Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens

Opened as Nehrling's Tropical Gardens in 1919 — botanist Henry Nehrling planted the original collection of tropical species on this 43-acre parcel, and much of that old-growth garden footprint is still what you walk through today. Became Naples Zoo in 1969 when the Tetzlaff family layered exotic animals onto the historic gardens. Now AZA-accredited, with Malayan tigers in Tiger Forest, African lions, giraffes on a public feeding platform, and a boat ride through Primate Expedition Cruise — monkey and lemur islands built on the old cypress lakes. The banyans and royal palms out front are Nehrling originals.

What to order

Arrive at open (9a) for the 10a giraffe feeding and to beat afternoon heat; adult admission $26.95, kids 3–12 $17.95. The primate boat cruise runs on rotation — check the day's schedule at the entry.

Hours

Daily 9a–4:30p (last admission ~3:30p)