Collier County

ART & MUSEUMS

Artis—Naples

239-597-1900, artisnaples.org

Artis—Naples enriches the community with diverse, world-class events, including music, film, and art exhibitions. Featuring venues like Frances Pew Hayes Hall and The Baker Museum, it invites everyone, from first-time visitors to lifelong patrons, to experience the inspiring world of the arts.

C’mon, Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples

239-514-0084, cmon.org

A 30,000-square-foot innovative cultural center ignites children’s curiosity through interactive exhibits that merge technology with the natural and social world. Developed with insights from child psychology, this engaging environment promotes creativity, curiosity, empathy, and self-esteem in a playful setting.

The Collier County Museum

colliermuseums.com

The Collier County Museum Division is currently hosting several exhibits including “Swamp Angels: A History of Mosquitoes and Mosquito Control” until June 29 and “Thank You for Your Service — A Salute to Everglades Veterans” until September 14. Admission is free on Tuesdays through Saturdays.

Naples Beach NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND AND THE EVERGLADES CVB / COURTESY PHOTO

Gulfshore Playhouse

239-261-7529, gulfshoreplayhouse.org

Gulfshore Playhouse is dedicated to providing outstanding theater and educational programs that enrich the community through high-quality productions and inclusivity.

Marco Island Center for the Arts

239-394-4221, marcoislandart.org

The Marco Island Center for the Arts, established in 1970, is hosting art exhibitions like “Fiberlicious” and “Celebrating Imagination” this summer. At the Arts Center Theatre, comedians Al Romero, Kevin White, and Vien “ComicDoc” Phommachanh are showcasing their unique talents.

Marco Island Historical Museum

239-389-6447, themihs.info

The Marco Island Historical Museum opened in 2010 and showcases the history of Southwest Florida and the Calusa Indians through vibrant displays and a replica Calusa village. The museum’s grounds feature a gazebo, a bronze “Key Marco Cat” replica, changing exhibitions in the Sandlin Gallery, and a Museum Gift Shop. Additionally, it hosts events in the Rose History Auditorium.

Rescued Florida panther at Naples Zoo NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND AND THE EVERGLADES CVB / COURTESY PHOTO

Naples Art Institute

239-262-6517, naplesart.org

The Naples Art Institute has been fostering creativity for almost 70 years, offering programs and exhibitions celebrating local and international art. It’s a beacon of cultural and educational excellence in Southwest Florida, inviting people of all ages to learn, create, and be inspired.

Naples Historical Society

239-261-8164, napleshistoricalsociety.org

The Naples Historical Society offers historical tours of the Historic Palm Cottage and the Naples Historic District. They also host a winter lecture series and educational programs to preserve Naples’ heritage.

The Naples Players

239-434-7340, naplesplayers.org

The National at Ave Maria

The Naples Players present “42nd Street,” a musical sponsored by Lake Michigan Credit Union from June 26 to July 21. It follows Peggy Sawyer, an ambitious dancer from Allentown, Pennsylvania, who gets her chance to shine on Broadway after the lead of “Pretty Lady” is injured. Featuring iconic tunes and electrifying tap dances, “42nd Street” promises a spellbinding showcase of talent and timeless music.

The Norris Center

239-213-3058, naplesgov.com

A hub for music, films, comedy and live performances, featuring an auditorium, meeting rooms, a dance studio and more. The Norris Center offers a variety of cultural and recreational classes, from painting to languages, and hosts holiday programs and special events. The center is notable for housing the award-winning Gulfshore Playhouse and other local theater groups. It also organizes the Naples Jazzmaster’s Summer Concerts on Saturdays from now through September.

Opera Naples

Inn on Fifth NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND AND THE EVERGLADES CVB / COURTESY PHOTO

239-963-9050, operanaples.org

Gaining rapid acclaim, Opera Naples blends high-quality performances with community engagement and education. Recognized for excellence just two years after its founding, it hosts renowned artists and supports emerging talent, all while deeply rooted in educational outreach. Its mission underscores a commitment to innovation and excellence in opera and musical performances.

TheatreZone

888-966-3352, theatre.zone

TheatreZone provides high-quality musical shows in a cozy 250-seat theater located on the Community School of Naples campus. Their partnership with the Actors’ Equity Association ensures topnotch talent nationwide in all aspects of their productions.

United Arts Collier

unitedartscollier.org

Actively promoting local arts in Collier County with a vision for universal access to the arts. Led by Elysia Dawn, engages the community through their Art Mixers, exhibitions and performances at the Norris Center in Naples, while also offering educational programs for children and seniors. ¦

BARS & RESTAURANTS

Bayside Seafood Grill & Bar

239-649-5552, baysideseafoodgrillandbar.com

Bayside Seafood Grill & Bar offers a mix of casual and elegant dining with a focus on fresh seafood. It’s the go-to spot for daily meals, including Sunday brunch.

bha! bha! Persian Bistro

239-594-5557, bhabhabistro.com

A sensory journey with enchanting décor, world music, and a fusion of fragrances. Indulge in fresh dishes blending bold flavors with delicate finesse.

Black Forest

239-592-4784, blackforestnaples.com

Savor authentic German cuisine and old-world comfort dishes meticulously prepared from scratch.

Buzz’s Lighthouse

239-734-9180, buzzslighthouse.com

This restaurant by the waterfront near Vanderbilt Beach has a typical Florida atmosphere, offering fresh seafood and cold beer. Guests are welcomed to savor delicious food and enjoy beautiful views of Vanderbilt Bay.

Del Mar

239-350-0134, delmarmediterranean.com

A seasonal, homemade menu featuring seafood, produce, cheeses and spices from the Mediterranean region. Highlights include shareable dips, spreads, flatbreads, chilled shellfish and signature Lamb Tagine, all cooked using a wood-fired grill.

Forever Fiore Tea Lounge

844-640-0330, foreverfioretealounge.com

Forever Fiore Tea Lounge combines the charm of a tearoom with the vibe of a modern café. Enjoy a variety of coffees, teas, brunch options, and champagne. They also offer a unique French-Italian afternoon tea and luxury floral arrangements.

Hogfish Harry’s

239-776-7623, hogfishharrys.com

Led by Chef Everett Fromm, this restaurant specializes in tropical and coastal cuisine. It highlights fresh seafood, especially Hogfish sourced from places like Hawaii and Mexico, all prepared with a French culinary innovative spin.

Island Gypsy Café

239-394-1111, theislandgypsy.com

At Capri Marina, you can find the Island Gypsy Café & Marina Bar. They serve a variety of fresh seafood dishes with beautiful waterfront views and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the menu highlights include coconut shrimp, mussels, fried calamari, tuna sashimi, shrimp & scallop pasta, macadamia nut mahi mahi and more.

Keewaydin’s on Fifth

239-262-5787, keewaydins.com

Dive into 5th Ave’s dining gem, offering a luxe laid-back vibe and a fusion of Caribbean, Puerto Rican and Asian flavors. Highlights include Crispy Calamari with a twist, macadamia-crusted Sea Bass, and Key Lime pie.

Kelly’s Roast Beef

kellysroastbeef.com

Kelly’s Roast Beef has been making Boston style roast beef sandwiches since 1951. They’re now in Naples, serving thinly sliced roast beef on sesame rolls. They also offer authentic New England seafood.

The Kitchen & The Mini Bar

239-428-3101, kitchenandminibar.com

Located in the Naples Design District, The Kitchen & The Mini Bar is a vibrant hub for dining, live music under the stars, flowing drinks, and satisfying dishes.

The Local

239-596-3276, thelocalnaples.com

The Local in Naples is a farm and sea-to-table restaurant, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Under Chef Jeff Mitchell’s guidance, it offers a menu of healthy, simple dishes highlighting Florida’s seasonal bounty. The eatery, known for its casual ambiance and commitment to sustainability, fosters strong connections between guests and the local farmers, ranchers, and seafood providers.

Macanudo Mate

239-325-8173, macanudomate.com

Explore Argentine culture by trying traditional local dishes and sweets like Alfajores at this restaurant, which is managed by a passionate couple. In addition to serving delicious food, the restaurant also offers Yerba Mate, an energizing beverage and showcases handcrafted Argentinian souvenirs.

Mediterrano

239-261-7498, mediterrano-naples.com

Mediterrano serves a variety of dishes inspired by the coastal regions of the Mediterranean, focusing on fresh, local ingredients to create flavorful meals influenced by countries like Spain, Greece and Italy.

Oar & Iron Raw Bar & Grill

239-427-3335, oarandiron.com

This place offers a variety of seafood and steak options, such as succulent lobster tails and coffee-braised short ribs made from premium Angus beef, along with juicy burgers and tantalizing pasta dishes. Each meal is paired with signature sides like sweet potato fries and crisp vegetables.

Shula’s Steak House

239-430-4999, shulasnaples.com

Shula’s Naples offers classic American fine dining with high-quality meals, award-winning wines, and craft cocktails in a carefully considered setting at the Hilton Naples.

Tony’s Off Third

239-262-7999, tonysoffthird.com

A café that combines a bakery, gourmet market and wine store, offering specialty wines, scratch-made pastries, as well as a variety of coffee drinks and hot teas. ¦

BEACHES & PARKS

Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, at 375 Sanctuary Road West, offers an unparalleled experience of the Everglades ecosystem with North America’s largest old-growth bald cypress forest. Its 2.25-mile boardwalk lets visitors see alligators, otters, white-tailed deer, and diverse bird species.

Barefoot Beach Preserve, located at 505 Barefoot Beach Boulevard, is a serene coastal sanctuary on one of the last undeveloped barrier islands along Florida’s Southwest coast. Spanning 342 acres, it features pristine beaches and lush habitats home to diverse wildlife.

Big Cypress National Preserve, established in 1916, offers outdoor activities such as canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and hunting. Visitors can explore the Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center and Oasis Visitor Center for informative experiences.

Clam Pass Park at 465 Seagate Drive is a popular beach access point in Collier County. It has 171 public parking spaces and a boardwalk leading to the beach, harmoniously blending accessibility and environmental preservation across its 35-acre coastal habitat.

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, located at 11135 Gulfshore Drive, has reopened for day use, offering a pristine beach, sunbathing, paddling, hiking, birdwatching, fishing spots, and a boat launch area.

Everglades National Park, America’s largest subtropical wilderness, protects rare and endangered species like the manatee and the Florida panther. As a World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve, it offers unique environmental experiences.

Lowdermilk Park at 1301 Gulfshore Blvd North is a premier beachfront park in Naples, offering convenient amenities for beachgoers.

Naples Beach & Pier, a historic landmark established in 1888, is currently renovating after Hurricane Ian. This iconic pier at 25 12th Avenue South stretches 1,000 feet into the Gulf of Mexico and remains a cherished community landmark.

Marco Island South Beach, located at 900 South Collier Boulevard, is the southernmost public beach with convenient parking and amenities. Adjacent to the Sunset Grill, it offers a perfect location for beachgoers to relax and enjoy water activities, and rental equipment is available.

Tigertail Beach, at 490 Hernando Drive, is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail and is renowned for its excellent shelling and birding opportunities. This beach features a wide expanse of sand, ideal for swimming and exploring the Gulf of Mexico’s natural wonders.

Vanderbilt Beach Park, situated at 100 Vanderbilt Beach Road, is a popular beach access point known for its wide sandy areas and convenient facilities. Located near upscale hotels in North Naples, this beach is perfect for visitors looking to enjoy the sun and surf in a prime location. ¦

ENTERTAINMENT

Ave Maria

239-352-3903, avemaria.com

A charming Florida town with resort style amenities, Ave Maria University, restaurants, shops, and signature events like the Winter Festival, Blues Brews & BBQ Festival, and the Margarita & Taco Festival.

Everglades Excursions

239-262-7300, everglades-excursions.com

Enjoy airboat rides, see alligators, and learn about the area’s four eco-systems and diverse wildlife on a private tour guided by knowledgeable staff.

Marco Mystery & History Tours

239-537-8353, marcomysteryandhistory.com

A 2-hour guided tour on Marco Island, Florida, led by Martha Horror. It includes visits to a cemetery, haunted inn, and a 340-year-old Indian burial site, starting at Bistro Soleil at Olde Marco Inn, 100 Palm Street.

Naples Botanical Garden

239-643-7275, naplesgarden.org

A tropical garden with diverse environments and a mission to conserve tropical plants, create beauty, share knowledge, and inspire nature conservation.

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens

239-315-7626, napleszoo.org

Guests can see favorite animals such as lions, giraffes, monkeys, pythons, bears, as well as endangered species like the Malagasy fossas and Red River hogs. The Naples Zoo has fun activities and opportunities to get involved in animal conservation.

Port O Call Marina

239-774-0479; portofnaplesmarina.com

Port O Call Marina in Naples offers boat rentals, fishing charters and cruises on the Naples Princess and Miss Naples.

The Revs Institute

239-687-7387, revsinstitute.org

The Revs Institute is often considered among the premier auto museums globally. Almost all vehicles in its collection are meticulously restored to meet precise historical standards and kept in optimal running condition.

Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

239-530-5972, rookerybay.org

The features research labs, classrooms, an auditorium, and a visitor center with interactive exhibits and a 2,300-gallon aquarium showcasing conservation efforts.

Segway of Naples Tour

239-262-7300, segwayofnaples.com

Segway of Naples offers top-rated Segway and Trike tours, providing a great way to explore downtown Naples. With AAA and Segway safety approval, along with the latest Segway i2 Gen 2 machines and Bluetooth headsets, riders can enjoy and be safe.

Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee

239-658-1313, seminoleimmokaleecasino.com

Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee offers 1,400 slot machines, 39 live table games, substantial jackpot payouts and entertainment events. The upscale hotel features luxury suites and deluxe guest rooms. ¦

GOLF

Arrowhead Golf Course at 2205 Heritage Greens Drive in Naples offers a top-quality golfing experience with friendly staff, excellent food, and clubhouse amenities.

At the Coral Isle Golf Center, located at 16161 Tamiami Trail East, golfers can receive instruction from PGA-trained professional Scott B. Moser. The facility features a full-service golf shop, golf packages, and a spacious driving range for up to 70 golfers at once, complete with various practice areas and all-grass hitting zones. It’s an ideal spot for golf practice and play.

Hammock Bay Golf Club, located at 1370 Borghese Lane, features a par 72 championship course designed by Peter Jacobsen and Jim Hardy. The course offers diverse challenges with its live oak treelined fairways and rolling terrain.

The 32nd Chubb Classic was held at Lely Resort Golf & Country Club from February 11-17, 2019. The resort offers excellent golf, private event, and dining amenities, making it a great venue for various events.

The Links of Naples, at 16161 Tamiami Trail East, offers affordable and enjoyable golfing, including night golf.

The National at Ave Maria, located at 5909 Double Eagle Circle, offers an 18-hole championship golf course that challenges all skill levels. It provides a topnotch golfing experience near Ave Maria with well-groomed fairways and water features.

The Rookery at Marco, located at 3433 Club Center Boulevard, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and challenging golf. This course, revamped by Robert Cupp, Jr. and redesigned by Peter Jacobsen and Jim Hardy, is nestled in wetlands, making it a sanctuary for both golfers and nature enthusiasts.

Tiburón Golf Club at 2620 Tiburón Drive features two 18-hole courses designed by Greg Norman and hosts notable tournaments.

