiting in lines and mass humanity. The personnel were nice enough, the boat was fairly comfortable, the experience of sailing across the Gulf of Mexico was great. The downside to it was the crowding and the waiting.
Greg Arnesen — Google review
My husband and I took key west express instead of driving so we could just relax. All of the staff aboard were super friendly. Thank you for a great experience. We can't wait to go back again with you guys
Clarissa Garcia — Google review
OMG we absolutely loved going to Key West on the express. The ride was smooth, and the staff was amazing!!! If going to key West you have to get there by key West express. My husband had talked about doing this for years, this was his 30th gift from me. We will do this every time we are in Florida. You don't want to miss it trust us.
Lynn Bracy — Google review
Key West Express was easy to find and parking is not free. Parking cost 51.00 from Friday to Sunday. Fee per person was 119.00 for both ways to and from but check online at their website for sales. From the moment you enter the parking lot a man greets you and shows you were to go and park. Collect your own luggage from the car and take it onto the boat where they will store it for you but be aware space for luggage is limited so get there early, if not you may be taking it with you which isn’t terrible but you have it by you taking up room. Boarding was easy with your boarding pass (if you don’t have a boarding pass go to the window and they will issue you one) my husbands boarding pass was on another booking number so I could not print his pass for some reason. A glitch in the system and they should fix that issue but the lady at the window was knowledgeable about that so she printed the pass and we were on our way. The crew greets you as you board and disembark. And if you have any issues there are plenty of nice people to direct you along the way. Upon boarding a man takes your luggage and you can then take your seat. You will collect your luggage at the end of the trip. It will be on the lower level and they direct you to circle around and collect your own luggage then proceed to disembark. Seat choices are first come first served, no assigned seats, and restrooms are plentiful. Restrooms are not fancy but have everything you need to go including hand washing and hand sanitizer. They are outside and inside. The inside you have tables and a cash only bar where they sell food and liquor and beer on the first floor. Long Island iced tea was 9.50 not bad and nicely made with plenty of liquor. Hot dog and hot pretzel was good. Two liquor drinks, a hot dog, bag of Doritos and a hot pretzel with cheese was 27 dollars. Not badly priced we thought. We sat outside on the way down from ft. Meyers to key west. It was around 90 degrees and sunny and very comfortable at first. But three hours of constant wind was a little much for us so on the way back we sat on the second floor where they had inside tables also and you can move around and go outside when we wanted too. There are spots outside where you have less wind. They have two different boats. The one we took down was different than the one we caught back so keep that in mind. Seats are plentiful so you shouldn’t have an issue. The trip took about three in a half hours or so. Food and booze like I said is cash only. People left there things at their seats and moved around with no issues. Trip was smooth and it was nice not to drive down ourselves. We caught the 6pm boat back from Key West with no issues. Keep in mind check out is usually 11 am so if you’re taking the 6 pm boat you may have a little wait. We had lunch and did some shopping to kill time. We thought leaving the hotel at 4 pm was good. The hotel stored luggage for us, and then called us a cab. We were there by 4:20 and was able to get an inside seat with no issues. All cash on board and tip the crew because they are great. Smoking is aloud on the lower level while on the boat for all you smokers. Very easy process for the first time for us. We would definitely recommend Key West Express.
Vickey — Google review
This is the best way to get to Key-West. 4 hours or less depending on the weather. Boat is clean. Beware people do NOT keep masks on. Cocktails are served so there are loud people as well. Beautiful view from the top deck.
MARY KING — Google review
Fun and convenient. Smooth rides from Fort Myers Beach to Key West and back, under excellent weather conditions in February. I didn't realize how big this boat was; the main level cabin is about 36 feet wide with tables for up to six along the sides and rows of seats in the middle. Cocktail bar and snack bar in the center with reasonable basic food to hold you over. Second level is similar inside seating. Highly recommend to climb the stairs all the way up to the 3rd level (outside deck) - it is very windy up there but it feels great and the view is amazing.
Fernando P. — Google review
While on vacation, I decided to take this ferry from Fort Myers to Key West. I had parking near where the boat was docked. I boarded with no problems, but there was no direction on where to sit. The seats were comfortable. The seats with tables were all taken by those who I guess were experienced riders. The ride to Key West was smooth, but 4 hours felt a lot longer than I imagined. The bar and gallery were quite pricey, but I wasn't surprised. The ride back to Fort Myers was a lot rougher. Several people got sick, but the staff handled it well. I stayed up top where the up and down wasn't felt as much, but the wind on my face and ears was intense. The staff was friendly. It was not a bad experience but something I won't do again.
Michael Tankersley — Google review
Our trip from Fort Myers to Key West was sparsely populated so we could sit about anywhere we wanted. The trip back was almost full, but it was still comfortable. It is the best way to travel from SW Florida to Key West!
Christopher McDaniel — Google review
From the time we arrived in the parking lot it felt like we were traveling abroad for a big vacation. Staff greeted us with open arms, helped with questions, and got us underway on time. The ride was fun and refreshments reasonably priced-just wish they had frozen drinks with umbrellas. Would definitely do this trip again! You don’t need/want a car on Key West-parking sucks. Walk, get a scooter, bike, whatever, it start your trip on the Key West Express.
Chuck Norris jr — Google review
Seriously, the crew could not be nicer. They were affable, helpful, and considerate. The food is basically mid-grade freezer section food, which is fine. It definitely was good enough but could be better. The drinks were OK also. Same ok, not fabulous. The bathrooms were clean and plentiful. Decent shows were available to watch on the TVs to pass the time. The ride was smooth in both directions. My only complaint is that we wished the seats were more comfortable. After being in Key West all day, being in seats that could be reclined enough to put our feet up and nap would have been greatly appreciated. Overall, this is an amazing way to go back and forth to Key West.
Cheryl Futch — Google review
Best way to get to Key West, much better than driving (we've done both). Be warned, however: making a "day trip" is a 12-14 hour day. Better to take a day or 2 on the island.
Amazing vessel and the crew is top notch. Snacks are good and there is a decent selection at the bar. Ride the wind on the top deck or relax in the AC on the lower deck.
I can imagine it would be a challenge to bring young children, or even teenagers, as there are times on the 4 hour trip where there is no Cell or 5G service (gasp!). You are on the open Gulf 😀.
Michael Parsons — Google review
Ship was very spacious and comfortable. Food and drink offerings were very good and reasonably priced. Handicap accessible with room to drive your scooter. Smoking deck. Staff was knowledgeable and friendly. I would definitely do this again. 😊
CSK — Google review
The ride was pretty chill. They have screens with HGTV playing. If you want a choice of seat you have to get there really earlier. I'm not sure about the Fort Myers' side, but the key west side people were waiting 5 hours before loading. The crew was nice. The snack food prices are not bad, but the food was. If you want, bring cash to tip at the end, but I will say this SHAME ON THE OWNER if the crew truly needs tips to survive. The cost of this was what I would pay for a flight or a two day cruise. So if the crew needs tips to make their wages, then the owner is making bank by not paying them enough and pocketing more than they should, and then asking for $$ on wages he should be paying himself.
Angela A — Google review
Awesome way to get to Key West. Boat rise was smooth and alot of fun. Very seamless on both ends of the journey. I suggest staying over the night in Key West to see the sunset at Mallory Square. The food and drinks on board were well priced as well.
Lee Saunders — Google review
I highly recommend their services! From the easy booking process to parking facilities right at the dock and boarding procedures that the staff facilitated with ease, this was a pleasant experience! Howie, the friendliest bartender ever, was courteous, friendly and very efficient even with the large crowd. He got our drink orders and food choices done with yummy results. The drink and food choices are enough variety so there's plenty for your liking and prices are more reasonable than I expected. Many people use the ferry for little getaways to Key West and the staff is very accommodating with luggage. There's plenty of room to walk around and also decks for your viewing and photo taking. The facilities are very clean and bathrooms were much more spacious than expected. The staff is very thorough in explaining all rules and conduct aboard ship and they will even assist with excursions on Key West if you need. Definitely a great idea to pick their brains since they have font of information and suggestions and don't mind sharing their knowledge. I definitely recommend & a little tip, take the ferry and spend the night since Key West is so full of fun you won't want to leave!
Marcela Porras — Google review
First off, it's super convenient to take this to Key West.
Do NOT expect first class cruise ship experience. Come in thinking it's a relaxing little ferry ride with a full bar. The food is nothing special, but at least it's something to put into your stomach until you make it to Key West.
Being that my wife and I came on a Friday as the tourist season was starting to ramp up, we got sat outside on the second level. All of the interior was full. We got there an hour early, just a heads-up. It's the same going back too from Key West. Get there are early as possible if you want interior seating.
With so much going on and it being a new experience for me, I found it overwhelming because I didn't know where the bathrooms were or where the bar was at first.
Just get up and walk around. It's a pretty chill experience, honestly. The bar and cafeteria area are both on the first level.
There are bathrooms on both the first and second level. Bathrooms are larger than an airplane bathroom, but similar to a degree.
The staff was excellent and courteous. They gave us advice as we were traveling.
Side note, call your hotel to see if they hold luggage. Hotels don't check in normally until 4 pm, and Key West Express will get you there around 11am. The Hyatt Centric I stayed at did hold luggage. If you stay at a hotel that doesn't hold luggage, the ferry drops you off at a place that will hold your luggage and deliver it to your hotel when it's time to check in, allowing you to wander freely around Key West until its time for check in. From what I saw on the pricing, it was pretty comparable.
The one major problem was a storm front came through the night we were headed back to Fort Myers, and even with the crew trying to get as close to shore as possible, the waves were horrible. I had sea sickness almost the entire trip back. Threw up over...and over....and over.....and over. I sat outside on the first level near the smoke break area. People were running to the bathroom, and even coming outside on the deck to hurl over the railing. It was a bad storm.
This is not the crew's fault though. It was still a horrible experience back.
The kicker to that return back was that my wife actually got there early and got excellent interior seating....but I still ended up spending most of my time outside enjoying fresh air while dry heaving.
Kevin Ballantine — Google review
This ferry service was excellent! Got us to Key West and back to Fort Myers on the same day! Friendly crew and great views!
Ronald Menser — Google review
I had a great experience taking this ferry down to Key West for the first time. Check-in process is very organized from start to finish. The services on the ferry are accommodating. I do recommend bringing a blanket and a good book to read! The ride there and back was smooth with very minimal disruptions. The crew and captain are super friendly and helpful with answering any questions you may have.
grlenamored — Google review
Very expensive, especially since we carried two bikes. The galley food is just what you'd expect. The trip was relaxing both ways. We did not partake of the booze but the bar seemed well stocked.
Owen Wright — Google review
It was so easy to get to Key West by catching the catamaran from Ft. Myers - much easier & faster than driving.
Marceia Duhm — Google review
You will absolutely love the experience of taking the Key West Express to Key West! The crew is truly amazing, the boat ride, the views, the onboard restaurant and bar services...don't miss out!
Carol deVille — Google review
Great way to travel to Key West. However, be sure and get a prescription for something if you're prone to sea sickness. Rough waters going back to Ft. Myers made for a not so enjoyable time.
KAREN FRENCH — Google review
We decided to take this express which is very well run and offers a bar and hot food options. It was advertised as 3.5 hrs but it took 4 hrs each way. We still had enough time on the island for a day trip.
Manatee Park is a waterfront recreational area that offers visitors the chance to enjoy various activities while being close to nature. It features scenic trails, an amphitheater for performances, and kayak rentals for those who want to explore the waterways. One of its main attractions is the opportunity to observe Florida's gentle giants, the manatees, in their natural habitat from November to March.
first we walked around the property saw a couple manatees but the watercolor is very dark so you only saw like a little nose about coming out of the water. Then we rented kayaks for the 2 hour kayaking trip on our own They give you a map and it's pretty simple to find the manatees they tell you where they're hanging out that day. Well worth the trip we had a great time 15 to 20 manatees They came right up to our kayaks You just float around in the bay area about a mile down river. It was a little windy so the paddle back took a good hour of paddling non-stop.
Kimberly Hartman — Google review
The information boards about the manatees were very Informative. Plenty of seating and shade for those taking their time along the walk. Very much enjoyed the music from the lady playing the hand pans in the pavilion.
Mike Bersuder — Google review
What a lovely park. The workers are helpful and friendly. I like coming here because they have rentals for my family and friends to join in on the fun! They also have clean bathrooms that are fully stocked.
You're able to go either up the river or out towards the bay for different experiences. The houses around there are nice to look at and up river there's a farm with cows! I frequent often.
Raysa Rodriguez — Google review
The park is very small and picturesque, we went at around 9 in the morning and we saw many manatees poking their heads out and tails. I would recommend going there at opening time to see the manatees as they like it a little bit cooler and will surface more of their body at the temperature. The boardwalk was gorgeous, and very education for the little ones. They have bathrooms, playgrounds, and a butterfly garden. They also have kayaks you can rent and go around the mangrove forest being up close with the manatees. The parking was also very cheap with it being only 2/hr, and the place was definitely worth the time!
Ragu N — Google review
It is a beautiful area to paddle around. They have kayaks for rent, and you can bring your own and launch there. The parking was $5. We saw 3 manatees while we were paddling around in the early afternoon.
T R — Google review
This was a surprise! We were looking for covered playgrounds to burn some energy while staying out of the sun.
Before we even made it to the playground we took a walk through the mangroves, saw some manatees, hung out by the water, played on the boardwalk, and hung out with a (fake) alligator.
Parking is a reasonable $2/hr. Parking is plentiful for the size of the park. There is a gift shop with snacks and reasonably clean restrooms.
There are lots of walking trails, all gentle and easy. The highlight of the visit was the walk along the water, which had covered awnings every 50 yards or so which provided VERY comfortable manatee viewing areas on a hot 90F day. The water channel appears to be a power-plant cooling discharge...my guess is that manatees like the warmer water. I was chasing a 3 year old so I didn't have much time to learn (but the opportunity is there with lots of signage).
We got to see a few manatees without a lot of waiting. Definitely one of the highlights of our trip...we're big animal people. What toddler parent isn't?
There are boardwalks over the water through the mangroves that lead to a kayak launch area (it would be LOTS of fun to rent a kayak here...maybe when the kid is a little older), another manatee viewing area, and other locations within the park.
