Thursday, June 27, 2024 / by Madison Tracy
Summer Fun in Southwest Florida: Top Activities for Kids and Families
School's out, and it's time for fun! Southwest Florida offers a variety of indoor and outdoor activities for families, ensuring there's something for everyone. Whether you're splashing around outside or exploring dinosaur fossils inside, here are the top 10 activities to keep your kids entertained this summer:
1. C'mon Museum
The Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples is a year-round attraction, perfect for kids from infants to elementary age. Open Monday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the museum offers interactive exhibits like the ABC Tot Lot, Adopt-A-Pet Vet Clinic, and the Everglades. General admission is $25, but Collier County residents enjoy a discounted rate of $18. For more information, visit C'mon Museum or call (239) 514-0084.
2. Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
Get up close with some of the world’s largest animals at the Naples Zoo. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., this 43-acre zoo features animal exhibits, a historic garden, and educational programs. Collier County residents receive free admission on the first Saturday of every month. For details, visit Naples Zoo or call (239) 262-5409.
3. YMCA Summer Camp
The YMCA’s summer camp offers a community-focused environment where kids can explore hobbies, enjoy pool days, arts, sports, and weekly field trips. Camps run Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and are open to school-age children through ninth grade. Register online at YMCA Camps for the Naples location or YMCA SWFL Camps for the Fort Myers location.
4. Cone 06 Pottery Painting Studio
Perfect for a rainy day, Cone 06 Pottery Painting Studio in Naples offers a creative space where kids can paint pottery. The studio is open Sunday to Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Thursday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. They also provide pottery to-go kits. Visit Cone 06 Pottery or call (239) 513-0288 for more information.
5. Shy Wolf Sanctuary
Experience the thrill of meeting wolves at Shy Wolf Sanctuary, a nonprofit focused on rehabilitating and providing refuge for wolves. Open Monday through Sunday, except Tuesday and Thursday, reservations are required and cost $40 per person. Children must be at least 7 years old. For more information, visit Shy Wolf Sanctuary or call (855) 749-9653.
6. Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium
Explore nature trails and exhibits at the Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium in Fort Myers. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. Remember to bring sunscreen and bug spray! For more information, visit Calusa Nature Center or call (239) 275-3435.
7. Hertz Recreational Ice Skating
Enjoy ice skating at Hertz Arena in Estero, complete with a laser show and lights set to the latest Top 20 hits. Open to all ages, the rink is available on weekdays except Wednesdays and Thursdays. For details, visit Hertz Arena or call (239) 948-7825.
8. Edison and Ford Winter Estates
Step back in time at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers. Open 363 days a year from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., visitors can explore historic homes, botanic gardens, a museum, and a laboratory. Ticket prices vary by age. For more information, visit Edison Ford Winter Estates or call (239) 334-7419.
9. Sky Zone Trampoline Park
Jump into fun at Sky Zone Trampoline Park in Fort Myers, offering attractions like freestyle bouncing and ultimate dodgeball. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., tickets are $25 for a 90-minute pass. For details, visit Sky Zone Fort Myers or call (239) 344-8244.
10. Fort Rock Climbing Center
For indoor climbing adventures, visit Fort Rock Climbing Center in Fort Myers. Suitable for all levels, day passes are $30 for adults and $20 for children. Hours vary by day. For more information, visit Fort Rock Climbing or call (239) 990-7430.
Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, dive into creative projects, or experience thrilling adventures, Southwest Florida has something to offer every family this summer. Enjoy making memories that will last a lifetime!

