Wonder Gardens Celebrates 90th Anniversary With $10M Modernization & Rising Attendance

Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs experienced a 114% surge in October visitors. This happened after the zoo opened its new Otter Grotto exhibit. Two otters named Mae and Ivy arrived from Ohio. The nonprofit zoo and botanical garden welcomed 4,503 guests last October, compared to 2,100 during the same month in 2024.

"It really came out fantastic," said Neil Anderson, president and CEO of the attraction, according to Gulf Shore Business. "We couldn't ask for a better pair of otters."

The zoo opened its doors in 1936. Now it enters its 90th season. This Old U.S. 41 roadside attraction draws 70,000 to 80,000 visitors each year. Anderson said the zoo has bounced back from Hurricane Ian in 2022.

"There is quite a bit more early-season traffic than there has been the last couple of years," Anderson said. "It feels like we've finally recovered from Ian."

The otter exhibit is one piece of a master plan. That plan calls for $10 million in improvements before the 100th anniversary. Anderson told the Bonita Springs City Council at its Dec. 17 meeting that the effort is gaining momentum. New and longtime donors have stepped up. The property spans about 3 acres and is leased from the city.

"I think you've brought the Wonder Gardens to a point where the community is committed, and they're speaking up with visitation and also with their wallets," said council member Jim Fitzpatrick.

Workers have started building an event center and aviary. State appropriations provided $1.3 million for the project on the property's southwest corner. The building will have a wraparound outdoor deck with room for at least 100 guests. A 20-by-40-foot chickee hut sponsored by the Rotary Club of Bonita Springs will create an open-air spot for up to 150 people.

Plans also include a two-story, 5,000-square-foot animal care center. Offices and conference rooms will occupy the upper floor. An expanded orchid plaza and patio will add more gathering areas. Habitat upgrades are planned for kinkajous, tortoises, flamingos, sloths, and other animals.

Night of Wonder, a 90th birthday party and fundraiser, is scheduled for 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31. The event will feature local restaurants, live entertainment, animal encounters, a Fund the Future paddle raise, a mystery auction, and a wine pull. A Family Fun Day is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 1. Activities include hands-on games, entertainment, vendors, animal interactions, food, and refreshments.

General admission costs $17 for ages 13 to 64. Discounts are available for children, seniors, veterans, first responders, and teachers. Tickets and information are available at wondergardens.org/90th-celebration.