The playgrounds are on the smaller side and better for kids under 4 probably.
This was a great visit and will be a future stop. If you bring lunch, this could be a two hour visit. More if you rent a Kayak.
Dan K — Google review
Great place to learn a thing or two about Floridas wildlife, kayak on the orange river, and, if it's winter time and the water is below 68°F, you probably will see manatees!!! It's very inexpensive to rent a kayak, the facilities are clean and functional, and the employees are kind and helpful. You really can't get lost and it's very safe! They also have a little gift shop with snacks and such. I definitely recommend! Have fun 😊
Mimi — Google review
I visited the manatee park with high hopes of seeing these gentle giants, but unfortunately, there were none in sight. The park's size was smaller than expected, and the overall experience left me disappointed. Considering the absence of manatees, I doubt I'll be returning.
Sarah C — Google review
Great park! Parking was only $1 for an hour, and the kiosk closest to the gift shop accepts credit and debit cards. Plenty of spots to stop and view the manatees. We have visited the park in the past but were unable to spot any, but this trip we easily spotted many swimming around and coming up for air. There are some boardwalks and walking trails in the park to enjoy the area. Worth stopping by if you’re in the area!
Olivia Rimkie — Google review
We first went late in the day. We walked along the boardwalk & saw two manatees surface!! We went back the next day to rent kayaks. We rented for 2 hours & saw a ton of manatees! We saw several pods hanging out near the banks while we were out. Highly recommend going out in the kayaks (the tour sounds cool if you've got time!). The water there was very dark & murky, but we had no problems finding manatees. There were tons of them!!
Katie Franke — Google review
What a nice park. I have been a lee county resident for 40 years and have never been to this park. I took my kids for a meet up with our homeschool group and it truly is a gem. We had fun looking for manatees and walking the small trail they have. We went and looked out over the water. We visited the small shop and got drinks. The kids played on the playgrounds and we walked around the entire park. I would recommend anyone visit this place. Definitely will be back. You pay for parking but it’s $5 for the entire day. You can also kayak, launch your own or rent one from the park.
Jennifer Alvaro — Google review
I love this place! We used the public kayak launch, which isn’t too far a walk from the nearest car drop off point. It’s a cool mangrove area within the park, but this leads you out to the Orange River. They also offer kayak rentals here. We didn’t see any manatees, however we did see turtles, and lots of bird and fish. The current was not even noticeable as we headed east on the river but once we turned around a wind kicked up making the current pick up against us. Overall easy awesome paddle!
Lisa Meminger — Google review
It was nice. I saw the rare atala butterflys. Not a single manatee, but it just wasn't the season. Sad i didn't get to see one on my vacation, lol.
Jordan Smith — Google review
Awesome Park, we visited on 12/28/2023. There were a dozen or more manatee swimming that day do beautiful site to see. They also offered kayaking with the manatee, which looked really cool, but we had other things to do. I'd highly recommend seeing this if you're in the area.
John Sandfer — Google review
This was our second time at the Manatee Park! It’s such a great place to enjoy watching the Manatee and their baby’s, pluss sharks, and other fish close up between January and March. They have an area with butterfly’s, a snack bar, inside area with tons on back ground information about the Manatee, they sell refreshing snow cones, they have a Gift shop and if you want to see Sea Turtles, snakes etc you can go down the street in overflow parking and get a ride to visit the Florida Aquarium buildings where they rescue sick turtles etc and see them up close as they get rehabilitation and later get released back into the ocean. We had a great time and it’s Free!
Timothy, Renee Moore — Google review
Nice smaller park right on a canal and a smaller river. A shorter trail will take you along the canal and to the river. Unfortunately the river was extremely warm (92F, 33C) here in March, so it is too warm for manatees. So no animal sightings at all. There are restrooms and a gift shop.
Thomas G — Google review
A beautiful park with a butterfly garden, walking paths, kayak launch, two small playgrounds (no swings), and lots of nature. We did not see any manatees as we were there during a time where they have typically left back to the ocean. There is a gift shop open until 5pm and public restrooms.
Ashley Goodwin — Google review
Cheap fun for all. Paid for parking. A very nice and clean park. The manatees were so neat to watch. The gift shop was reasonably priced. We did not kayak due to it being a very windy day. The paths within the park were clean, smooth, and easy to get around. The butterfly garden was beautiful.
Shelly Richardson — Google review
Went with my family to check out Florida wildlife, wasn’t disappointed! lot’s of manatees were in the canal and we could see there noses, tails, and bellies popping out of the water. Cool trees and nature paths to walk around, cute little gift shop as well. Highly recommend it
Planing to visit again to spend more time
Sylvia Lisiecki — Google review
a wonderful place to take the family and kids for a day trip, or if you’re new to swfl. the manatees are gentle creatures, and you’re able to rent kayaks to ride alongside them in the water. there are trails to follow in nature and a fun park to distract the kids for a while so parents can take a breather
The Edison & Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, Florida, span 21 acres and showcase the former residences of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. This historical attraction offers insights into the lives of wealthy individuals in the early 20th century. Visitors can explore the research lab, botanical gardens, and a museum that houses intriguing artifacts related to these famous figures and their families.
We were trying to find something to do before we headed to the FT Myers airport for a late flight today and I found this historic site on Google Maps. The Thomas Edison and Henry Ford winter home museum was the PERFECT last day for our trip to Florida! CHET WAS OUR GUIDE, he was super knowledgeable and very informative. The total tour took about 75 minutes but it was a beautiful day and we moved from place to place so he kept our attention! For a moment we dreamt away and realized we were standing in the same spots as some of the all time greatest inventors in the world and that was fantastic!! The fact that Thomas Edison and Henry Ford were best friends was the best of all the fun facts! As a BIG bonus the trees are absolutely breathtaking! Pack a lunch and just sit in the gardens and take it all in! Completely unforgettable and highly recommendable!!
Lisa Devenport — Google review
I went to Edison and Ford Winter Estates during a trip to Fort Myers. I took a guided tour which was approximately $30. Our tour guide who called himself an historian, provided a lot of good insights regarding the lives of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford and kept us engaged during the entire tour. It was approximately 100 degrees outside that day but he managed to keep us in the shades most of the tour. You're not allowed to go inside the homes but you can peek through the doors/windows. After the tours which was approximately an hour and a half, I went back inside the museum to visit some of the exhibits of Edison and Ford. I also visited the grounds which are well maintained and beautiful. I could have spent a whole day there.
La Tigresse — Google review
I learned so much. It was like a trip back in time. The grounds, lab, and museum are well worth a visit. Just check the weather first. If there is thunder they close the grounds. The museum with all of the phonographs and Model Ts are still open during thunderstorms though. They will stamp your receipt so you can come back.
Lindsay MacAskie — Google review
Gorgeous grounds .. fascinating friendship between Edison & Ford ..💡 🚗 Thoroughly enjoyed walking through the gardens & seeing inside the houses. Loved how we were able to take a self guided tour & see inside the homes. The houses 🏘 have 1/2 opened doors to allow for a wonderful view of the various areas of the inside of the homes. The gardens, houses, workshop & museums are meticulously kept. A very enjoyable experience & we learned a lot! Highly recommend!
Sharon Lee — Google review
Well worth the stop. It's always fun to visit places where wealthy industrialists from the 19th century vacationed. Both men were true pioneers from 1880s through their deaths in the 1930's and 1940's .
Take your time use the app and do a self guided tour. It really well done.
Ray Dude — Google review
Absolutely wonderful. It's like taking a walk through history. I would like to extend special thanks to one of the volunteers, named Steve. He seems very passionate about his job and made our tour that much more special (it was my first time in the U.S.). Highly recommended. Beautiful place. Greetings from Hungary!
Diana S. — Google review
Came here on the first day that they celebrated their holiday nights special event. Booked the guided tour and our tour guide did a fantastic job explaining all the information. It’s a very expansive estate at the same time the guide didn’t waste any time and we were able to finish the tour after an hour without issues.
It is absolutely beautifully decorated and they aren’t normally open this late but it’s beautiful to see all the holiday lights being set up. It’s quite a unique experience.
They also had some food vendors which we partook in a few treats since it was getting late and it was a replacement for dinner. Recommend buying guided tour tickets early as they do sell out pretty quickly.
Victor Wang — Google review
I had a wonderful experience at this museum, which featured both outdoor and indoor exhibitions. Additionally, they offer two engaging activities for people of all ages, making it a delightful experience. The workers were extremely friendly, adding to the overall enjoyment. If you find yourself in Fort Myers, I highly recommend visiting this museum!
Shunshunnn L — Google review
Went today with my wife. Had Bailey as our tour guide. We loved the experience. We got to see where Thomas Edison and Henry Ford spend summer months. Homes were amazing and the grounds were well maintained. The cost of the tour goes to property maintenance as we did see some lingering damage from Hurricane Ian. We have lived here three years and I am so glad we finally went. Perfect for locals and visitors to see a little piece of history right here in Ft Myers.
Timothy Conley — Google review
The Edison & Ford Winter Estates is a must see when near the Fort Meyers, FL area. It is truly an amazing iconic walk through the past. Not only the history but the museums with their stories. And all set on breathtaking views of waters and lovely gardens. The history of great people of the era that visited or stayed there is amazing to read about.
Bob Boyles — Google review
A great place to visit if you're in the Ft Myers area. We got a cool little " private" tour because only 4 of us had paid for the guided tour. Scott was so knowledgeable about every aspect of Edison's history. He was very impressive. There is a museum with Ford's cars and some of Edison's inventions. Across the road are their estates which sit on beautiful waterfront grounds. We learned a little about Ford, but the majority of the tour focused on Edison. There is a cute gift shop at the end of the tour.
Kathy M — Google review
On a recent first visit to Ft. Myers, I decided to check out this amazing place on the river. I never knew that Henry Ford and Thomas Edison were next door neighbors in their winter homes! Both men are legendary American icons. The grounds of the estate are gorgeous. Throughout the tour there were volunteers to explain and demonstrate things. I particularly liked Edison's office and home. They have a fantastic museum with an original model T. There is ample parking and the admission fee was reasonable. This is a must see!
Michael C. Delapena — Google review
Well maintained residency, location is near the water with great view. The parking is free. If you buy tickets online, you need to exchange them to waist bands at ticket office first. It is better to visit the museum first because it has so many first hand real things to see and read. Also the garden and the park adjacent to the ticket office are great, many nursery items for sale. Spent about 2.5 hrs today but could do more especially at the museum.
Keqi Gan — Google review
Fun experience with the family! Please note that if you are going on a reciprocal membership please be sure all reciprocal members names are on cards or you need to pay for those not named.
Gardens were well maintained with really interesting specimens. I had no idea the extent that Edison and his assistants experimented with plants.
Plan for the weather as most of the exhibits are outside. Gardens close in thunder alerts. You cannot walk through houses, but they have opened all the doorways to see in many of the rooms. Highlight of the gardens is the self guided audio tour. Short, entertaining, informational and well done!
Museum is quite interesting and air conditioned :)
Shannon Pierce — Google review
A great place to take a 3-hour break. They have guided tours and self-guided tours. The self-guided tours have follow-along references using your cell phone. Great for keeping your own pace.
There were just as many children excited to see the Winter Estates as the adults.
A few of my favorite highlights are in the images of the laboratory, the Ford, and the pier.
At the end of your visit, cool down in the museum. And before you go, there is a seating area with some refreshing drinks in the shade.
So neat to see what the inventing minds of our country had for their everyday use.
Shoshauna Conner — Google review
Don’t let the price which may seem high shy you away from this gem of a destination in Fort Myers. There are plenty of places to stop and admire the view and the beautiful grounds without a lot of noise or heavy people traffic. I spent 30 minutes on a bench under coconut trees just listening to birds and the waves of the river splashing against the shore. The app is full of great facts and content to make the self tour fully immersive. The staff were all so pleasant and helpful.
Avery Sexton — Google review
If you're in Fort Myers, you've gotta check out Edison and Ford's winter estates—it's a real gem. First thing you'll see is this massive Banyan tree at the entrance that's just mind-blowing. Seriously, it's like nature's welcome hug.
Inside, there's this mix of cool old buildings, beautiful gardens, a research lab, and a museum dedicated to Edison and Ford. It's not just history; it's like stepping into their world.
Oh, and don't miss the on-site store – they've got some really unique stuff. Plus, You can see the native plants of Florida from the garden next to the on-site-store.
Whether you're into history or just want a chill day surrounded by good vibes, these estates are a winner. It's not your average tourist spot; it's like a little escape into the past with a touch of nature. Don't miss out! 👍
Sarah C — Google review
Very interesting exhibits, thought I knew quite a bit about Edison, but a lot of this was new. Interesting insights into his life and friends.
The grounds were very nice as well, nicely maintained and interesting plantings.
Derek Pogorels — Google review
I was in town for another event but spent the rest of the day here touring the grounds and museum.
I absolutely enjoyed my visit. Staff was very friendly and helpful. They had a mini presentation on how to work the old phonograph devices that I enjoyed listening to.
There's lots of small little walking trails on the grounds including one by the river that is very nice. You can't get lost and there are benches to sit everywhere.
I enjoyed using the app to tell me about certain spots.
I'm not much of a plant person but they have plants everywhere here. Some very pretty.
I am a history nerd and this is a great place if you like history. I learned a lot.
Jennifer Nanek — Google review
If this is the type of history you enjoy, you'll probably like touring the grounds and poking your head into the homes, Edison's study, and the museum. The homes are underwhelming in my mind; period furniture that you'll see at just about any historical home/building of roughly the same era. That being said, it isn't totally my thing, so you might notice interesting differences. The grounds are pretty with a variety of plant life and a nice walk along the river. The museum is brief, but once again, interesting if this is your type of history. The laboratory adjacent to the museum was the not intriguing thing for me.
Lane Stevenson — Google review
A must-see attraction when in the Fort Myers area. Took the guided tour and it was a great experience. Started with a 15-minute intro to Edison, Ford, and the history. The group (~12 persons) walked around with the guide and we stopped regularly to get more info about the buildings, plants and trees, history, etc.
Thomas G — Google review
We've lived in Fort Myers for a few years, yet this was the first time we were willing to dish out $30 to visit this place. We picked a good time, because the place is very beautiful when covered in Christmas lights. The Christmas trees decorated by local classrooms were particularly nice. The history and exhibits at the estate were interesting, but I'm not convinced worth the $30 entrance fee by themselves.
