Collier County - 25 Attractions You Must Visit

Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary offers visitors an incredible opportunity to explore some of the most pristine natural areas in the state. Home to some of the oldest Bald Cypress trees in existence, a 13-mile boardwalk stretching through the swamp, and a variety of wildlife species and plants. It is also home to research facilities conducted by various universities, as well as local artist studios where visitors can join classes to channel their creative energies.

Big Cypress National Preserve is a stunning destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning over 720,000 acres, it is the largest national preserve in the United States East of the Rockies. Within its vast expanse, visitors can experience varied habitats like swamps, estuaries, pinelands and prairies teeming with an abundance of wildlife. This treasureland of natural beauty also boasts spectacular views such as watery grasslands and cypress strands that will mesmerize any visitor.

Big Cypress Oasis Visitor Center is the perfect spot to explore the beauty and wildlife of the Big Cypress National Preserve. This cozy visitor center has knowledgeable staff to give you information and recommendations on scenic hikes, bike rides, and guided tours of the area. You can even schedule a canoe trip down the Turner River with one of their experienced guides or take part in ranger-led programs.

The Cape Romano Dome House, is an architectural wonder that attracts many visitors. From the outside, it looks like six white pods scattered across the sandbar. Constructed in 1981 by Bob Lee, the domes were built to be a vacation home and featured part of an innovative system called “startop homes” which was founded by Lee. Due to its unique design, the house has become a landmark and it remains standing despite efforts to demolish it due to its location on an eroding shoreline.

Chokoloskee Island is one of the most beautiful places in Collier County, Florida. Located in the Ten Thousand Islands area near Marco Island, this small island sits on the doorstep of some of the best fishing, birding and exploration in Southwest Florida. Visiting Chokoloskee Island is a great opportunity to soak up all that Florida’s river and coastal ecosystems have to offer: mangroves and mudflats, bald eagles and ospreys, dolphins and manatees.

Clam Pass Beach is the epitome of a beach paradise. With spectacular waters and its own boardwalk. There are plenty of amenities such as showers, restrooms and lifeguards on duty at all times; making it as safe as possible. From swimming to kayaking to fishing, Clam Pass Beach offers an array of activities for everyone. Along with the stunning white sand beaches and flourishing mangrove trees along the coastal wetlands, Clam Pass Beach entices beachgoers with opportunity for exploration.

Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve is a Florida State Park, which is open between 8 a.m. and sundown every day of the year (including holidays).

At the Collier-Seminole State Park you can picnic, hike, bicycle, canoe, camp, view wildlife, fish, and boat. Among the facilities are an RV park, four pavilion picnic shelters, a boat ramp, and a campground with youth, group, and primitive campsites.

During the 1940s and 1950s, extensive logging was occurring in Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, destroying many bald cypress and pond cypress trees. The sanctuary was established to protect these remaining trees.

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park was named after Joe Wiggins, who lived in the late 1800s. Traders and Seminoles traded goods at his trading post. In 1964, Collier County acquired the land with the help of Lester J. and Dellora A. Norris.

Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve, is a unique and beautiful park. Home to the last remaining stands of Cabbage Palm and Royal Palm forests, the preserve is also home to many rare species of birds, manatees, you can even spot an endangered Florida panther if you’re lucky! Exploring its 2000-acre network of marshlands and flatwood swamps is a great way to take in the stunning sights of nature in the Sunshine State. Boating and kayaking are permitted on several bodies of water within the park.

The Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1989 under the Endangered Species Act by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, to protect the endangered Florida panther, as well as other threatened plant and animal species.

The Gordon River is a popular destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and eco-tourists alike. Tucked away in the Everglades, this 8-mile river has been attracting visitors since the early 1970s. Meandering peacefully through Florida's natural landscape complete with mangrove forests and endemic species of birds and fish, this tranquil river also provides spectacular views of both its natural surroundings as well as the coastline of Marco Island near Naples.

The Gordon River Greenway Park in Collier County, Florida is a 185-acre park located in Naples, just off the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. While visiting, one can find walking paths, bike trails and wildlife observation points around every corner. The natural beauty of the park is astounding and pairs perfectly with its educational offerings. Inside the park are a number of areas dedicated to local history displays, presentations about various natural habitats and a butterfly garden .

The Gulf Coast Visitor Center provides visitors and locals with a wealth of information about the area. From boat tours and mangrove eco-adventures, to archaeological sites and hands-on programs for children, this visitor center has something for everyone. The center also provides local shoppers with expert advice on which shopping area is best suited to their needs. With regular activities like kayaking, seining, fishing trips, bird walks and much more.

This Park is Located along the shores of the beautiful and pristine big Cypress National Preserve, this delightful park offers visitors a tremendous variety of recreational opportunities. People can go for hikes and nature walks through lush hardwood forests, fish or canoe on peaceful Florida lakes, bird watch and appreciate the local wildlife, or take some time to relax by a campfire. Visitors can even find lodging options including camping sites with nearby shower and restroom facilities.

Located in Naples, Florida, Naples Botanical Garden covers 170 acres (69 ha).

Naples City Dock is one of the most beloved attractions located right at the heart of the downtown area and situated along the Gordon River, it's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Here, they can cast off into the Gulf Coast waters or kayak up and down the river. There’s a host of eateries nearby as well, ranging from seafood restaurants to cafés serving up some of the finest coffee around. The dock also regularly hosts events like movie screenings, live concerts and yoga classes.

The Naples Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the area's rich heritage. Established in 1959, the society works to protect local landmarks and historical artifacts while providing education and research opportunities related to Collier County's past. From hosting interesting events that connect people with their history to its invaluable library and archives, the Naples Historical Society champions its community's heritage through fascinating stories and memories.

Nestled at the tip of Naples in Collier County, lies the breathtaking Naples Pier. This pier gives visitors a front-row seat to some of the most spectacular Gulf Coast sunsets. From the pier you can watch as colorful fishing boats drift by, or even try your hand at reeling in your own catch for dinner. It's also a great spot for seaside leisure activities like yoga, tai chi and beach volleyball. There are plenty of nearby shops, restaurants and other attractions to explore too.