A Historical Elegance Coupled with Unique and Exotic Animals for an Adventurous Time
1919 was the year it all began. A botanical garden at first and 50 years later a zoo was born. The nationally accredited Naples Zoo is one of the finest menageries in the state of Florida. Their zoo and historical botanical garden lies on approximately 43 acres in southwest Naples, Florida. They have a wonderful variety of animals and exhibits for guests to browse around and enjoy the grounds. On their website there is a map of the zoo layout, it names the various exhibits and animal enclosures. They take pride in close to 70 species of magnificent animals, from mighty alligators to graceful zebras. Other animals include Fosa, Lemurs, Giant Anteaters, Clouded Leopards, Cotton-Topped Tamarins, and South African Lions, along with many others. Three luxury neighborhoods near the zoo are Bear's Paw, Grey Oaks, and Park Shore, all of which are gorgeous neighborhoods that reflect the same spectacular potency as Naples Zoo.
The Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens started when Dr. Henry Nehrling bought the zoo site in 1919. At this time, the plots of land in Naples were being sold for farming and agriculture. Dr. Nehrling’s new home, “The Tropical Garden,” was one of the earliest plant collections in Florida. Nehrling’s guests included important figures in history such as Theodore Roosevelt, John Burroughs, David Fairchild, and even Thomas Edison. After Nehrling's death in 1929, Julius Fleischmann of Cincinnati, Ohio changed the vision of the Naples plot. After the doctor’s passing, the garden had grown out of control, with no one to take care of it as Dr. Nehrling had done. Fleischmann changed that, he cleared a trail through the gardens, nurtured old plants, and eventually brought the garden back to life. He additionally dug ponds and brought in several species of tropical birds. By 1954 the garden was ready to delight guests once again. Slowly the gardens grew into what we know today, along with the help of Nancy Jane Tetzlaff and Lawrence Tetzlaff - Jungle Larry of course.
Naples Zoo and Botanical Gardens is one of the most exotic and extravagant establishments in Naples, Florida. Along with day tickets, the zoo also offers memberships and Collier County Residents Benefits. When you purchase a membership pass, you do not need a reservation or day pass to visit. There are also varying levels to the memberships, each going up in perks and prices. Collier County Residents Benefits come with extra advantages such as price reduction and free zoo admission each month. Profits from the memberships and Collier County Residents Benefits go towards the care of the animals and organization that is Naples Zoo. In 2019 they celebrated 100 years of marvelous service and adventure, they have a breathtaking assortment of animals and plant life. As founder Dr. Nehrling said "My garden, containing about 3,000 species of tropical plants, is a constant source of intense pleasure and delight."
Official Website for Naples Zoo, Florida
3 Ultra High End Naples Communities Close to Naples Zoo
1. Bear's Paw
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2. Grey Oaks
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3. Park Shore
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Contributed by Paul Adams, Realtor - Downing Frye Realty, Inc.