Brian Spain — Google review
Wonderful visit. The guided tour is recommended if you want to ask questions or learn more in depth knowledge if the premises and their occupants. Didn't realize that the Edisons and Fords were good friends. Great gift shop with a number of books to choose from, great kids toys and handmade art pieces.
John Espinosa — Google review
We went for Holiday Nights and loved it! They did such an amazing job decorating for the holidays. We loved learning about the estates and the families who lived there. There were plenty of docents around to answer questions and they were very knowledgeable. The interpretive signs were also very helpful. We had a laugh over the house rules. "Don't kill the black snakes under the porch. They are there for a reason!" And "Don't tell us about Palm Beach. We don't care." There were many photo ops throughout the estates. The gift shops had really nice things from snacks to books to Christmas ornaments.
Amber Connell — Google review
We came on a Saturday evening for the Holiday Nights light show. It was such a cool experience. The houses had the top glass doors open. You could look into the rooms but could not enter. The gift shop was also open, and there were plants for purchase. The only thing we could not do was the museum as it had closed a couple hrs before we arrived. This is a family event, so bring the kids. The bathrooms were clean. There was music playing as well as snacks and drinks available for purchase. The Banyan trees are an amazing sight to see. The parking does fill up, but there is plenty of overflow parking available. I recommend to anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit.
The J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge is a wildlife haven where visitors can enjoy watching 234 different species of birds in their natural habitat. The refuge also features trails, fishing and family activities.
ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL!! Spend the day riding a bicycle along the trails or take a drive in the car. The views are just breathe taking and the peacefulness is something we all need. Please check it out...worth the trip. Public bathrooms available and for the drive thru its $10 per vehicle.
karen Gleeson — Google review
While Sanibel Island is still recovering from Hurricane Ian, the drive through Ding Darling is open. We were there mid-afternoon so didn’t see many birds, it was peaceful and beautiful.
Patricia Schmidt — Google review
This nature preserve was a highlight of my trip to Florida. The birds were amazing, some being birds I've never seen before. Also saw an alligator in the water. Staff is very friendly and I loved their enthusiasm while explaining what was all offered here. I also enjoyed the gift shop where I found some nice souvenirs. I would highly recommend.
Rochelle Didier — Google review
I’m giving this place five stars for the potential with a big ole’ disclaimer to pay attention to your season!! April was not a great season for this place. Went the last week of April and opted to walk the four mile loop. My fiancé and I sadly agreed it was the most boring walk we’ve ever taken. Pretty much straight gravel with overgrown swamp area, which didn’t show anything interesting. Saw a total of three or four birds and a tree crab. Only interesting thing was the tri-colored heron nest. Trail was hot with little shade or places to sit/take a breather. That being said, the place clearly has potential and it’s not their fault that the overgrowth was high/water was high/birds were not in season. I’d recommend not walking unless you know it’s a good season for the wildlife and opt instead for a bike, car ($10 entry fee) or the tram (separate fee). The people on the open-air tram looked like they were having a blast! And they got a tour guide. The walk was $2 (discounted car entry if you came back later) and just was not exciting. We might try again during a different time of year, but would definitely not walk in the future. Lovely gift shop and kind volunteers. Shout out to Trish for being super helpful!
Rachel Ellis — Google review
An incredible place. The information center is full of historical insights about the island and the man behind the Ding Darling preserve. There are plenty of interact-able displays and activities that both children and adults alike can enjoy. The trail itself is four miles long and features a plethora of birds, animals, fish, and plant life. If you're visiting Sanibel, this place should definitely be on your to-do list.
Alex Macus — Google review
Nice visit to this beautiful park. It was way to hot to do any walking exploration but we will be back to do so when it cools off. They honor veterans by free admission for life if you get the America The Beautiful Card.
Victoria Randolph Realtor — Google review
Nice informative information center that highlights the wild life in the reserve. The best part is of course the ~5 mile one-way drive through the reserve. You can drive yourself or take the tram. You can stop at many places along the way to look at the birds, the mangroves, the needle fish, etc. There is also an observation tower. There are one or two osprey nests right by the road (with chicks in them when we were there). We went on a weekday afternoon and it was so quiet.
Thomas G — Google review
Ding Darling was an absolutely beautiful location to visit. The one way drive around the loop was really nice as it had plenty of places to pull over and park the car so you could get out and enjoy the beauty. The wildlife was amazing. A great place to go if you are a Wildlife Photographer.
Debbie Quick — Google review
Absolutely loved driving through J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. The entrance fee paid for three days of visits. You may use your vehicle or pay for a tram ride with a guided tour. There are also hiking trails if you choose to walk, fishing is available, as well as kayaking along the water. I chose to drive and had an amazing time. I saw many different species of birds, three manatees, an iguana, crabs, jumping fish, and many more interesting views and finds. I went at low tide and saw many birds feeding and went in the evening just before closing. Both visits were exciting with great finds. Highly recommend!
Becky Lipka — Google review
What a great visit! We saw up close a Yellow Crowned Night Heron catch a crab and the interesting way he ate it, enjoy the attached video! We were here in mid-January, lots of white American pelicans, Herons (Great Blue, Little Blue, Green, Tri-Color and above), Roseate Spoonbills, Red Egrets, and lots of sand birds. Lovely visitor center(check out the restrooms for fun fact-finding questions). Very easy to drive around the four miles and stop wherever you want and get out and look and view the wildlife. Cost is $10 for your car. There’s quite a few dead trees because of Hurricane Ian, but still plenty of birds to see and enjoy. Highly recommend!
M. B. — Google review
Very enjoyable drive through the preserve. The ability to pull off anywhere and check out the wildlife is nice. Wasn't too busy on a Saturday. The man working the ticket booth gave a good suggestion of the Indigo Trail directly by the ticket booth. Wandering down it to the observation tower allowed us to see a few nesting birds.
Lane Stevenson — Google review
Everytime I come to Sanibel the Ding Darling preserve is a must! Since more than 25 years now I love the island and this nature park! The vegetation growing back since Ian. I saw a lot of birds, Horseshoe Crabs and Racoons! Everytime I find peace and beauty here! The staff is amazing too!
Andrew Kafka — Google review
Fantastic wildlife refuge, only $1 pp for bicycle riders and tons of wildlife to see. A flat and beautiful road and trails (4 miles from start to finish if you don't go through the indigo trail). Highly recommend to get some outdoor wildlife time on the island, saw tortoises, raccoons, pelicans, egrets and herons!
Patrick Shaw — Google review
Soon to be 5 stars as soon as all the wooden walkways over the shallow waters are repaired. Walkers now share the road with cars and bikes. 5 star restrooms (voted best in the country a few years ago) and gift shop.
Harry Nesteruk — Google review
If you haven’t experienced Ding Darling, you are missing out. It’s a must see all times of the year. I have done the Tram tour through wildlife drive by Tarpon Bay Explorers, also rented kayaks from them which is fun. I’ve driven through myself and several times rode bikes through. The Web during nesting season is awesome. The nature center is educational and everyone is so friendly. And you can’t stop there without checking out the bathrooms!
Alicia Goldsmith — Google review
Keep in mind that the whole area is recovering from hurricane Ian so it might not look the same as it used to. Google took us to the end of the one way of the drive, so keep an eye on their sign for the entrance. There is a $10 entrance fee, which was not worth it for us as there wasn't much to see but dead trees. Couple bird's nests were cute, also the observation tower. All but two trails were still closed and we didn't get to see much. We live a little north from there and similar parks there are free. Looks like might be a good spot to fish as the island is small.
Jana L — Google review
A wonderfull drive though wildlife refuge. We had some wonderful bird sightings. The roads and facilities are well maintained and the staff are friendly. The restrooms at the information center are clean.
If you're looking for a quaint waterfront shopping complex with specialty shops and casual restaurants, Fishermen's Village in Punta Gorda is the place to go. There's also a marina and lodging onsite.
So many great shops to go to! if you’re looking for tourist clothes, hats, jewelry and more, you’re definitely going to find it here. only downside is that the restaurants typically have a long wait time and are often a bit expensive. Would recommend checking it out for sure. right on the water, lots of great boats and views.
Abbie Farmer — Google review
We went for Thanksgiving dinner. Had reservations for 530 but didn't get seated for an hour.
Crazy busy. Service was great but food was really good. Mixed green salad, crab salad(yummy), green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, mashed potatoes, gravy, turkey and prime rib! And for dessert there was cheesecake, chocolate cake, pumpkin pie and pecan pie. Everything was so delicious and it was all you can eat for $36 each person plus your beverage. You do have reservations. I have never been here and the view was to die for, overlooking the Harbor. I will definitely be back!
Vicki Kirby — Google review
9pm on a Friday night almost everything closed. No live music... Hanging Shark still not back up... Disappointing we get out kids pic taken next to it every year for the last 10 years... Everything is very clean but has lost it charm... The new Dry Beach is nice... Not much going on.
Johnny Chambers — Google review
Nice views and great photo ops. Tasty eateries- interesting shops, and all around good experience. We went to Harpoon Harry’s- (review separate from this one) and Brew House (same) as well as brought home sweets from the candy shop. Definitely a place to see if you are staying in this area- looking for souvenirs, etc!
Clean restrooms
Family oriented
Fun for date day (closes fairly early- but early dinner and a walk around the harbor or town is fun!).
Keli Young — Google review
Beautiful sunsets to enjoy at some of the really good restaurants there. Some shops are more pricey and high-end, and some are more reasonable with expected tourist apparel and souvenirs. Great place to take the kids for lunch or some ice cream, then walk around a little. They have cute little photo op places, too.
Brooke Hamilton — Google review
We always like coming here. Plenty of places to shop, several eateries to go to (there are a few more open now) and great views of the river/bay area. It gets busy in the fall and winter, of course so be prepared to have some wait times at the restaurants. They have really improved on the area since the original opening back in the day. Christmas lights are a great touch so kudos to the staff that put these up. The whole area is clean and well organized.
J Martin — Google review
LOVE Fisherman's Village. Love to browse through the shops, never know what treasure you will find. Love the restaurant at the end of all the shops. I had the scallops basket and my honey had the grouper. As usual, the food was absolutely delicious. We got a table by the water. So fun to watch the boats come and go. Atmosphere so relaxed and staff was super nice and efficient at the restaurant. Would definitely recommend Fisherman's Village
Terrie Hoefle — Google review
As soon as we got there, we were offered a free tour of the place, and the driver was super friendly. The shops were all clean, the workers super friendly, and the scenery is beautiful! We also had coffee and breakfast sandwiches from the Cafe, and everything was great! They also have rooms above the shops, where you can stay, and while I didn't see them in person, the pictures of them look awesome. I definitely recommend visiting!!
John Sauer — Google review
Awesome place to walk around with cool shops and good restaurants. They even have assistants on golf carts willing to take you from one end to the other (remember, they accept tips!). If you want something it is probably there. The shops have all sorts of things like sandals, shoes, clothes, jewelry, bags, candy, ice cream, hats, souvenirs, you name it.
Tony Rogers — Google review
Visited The Pier at Fishermen's Village with friends. They have waterfront seating as well as a spacious indoor dining area and generous bar. Good food and service for reasonable prices.
In season, they have live music but you need to arrive early if you want a seat.
Marsha Malone-Thompson — Google review
Little touristy, the pier at the end of the walk has good sushi. Some really great shops here as well. The oil and vinegar shop is top-notch, and the tea shop is a real winner. Parking can be an issue depending on time or day.
Spencer Pearson — Google review
We love Fisherman's Village! We go as often as we can. Great shops with all kinds of different items that are hard to find anywhere else. Great restaurants with amazing views of Charlotte Harbor. And absolutely stunning decorations at Christmas time. An amazing place to take any family and friend visitors that you may have! Highly recommended!
Kelly Kroll — Google review
We stopped here prior to our flight from Punta Gorda. There were some nice local small shops and a few restaurants. Very nice area. The premises were very clean. We ate at Harpoon Harry's and watched a beautiful sunset from our table in the restaurant.
John Zarate — Google review
We were there for the Christmas lighting. It was an awesome sight. The wharf could use more restaurants. Some places had an hour wait time, others had you were on your own to find seating. The food was fried, I am not a fan of fried, but the view and activities made up for that.
Lawrence Kalmbacher — Google review
This is a fun place to go. There are plenty places to eat with great restaurants and plenty of places to shop also. Bring your walk and shoes because it's plenty big. You can either be inside or outside your choice but there are plenty of places to go. If you time it right you leave and be able to enjoy a nice sunset.
Larry Holcombe — Google review
We went to see the Christmas Lights, and we were far from disappointed! Absolutely gorgeous! Absolutely Amazing! If you haven't been, I Highly suggest! Even just for every day fun. Adorable little shops, watch some candy making, and enjoy a couple of good restaurants. 💗 There is even live entertainment on occasions! This place is definitely worth checking out! 🥰
Catherine Harlin — Google review
Such a fun day! Great shopping..walking along the dock ..the sunset! Dinner at the Captains table- the food is great and the view even better! Sunset cruises run from 5:30-7! No charge for parking. Love this place.
Sonnie — Google review
The sports bar Restaurant half way down has fabulous burgers. They have gluten free buns if you go that way. They are actually tasty. Nice view of harbor. Every time I have been there they had a band or singer. Nice atmosphere with bartenders that are generally senior friendly. I say that because the younger people on our left and right arrived well after us but got served first and we had to go and flag someone down. Maybe because I had my USMC hat on. This has happened last two times on a Saturday. I go there to watch Penn State Football and the bartenders always want to change the channel on me. They must think because I am old they can just shove me aside. Oh well, nice place. Maybe next year.
John Forr — Google review
Upscale shopping and dining area on the water. Very nice to spend a few hours shopping the tourist type shops and then enjoy food and drinks. I marked it down to 4 stars only because the shopping and restaurants are typical in this resort type atmosphere. I did not mark it down a star because it was not nice. I marked it down because it had nothing out of the unusual that would surprise and delight you. If in the area I suggest you check it out.
