Your family’s idea of fun is following curiosity wherever it leads, from scenic trails and sparkling waterways to historic sites and hands-on learning experiences. For you, the best vacations are filled with discovery, wonder and those “wow, I didn’t know that” moments.
Here’s your list of curiosity-filled family fun.
Treat your kids to a Wild Wonder Animal Encounter at Wonder Gardens, where they’ll meet and feed Sulcata tortoises and Rainbow and Coconut lorikeets. Then stroll the scenic gardens to see everything from vibrant flamingoes to playful river otters.
Visit the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum to learn about the island’s fascinating history. They also offer the chance to climb to the top of the lighthouse – check their website for dates and times. Enjoy the beach and have lunch at Key Lime Bistro & Loose Caboose Ice Cream Shop.
If you have a little one who likes trains, you’re in for a real treat at the Railroad Museum at Lakes Park. Explore the history of trains in fascinating artifacts and exhibits, stop by the gift shop for items like engineer hats and bandanas, then, best of all, take a ride on the miniature train.
See a show at one of the area’s top performing arts venues. Famous comedians, Broadway hits, big-name musicians and more provide unforgettable entertainment.
As the only museum in America devoted to sea shells, the Bailey-Matthew’s National Shell Museum & Aquarium is filled with colorful exhibits and marine life displays that bring the ocean indoors. It’s an exploration of sea shells unlike any other.
Discover working studios, waterfront galleries and painted telephone polls throughout the area that reflect the creative spirit of this historic fishing village. Live like a local with lunch at the Blue Dog Cafe, a favorite for fresh seafood and local craft beer.
Peek inside Edison’s laboratory at Edison and Ford Winter Estates to see how great ideas turned into world-changing inventions. With cool gadgets, towering banyan trees and interactive exhibits, it’s a place where your young explorers can ask questions, experiment and imagine their own big ideas.
Visit Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve to easily spot alligators, turtles and wading birds in the wetlands from the safety of the 1.2-mile elevated boardwalk, which is accessible for strollers.
Set out on a dolphin and wildlife cruise with Adventures in Paradise. Interesting narration from knowledgeable guides and front-row views of playful dolphins, wading birds and mangrove shorelines turns time on the water into a discovery-filled adventure.
Wander the shoreline at Lynn Hall Memorial Park on Fort Myers Beach, where gentle Gulf waters and soft sand create the perfect setting to see wildlife. Search for colorful shells, watch sandpipers dart along the tide line, and spot dolphins farther offshore.
Set out on a shaded wildlife walk at Calusa Nature Center, where winding trails and boardwalks introduce your family to Southwest Florida’s native habitats. Spot butterflies, listen for birds and connect outdoor discoveries with up-close animal exhibits along the way.
Stay at South Seas on Captiva Island to experience golf with a coastal twist. The resort is home to The Clutch, a redesigned nine-hole short course by Chip Powell ranked among the top five short courses in the world. And you’ll enjoy majestic Gulf views from every hole.
At DNA Pickleball in Fort Myers, three indoor courts await for open play, skill-level events, academies and clinics. Whether you’re dropping in for a casual match or signing up for a lesson to sharpen your technique, the indoor setting makes it easy to play year-round.
Enjoy a day of fishing with family-friendly Fort Myers Fishing Adventures out of Salty Sam's Marina in Fort Myers Beach. After working up an appetite reeling in the big one, dine at Captain Joe’s favorite eatery, Parrot Key Caribbean Grill.
Rent a surrey bike from Billy’s Rentals on Sanibel Island and cruise the shaded, separated trail along Periwinkle Way for an easy, joy-filled family ride. Make a sweet stop at The Magic Bus Ice Cream and Caffeine.
Rent a boat from Port Sanibel Marina to explore Cayo Costa, a remote island accessible only by boat. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy pristine beaches perfect for collecting seashells, snorkeling, wandering on nature trails and spotting wildlife.
Climb aboard the Pieces of Eight, a 65-foot replica Spanish galleon to experience Salty Sam’s Pirate Cruise. Your kids will love this interactive comedy adventure with treasure chests, face painting, pirate games and more. Adults can “wet yer whistle with grog” at the full-service bar in the galley.
Enjoy an easy guided paddle along the Great Calusa Blueway perfect for kids with Tarpon Bay Explorers within the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Meander through calm, protected mangrove tunnels and tidal flats and see a wealth of wildlife, from manatees to roseate spoonbills.
Rent a paddleboard from Bonita Jet Ski & Parasail and explore the calm back-bay waters near Big Hickory Pass, where dolphins, manatees and coastal birds are often spotted.
Enjoy a one-of-kind tour at ECHO Global Farm to learn about sustainable farming practices and how they’re making a positive impact in countries around the world.
Plan an unforgettable group outing with a look at the area's deep history at Mound House, built atop a 2,000-year-old Calusa shell mound. Guided tours and kayak experiences reveal the archaeological and ecological significance of this remarkable coastal site.
Treat your fur baby to the best dog beach on the planet: Dog Beach Park. At this secluded tropical oasis in Bonita Springs, dogs run leash-free and play in the shallow waters. Then head to Doc’s Beach House and dine with your toes - and paws - in the sand and with stunning views of the Gulf.
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