Valencia Golf & Country Club, established in 1997 at 1725 Double Eagle Trail, is known for its wide fairways, contoured greens and lush landscapes. The course has Bermuda grass fairways and TifEagle greens. ¦

HOTELS & RESORTS

In the heart of Naples, Bayfront Inn 5th Avenue blends Caribbean chic with downtown elegance and offers waterfront views of Naples Bay.

Bellasera Hotel is a luxurious retreat near Naples’ pristine beaches. It offers elegant studios and one—to three-bedroom suites with fully-appointed kitchens, an outdoor pool, a whirlpool spa, a fitness center, and The Syren Oyster & Cocktail Bar with scenic views of Naples Bay. Sister venues include the beachfront Turtle Club and The London Club for live music and dining.

Compass Hotel by Margaritaville offers a laid-back island vibe with 119 suites for ultimate comfort and convenience. Ideal for sun-seekers looking for a carefree escape.

A hidden gem, The Escalante, offers a tranquil, Mediterranean villa-like setting. This boutique hotel, rich in history, provides an intimate escape with a poolside courtyard, tropical gardens, and personalized service. It’s a romantic hideaway in downtown Naples.

Located in downtown Naples, Hyatt House offers resort-like amenities close to the beach. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a pool, and easy access to the shopping and dining delights of 5th Avenue, making it perfect for a leisurely island getaway.

Situated in the bustling heart of Naples, the Inn on Fifth promises a luxurious stay with Forbes-rated accommodations. This boutique hotel features two onsite restaurants, a full-service spa, a rooftop pool with a firepit, and a refined selection of guest rooms and suites, ensuring a sophisticated experience.

Located between the Gulf of Mexico and Vanderbilt Bay, LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort offers a personal oasis with brand-new guest rooms, a luxurious spa, and an award-winning restaurant, BALEEN Naples. Guests can also enjoy an exclusive golf club and tranquil wellness treatments at SpaTerre Naples.

Park Shore Resort welcomes guests with

lush tropical surroundings, serene waterways, and stylish accommodations. The resort features a heated swimming pool, tennis, racquetball, and pickleball courts, a fitness center, and on-property dining at Hogfish Harry’s Restaurant & Bar.

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, offers luxurious accommodations and impeccable service. It features stunning suites, diverse dining options, a large spa, and recreational activities. Guests can also experience the serene Tiburón location, making it a perfect spot for extended stays.

Vanderbilt Beach Resort is an intimate, family-owned hotel that provides an authentic Olde Florida experience with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy relaxed beachfront vacations with warm hospitality and make lifelong friends along the way. ¦

SHOPPING

Since its opening in 1976, Coastland Center, located at 1900 Tamiami Trail N., has been a cornerstone of Naples shopping. Anchored by Macy’s, JCPenney, and Dillard’s, this mall features over 130 stores and dining options, making it a convenient and comprehensive destination for all your shopping needs.

Fifth Avenue South, known as The Collective, seamlessly combines glamour with a relaxed atmosphere, making it a prime spot for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

The avenue is lined with a mix of historic and modern architecture, pedestrian friendly promenades, and tropical blooms, offering an eclectic yet sophisticated ambiance.

Mercato, located at 9132 Strada Place, offers upscale retail, luxury residential options, live entertainment, dining, drinks, movies, and a mini golf course at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema’s HappyLand.

The Naples Design District is Southwest Florida’s creative epicenter, attracting locals, seasonal residents, and tourists with its unique blend of art, design, style, food, and culture.

Check out the charming shopping and dining experience at Historic Third Street South, featuring boutiques and eateries.

Tin City Waterfront Shops is a historic area perfect for boutique shopping and waterfront dining. This charming district offers a range of activities, including food, shopping, and sightseeing.

The Village Shops on Venetian Bay, 4200 Gulf Shore Boulevard North, is a picturesque waterfront shopping experience with nearly 50 shops and restaurants. Special events are frequently held here, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Waterside Shops is a premier destination for luxury shopping and dining in a serene outdoor environment at 5415 Tamiami Trail N., Naples. ¦

The post Collier County first appeared on Fort Myers Florida Weekly .