John Kusmierz — Google review
A Captivating Experience at an Amazing Hotel - Unforgettable Sunrise and Sunset Views
During our recent stay, my partner and I had the privilege of experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty of both sunrise and sunset at the captivating The Suites. From start to finish, this hotel provided us with an absolutely amazing stay, leaving us forever enchanted by the mesmerizing views of the sun painting the sky with its vibrant hues.
One of the most memorable aspects of our stay was undoubtedly the breathtaking sunrise offered by the hotel's prime location. Nestled along the coast, The Suites boasts a privileged position, allowing guests to witness nature's spectacle from the comfort of their own room. The moment we drew back the curtains and welcomed the first rays of the morning sun, we were overwhelmed with a sense of tranquility and gratitude. The horizon, adorned with shades of pink, orange, and gold, together with the gentle sound of crashing waves, created a blissful ambiance that set the tone for the perfect day ahead.
Equally astonishing were the hotel's sunset views, which were nothing short of magical. As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at the hotel's rooftop terrace, overlooking a panorama that seemed straight out of a fairytale. Basking in the warm glow of the setting sun, we witnessed the sky transforming into a canvas of purples, blues, and fiery reds. The surrounding mountains and the vast expanse of the sea blended harmoniously, creating an indescribable moment that left us in complete awe.
Apart from the magnificent views, The Suites impressed us further with its exceptional service and attention to detail. The staff were warm, welcoming, and always ready to assist in any way possible. The rooms were elegantly decorated, offering unmatched comfort and featuring large windows that maximized the view. The hotel's amenities were top-notch, with a well-appointed spa, exquisite dining venues, and a variety of activities geared towards relaxation and immersion in the natural surroundings.
We cannot fail to mention the hotel's commitment to sustainability. The Suites actively engages in eco-friendly practices, promoting the preservation of the surrounding environment. This dedication resonated with us and enhanced our overall experience, allowing us to truly appreciate the beauty of nature in its purest form.
Overall, our stay at The Suites was an enchanting experience that surpassed our expectations. The opportunities to witness both sunrise and sunset each day were a gift we'll forever cherish. If you are seeking a hotel that offers a truly magical blend of remarkable scenery, impeccable service, and a sense of connection with nature, look no further than The Suites. A stay here promises lasting memories and a heightened appreciation for the natural wonders that surround us.
Bobby ?Twin Eater MF? — Google review
Popular place so it is a little hard to find parking.
There are plenty of shops to find treasures, or just browse.
Restaurants were buzzing with people. There is a variety of food to please every taste bud.
There is a bar in the center of the beach (no swimming) with live music .
It was a very pleasant day.
Luisa Fletcher — Google review
It's worth a stop, but many stores are generic tourist stops. You probably won't be able to make an afternoon of it, but you could kill a couple of hours.
There is tons of parking, and the restaurants are fun with great views!
Connor Daitch — Google review
Great little place to walk around to visit some shops, restaurants or even hear some live music. They have a cute little beach area on the river with a few games for kids or adults. Also a great place to see some christmas lights and decorations
Jasmine Rhodes — Google review
We enjoy the variety of restaurants and retail this mall has to offer. We very much enjoy the Pier for their food and drinks. The only real problem with Fishman's wharf is parking. There is never enough and often I have had to find parking off site.
Robert Howe — Google review
A great place to spend an afternoon! Lots of shops mixed with restaurants and bars. Great atmosphere with some open areas giving the feeling your outside and all built along the waterfront. So pull up a chair at your favorite restaurant and sit seaside or hang out at one of the bars with your toes in the sand. Either way you will enjoy your time with friends or family!
Ron Smith — Google review
Everything was wonderful!! The atmosphere & the food was fantastic.
The margaritas were wonderful.
We sat at the bar and listened to music.
It was just a lovely lunch.
We will definitely be back!
Dr. Robin — Google review
My husband & I had breakfast here last week for the first time.
The place was clean, but freezing! The light fixture above our booth was moving from the blast of air conditioning blowing on us & on our food. It cooled my pancakes down right away. My food was a good price at $6.99! I got 2 med pancakes, 2 sausage links, & 2 eggs too. Hubby got an omlette that was good, toast & hashbrowns that were not at all crispy, mostly white. We will try this place again, but be sure to sit in a better place there. Don't be in a hurry as though not too busy, it took a long time for the food to be cooked.
Carol Hobson-Payne — Google review
Fisherman’s Village is a really nice place to spend an afternoon shopping, relaxing by the water with a cool drink or an ice cream most of the time there is a small band or singer playing! If you want to watch the sun set come an hour before Sunset to get a seat in the Campfire pit chairs and watch the beautiful Sunset! You also can go out for lunch or dinner, there are several Resturaunts on the water to eat! Captains table is one of the places we have dinner. The food is very good, prices are reasonable and the view is very nice!
Timothy, Renee Moore — Google review
Fishermen's Village is an absolute delight! This charming waterfront destination offers a unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment. The variety of shops is fantastic, ranging from boutique clothing to specialty gifts, providing something for everyone. Dining here is a treat with a range of options offering delicious seafood and more, complemented by stunning water views. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, perfect for a day out with friends or family. The marina adds to the scenic beauty, making it a picturesque spot to wander and relax. Highly recommend Fishermen's Village for a memorable experience by the water!
Christophe Bingemer — Google review
Beautiful day strolling through Fishermen's Village with all the lovely shops and food choices. Later in the week I helped to assist with a fun and interesting class trip on one of the touring boats. Great kid-friendly experience!
steven linner — Google review
Shops with island clothing and decor. Restaurant, bar & hotel. Nice walking area with places to sit & rest or people watch.
It's great to see pets are allowed, too 😄
Connie Alberts — Google review
It's very nice. Had a little bit of everything. Nice restaurants and tiki bars. Clothing shops. Cruises around the harbor. Very dog friendly.
Joella Clements — Google review
What a cool place to shop, browse, grab some food and have a drink of your choice. Multiple eateries and bars. Indoor or outdoor options. Great Tiki bar on the west side to catch a sunset. Fun place to spend a day or evening.
Bryant Eckman — Google review
4.6
(13083)
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4.5
(2370)
1200 W Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL 33950, USA
Beachcombing for shells & sharks’ teeth is a popular activity on this rugged stretch of coastline.
My most favorite place to go. I love finding the sharks teeth and the water is breathtaking.
Amanda Warren — Google review
Beautiful beach for fishing and looking for sharks teeth. Beach is very rocky. Nice restrooms and outdoor shower.
Angi Whittington — Google review
Shark teeth central
Jackie — Google review
Great beach however erosion and hurricanes have really done a number on this beach. The dunes are now at ground level. Palm trees, sea grasses and debris litter the sand.
Sandra Locascio — Google review
A great beach, family friendly with plenty of handicap parking as well as accessibility ramps to the beach and bathrooms. Rocks in some areas, good for shark tooth searching.
Jason Hawke — Google review
A pristine beach located off the beaten path with plenty of spots to claim a peaceful day. A long walk if your planning to come without a boat, There is a ferry that takes people back and fourth from the South Venice yacht club. Found lots of shark teeth and the sand was blazing hot. Make sure you have some adequate sun protection.
Patrick Steck III — Google review
One of the lesser known beaches of the area, but if you know of shark teeth then you definitely know of Caspersen! This beach is so fun because it’s so unique- there are lots of rocks right along the shore like and a huge walkway across the sand, making for some great views! There are lots of shells to be found, not even just shark teeth but a large array of other conchs, scallops and really good ones! If you want to find teeth, though, I suggest you bring either a rake or some kind of straining/ scooping element because otherwise they are super difficult to find. You also need to find the right spot, so if you’re not finding any, keep on moving and don’t give up! Caspersen also has some bathrooms and rinse stations, but beware of parking because it can get tough- so great there EARLY or get there late- the in between may have you driving around quite a bit!
Raegan Linster — Google review
As a beach lover I would put this beach in the top 10 Beaches of my favorite beaches I have seen in the United States.
Not that I am a avid beach traveler although my favorite beaches are in the Caribbean.
Yesterday 03/13/2023 was one of the most perfect days with the weather, slight breeze and water I have ever had in all my visits to the beach.
It was a perfect 80 degrees with no humidity and a small breeze blowing off from the ocean .
As I sat in the water edge ~ looking for “ Shark Teeth” I was amazed at the “ turquoise water” that glistened with the sun rays, beaming down off of the water and bouncing up on my face.
This would bring serenity to anyone’s soul ….
The pictures I took are not edited and are taking with the simple feature of a iPhone 11~
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Angie Lee — Google review
This is a great place to go shark tooth hunting, as well as to lay out in the sun due to the black sands intensifying the heat. You would need to get here super early though, because the shark tooth hunters are often territorial, and parking can be a little hit or miss if you arrive after 8:00
Jesse Rivera — Google review
I went on Sunday morning and there were over 2 dozen people sifting through the beach looking for sharks teeth. They were spread out the whole length of the beach (over 2 miles ). The sand is fine and is not rocky except for shells in various amounts throughout. It isn't too busy and has plenty of space so you don't have to be on top of other people. Great place to take the kids or to relax without a lot of hassle around you. Free parking is great.
Charles Tiedemann — Google review
Nice beach. Originally very rocky then a little south and very sandy. LOTS of shells. Easy access. You have to go worth the trip. I bicycled there from legacy trail.
Ed Pirrone — Google review
4.6
(163)
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4.5
(1859)
Florida 34223, USA
22
Myakka River State Park Youth Camp
Campground
Outdoor Activities
Basic group campground with fire rings, water & benches in a riverside 58-sq.-mi. state park.
it is an incredible park many things to do and visit and enjoy the wildlife
Alejandro Brito — Google review
Amazing way to spend Mother's Day...any day really! Enjoyed the narrated boat tour...galloping gators, feral hogs, and fauna galore...something for everyone!
Kimberlei Goodnow Taylor — Google review
beautiful place for enjoy the nature and the real Florida landscape and animals!
luca di michele — Google review
Wonderful campground with plenty of space.
Tim Russon — Google review
Excellent camp ground for youth scout camping and to the looks of it great for family camping. Gas stations within 15 min drive for ice and other things along with a Walmart about 20 minutes away. Great roads for bike rides and also plenty of good views with alot of alligator sitings. Make the 1 hr trip to peace river if you can and dig for some fossils when the water is low!
Raymond Trombley — Google review
Great for kids! Airboat tour with gators, birds, wild pigs in sight. Tram ride with excellent description of flora, fauna, and history. Great restaurant and gift shop. Camping facilities look nice and we'll kept. Many opportunities for walks and bicycle rides.
H Frederick — Google review
The campsite was huge and well cleared with plenty of flat spots for tents; the water out of the spigot was delicious and clean and didn't have that standard Florida sulfur taste; the state park staff was extremely accommodating and helpful; and the site was secluded from other campers. Overall, a fantastic experience!
Chris Grover — Google review
Its better just putting anything modern away and imagine it being 90 years ago. Get the real feel for the real Florida
Venice Beach is a vast coastal stretch renowned for its recreational activities and stunning vistas, offering glimpses of dolphins and seasonal marine turtle nesting.
Siesta Beach, located in Siesta Key, offers a range of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy. The beach features fine white quartz sand that stays cool even in hot weather. In addition to the beautiful beach, there is a playground and tennis courts available for recreational purposes. Year-round lifeguards ensure the safety of beachgoers.
One of my all-time favorite beaches. The beach is big and wide with life guards and has volleyball nets. This beach has a huge parking lot but it fills up fast on nice weather days. Its a long walk from parking lot to the water. There are concession stands and restrooms on site. Great sunsets here!!!
Tom Yenk — Google review
This is now one of my favorite beaches in the US! Such a quiet and chill beach! It’s clean, family friendly but also we didn’t feel like we were over run with children. The water was warm and beautiful. The sand was powdery soft and not grainy like most beaches. The waves were pretty calm for the most part. They have free parking and nice accommodations with shops and a lot to do. I really enjoyed myself and can’t wait to return. Definitely check them out! Worth the trip to have such a relaxing day on the water!
Sonali Hutson Enterprises, LLC — Google review
The Gulf coast of the US are home to some of the best beaches in the country and this beach is right there at the top . The sand is soft, white and sugary. The Emerald colored water is very clear. A must visit beach for sure.
Saiprabhu B — Google review
Beautiful beach w beautiful sand and view. A lot of people walking the beach, that was nice. Clean and Clear water. Love that they have a concession stand w breakfast in the menu. I had a bagel breakfast sandwich, it hit the spot and they tables you can sit and eat at. They have a small nice souvenir shop.
CeliGirl — Google review
Super soft, powdery sand. Water is nice temperature and pretty clear. Many little fish swimming around. Didn’t see any crabs, hermit crabs, jellyfish, etc. pretty sure we saw a manatee pop up not too far from the shoreline. The main part of the beach has lifeguards on duty. That area can become very congested. We went way further down and it was so relaxing. Beautiful views. Watched sunset but the views were limited due to clouds that night. Attempted to watch sunrise but it was difficult due the the building on that side. Definitely softer send than turtle beach. Would recommend turtle beach if you’re looking for shells. Siesta Key beach did have some shells, but did not find as many large ones.
Tons of local shops and great restaurants nearby! Check out my other reviews for food recommendations!
Jordynn Bryan — Google review
Great beach, sand feels so soft and it doesn’t get hot. Water was clear and just warm enough. No issues finding parking but we arrived after 2pm. We stayed to watch the sunset and it did not disappoint.
Carola Manriquez — Google review
It is the most beautiful beach that I have ever seen. Perfect white sand is so thin and delicate. Stays cool even in the high heat. Just Perfect.
Sylwia Sandell — Google review
Coming from the East coast beaches, Siesta Key was a refreshing change from the heavy, pounding waves at Cocoa beach, Melbourne beach, Sebastian Inlet and Vero Beaches. The waves at Siesta Beach are relaxing and hardly any current to worry about taking you away. Waist to chest deep clear cool water make it nice to cool off after laying in the sun. Of all the beaches I have been to in Florida, this is my favorite. I will be visiting again.
Azrael -PK — Google review
I have been going to Siesta Key Beach for years! It is, in my opinion, the best beach in the United states. The quartz sand is baby powder soft and bright white! The waters are crystal clear and have the most beautiful aqua blue color due to the quartz sand reflecting under the water. It is so beautiful, it's like being on a Caribbean island. Siesta Key is the only Beach I will go to in the United states. No other Beach compares.
