Naples Zoo 2014 (Everglades, Captiva: coupon, new construction, live in)

[elston]

I have never been to the Naples Zoo. I will be having a 14 y o visit over Xmas and am trying to think of activities for her age. ( Plan on doing the dolphin cruise on Captiva Island.) I looked on line for reviews of the zoo and they were very mixed and a bit dated.

Has anyone been recently? Would you recommend it?

[tmozer]

I liked it a lot. Definately worth checking out.....

[OptimusPrime69]

the Zoo is great... Captiva would be fun too. Maybe a little shopping one day could be fun too for a 14 y/o.
Hopefully, the weather will be warmish so u can do a beach day...or even a few hours on the beach etc.

[ronniered]

I believe all the walking paths are paved. You get a little closer view at some animals unlike the major city zoos that have to worry about the crazies trying to feed the animals. So it's a safe an easy walk. The Audoban bird sanctuary might be a good choice also. You stay on a boardwalk for the 2 plus miles. The Rookery on Collier past 41 might also be a good idea. I have not been there myself becuase of schedule.

I also have taken the boat cruise thru the 10 Thousand islands and had the Dolphins chase the boat. Nice simple adventure. And since she's 14, shopping must be on the agenda. Most of the kids like Tin City.

Have a great time.

[Sandsam]

The Naples Zoo is decent - not large, but they have some interesting animals. Be sure to do the boat tour in the zoo. My kids really liked that.

I would second Tin City. Also consider Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary.

There are a couple large malls a 14 yr old would enjoy. And if she likes ice cream, be sure to visit Kilwin's on 5th Ave.

[motordavid]

Zoo is decent, though it's been a yearish since we took our 11 yr old granddaughter. Try to hit it on a weekday; weekends are packed. And, find a coupon, some coupon to use, as the retail entry fee is pricey.

Air boat ride, out of Everglades City...it isn't the true grass/water lands of the south and eastern glades, but fun, fast, loud, and should see some wildlife.
Speedy Johnson's et al, are in that area. About a solid half day plus, door to door.

There is a decent al fresco lunch at the joint in EC, too.
GL, mD

[tmozer]

And if you feel upto a ride on Aligator Alley into the Everglades, head to Shark Valley. Best place, IMHO, to see Florida wildlife. Take bikes if you can.

[elston]

Wonderful suggestions....thanks....I live in Ft. Myers...2 years.....never been to Naples. When you have visitors you tend to get out and see new things.

[motordavid]

What tmozer wrote.
Yes to Shark Valley...gators, gators, gators and birds.
Wonderful half + day. Take/rent bikes.

And try and keep your 14 yr old off their cell phone for a couple hours a day.
GL, mD

[movin1]

Don't know if a 14 year old would enjoy the Botanical Gardens, but we sure did. They just completed $22 million of new construction and it was very well done. Good food at the restaurant there too. It took a good few hours to see it all after lunch.