What’s New on Florida’s Paradise Coast for Families

New things are in the works along Florida’s Paradise Coast, from Naples to Marco Island to the Everglades, and family travelers can jump in on the action with these exciting new additions and experiences.

New Great Wolf Lodge

Naples officially welcomes the iconic Great Wolf Lodge in October 2024. Families can enjoy access to its 90,000-square-foot indoor waterpark, a 60,000-square-foot Great Wolf Adventure Park, and various restaurants and retail outlets. The 500-room property will sit on the eastern edge of Collier County next to Paradise Coast Sports Complex.

Johnsonville Night Lights at Naples Botanical Garden

Through Jan. 7, head to Naples Botanical Garden and stroll through thousands of illuminated lights. This annual event features live music, photo opportunities, a living bromeliad tree, and festive treats and drinks for purchase. The event is open 6–9 p.m. most evenings and 6–10 p.m. on select nights.

New Restaurants

Take the whole family out for a nice meal at the all-new Lake Park Diner. The brand’s third location opens in Naples’ Founders Square this year and promises sustainably sourced dishes like sandwiches, salads, bowls, appetizers and more. Or, opt for the newly renovated Snook Inn Restaurant, a famed spot on Marco Island with floor-to-ceiling windows for indoor diners to enjoy the view. Parents and adult children should be sure to stop by Rouge Speakeasy, a new Prohibition-era speakeasy on Naples’ 5^th Avenue South. Here, guests are treated to vintage tables, crystal glassware, dim lighting and contemporary and haute cuisine, all complemented, of course, by rare wines and tasty cocktails.