Written by The SWFL Home Group

A new era is unfolding at the Wonder Gardens, fueled by community support and a vision that puts nature, education, and heritage at the center. A recent $1.3 million grant will help make major headway in their master plan to “Renew the Wonder”

The beloved Wonder Gardens — one of Southwest Florida’s most nostalgic, nature-forward treasures — has been awarded $1.3 million in state funding to build a long-planned event center. The project is a cornerstone of the Wonder Gardens Master Plan, a vision designed to preserve its Old Florida soul while giving it the resources it needs for the future.

This isn’t just about constructing a new building. It’s about deepening the Gardens’ role as a community anchor, strengthening its educational impact, and ensuring it thrives for generations.

A Major Milestone in the Master Plan

The master plan outlines a thoughtful, long-term vision for the Wonder Gardens – including an event building, a canopy walk and treehouse, expanded animal-care facilities, upgraded exhibits, and new guest experiences.

The newly funded event center is set to be a climate-controlled, year-round space complete with a kitchen, restrooms, and a direct connection into an aviary. A deck will extend toward the Imperial River and Riverside Park, creating a seamless connection between nature, education, and community gathering.

Leadership at the Gardens has emphasized that, even with these modern enhancements, the Old Florida charm remains the priority. Every new structure and pathway is being designed to fit within the natural beauty that people already love.

Strengthening the Community, Not Just the Campus

This new center has several meaningful benefits:

• More robust educational programming – including field trips, summer camps, and hands-on conservation activities.

• A reliable weather-proof venue for workshops, events, weddings, and community gatherings.

• A more sustainable operating model that helps secure the Gardens’ future.

The Gardens’ partnership with the City of Bonita Springs also plays a huge role in this momentum. With a long-term operating agreement in place and a shared commitment to improving the property, both sides are aligned in preserving this historical landmark.

A Hopeful Chapter for Downtown Bonita Springs

At the same time, downtown Bonita Springs is going through its own thoughtful resurgence. Locally owned businesses, improved walkability, fresh cultural energy – all of it is breathing renewed life into the area.

So far, this revitalization doesn’t carry the tone of overdevelopment or loss of identity. It feels community-led and intentionally scaled. Wonder Gardens fits into that perfectly: a reminder that growth can deepen a city’s roots rather than erase them.

The Gardens remain a symbol of continuity, proof that Bonita Springs can honor its past while stepping confidently toward its future.

Looking Forward

The event center is just one of several master-plan components that will reshape the visitor experience:

• Future additions like the canopy walk, treehouse, and enhanced exhibits

• Upgraded animal habitats and care facilities

• Expanded orchid gardens and immersive natural spaces

All of it builds on what the Wonder Gardens already does so well – offering a peaceful, nature-rich space that invites people to slow down, learn, connect, and rediscover the beauty of Old Florida.

The Wonder Gardens isn’t just being refreshed, it’s being renewed with heart, purpose, and deep respect for its history. And in doing so, it’s helping shape a brighter, more connected future for all of downtown Bonita Springs.

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