Courtney Casper — Google review
Linda and I drove down from Longboat Key to Siesta Key Beach to see for ourself the famous white sand. It was unbelievably soft to walk on and regardless of how hot the day became, you could still walk on the white quartz sand without burning your feet. We had an awesome time with plenty of free parking, restroom and outdoor showers and the water was just great! If we had more time, would definitely consider spending another day at the #1 beach in the USA!
Mike Monroe — Google review
One of the most amazing beaches of the world. The smoothest and most white sand I’ve ever seen. I highly recommend to have your sunglasses with you because the white sand is reflecting the sun so much. And if you want to enjoy the water, don’t forget an umbrella or a pavilion to have some shadow. I highly recommend going to the beach on weekdays because on weekends it’s very full. And if you can manage it enjoy the beach in the early morning when you can look at the sea and the sun rises to your left, this is an awesome start into the day and you won’t be alone.
Magnus Panter — Google review
Nearly 80 degrees today. Water tempt was in 60s, possibly 70s. Food. Folks. Fun. Families. Vendors. Clean restrooms. Volleyball. Swim. Shop. Competitive parking. Patience. Follow the arrows. Avoid ignoring the DO NOT ENTER signs in the parking lot. Be kind and avoid stealing parking spaces from other patrons. Be nice.
Anne With an E — Google review
From the moment you set foot on the beach, you are greeted by a sense of tranquility and beauty that is unmatched. The water is clear and inviting, ideal for swimming or simply soaking up the sun. With its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, it's no wonder why Siesta Beach is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the US.
Martinez — Google review
Beautiful beach. Nice amenities… breathtaking sunsets. So much soft sand it seems magical.
Lela Pentsa — Google review
Beautiful view. Love the sand. It is so soft. A lot nicer than Clearwater Beach. When we were there, some people was lighting up the floating lantern in memory of their loved ones and it was beautiful to watch. The water was cold during this time, so it's best to come in the summer time.
The Ringling Museum of Art is one of the most iconic and well-known art museums in the United States. The museum houses a spectacular collection of art and cultural objects, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative pieces from around the world. It's also home to one of the best circus museums in the world.
Amazing must experience museum. We took hundreds of beautiful photos and spent a good 3-4 hours here, lots of walking so wear comfortable shoes. The grounds are gorgeous and well kept. The restaurant food was quite delicious and convenient as we were starving after our 1.5 hour drive. I would definitely return especially during the different seasons. The place was decorated so nicely for Christmas. There was a lot to do and see.
Desyre Arnold — Google review
Haven’t been here in many years since I was younger. New buildings, everything even nicer than I remember. Took the family for the day when the weather was nice, had a playground in the center in the park and the kiddo loved that. I loved the dioramas of the old circus setups. The grounds are as beautiful as ever and it was a great day to walk the grounds and see the many beautiful types of plants and flowers. As every time I’ve ever been always need more time, just means we will be back soon. There is so much to see, the grounds are worth the trip alone and then the museum for circus items and the art collection. You could easily fill several days or many trips to see it all.
Erroll Ends — Google review
A nice chance to walk around a Franco-Italian piazza from 100 years ago, managed and maintained very nicely. One ticket gets you into almost the entire grounds usually, and my little nephews (7 & 8) and I really enjoyed the Summer Circus Spectacular before making the most of our day. The show was excellent. It’s very intimate in a small theater, no three-ring circus. This is so much the better! The clowns draw you in and make you feel they’ve prepared the show for you alone. The woman from Ethiopia is an incredible juggler, and we also loved seeing the balancing act, acrobats from Ukraine on the double swings, and the acrobat on the long silk rope. We had cheesy macaroni and fish tacos respectively for lunch, but the museum and playground, and we walked through the mansion turned art museum. Fantastic day even in 100 degrees. A great place to talk a walk-and-talk!
We bought tickets when we walked up, but we got there exactly at 10AM.
Jessica Carr — Google review
Mondays are "free museum day" to enter the art galleries. Huge tapestry size paintings and nice collection of art. The Center of the U-shaped museum has a large outdoor courtyard with statues, greenery, and shaded walking areas on the building's inner edges. Restoration efforts have preserved the original charm of this building and surrounding gardens. Many sights to see on the Ringling estate in addition to the art. Visitor's entrance to the museum grounds includes a gift shop and sit-down restaurant.
Karen Cusey (KarenQZ) — Google review
The John and Mable Ringling Museum is an absolute gem! From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted with a sense of wonder and excitement. The stunning water views add a touch of magic to the whole experience, making it truly unforgettable. Walking through the museum, you can feel the passion and dedication that went into creating such a beautiful place. Every exhibit is thoughtfully curated, showcasing a rich tapestry of art and history that captivates the imagination. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a delightful day out, this museum has something for everyone. It’s not just a museum; it’s a journey through creativity and inspiration. Highly recommended!
The Queen Made to clean — Google review
Absolutely beautiful place we visited it in the middle of December. Natural setting with beautiful art galleries and mansion which looks like piece of Europe. There are art gallery, botanical garden and the circus museum in one place. For extra cost you can see the first floor of Ringling’s mansion which I found very interesting. The Circus museum has miniature model of the circus from the beginning to the end. I really liked the Glass exhibition.
Tatiana S — Google review
Gardens are amazing! Went late in the afternoon, so I didn't have time for a full visit. Will definitely be back to see the museum and mansion. Free admission to gardens and museum on Mondays.
Dawn Easparro — Google review
This place is much bigger than it looks. It was clean, nice and cool. Lots of great art to look at and the circus to learn about. It will take a few hours to get through this property. Beautiful gardens and property.
You are not allowed to take photos inside so I took a few outside.
Day — Google review
Worth it!
The garden and three museums are wonderful. The view for the Sarasota Bay is stunning. For the exhibition, I love the art museum section, lots of paintings and well maintained for the whole area.
Parking is super easy, with plenty of space.
Just make sure you are hydrated enough since Florida is always hot!
陳亮彣 — Google review
I lived in Sarasota for 5 years and I never went to this place. However after having move away I always come back every year to visit, and this year I made sure to visit to John and Mabel Ringling aren't museum. Just so you know, admission is free on Mondays so we decided to go on a Monday. Even though there were a lot of people there, the place is so massive that you never really feel crowded. I was able to leisurely view the entire grounds without feeling rushed or crowded. The inside of this place is just as beautiful as the outside. Be sure to hit up all of the wings of the museum. If you're facing the courtyard they are both to the right and left. The house is also gorgeous (Ca d' Zan), But we did not pay to actually tour it. Despite this you can still walk out on the back porch of the home and enjoy the beautiful views. Definitely would recommend!
Casey Nicole — Google review
I thoroughly enjoy taking day trips to the museum. The restaurant is a true delight, with an incredible chef who never fails to impress. The bar offers a wide variety of options to choose from. And I always find great joy in exploring the stunning art and landscaping on display.
Samantha Everett — Google review
Loved the gardens and the employees art! Really enjoyed the new glass gallery. Overall, most paintings didn't appeal to me. They have too dark or violent themes for me. I personally like uplifting artwork! I found enough to enjoy to make it a nice visit. I'm glad, however, that I hadn't paid to view the art. The rest of the complex is awesome!
Joan Sheehy — Google review
Wonderful collection of circus memories and modern art and other items collected by John and Mabel Ringling. Great incite into their lives as well as the lives of some of the performers in their circuses. The park is large, well kept and beautiful. Plan to spend an entire day here. We arrived as soon as they opened and stayed till close. Still didn't get to see everything tho, so the art museum is a two day trip if you want to experience all of it.
JAE D'FIVE — Google review
I’m glad to visit this museum during our stay in Sarasota. I learned a lot of interesting facts about cirques industry back in the beginning of 20 century. I couldn’t imagine how big was the scale of running cirques for just one day performance for public. Amazing!!
The only sad fact is that the cirques king died completely broke having having such a huge and beautiful collection of art.
Double K — Google review
This place is awesome. There are multiple museums on the grounds, along with the mansion and beautiful gardens. You can easily spend a full day here in order to be able to see everything. The coffee shop above the gift shop has really good coffee.
Ileanna Wright — Google review
We only went to the art museum ✨️ It was huge and wow, what a selection 👏. We are members of the Bishop and it has a reciprocal admission with The Ringling so it was free. We plan to go back to see the other buildings. There is a ton of cool things to see. Very well done and worth going to. Free parking, and they have a nice Cafe above the visitor center and gift shop. There are many ponds, gardens, and statues(art) outside as well. It is right on Sarasota Bay with beautiful views 😍
Joe Watson (Joe Cool) — Google review
Beautiful gardens to walk through! atmosphere amazing ! art museum amazing painting specially the ones John Ringling requested! We where there 10am to 430pm make sure to wear comfortable shoes!
Michelle Glassman-Sprachman — Google review
Very beautiful place. It really is like being temporarily transported to Europe. The gardens are nice but the best part for me was the art gallery. Incredible paintings with some descriptions on their origin. Some paintings are so large they take up a whole wall.
Wonderful place to visit!
There was a moderate amount of people there on the day we went, though the area is so big it almost feels like you’re the only person there
Dominga Allende — Google review
I didn't think I would like this place but...Wow! The miniature model of a working circus (at least 1500 square ft), and the incredible detail, was worth the price of admission alone. Very interesting place with beautiful gardens/grounds to walk around and relax. Nice little restaurant overlooking a pond that has pretty good food too.
Dan G — Google review
Absolutely 😍 loved the Ringling Museum. This was an experience for the entire family (including my 19 year old son who Never hangs out). We had a blast, from the miniature circus recreation to the galleries to the garden to the Grill. It's just wonderful. You could visit this place two to three times and discover something new each time.
Kimerly Christie — Google review
Such a great place to visit. Art museum has a lot of old paintings mostly with Biblical references. The inner garden is tranquil and beautiful. They always have different exhibitions that show the artworks from world around. If you like the history of circus the museum will definitely your place. But the most lovely place for me is a house of Ringlings. Castle… Nest.. I don’t know how to name it. It’s amazing. Till today. If you are nearby, you have to visit it. Read the history of John Ringling before to visit this place.
Nonna Pidvalna — Google review
Went to Ringling for the first time, I was very impressed with the entire complex. There are so many different ways to spend your time, from the art museum, circus museums, gardens and walking through the Mansion. I thought it was very unexpected to have such a nice restaurant at that location. The Ringling Grill room overlooks the pond and has a fabulous menu to choose from. Sitting on the terrace with a cocktail and a delicious lunch is the perfect way to spend a leisurely afternoon. What is so unique is that you could spend a few hours or an entire day at this location, it is all dependent on your whims.
LOParadise — Google review
The Ringling museum was very interesting. The House "Ca' d'zan was really cool. The museum had a ton of painting and other art.
We wanted to do the 40 minute tour with the upstairs of the house, but it was sold out. The house is right on the water. It was $35 for the museums and the first floor of the house self tour. I guess you can buy them online if you want to do a tour.
Roger Potter — Google review
What a fabulous experience! Easy and plentiful parking! There used to be so much to see. Very short wait for ticket purchase. On Monday, the art gallery is free and the outdoor gardens are spectacular, with nature mixed with art and sculpture. There used to be something to entice your eyes from every view. Great art, interesting mix of cloth art, sculpture and paintings.
Naomi Sprung — Google review
100% worth the visit! The entire place is gorgeous and massive so it doesn’t feel crowded. We went on a Monday when entrance to the art museum and the gardens are free. The art museum is wonderful-my partner and I like vastly different styles of art, but this museum had both the styles we love. The view of the water and the gardens was beyond beautiful, just walking around and spotting the turtles and watching for dolphins was amazing. I would suggest spending about 5 hours here if you want to see and do everything. We will definitely be returning to do the circus museum and the house tour at some point.
Sheena P — Google review
Wonderful first visit! Miniature circus display was amazing!!! Actual circus museum less so... Beautiful house tour with audio. Take a guided tour for upper floor access. Excellent fine art museum, special exhibits and sculpture garden. Bistro was very good as well. So much to see!
The Manatee Viewing Center features a 50-foot observation tower, trails, a boardwalk and butterfly gardens. This nature preserve is perfect for viewing manatees in their natural environment. The center also offers educational opportunities about manatees and their ecology.
This was a really cool (free!) place to visit on a Saturday. The close parking lot was full so we parked in the overflow which ended being great because there is a little center over there with energy games and activities. Bathrooms as well. Then we took a leisurely stroll to the center. There were several manatees in the water and a stingray petting area. Lots of boardwalks and it's kind of cool to see the power plant up close. Lots of activities for young kids scattered about as well as informational signs. Staff were friendly and we had a great visit!
Justine Vild — Google review
Shout out to the lady who said there was another boardwalk, or I would have completely missed my chance to see the manatees. Great place, very friendly staff. Observator, stingray center, food, manatees, trails. What could you not like about this place.
ZRinaldi — Google review
Lovely place. Great for the kids. Nice nature trails, boardwalks, and observation tower. Come in the winter to see the manatees but there is plenty of other wildlife to see year round. Staff were very friendly and helpful.
Theodore Reese — Google review
This place is amazing, and free!! Parking filled up fast, but they have an overflow parking lot. There were at least thirty manatees in the area when we came, and it’s still pretty warm right now. The observation tower was worth the walk, lots of schools of fish to see and watch them jump. The learning area is geared towards smaller children but was still interesting. Cute gift shop. We didn’t eat onsite, but they did have a place for food and the prices seemed very reasonable.
Lisa Meminger — Google review
During my visit to the Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach, FL, I was truly impressed by the exceptional level of maintenance and care evident throughout the facility. The staff's extensive knowledge of marine life, particularly their expertise on manatees, greatly enriched my visit. Furthermore, I was delighted to see the commitment to sustainable energy, with a notable emphasis on solar and wind power. The fact that the majority of the facility operates on solar energy is a commendable feat, reflecting a dedication to environmental responsibility.
The day of my visit was particularly memorable as I had the opportunity to witness a remarkable number of manatees, as well as encountering some sharks and tarpon. This diverse marine life added an extra layer of fascination to the experience. Overall, the Manatee Viewing Center left a lasting impression on me, and I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of Florida's marine ecosystems.
Jace Knockout — Google review
This place is huge. Lots of walking. Unfortunately we came the day a.big storm was coming in and a few days before the viewing area closes for the summer.The water was very muddy. Still got to see a couple sharks and tarpons. We could tell where the manatees were. Still we enjoyed the area. The butterfly area was very nice. We will comeback this winter
Scott Remy — Google review
Yesterday was the second time that I got to experience and enjoy the Manatee Viewing center. The first time in February I got to see tons of manatees because they were kind of wintering there. Yesterday in April 2020 we took the time to walk the many nature trails there and go to the 50 foot high look-out observation tower! It was beautiful and worth the walk. I would suggest though taking a trail map if there is one because there are multiple trails and things to see. Well worth the trip! Highly recommend seeing this. Especially in the winter months, but really anytime. The educational center was really nice and great for children also the butterfly garden and other exhibits there as well!
Rebecca Jackson — Google review
We went on a very warm day so we saw 3 manatee and many fish. Touch tank open but educational center closed. Arrive early due to parking
Joann Godin — Google review
The Manatee viewing center is a great place to visit. Many things are outstanding here and the fact in the day and age is it's free, yes I said free. Colder days are better to visit as your chances of seeing manatees increases greatly. We did see 7 when we went on a 80 degree day though. Find a park representative and ask them about the park all of them are more than happy to educate anyone willing to lessen. They also have a tank with several stingrays in them that anybody can touch. I would visit this place again when we are in Florida and I would recommend others to do so.
Michael Marcum — Google review
Well kept center that brings you closer to nature. Great walking areas and tons of wildlife. The touch pool for the rays was amazing. Wish the center was opened all the time instead of seasonally.
Brenda Broussard — Google review
This place was amazing. I'm so glad that they give back to the community like they do as it is free. There is a gift shop, two peirs to walk out onto. They had a petting area for sting rays. They had several beautifully landscaped gardens. These are all just extra perks as far as I'm concerned. The manatees were so very cool!!!
Kayla B — Google review
What an awesome experience for people of all ages, and at no cost!!! Everything is set up perfectly. The gift shop was amazing and prices were great! Employees/volunteers were phenomenal. We definitely will be back. Visit on a cooler day to increase your chances of seeing more manatees. Also, consider adopting a manatee to help save these gentle giants!!
Sunshine Mumford — Google review
This is a really nice facility and fits nicely into the surrounding environment. There is no guarantee that you will see any manatees, although we did see several, and they were impressive. There is plenty of parking and includes many for handicapped as well. For those with electric vehicles, there are charging stations available. There is no cost for parking or to enter the facility, which is fantastic.
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pmw — Google review
A must visit in the area! Beautiful and one of a kind experience. Manatees and Sting Ray up close for photos and experiencing. Great bird watching and plant life viewing also. The staff were amazing and very knowledgeable about the animals and plants. The parking lot was crowded but easy to find. Handicap accessible throughout the center. We did not visit the gift shop due to the very long line to enter. Restrooms are available on site. Highly recommend for guests of all ages and interests!
ArtsyPhotos LLC Professional Photography — Google review
Love free adventures! Entry is free and plenty of parking is free. The manatee viewing is always a thrill. Touch tanks are fun as well. You can walk out to a tower or walk the decking along the water. Restrooms are clean. There is a small gift shop and a snack area. I would check their live cam to be sure the manatees are there before you head over. We've seen them in Jan, Feb and March. Excellent place for kids!
Dr. Carole Gadomski — Google review
We had an amazing experience at the Manatee Viewing Center! Be prepared to do a lot of walking as there are many beautiful walking trails. We pretty much walked the entire property (about 5 miles). There is a shuttle on site if needed. I recommend getting there at opening as the place tends to get crowded and the parking area closest to the entrance fills up fast (there is over flow parking in the back). Definitely put on your walking shoes as the roads are paved with seashells throughout the trails. Maybe even pack some snack if you have toddlers/infants and definitely stay hydrated! Sunscreen is a good idea too.
This is a well maintained property with lots to offer. The viewing pier gets a bit crowded but luckily manatees gather on all sides so everyone has a chance to see them. There is also a fishing pier as you get further into the property. We also visited the Aquarium where they have rescued turtles. There is also an education building that offers lots of FREE brochures/booklets on wildlife and sea life as well as interactive things for the kiddos while in there!
Staff at the gift shop was very helpful and friendly. Restrooms are kept clean and stocked. You have the option to donate and support via CHECK only. I wish this was something I knew ahead of time but I will definitely be ready on the next visit. And get this, the Manatee Viewing Center is FREE to the public!! Overall, I think this is a great place to check out and we will definitely be visiting again at the end of the year.
grlenamored — Google review
Went here on December 26, 2022. This is a Nature Preserve where manatees in Tampa Bay are attracted to the warm waters of industrial canals. There was a wait time for cars to park at the Manatee Viewing Center, but we got patient and decided to wait. It was a busy day, but was still enjoyable. This experience is free!
All the boardwalks and gravel paths are clean and maintained, but bathroom cleanliness can be improved. All the staff were volunteers and were very friendly. During our experience, we saw hundreds of manatees! It was a delight to see these manatees huddle together in a man made habitat. There are various signs educating people about the behavior of manatees and clean energy on the walking trails to the Observation Tower and Overflow Parking. Overall, is definitely worth the wait. Is great to see an organization that sincerely cares about our local wildlife and not looking for our money!
Landon Bellamy — Google review
The Manatee Viewing Center was wonderful! I definitely didn't expect to see so many manatees but boy was I wrong. We saw black-tipped sharks, Atlantic Tarpon, Redfin Needlefish, and stingrays! What a wonderful and free experience available to the public! The gift shop has so many cute and affordable keepsakes or gifts to choose from. There is a stingray pool where you can watch and touch the rays as they swim by. So much fun! We can't wait to return!
Monica Mullins — Google review
Super nice place. They have a few trails to walk, a viewing tower, manatee viewing, a stingray pool, and a gift shop. The trails went to places that talked about solar energy and other sustainable energy sources. They had some interactive activities at the stops. They had a little pool with stingrays you could touch where the volunteers were really kind. The manatee viewing spot was perfect. There were so many! Overall great experience considering all the activities were free!
Samantha Brown — Google review
Great facility! It's free and free parking. There is a gift shop, you can also get food and drinks there. They have a touch tank with stingrays. We got to see so many manatees and sharks. If you park in the overflow lot the walk to the area is not bad it's pretty. They do have a golf cart shuttle. I will go here again.
Melissa Witt — Google review
Love this place. A nice bit of walking, since we had to park in the overflow parking lot. Thankfully they have a trolley service which we took after getting our steps in🤣. Plenty of manatee huddle up trying to keep warm. The souvenir shop is small, but we managed to get the perfect pin we were looking for. The turtle hospital was worth the trolley ride. Totally recommend going, it's very educational. It's totally free to get in.
Javier Ortega — Google review
So fun, clean, and it's FREE!!! This place is great! Staff is friendly and knowledgeable. First time touching a sting ray! The walkways are large, everything was clean (even the bathrooms). While the manatee weren't close, you can definitely see them there. It's amazing the entire facility is free. It needs to be on your bucket list!
Cindy sh63 — Google review
I absolutely love visiting here, its my 3rd time and I never tire of seeing these beautiful creatures. Parking was easy... and if there is not space in the main parking lot, there is remote parking with a shuttle, free. I always enjoy walking on the boardwalks and there is plenty of railing space to get a good view in. The signs are helpful to identify the birds and fish. The gift shop is very reasonable priced.
Sarah Taylor — Google review
I have to rate this place 5 stars not least because it’s totally free! It’s a fabulous way to see these gorgeous creatures and enjoy watching all their cute habits. Plus there are so many other exhibits and fun things for adults and kids to watch and take part in. The little cafe has good food and drink options at really reasonable prices. It was well worth the trip and we will most likely go again when we have friends and family in town. We went over the weekend and did not have to wait even though it was popular. We did not have to buy tickets in advance.
Mari-Ann Kucharek — Google review
A fun, unique, and free experience! It was cool to see the manatees, but also the variety of fish and birds, as well as the occasional shark! There was a neat educational area in the basement with stingrays. We visited in the middle of March so there weren't as many manatees visible, but it was still a great experience.
Anne Gibbs — Google review
Best time to go is during colder weather months as Manatees hang out here due to the warm water. Mostly gone by March. But they do have an interactive ray tank and you can take a free tram to the turtle conservation center any time and both are wonderful.
The Sunshine Skyway Bridge is a famous bridge located in Tampa Bay, Florida. It is one of the most impressive bridges in the world, and it's definitely worth visiting if you're ever in the area. The views from the bridge are absolutely stunning, and it's a great way to spend a morning or afternoon.
The new bridge is so much better than the old bridge that collapsed several years before I was born. the new bridge: has lights, is stronger, is safer, and has a 180 ft navigational clearance while the old bridge had a 155 foot clearance.
N D — Google review
The Sunshine Skyway Bridge is an iconic cable-stayed bridge located in the state of Florida, USA. Here are key features of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge:
Location: Spanning Tampa Bay, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge connects St. Petersburg in Pinellas County with Terra Ceia in Manatee County, providing a vital transportation link in the region.
Design and Architecture: The bridge is a cable-stayed design, characterized by its towering support towers and cables that fan out to support the roadway. The aesthetic design has made it a distinctive landmark.
Original and Current Bridges: The current Sunshine Skyway Bridge is the second iteration, as the original bridge partially collapsed in 1980 due to a collision with a cargo ship during a storm. The new bridge was completed in 1987.
Length and Height: The bridge spans approximately 4.1 miles (6.6 kilometers) and reaches a height of 430 feet (131 meters) above the water, allowing for the passage of large vessels beneath.
Travel Route: Serving as a crucial part of Interstate 275, the bridge facilitates travel between the cities of St. Petersburg and Sarasota, as well as providing a scenic route for motorists.
Scenic Views: The Sunshine Skyway Bridge offers breathtaking panoramic views of Tampa Bay and the surrounding areas, making it a popular route for both locals and tourists.
Fishing Piers: The bridge is flanked by fishing piers on both sides, providing opportunities for recreational fishing and enjoying the natural beauty of the bay.
Suicide Prevention Measures: Recognizing its height and location, the bridge incorporates suicide prevention measures, including crisis hotline phones and fencing to deter such incidents.
Hurricane Evacuation Route: The bridge serves as a designated hurricane evacuation route, allowing residents to quickly move inland during severe weather events.
Recognition and Awards: The Sunshine Skyway Bridge has received recognition for its engineering and design excellence, contributing to its status as a notable landmark in Florida.
The Sunshine Skyway Bridge stands as both an engineering marvel and a scenic attraction, playing a vital role in regional transportation and offering a visually striking connection across Tampa Bay.
Charlie — Google review
We went night fishing and we caught a good amount of cat fish. It wasn't too windy and it was actually nice out side. Also I caught my 1st fish in 25 years!
Dixie Tesnar — Google review
Boating under this massive bridge is a surreal experience. Over 50' deep water around the channel!
Seth Gilland — Google review
First time going to Tampa/St. Petersburg -- and I insisted in going on this bridge. This bridge is an engineering marvel! I love the design, the imagery and it is really beautiful. I am definitely coming back in April! :-)
Branden Omoregie — Google review
Sweet kitesurfing sport on the opposite side of the rest area. Do bring your kiting boots though, it’s rocky and there are plenty of sea urchins. Beautiful sport and great community make up for it!
Lina Schumacher — Google review
The new Skyway Bridge is an engineering marvel! 🌉 It's a major upgrade from the old one, and here's why it's better in every way:
1. **Strength**: The new bridge is built like a tank! 💪 With advanced materials and construction techniques, it can handle heavier loads and is more resistant to wear and tear.
2. **Height**: It reaches new heights, quite literally! 🌟 The increased height not only allows for larger vessels to pass underneath but also provides an even more stunning panoramic view for travelers.
3. **Durability**: It's built to withstand the test of time. The improved design and materials ensure a longer lifespan, reducing maintenance and repair costs.
4. **Safety**: Modern safety standards were a top priority in the new design. It's equipped with state-of-the-art safety features and technology, giving travelers peace of mind.
5. **Efficiency**: The new Skyway Bridge is all about efficiency. It reduces traffic congestion, thanks to wider lanes and improved traffic management systems.
Overall, it's a shining example of how innovation and engineering can create a bridge that's stronger, higher, and better built in every sense. 🌆🛣️ #NewSkywayBridge #EngineeringMarvel #UpgradedTravel
Bertha Paz — Google review
I love everything about fishing on the skyway bridge. Sleep overnight on the bridge, bathrooms and bait shop.
Janette G — Google review
Love driving over the Skyway Bridge!
Awesome views!
Fishing piers below
Sometimes windsurfing taking place
Have also cruised underneath this bridge
Read about the History of the Bridge
Interesting!
Lorraine J — Google review
It is a gorgeous place. If you are visiting Sarasota or Tampa, you have to go see this bridge. It is an amazing experience. I totally recommend it.
Leticia Puentes — Google review
Beautiful bridge! Tolls are only a few dollars and people are frequently paying it forward! Traffic is busy at rush hour but the view is always amazing. Boating underneath is easy to navigate and views are equally impressive! Dont miss this one;)
A Treat — Google review
Amazing times. Clean facilities and Amazing employees tending and maintaining the locations. Some of the best night fishing I have ever had. Your bridge pass includes saltwater fishing licenses while present. The Fish And Game Agents were nice and informative, when you have questions about unknown fish and size limits. They were so helpful with keeping me out of trouble. LOL!
Mr. Williams — Google review
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7508-7534 Sunshine Skyway Ln S, St. Petersburg, FL 33711, USA
The Salvador Dali Museum is a renowned museum housing extensive surrealist art by the Spanish artist. It has a unique theatrical exterior and is a must-see for fans of Dalí's work.
This Museum is spectacular. The architecture is well-suited to display an artist like Salvador Dali. The design suggests ideas of things rather than actual things. Dali was Spanish, a Surrealist and a big believer in Freud's theories about dominance of dreams & subconscious.
Dali was very popular in the 1950s through 70s. He was a master technician in his craft. His works are evocative and in-your-face simultaneously, full of wild, uncomfortable images. For me, it feels like he's trying too hard. I did, however, appreciate seeing his works in this magnificent collection.
Picasso works were also on special display. His series on Bull Fighting is extraordinary-- gruesome subject but his culture, his passion. Photos of Picasso give you a look at his intensity.
If you like either artist. GO!
Sher OBRIEN — Google review
I visited when there was no temp exhibit, so at this time it was a one-gallery museum, which felt more than a little underwhelming. An impressive collection of Dali's work, to be sure, but hard to call it a *museum* when there is only one room of artwork.
Just feels like a lot more could be done with this space to make it feel more whole. For example, the gift shop is nearly larger than the gallery. And for gods sake would it kill you guys to have more than one shirt with some cotton content? Almost every shirt in the store was 100% polyester, which is worse for our oceans than single-user water bottles. I do realize it's the "Dali museum" and not the "surrealist museum", but I do think bringing in the work of other surrealists to inform what was going on in the genre at the time would give more context to his work.
The architecture of the building is lovely and the skylights positioned to illuminate the Masterworks (Dali's largest paintings) is a great use of the space. Bring some headphones because the audio tour app is valuable to get a deeper understanding of some of the pieces. I wish they had a recording for every piece, especially given that the whole museum is just one room.
Be warned that parking is $10 extra, separate from your admission fees.
I am glad I went, there were some works I was thrilled to see in person, but now that I've been, probably won't be back.
Luke S — Google review
If you like Dali art, this place is amazing! Thursdays after 5 pm is half price, but I would recommend a membership. Parking is free for members! Plus, you could easily come back multiple times so it will pay for itself. Also take a few minutes at the drawing exhibit and draw like Dali!!
Mike Kappmeyer — Google review
I went here over on a weekend. Parking was $10. The place has a great selection of Dali’s work and there are also voluntary docents at certain hours of the day that will help answer your questions regarding Dali’s works! The whole trip took less than 2 hours and it’s great to be able to see Dali’s life, art style changes, and some of his most notable works in one go. If you can download the museum’s app, be sure to do so as well because they used quite a few technologies to complement the viewing experience of some artworks.
XRM — Google review
We went at 5 so we had to speed through the whole place ! Really great art work on display. Wasn’t familiar with Dali’s work but now I’m a fan. We didn’t do the Dali Experience since it was a $15 add on. We spent $30 a pop for me and my wife. Cool museum though and prime location near everything in DT St Pete walking distance from the pier !
Realtor Kris Sabio — Google review
The museum itself was wonderful and a beautiful experience. The paintings are amazing. The outside garden was also beautiful. We did the Dalí Alive 360 which is well worth it!! The food was a bit expensive 😞 and pay for parking 10$ but glad there was parking . There were quite a-lot of people and loud in the museum so kinda had to rush then go back to read the ones we missed. Over all it was a great experience. Also, every worker we had contact with was so friendly!!
L J — Google review
Really enjoyed this museum. The outside is just as beautiful as inside. This was our first time, so we were caught off-guard by a staff member at the front door asking to look in my purse. After that, we were allowed to enter where we paid for tickets. The person at the counter never asked if we had coupons. It would have been nice to know we could use what we had. With that being said, the museum was just gorgeous, and we loved it. If you're an art lover, you'll enjoy this museum.
Shera Campbell — Google review
This was my second visit; my first visit was before COVID and I feel things have changed a lot. When we went, there was a Picasso exhibit which was pretty cool since Dali was inspired by his work. Picasso was fascinating to see. Once we got over to the Dali side, I feel like a lot of the pieces that used to be shown have been pulled down and not replaced with new paintings. There were several things that I think should be addressed. First, the fact that you cannot bring large purses into the museum is bizarre to me. My friend brought her backpack and was let inside but then when we went to go upstairs the security dude said she couldn't take it upstairs. Just weird. Second, the theater movie wasn't working when we went in so we missed whatever that was supposed to be. We didn't stay to go around the grounds since it was pretty crowded and honestly we felt like we were being followed around. This sucks because I really enjoyed the art work by both Picasso and Dali. Third, I never received a custom painting that was done virtually even though I put in my phone number into the system - that was pretty disappointing when I got the text but only asked me to sign up for the newsletter :-/ Can't speak for the deli or gift shop since we just left as soon as we were done checking the artwork. Took us about 2 hrs to see it all.
Natalie A. — Google review
Amazing museum, definitely need to see it while in St. Pete! The permanent collection of Dali's work is immaculate with some readily recognizable pieces, and others that you really have to look closely at to see all of the amazing detail placed into his work. The building itself is gorgeous, and outside there are Dali references sprinkled around, even as you're walking up the front steps. The rotating exhibit on the third floor was cool to see, and they had another Dali piece stashed away in there! You also absolutely have to walk through the garden outside, lots of fun photo opportunities! Lastly, don't forget to attach your wristband to the wish tree! You can do it yourself, or you can leave it in a box up front for museum staff to put on the tree for you (but it's more fun and personal to do it yourself).
Bryn Berkowitz — Google review
One of the best small museums in the country. I often take family and friends when they visit and it’s always a highlight of their trip. Even those that aren’t necessarily “art lovers” enjoy the history of Salvadore Dali and especially the wonderful gift shop. Worth every penny! But plan ahead and make reservations as they do book up!
Jennifer Helton — Google review
Great collection. Pricey admission, but look out for discounts for locals and various FB events. I particularly enjoyed seeing his earlier work and insights into his evolution as an artist. I'd like to return with more time for the full audio/app tour. Plan for 4-6 hours.
Rebecca Shumway — Google review
This is a bucket list museum for art lovers and I’m thrilled to say I saw it! There is a playful essence to the museum that is lovable. The views and architecture are gorgeous and the galleries are quick to walk through. It was quite crowded though on a Saturday around lunch time in August, this is the reason I took one star off. Ideally I would’ve liked to have time to see each piece however it was so crowded I could only glance at pieces and had to wait for crowds to disperse so I could take longer looks and read labels. I had pre purchased tickets so my party did not have to wait in the line that wrapped outside of the building. The gift shop was great too. Again, I highly recommend going to this museum. It is truly one of a kind and iconic for St Pete.
Arifa Alli — Google review
I always wanted to visit this museum as it houses the 2nd largest collection of Dali works— the largest collection being being in Spain— so, once I knew I’d be in the area, I decided to go. Luckily, it was a Thursday, so it was half-price after 5p. I was staying in the hotel just a block or so away, so I walked. I did purchase my ticket online in advance, and there was a short wait to get in. There is a little cafe, and I ate my evening meal there— it was good food, and there is a bar and a number of tables both inside and outside. It’s by the water so it’s a nice view, and the architecture is beautiful. Dali art, like all art, is subjective, and it’s not really my style. I find most of it too abstract for my tastes, though he does have a few paintings that are beautiful. But, as I said, I always wanted to visit this museum so it was a must-see for me. I joined a free museum tour, and it was very informative. No regrets!
Karen Sconyers Grubbs — Google review
The Dali365 experience was neat to see but the museum and the additional exhibit they had on impressionists was a bit underwhelming. I love Dali's work. He was a brilliant painter for his era but I was expecting more on exhibition to see. The impressionist exhibit was fairly sparse as well. Even with stopping at every piece, reading the plaque and examining the work, I was done in probably 45 minutes.
Rebecca S — Google review
The Dali is an amazing collection of his works. We went the weekend before the Grand Prix so it added a slight difficulty in finishing the museum. You do have a 10$ parking fee if you park in the Dali parking lot. The museum has a very strict bag rule, if it looks anything like a backpack, of any size ( small sling pack ) even if they could clearly see it is being used as a purse. You are required to wear a mask while inside the building. ( covid ) even with all that just seeing Dali's pieces was well worth it. You are able to take pictures, ONLY FOR YOUR OWN PERSONAL USE.
wes borden — Google review
The Dali Museum is a real masterpiece of art in itself. Perfectly placed for lunch or dinner after your visit. The collection is outstanding. The layout takes you through Dali's life and work. The lighting is just right. The staff is very helpful. There's an app you can connect to that gives you the history of each painting. I will go again the next time I'm near.
Hank Stites — Google review
It is a wonderful place for both education and creativity. I enjoyed walking into the different galleries that were informative and visually beautiful. Make sure to check if the virtual experience is up and running. You won't want to miss it.
Tash B — Google review
My husband and I visited the museum for our anniversary and loved the whole experience. It was the perfect amount of art with the exhibition included. We started off with a sangria in the garden area, the video in the theater, then upstairs to look at the art. Parking was easy also! Overall, a great experience.
Casandra Bennett — Google review
Beautiful place to experience art. Highly recommended doing the 3D art show. It was definitely worth it. Gift shop and the staff were very nice.
Jasmine Roberson — Google review
I love this place. It is always organized when it comes to exhibits or special events. The staff do a great job with instruction, security, and answering your questions. The grounds are beautiful and a nice way to spend some time having a Cafe or snack after the exhibit. The gift shop is well stocked with books, shirts, magnets, post cards and other gifts. I will definitely visit again for future exhibits.
Michelle — Google review
This was my first time visiting The Dali Museum, and I was very happy with my visit! There is a dedicated parking lot available for visitors, and they charge a small fee for it. Once you are inside the museum, there is much to see on Salvador Dali and other artists before and during his time! Dali’s paintings and other art along with paintings from many well known artists are displayed in the museum. After you pass the gift shop, there is an entrance to the museum, which is on multiple floors. A staircase will lead you to the upper levels, and elevators are also there. On the upper floor, there are some beautiful views of waters surrounding St. Petersburg, and it is an excellent place for taking pictures! Also, the Dali Alive 360 degree experience is not to be missed because it showcases his life from humble beginnings to his visits to the United States. In the gift shop, there are two large screens where Dali gives you his advice, and where you can also get your pictures taken with Dali! In summary, I highly recommend visiting the Dali Museum to everyone on your next trip to Tampa, Florida!
Kaushal Pandya — Google review
Fantastic all around! Dali 360 was 100%worth the extra admission- my 7 yr old loved it! Emotional experience getting up close to many of the paintings especially being an art student who studied them extensively... Dali's soul and legacy in a museum- Viewer can most certainly feel his embodiment!
Cristin Foster — Google review
The Dali Museum is quite the experience and absolutely worth making a trip to the area. The parking is $10 for all day and can be limited but we found it no issue.
No backpack type bags are allowed and only disposable water bottles are allowed (first floor only). Luckily they have free lockers just outside the museum to stow your stuff, especially if you like to carry your own water bottle like me and want to go upstairs to see Dali’s works. So bring a small purse/bag and disposable water bottles.
I suggest you purchase the tickets ahead of time because it can get crowded/busy and you want to ensure your entry. It got packed by the time we headed upstairs.
The outing will be pricey, especially if you add on the “360 experience”, some snacks, drinks at the cafe and of course…the souvenir shop.
At first we weren’t going to do the “360 experience” but decided on it last minute since we already made the trip out there. I have to say it was worth it! We absolutely loved it and found it inspiring and moving. We’d do it again.
Plan a trip to The Dali Museum and give yourself time to enjoy all it has to offer.
The art pieces themselves are incredible and I could’ve easily spent all day here, there’s truly a lot to see, especially if you read about each piece.
There’s a small theater that plays Dali’s life story on repeat, which we enjoyed. The building itself is gorgeous and something Dali would’ve loved!
Cecile Arce — Google review
I really enjoyed this. I liked Dali's work prior to going here, but had never actually seen any of it in person. I have a whole new appreciation for it now. Also, friendly staff, very clean restrooms, and easy parking. There's a shop area where you can purchase all kinds of items (clothing, books, prints, posters, jewelry...a broad range of items) that are all reasonably priced. My son did some activity with a 3D headset that he thoroughly enjoyed. Theres also a Dream Tapestry where you input a description of your dream and AI will generate an artistic interpretation of it that's pretty cool. I would definitely recommend this if you're an art lover, and even if not, try it...you may become one. I would definitely go back here again, enjoyable for the whole family.
Shelly Hofmann — Google review
We had a fantastic long half day at the Dali. It exceeded our high expectations! Very extensive collection and highly experienced, knowledgeable and enthusiastic docents and guides. On top of that an excellent restaurant. We look forward to another visit. We recommend planning to stay at least 3 hours.
Nancy Robinson — Google review
Such a great and interactive museum which kept adults and kids engaged. It has an activity that uses AI to make your image into a piece of art and interactive app that animates different parts of the paintings and tells you about each. The Cafe at the museum was stellar. My whole family enjoyed Spanish food on the patio. Lovely!
Michelle Afkhami — Google review
We were in town for several days for our 50th wedding anniversary. Our last visit was 30 years ago so there were new attractions we wanted to see along with those we had already experienced. The Dali Museum was among the latter. We don't remember much about the old museum except that it had many more master works. Not a big deal when you enter this amazing space and begin to understand and remember Dali’s talent.
Teagen, at the front desk, accepted our $3 off coupons (up to 4 adults or seniors) for discounted gallery admission which I found in the Discover Downtown Map and Guide. We combined those with the senior admission price. The coupons are also available on the Discover Downtown mobile app. We visited on the last weekend of the "Dali and the Impressionists" exhibit. Dali was influenced by the impressionists but didn't feel their style would last long.
There were several knowledgeable guides available to answer questions. We especially appreciated being able to take (non-flash) pictures. One guide overheard me lamenting that the 'melting clocks' masterwork was not in the museum. It is in another museum but he directed us to the Dali Alive 360, "an immersive experience bringing Dali's work to life like never before." There, on the outside of the dome, is a sample of the melting clocks which can also be seen at the Dali Alive 360 for an admission add-on.
Restrooms are clean and plentiful. People rave about the cafe. We met a woman who had the gazpacho and pronounced it excellent. It does great business but we didn't want to spend our limited time waiting in line. If you do have the time, be sure to eat outside and enjoy the view. We visited the gift shop for souvenirs. Pricey, yes, but I found a cool shirt on sale.
The museum has a strict policy about backpacks and liquids in the museum; an attendant checks all bags. We used the free lockers available at the entrance. Simply select a four-digit code from the keypad, take a picture of the code and locker number, scramble the code and walk away. Easy and secure.
We walked to the museum from the Pier; our car was parked in the Sundial Garage. I saw that the free Downtown Looper had a pickup at the Dali which we boarded. The Looper only stops at the museum when it is open. We enjoyed a city tour while en route back to the garage. If you ride the free Looper, be certain to tip your driver who is committed to getting you safely to and from your destinations.
