History

This story begins with the Reptile Gardens, founded by brothers Bill and Lester Piper in 1936 on the Tamiami Trail between Tampa and Miami. With increasing visitors, wildlife, and botanical attractions, the brothers renamed the property the Everglades Wonder Gardens, the name it retains to this day. After three generations of Pipers running the Gardens, the family sought a new owner in 2013. A local family decided to lease the Gardens and manage them as a not-for-profit organization, Bonita Wonder Gardens Inc. This organization has enhanced the beauty of the Gardens with new attractions and educational programs for the enjoyment of future generations of guests. The Wonder Gardens hasa beautiful array of native and non-native plants, rescued and nonreleasable birds and reptiles, and a ton of "old Florida" charm.

For your event we offer 3 unique sites.
for larger events we have a rustic open air pavilion, or a spacious lawn favored by the butterflies and peacocks. For up to 24 guests seated at tables, or up to 80 chairs for a ceremony, we offer a lovely French iron and glass conservatory Tea House.
You will discover many other sites tucked amid the animal and botanical displays for serving stations and gathering places.

Location

The Gardens is located in downtown Bonita Springs and is about a half-hour drive from both Fort Myers and Naples in Florida. Southwest Florida International Airport is about a 20-minute drive away, allowing visitors from out-of-state and abroad to reach your gathering. In Bonita Springs, you have local amenities and can readily reach other attractions in Southwest Florida.

Inquiries

Please visit our website under the "Plan Your Event" tab where you can fill out our Event Inquiry Form. We will check the availability of the date you are requesting and get back to you via email with more information.

We look forward to hearing from you!