What is the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples?

Founded in 2002, the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (CMON) stands as a brain-building powerhouse and Southwest Florida’s first museum devoted to children and families. This safe and wonderful place aims to inspire children and families to have fun while learning together. With its two-story, 38,000-square-foot institution filled with interactive exhibits, classrooms, and more, CMON is a treasure trove for knowledge and exploration. 

Developed by experts in child psychology, the Golisano Children’s Museum exhibits and activities promote creativity, curiosity, empathy, and self-esteem among its young visitors, making it one of the top things to do in Naples with kids.

Exhibits

The Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples offers numerous engaging exhibits that captivate young minds. One of the popular highlights is the treetop Adopt-A-Pet veterinary clinic, where children get a taste of career exploration. They learn how to take care of their furry friends using imaginative play props such as stethoscopes, doctors’ coats, and even an X-ray machine. Another iconic feature of CMON is the Banyan Tree. Positioned centrally within the museum, this massive structure ensures that every visitor spends some time near, in, or up the tree. It’s comfortable seating built into the trunk provides a perfect spot for relaxation, while children can crawl from one level to another inside the tree, reaching its very top.

The Beach exhibit allows children to embark on an imaginary boat trip into the Gulf of Mexico, fish from the Naples Pier, or explore a Shark Eye Shell. It’s an exciting way for kids to learn about marine life and coastal activities. In Mother Nature’s House, children experience the Earth’s rhythms and changing seasons interactively. With geese flying overhead and an ice wall inside the igloo, this exhibit makes the abstract concept of seasonal changes understandable and enjoyable for young minds. These are just four of the many and ever-expanding exhibits at the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, all promising a rich educational experience.

Educational Opportunities

CMON is not just about fun; it places significant emphasis on education, offering programs specifically designed to help prepare children for Kindergarten. The MEGA Wonders program is a 90-minute drop-off, kids-only class that employs a hands-on approach to learning through play. This program caters to children aged 4, 5, and 6, laying a strong educational foundation. Another great program is Mini Wonders, a 60-minute class with new themes each week. This program guides children aged 3, 4, and 5 through essential skills that enable the transition from PreK or home-based learning to a formal kindergarten classroom. These offerings show CMON’s dedication to being more than just a play area, positioning it among the best museums in Naples, Florida.

Camps

Camp at CMON is another hallmark, promoting discovery and experiential learning through daily STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) activities. These camps ignite a child’s curiosity and develop a lifelong love of learning. Campers engage in creative activities, exploring artistic endeavors, testing scientific skills, and making new friends. They also get ample time to explore the museum. Available during Spring Break and summer, these camps are a wonderful option for keeping kids engaged and stimulated when school is out.

Location

You can find the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples at 15080 Livingston Rd, Naples, FL 34109. This central location makes it conveniently accessible for both locals and tourists, adding it to your essential list of things to do in Naples, Florida with kids.

Where To Stay in Naples, Florida

When planning a visit to the museum, finding the perfect accommodations is easy with the wide selection of Naples, Florida, rentals offered by William Raveis Rentals. We offer a variety of Naples rentals and Naples condo rentals that cater to families looking for comfortable, convenient places to stay. Choosing one of our Naples vacation rentals promises the perfect blend of home comfort and proximity to local attractions, ensuring a memorable experience. At Raveis Rentals, we’re happy to help you find the ideal holiday rental to make your stay in Naples enjoyable. Whether you’re in town for the museum or to explore other things to do in Naples with kids, our properties offer the convenience and comfort you need for a stress-free getaway. Secure your spot with William Raveis Rentals today and be one step closer to experiencing the wonders of the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples!