Looking for a way to entertain the kids on a budget in Naples & SWFL? Look no further! As a Naples resident and local mom I have the insider scoop on all the free things to do with kids in Naples, FL.
When we first moved to Naples, I was worried that there wouldn’t be anything fun to do with kids. I assumed that Naples was a sleepy retirement town with no young families. Boy, was I wrong! Naples is full of young families which means that there is so much to do in Naples with kids. Whether you live here year round, or you are visiting our lovely beaches on vacation, you should take your kids to explore some of the best free things to do with kids in Naples, FL.
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Free things to do with kids in Naples, Florida
There are so many free things to do with kids in Naples! Here is a handy dandy table of contents to help you navigate this beast of a blog post:
- Free Outdoor Adventures with Kids
- Free Museums in Collier County
- Collier County Library Programs (visitors can still visit the library- you only need a card to borrow items)
- FREE for Collier County Residents (still fun things to do with kids if visiting Naples)
Free Outdoor Adventures with Kids in Naples, FL
Naples is known for its stunning beaches and natural beauty, making it a perfect place to enjoy free outdoor fun with kids. Whether you’re looking to explore nature, spot wildlife, or play by the water, there are plenty of budget-friendly activities to enjoy. Here are some of the best free outdoor adventures in Naples!
1. Naples Pier (Currently Closed for Repairs, But Still Worth a Visit!)
📍 Address: 25 12th Ave S, Naples, FL
🚧 Note: The Naples Pier remains closed for repairs due to hurricane damage, so you can’t currently walk out on it. However, the beachfront area is still open, making it a great spot to watch dolphins, enjoy the sunset, and take a stroll along the shoreline. Parking is available nearby, and it’s still one of the best places for visitors to experience Naples.
2. Lowdermilk Park
📍 Address: 1301 Gulf Shore Blvd N, Naples, FL
This beachside park features playgrounds, picnic tables, and plenty of sandy shoreline for kids to enjoy. There are restrooms and outdoor showers to rinse off after a day of fun.
3. Freedom Park
📍 Address: 1515 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples, FL
A peaceful escape with boardwalk trails, a pond full of turtles, and lots of birds to spot. The shaded walking paths make it a great place for a stroller-friendly nature walk.
4. Vineyards Community Park Splash Pad
📍 Address: 6231 Arbor Blvd W, Naples, FL
A free splash pad that’s perfect for little ones to cool off on a hot day. There’s also a playground and open fields for running around.
5. Collier-Seminole State Park (Free for kids under 6)
📍 Address: 20200 Tamiami Trail E, Naples, FL
Explore nature trails, spot wildlife, and see a historic walking dredge from the 1920s. The park also has picnic areas and a playground.
6. Collier County and City of Naples Parks
The parks and playgrounds in Naples are almost too good to be true. Many of them have water features such as splash pads to keep kids cool, and all of them have pretty decent bathrooms for public parks.
There are two websites for navigating parks in Naples. The city of Naples is in Collier County, but has it’s own Parks & Recreation services. This just means that we have so many great parks at our fingertips with two government park systems. Check out all the parks here:
7. Gordon River Greenway + Baker Park
The Gordon River Greenway is a 2.5-mile paved nature trail that winds along the scenic Gordon River, providing a peaceful escape into nature just minutes from downtown Naples. The trail is perfect for biking, walking, running, and stroller rides, with several boardwalks and bridges offering stunning views of the water. Along the way, you might spot alligators, herons, turtles, fish, and other native wildlife.
There are three main entrances to the Greenway:
- 2390 Tamiami Trail North (next to the Naples Zoo and Naples Airport) – This entrance has a parking lot, restrooms, and picnic tables.
- 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road (Naples Zoo entrance) – A smaller access point near the zoo.
- Baker Park (50 Riverside Circle) – The newest connection, featuring a large pedestrian bridge that links the park to the Greenway.
Since its opening, Baker Park has become a popular stop along the trail. This 15-acre waterfront park features a playground, a splash pad, picnic areas, fitness stations, and an open green space for activities. The Blanche & Luther Cogdill Bridge connects Baker Park to the Gordon River Greenway, providing a scenic spot to pause and enjoy the view.
With multiple access points and a variety of recreational opportunities, the Gordon River Greenway and Baker Park make for a perfect free family-friendly outing in Naples!
Learn more by visiting the Gordon River Greenway & Baker Park websites.
Explore Collier County’s Free Museums
All five Collier County Museums offer free admission, making them one of the best budget-friendly activities for families in Naples. These museums bring local history to life with interactive exhibits, artifacts, and even hands-on activities for kids.
1. Naples Depot Museum
📍 Address: 1051 5th Ave S, Naples, FL
🚂 Best for train lovers! This historic train station showcases Naples’ transportation history. Kids will love exploring the vintage train cars and visiting the Naples Train Museum (open on select weekends), where they can see model trains in action and even ride a miniature train!