Marnette Severance — Google review
Parking was $10, (all day parking), however parking is limited. There was a graduation at the theater next door and a boat show, we got lucky and got one of the last spots. They were asking folks to park just two blocks away.
There are docent tours every hour 12:30, 130… check before you go and do go, fascinating! So knowledgeable and polite.
There is a Dalí Cafe, delicious (limited indoor seating but worth the wait). I don’t normally enjoy museum cafes but this one had very tasty food (we had the cheese plate, bread plate and carrot hummus, plus coffee and tea.
The is a decent selection of Dali photos, paintings and information and you can go online to learn more. I would go back again since our friend is not much of a reader and is more of a quick browser. I would like to spend a bit more time and perhaps go on another docent tour.
Go, enjoy and try the cafe, too!
Holly King — Google review
First time at this location, hadn't been since the 90's. I love Salvador Dali, my favorite artist for decades. We spent a little extra for the 360 experience, totally worth it. The coolest part was the AR app that made the paintings come to life. Staff were great, prices reasonable.
Vici Gidge — Google review
Do not dilly dally. Check out the Dali Museum. So many cool things and deep historical contexts in his paintings. Good food/coffee/ treats and artistic treasures to buy.
Patricia Gedra — Google review
Absolutely loved it. Be sure to take a guided tour. On my own, I never would have seen all of the details the guide pointed out. What an amazing talent Dali is. ENJOY.
The Sunken Gardens is a century-old attraction in St. Petersburg, FL that features thousands of plants, a butterfly aviary and wildlife shows. The garden is known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful botanical gardens. It is perfect for visitors who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
I loved it here! There is a wide variety of plants from all over the world. Madagascar palms, bamboos, large traveler palms and they even have Chilean flamingos! My favorite was the Azaleas, they are in full bloom at the moment. I will come back in the spring to see the flowers bloom.
The paths are paved and the scene is beautiful for pictures so do wear a cute outfit and cute shoes. It takes about 20-30 minutes to walk through but take your time there is so much to see and don’t forget to look up!
Plenty of benches and sitting areas. Very shaded walk and clean paths. There is a gift shop with plenty of items! Bring water, I don’t remember seeing a water fountain or snacks.
Also, I got 2 adult passes on Groupon for the price of one adult gate pass.
View pictures, but it’s 100x better in person. You’ll love it.
Vivian R (Viv) — Google review
This is a smaller garden but a very Zen place. I enjoyed my time here. It doesn't take very long to walk around the entire garden. I recommend bringing water. I love the tropical feel and seeing the butterflies. The staff were very warm and friendly. I appreciate that. I love the flamingos I do wish they had a bigger area for them. As well as the birds I wish there was a huge atrium for them to fly around in. However the animals were well taken care of and looked healthy. They do have an option to get married here for those who are looking. Great place to take photos. It isn't very expensive and parking is free which is always a bonus. They have food for the koi fish for about $2 which isn't too bad. Great place for families and those who are solo looking for something to do. I do like the gift shop they have a mixture of various garden eclectic items.
Nesha — Google review
This is a great place to see nature and it also has some history to it. It's nice the city bought this place to keep it open. They have all sorts of trees plants and flowers. They also have flamingos and different bird species as well.
Nick Nocco — Google review
Whimsical..indescribable..simply zen..oh my goodness 🥰🫶🏽💜 I could've stayed here all DAY!! So relaxing..IF I had to give a downside..I'd hope that the maps were laid out a bit better to match up with the layout..I mean it's SORTA close..but if you're not careful,you'll either miss something,or go in circles..but honestly its so beautiful to where you may not care too much..small kids may get a bit antsy with getting lost though..but not too bad. There's a beautiful layout of a gift shop as well🥳👏🏼
JUSNATURAL. — Google review
We had so much fun at Sunken Gardens! My husband and I went on a day where it had just rained and it was sunny, but not hot outside. The plants here are gorgeous, and the venue is well arranged. We really enjoyed going through the winding paths and identifying plants we were familiar with and being amazed by new ones we had never seen. Some of the trees here are enormous. We were especially impressed by the rainbow eucalyptus tree. It is out of a storybook. And by the way, there are real flamingos here! We also really enjoyed the gift shop. It is great place to find gifts for anyone who loves plants. I would love to come here again next time we are in St. Petersburg. Highly recommend making this part of your visit to the area. Don’t miss it!!
Michelle McCracken — Google review
What an absolute gem! From the cute retro sign out front, to the incredible plant life inside the garden, it was a lovely experience. We got tickets on Groupon and it was such an easy experience. We went on a Saturday, and it definitely gets busier after about 2 pm. Coming back for sure!
Elyza Wylder — Google review
I have not been here in 20 years and I plan to visit here more frequently going forward. Not just a wonderful offer with year passes, but even the daily fee is well worth it. The garden remains as majestic as I remember, but the improvements around the gardens are just as beautiful. Parking can be tight on busy days, but no cost involved. Well worth my time and already looking forward to my next visit.
Scott Rice — Google review
Beautiful botanical gardens and home to rescued birds. Great variety of flora native to the area and other similar climates. I could have spent much more time there than I was able to. Great place to just explore or even grab a seat in a chair or on a bench and relax for a little bit. I did go on a Saturday and the parking lot filled up super fast. So I recommend getting there when they open or soon after.
Rachel White — Google review
We visited during a recent family trip to St.Pete’s beaches. I had seen this listed as one of the things to do while in the area. I enjoyed walking through the beautifully laid out grounds and seeing all the magnificent plants and trees. The size of some of the trees is incredible. I am an amateur gardener and houseplant lover but given that I live in NY we aren’t able to grow most of these varieties, so this was really interesting to me. There is also a great history here and learning opportunities if you’re interested. My husband and 6 year old son got bored somewhat quickly so there’s that. But I could have spent much more time there. It is truly very tranquil and zen being surrounded by all that plant life. It is a little small but reasonably priced. My family did all love the flamingos and koi pond and waterfalls. We were a little disappointed that the birds were not available at the time that we went due to caution over the bird flu outbreak, but I totally understand that health is priority. Hopefully we will get to visit another time. It was April so not very buggy yet as some other reviews had mentioned. A very nice experience overall and would love to visit again if in the area.
Allison Birardi — Google review
If you are anywhere near this beautiful garden, It is worth every bit of your effort to visit it. There are amazing specimens from all over the world. They have taken a great amount of time to make sure that these beautiful plants have survived over 100 years. Great gift shop, as well. I highly recommend this lovely garden and the history that it brings to St Pete.
pam lund — Google review
Taking time off from work for a little "staycation" this week for some decompression time. There;s is no better place to find some Zen time than this place. Wow.
Peaceful and educational at the same time. We arrived just before 11am and there was no wait, no crowds. I could see where this would be pretty busy on a weekend; and that could diminish the peacefulness slightly.
Walkways are decently marked and there are plenty of spots to just sit and take in the beauty.
Grounds are very well maintained and the staff was very friendly.
This is a place that one cold easily visit often, just to unwind and getaway from the hustle of the world.
Timmy Shigley — Google review
Beautiful with lots of water features.
Well maintained. Lots of varieties of flora with description plaques.
Landscaped from a sinkhole back in the early 1900's.
This is a gem in St Pete.
I especially enjoyed the hundred years old royal Palms and live oaks, the koi and loads of blooming plants with sweet scents in the air.
Well worth the admission price of $15
Jeffrey Lucas L. — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous place to visit. So many different plants to see. Gorgeous landscapes, bridges, flamingos and fish. Very well taken care of. Bonus - a fun gift shop that offers many different souvenirs!
Only costs $15 to get in and it is well worth the money.
Ashley Lutz — Google review
This place is a local treasure and a must see! Absolutely beautiful botanical gardens with an amazing collection of plants including a rainbow eucalyptus which is magnificent. Rich with local history, and easy to navigate and a most beautiful wedding venue too. We are members here and come as often as we can for a relaxing walk, to have a picnic in nature or to see the birds. We bring all our guest here.
Sara von Waltsleben — Google review
Took my mother here for her birthday and she loved it. It was a perfect day for being outside. Most of the park is in the shade which is very nice in Florida.
Tons of butterflies, plants, and flowers.
The place has been around forever but visiting it yearly is always nice because they do change things up and of course plants are different throughout the year.
It’s a beautiful place just outside of buddy St Petersburg where you can forget about everything.
James Faurote — Google review
Plant lover dream! We walked through this beautiful garden and enjoyed all the gorgeous plants and wildlife! If you love houseplants, it’s really amazing to see these plants in the wild, growing huge! My kids loved seeing the “retirement parrots” and all the little geckos.
$6/kids, for adults, we got a Groupon!
Nice gift shop too, with lots of plant-lovers gifts!
Laura Risdall {minnesotateachermom} — Google review
Everything about this place is incredible. The plants are all very well taken care of, and the inside staff are nothing but helpful. The various and winding paths always led to something interesting. There are plenty of sights and picture opportunities. If you're anywhere close to the area, I highly recommend a stop inside! It took us about an hour and a half to walk and gawk the whole trail.
Keven Craven — Google review
This garden is absolutely amazing!! Extremely well maintained and HUGE. You could spend hours walking around, taking photos or just looking at all of the beautiful palm trees, flowers, fountains, waterfalls, they even have flamingos and turtles. Lots of shady places to sit and rest too. My friend Anna took me (I am from out of state) and I was blown away by it. I hope to go back again for my next trip. Thank you to the staff and volunteers who clearly work hard on such a unique attraction.
Catherine Lawry — Google review
Absolutely worth going! I am a total plant person and loved the experience! They have flamingos and several other types of birds. 100% recommend.
Zoe Halladay Gadea — Google review
Very large diversity of plants. Took about 2 hours to see everything. Please just be respectful and stay on the path and do not vandalize any of the plants! Nobody came to see your initials carved in to the bamboo...
Claudia Gabbard — Google review
Last Visit 1/14/23. From KY visiting family and we all went here. Had a blast walking around and seeing all of the (mostly) native plants. There were six of us and they let me in with my camera, bag, and tripod with no problems. All of the pix were for personal use and the attached eight were among them. I took 84 images that day.
John Fischer — Google review
It has been on my places to visit and finally made it! It was busy on a Saturday morning and since it was cold, we did not get to see the birds!
There is plenty of parking and people go in and out constantly, so you will find a spot. We did not have to wait long to get our tickets and the entrance is right next to the check in.
It is a small garden with plenty of plants, fountains, small history section, flamingos, birds (during cold weather they are not on display) and a small gift shop.
They are sunken because you go from the street level down to the gardens. If I remember correctly, this was a sinkhole but don't take my word for it.
A good visit to get a nature fix away from the city or the beach.
Mel Z — Google review
If you want to spend the day walking through a lush garden with lots of different flora, this is it. There was plenty of shade in most areas, but it was still warm. They had well kept clearings where you can enjoy a picnic (which I did). They also have flamingos and I really enjoyed watching them. They also have a cute gift shop! We got our tickets through Groupon for a cheaper price, so highly recommend to take advantage of the deal when it's up.
Ryder Ojeda Madera — Google review
This fantastic place has been in operation since 1940's. It remains a jewel of retro Florida's roadside attractions. Get a docent-led tour. Kudos to Steve V, our leader today. We spent 3 hours enjoying this living museum which includes a great pictorial history of its origins and founding owners. We are grateful to the city of St Petersburg (the current owners) for their foresight to save this icon of Florida history and life.
PDK — Google review
My family and I wanted to check out this place - my daughter loves nature. We were looking to do something low-key and relaxing. The Sunken Garden was tranquil and peaceful and just the right place we needed. It literally is an oasis in the middle of the concrete desert.
Even though it was drizzling a little, the weather made it feel even immersive.
Sure, one could take a brisk walk through the garden in maybe under an hour, but to really enjoy the experience, one needs to take their time, explore, take pictures, and just chill.
molloni molloni — Google review
This place winds and twists into so many neat nooks and separate landscapes that all are so beautiful! I couldn't stop myself from taking photos every few moments it was hard to combat that feeling and just drink it all in
corey harrison — Google review
Beautiful place! We went early in the day and it wasn't very crowded. The tropical birds were a bonus. It would be a great wedding venue. I wouldn't bring kids because it is a little spendy and they would probably race through it and want to leave.
Joanna Gilbert — Google review
We were in town to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary. Among the destinations we wanted to visit were Sunken Gardens since we are intrigued with "Old "Florida" which is rapidly disappearing. It was officially opened as "Turner's Sunken Gardens" in 1903 when George Turner, a plumber and gardener, "drained a shallow lake which had filled an ancient sinkhole and dropped 15 feet below street level to provide a rich soil to grow fruits and vegetables from all over the world."
One of Florida's oldest family-owned roadside attractions is now a restored botanical garden. After three days of being downtown and "museumed-out," we spent our last day in this quiet, shaded oasis not far from the noise of downtown. We had a B1G1F coupon from the Discover Downtown Guide and Map which when combined with a senior discount we paid $12 for both of us. After three museum days, this was the most reasonably priced attraction we visited. In 1924, visitors paid $.25 for a stroll through the lush gardens.
Check-in is efficient; you are given a map of the gardens with the number of stickers attached to the back of the guide indicating how many are in each party. I would suggest using the restrooms at check-in before heading out. No restrooms are available in the 24-stop self-guided tour.
Educational programs, workshops, special events, and tours are available. The gardens are also a favorite setting for weddings and receptions.
The map shows shaded ADA accessible paths and picnic tables. Some of the meandering walkways are uneven; good walking shoes are recommended. Lots of benches are available for sitting.
Plants and trees from around the world grace the gardens. Madagascar, Philippines, Indonesia, Brazil, Africa, New Guinea, South America, Australia and other countries are represented. Geriatric exotic birds have a safe haven at Sunken Gardens when their owners can no longer care for them. Among them are macaws and an endangered Umbrella Cockatoo. The Chilean Flamingos were having a grand time finding morsels in the water while squawking at each other; they are identified by their pink joints and unusual, black-tipped bills. We waited for a few minutes for the Laughing Kookaburra from Australia to call but he wasn't having it.
Hours are Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. and Sunday Noon-4:30 p.m. Parking is free in the large lot also shared with Carrabba's Italian Grill. We got takeout after our visit. Win-win!