King Richard's Medieval Family Fun Park (kingrichardspark.net) is an amusement park designed specifically for young children. There is a medieval theme with dragons and castles adorning the rides and activities. Young children can ride the carousel, biplanes, Ferris wheel and super trucks. There is also a separate splash park area called Merlin's Moat. The park is open from 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 10:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Tickets prices start at $5.
The Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens (napleszoo.com) was voted "Best Place to Take the Kids" by Gulfshore Life Magazine in 2011. In addition to animal exhibits, there are a variety of shows and demonstrations including Planet Predator Show, alligator feedings, a guided botanical tour and Primate Expedition Cruise. Young children who cannot sit through a 20-minute presentation are allowed to come in at the end of the show to see the animals and talk to the presenters. Tickets start at $16.95 for adults and $10.95 for children 3 to 12.
Sun-N-Fun Lagoon is located inside North Collier Regional Park. While many activities are for older children, Tadpole Pool is designed for children 6 years old and younger. This activity pool for toddlers and preschoolers has a safe waterslide, swings and other aquatic activities. Children may also chase the water spouts that shoot water up from the ground. Children 3 or younger are admitted free. Adults pay $12, with a $2 discount for Collier County residents with ID.
There are several mom support groups that meet in the Naples area. These groups allow moms to interact and engage in activities while entertaining the children. MOMS Club South Coast Chapter is one of these groups. They meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. (see Resources for details). Activities include library storytime, park visits, play dates and tours of local facilities such as the fire station and humane society.