2. Collier Museum at Government Center
📍 Address: 3331 Tamiami Trail E, Naples, FL
Step back in time and learn how early settlers and the Calusa Native Americans lived in Southwest Florida. This museum features replica pioneer homes, artifacts, and even outdoor exhibits with old machinery. On special days, they offer hands-on activities—we once got to make pinch pots just like the Calusa Indians did!
3. Museum of the Everglades
📍 Address: 105 Broadway Ave W, Everglades City, FL
Perfect for little adventurers, this museum tells the story of the Everglades, from early Native American life to the building of the Tamiami Trail. Kids will love the old photos, vintage boats, and learning about the wildlife of the Everglades.
4. Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch
📍 Address: 1215 Roberts Ave W, Immokalee, FL
Experience what life was like on a working cattle ranch! This museum has historic buildings, barns, and hands-on exhibits showcasing the pioneer days of Southwest Florida. A great place for kids to run around and explore.
5. Marco Island Historical Museum
📍 Address: 180 S Heathwood Dr, Marco Island, FL
This museum highlights Marco Island’s history and its connection to the ancient Calusa people. It’s home to the famous Key Marco Cat artifact (on loan from the Smithsonian). There are interactive exhibits that make history fun for kids!
Learn more about the museums and traveling exhibits by visiting the Collier County Museums website.
Check out the Collier County Library programs for more free fun in Naples, Florida
Collier County Public Libraries are an amazing free resource for families in Naples. Beyond just books, they offer a variety of engaging activities, educational programs, and interactive play areas that are perfect for kids of all ages. If you’re looking for fun, free things to do indoors, the library should be at the top of your list!
1. Free Storytimes & Kids’ Programs
Many library branches host weekly storytimes for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. Some locations also offer STEM activities, arts & crafts, and special themed events throughout the year. Check the Collier County Public Library website for the latest event calendar.
2. Interactive Play Areas
Some branches have children’s play spaces with toys, puzzles, and interactive learning stations. It’s a great place for little ones to socialize and explore in a quiet, air-conditioned environment.
3. Free Access to Educational Apps & Museum Passes
With a Collier County Library card, families can access free digital resources, including:
- TumbleBooks (animated books for kids)
- ABCmouse (early learning games & activities)
- Homework help & language learning tools
- Free passes to select local museums & attractions (availability varies)
4. Special Events & Performances
Throughout the year, the libraries host guest performers, puppet shows, live animal encounters, and themed reading challenges. The summer reading program is especially fun, with prizes for reading milestones!
5. Borrow Books, Movies & More
Of course, borrowing books, audiobooks, and DVDs is completely free! Many branches also have launchpads and learning tablets available for checkout.
📍 Find Your Nearest Library: Collier County Library Locations
Free & Discounted Attractions for Collier County Residents
Being a Collier County resident comes with some great perks! Several popular attractions offer free or discounted admission, making it easier to enjoy Naples without spending a fortune. Here’s where you can go for free with a library pass, residency discount, or special event days:
1. Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (C’MON)
📍 Address: 15080 Livingston Rd, Naples, FL
🆓 How to Visit for Free:
- Library Pass Program: Both Collier County & Lee County libraries offer free family passes for checkout. You can reserve one online or visit your local branch.
- Reciprocal Memberships: If you have a children’s museum membership elsewhere, you might qualify for free or discounted entry through the ACM Reciprocal Network.
🎟️ Regular Admission: $12 for kids, $10 for adults, babies under 1 are free. A Play Membership ($135/year) pays for itself in just three visits!
🔗 Learn more: C’MON Website
2. Naples Zoo – Free First Saturdays for Residents
📍 Address: 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd, Naples, FL
🆓 How to Visit for Free:
- Collier County residents get free admission on the first Saturday of every month (valid ID required).
🎟️ Regular Admission: $22.95 for adults, $14.95 for kids (ages 3+). Save $2 per ticket by purchasing online.
💳 Membership Deal: Florida residents can get a family membership (2 adults + kids in the household) for $99/year—a great option for repeat visits!
🔗 Learn more: Naples Zoo Website
3. Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
📍 Address: 300 Tower Rd, Naples, FL
🆓 How to Visit for Free:
- Kids get free admission on Fridays during the summer months.
- Free admission for everyone on National Estuary Day (September 29th).
🌿 What to Expect: This interactive nature center has a touch tank, hands-on exhibits, an auditorium, and scenic boardwalk trails through one of the last undisturbed mangrove estuaries in North America.
🎟️ Regular Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for kids (ages 6-12), free for children under 6.
🔗 Learn more: Rookery Bay Website
Free Summer Fun in Naples
Like many towns across America, Naples offers a lot of free summer fun for kids. Get the full list of freebies here: Free Summer Activities in Naples, FL
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