Downtown Naples

Well-known as the prime center for both tourists and local residents of the Florida gulf coast, Downtown Naples is home to a wide variety of restaurants, hotels, antique and other shops, galleries, and a number of other inviting destinations.

Restaurants in Downtown Naples

Discerning diners will find a number of fine restaurants, of which Ristorante Ciao is one of the leaders. With it's quaint but upscale atmosphere, impressive selection of fine wines, and talents of chef Gianfranco Loreti, Ristorante Ciao is one of the undisputed highlights of Downtown Naples

History buffs have plenty to be excited about in this long-established area. Among the attractions are the several tours available. Included are:

Historic Palm Cottage Tour
Sitting at the intersection of Gulfshore Boulevard and 12th Avenue South, this outstanding example of old Naples charm is preserved by the Naples Historical Society. First built at the end of the 19th century (1895), it is a prime sample of the Tabbie Mortar style of construction, featuring water, shells, and sand.

Historic Naples Walking Tours
Also offered by the Naples Historical Society is this beautiful walk along a path that takes you buy the site of the original general store, gas station, and movie theater. The walk leads you through neighborhoods once populated by families like the DuPonts and the Haldemans (founders of the city of Naples).

Shopping

Among the featured shopping areas in the district are the Village on Venetian Bay (one of the premiere open-air malls on the Gulf coast, the Waterside Shops just off the Tamiami Trail (an open-air, upscale shopping center with something for almost everyone), and the historic Tin City, with it's antiques and local made crafts and gifts.

But don't miss the melting pot of more than a hundred various vendors at the Big Cypress Market Place, where you can see items from many different locations and cultures.

Theater

Patrons of the arts will be delighted by the Naples Players, appearing regularly at The Sugden Community Theatre. Currently approaching it's 60th season, this lovely venue has hosted a plethora of productions, from the life of Patsy Cline to an updated version of "Through the Looking Glass" by Lewis Carroll, titled "Wonderland!"

Sports

Each year, Naples plays host to The Oliver Group Champions Cup of the Outback Champions Tennis Series, and is also famous for its swamp buggy races, held at the Florida Sports Park three times a year.

For more info about booking trips and activities, contact Key West Florida - online travel guide to the island of Key West.