90 Years of Wonder: A Community Comes Together

For one unforgettable weekend, the Wonder Gardens did more than mark a milestone— it reminded Southwest Florida why this beloved landmark has endured for nine decades, while hundreds of Florida’s historic attractions have faded, and why its future matters now more than ever. The 90th anniversary celebration brought together generations of supporters, families, civic leaders, and first-time visitors.

Founded in 1936, the Wonder Gardens has long been a place where Old Florida charm meets hands-on wildlife education. This anniversary weekend honored that legacy while casting a clear vision forward. Across two thoughtfully designed events — the elegant Night of Wonder and the joyful Family Fun Day — guests experienced the sanctuary not only as it has been, but as it is becoming. The Wonder Gardens. While preserving the very best of The Wonder Gardens, the charitable organization cares for its resident animals, upgrading wildlife enclosures, growing the botanical beauty of the property, adding education programs and events, and further engaging the community to enjoy this jewel in historic Downtown Bonita Springs.

The Wonder Gardens’ staff, Board leadership, and the City of Bonita Springs have unveiled a bold new vision to guide the organization over the next three years. With a clear, sustainable direction for the future, the master plan brings their vision to life, outlining a “roadmap” for continued growth and improvement. This public/private partnership gives the organization the stability and flexibility needed to address changing needs and circumstances. This is important because aging facilities and infrastructure combined with a desire to become an accredited zoo and maintain high standards of animal care and welfare, horticultural quality, education, and guest experiences have made it clear that physical improvements are needed.

Saturday evening’s Night of Wonder transformed the gardens into an immersive after-hours experience, inviting guests to stroll illuminated pathways surrounded by rescued wildlife, live music, and culinary tastings from some of the region’s most popular local restaurants. From intimate animal encounters to a lively mystery auction and wine pull, the evening balanced sophistication with the sense of curiosity and discovery that has defined the Wonder Gardens for generations.

The celebration continued Sunday with Family Fun Day, a vibrant, all-ages gathering designed to spark wonder in the next generation. Families explored hands-on activities, enjoyed live entertainment, met animal ambassadors, and connected with local vendors and partners throughout the gardens. Children laughed, learned, and asked questions — a living illustration of the Wonder Gardens’ mission in action.

The success of the 90th anniversary also underscored the strength of the partnerships that make the Wonder Gardens possible. From generous sponsors and in-kind supporters to restaurant partners, entertainers, media outlets, and volunteers, the event showcased what can happen when a community rallies around a shared legacy. Their collective support helped advance the organization’s broader Renew the Wonder vision — a comprehensive master plan focused on habitat improvements, expanded educational programming, and long-term sustainability.

As the Wonder Gardens looks beyond its 90th year, the momentum from this celebration carries forward. The funds raised and relationships strengthened during the weekend will directly support the care of animals, preservation of the historic grounds, and delivery of educational experiences that inspire curiosity and compassion.

Ninety years in, the Wonder Gardens is not simply celebrating its history. Ever mindful of our role in the community and our place in the story of Southwest Florida, the Wonder Gardens seeks to honor that legacy while building a thriving and impactful future. Over the next 10 years, The Wonder Gardens will be continually revitalized and enhanced, preserving its historic charm while embracing modern innovations to provide an enriching experience for visitors and ensuring the wellbeing of its resident animals. This will require generous charitable investments from throughout Southwest Florida. These gifts will be cultivated and solicited through the “Renewing the Wonder” Capital Campaign. It is renewing its mission, welcoming new generations, and ensuring that the sense of wonder it has inspired since 1936 will continue for decades to come.