We recently had the honor to collaborate with Naples Botanical Gardens for their Family Wonder Days. Located in the heart of Naples, Florida, this enchanting botanical haven is known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse plant collections, and engaging activities for visitors of all ages. We can't wait to share our experience with you on our visit to Naples Botanical Gardens that was an unforgettable day filled with exploration, learning, and cherished family moments. Get ready to be inspired by the wonders of nature!
All About Family Wonder Days
When you walk in, make sure to grab your free activity guide because you'll need it for each station. The guides come in different languages, ensuring that everyone can fully engage and enjoy their time exploring the wonders of Naples Botanical Gardens.
There are six activity stations that you'll find throughout the Garden:
Walk Station – Kapnick Brazilian Garden
Observe Station – Kapnick Caribbean Garden
Navigate Station – Scott Florida Garden
Draw Station – Performance Lawn
Explore Station – Foster Succulent Garden
Read Station – Lea Asian Garden
Where/How To Find The Stations
Inside your activity guide, you will discover a detailed map that serves as your compass. My son Mason loved being in charge of the map, allowing him to be a little explorer for the day. Throughout the garden, you'll find some helpful signs that point you in the right direction. While I recommend following the suggested order, beginning at W (walk) and ending at R (read), feel free to pause and explore any station that catches your interest along the way.
Age Recommendation
I think this type of activity is best suited for children aged 4 and above, as they can fully engage and enjoy the experience. Although my 2-year-old didn't grasp the concept completely, she really enjoyed the coloring part. For reference, Mason is 7 years old and really enjoyed the experience this time around, now that he is a bit older and has a better understanding of the activities involved.
When Is Family Wonder Days
Family Wonder Days are on Wednesdays – Sundays at 10:30am. There is a new theme each month and it is included in your admission fee. For May, the theme was Celebrate the Earth. Mason and I learned about what we can do everyday to help take care of our planet Earth For more information, click this link: https://www.naplesgarden.org/educations/children-families/
What's Inside The Activity Pack
When you open your activity pack, you will discover a guidebook that will lead you through the garden, offering valuable insights along the way. Inside this book, you will find engaging educational activities tailored to each activity station. The pack also includes the most adorable set of color pencils, perfect for unleashing your creativity as a family.
Photo Opportunities
While exploring through the gardens, there is a particular spot that stands out as my personal favorite for capturing beautiful family pictures. Not only does this spot provide a picturesque backdrop, but it also offers a panoramic view of the garden. Don't forget to pause, listen, and soak in the serenity while creating lasting memories with your loved ones.
Water Garden Stage
We got to enjoy live music from the Sarah Hadeka Duo on the Water Garden Stage. You can find out more about her here: https://www.sarahhadeka.com
Events at Naples Botanical Gardens
You will be delighted by the multitude of exciting events taking place at Naples Botanical Gardens that ensure there is something for everyone to enjoy. From engaging workshops to captivating performances, there's a diverse array of experiences waiting to be discovered. To find more information on upcoming events, click this link here: https://www.naplesgarden.org/visit/calendar/
Frida and Her Garden
Don't miss the opportunity to experience this captivating seasonal exhibition, available for a limited time until September 10th, 2023. As you explore the gardens, you'll come across some magnificent and monumental animal structures that symbolize significant influences on Frida's life and work. Each sculpture tells a story, reflecting the profound impact these creatures had on her artistic journey. You can find more information about this exhibit here: https://www.naplesgarden.org/calendar/frida-and-her-garden/
Plan Your Visit
Click this link to purchase your tickets: https://www.naplesgarden.org/visit/plan-your-visit/plan-your-visit/
Fogg Cafe
Located in the Eleanor and Nicholas Chajabra Visitor Center, Fogg Café provides an immersive dining experience, accompanied by breathtaking views of the Garden. This culinary gem offers a seasonally-changing menu, ensuring exceptional quality and moderate pricing while embracing a fast casual service approach. You can preview the menu here: https://www.naplesgarden.org/visit/plan-your-visit/fogg-cafe/
Naples Botanical Gardens Social Media
Website: https://www.naplesgarden.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naplesbotanical/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NaplesGarden
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRV9OZlDprRpfLb4yw-0imA
Biridie's Gelato
If you happen to be a local resident of Naples, FL, then you're in for a treat! I finally had the pleasure of meeting Birdie's Gelato who we have been following each other on Instagram for quite some time now. Michael, Madison, and I, chose the Mango flavor. Mason chose the classic, Cookies and Cream. Every bite was pure bliss, with each flavor delivering a burst of exquisite taste. I had the honor of asking them a few questions during our visit and here is how it went:
Q: What Inspired you to start your business?
A: "I started my business in 2021 after not being able to find good quality gelato in Naples. I thought "we should have the best gelato outside of Naples, Italy!" Having spent 12 years in the finance world, there wasn't much I knew about the food & beverage industry! But I was inspired by the high calibre food talent we have in Naples, and reached out to the authoritative expert on all things Italian here in Naples... the esteemed Chef Vincenzo Betulia, for his feedback on my initial creations."
Where can you find Birdie's Gelato?
They're currently operating as a mobile gelateria selling fresh gelato and sorbet by the pint or by the scoop. They also create a unique and tasty experience for private parties, birthdays, weddings, and corporate events.
Here is a list of locations where you can find them:
Bohemian Restaurant
Downtown Coffee Company in Bonita
Saturdays - Thirds Street South Farmers Market
Wednesdays - Marco Island Farmers Market
Dockside down-town Naples
The Italian Deli & Market in Marco Island
Coming soon, the Fogg Cafe at Naples Botanical Gardens
Community Love and Support
Birdies Gelato loves partnering with local organizations. They often host events with organizations like the Naples Therapeutic Riding Center, Children's Museum, Naples Zoo and more! They also donate a portion of their proceeds back to the organization which I thought was amazing.
Dairy Free Options
Birdies Gelato offers a vegan line for customers that have dairy sensitives. This has been very popular with those looking for a non-dairy alternative. They want to make sure that everyone is able to enjoy Gelato!
How can you keep up with Birdie's Gelato?
Website - https://www.birdiesgelato.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birdiesgelato/
Our family would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Naples Botanical Gardens for the unforgettable experience we had during Family Wonder Days. We look forward to more Family Wonder Days! We are also grateful to Birdie's Gelato for the exclusive interview, adding a deliciously sweet touch to our day. This experience served as a powerful reminder of the importance of spending quality family time together, creating lasting memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. Highly recommend to all of our followers!! Get out and explore!!
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