In Bonita Springs, Florida, the Everglades Wonder Gardens is a historic 3.5-acre botanical jungle and wildlife sanctuary, established in 1936 by the Piper family as one of Southwest Florida’s first attractions. Located at 27180 Old 41 Road, it blends lush gardens with rescued animals, showcasing alligators, flamingos, otters, and parrots amid tropical flora like orchids and banyan trees. Unique features include guided tours, animal encounters, and a boardwalk through a cypress swamp, plus exhibits on Everglades ecosystems. Open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m., admission is $25 for adults, $20 for seniors, $12 for children 3-12, free under 3. Reviews average 4.5 stars, lauding the intimate setting, friendly staff, and conservation focus. For beach trips near Bonita Beach’s soft sands, the gardens offer a shaded, educational retreat—meet flamingos after morning swims or explore trails post-shelling. Its proximity to Barefoot Beach enhances nature-focused outings. As a nonprofit supporting wildlife rescue, it transforms coastal vacations into eco-adventures, blending relaxation with discovery in Florida’s subtropical paradise. (178 words)
