The Wonder Gardens inspires conservation and resiliency by providing transformative experiences of wonder in the natural world, via meaningful educational programs for people of all ages and by meeting the highest standards of care for our resident animals.
In 1936, the Piper family established The Reptile Gardens as a roadside attraction along the newly built Tamiami Trail from Tampa to Miami. As the animal and botanical exhibits grew, the attraction’s name was changed to The Wonder Gardens to appeal to visitors. The Wonder Gardens captured the nostalgia, history and wonder of old Florida, augmented with tropical flora and fauna from around the world. For eighty-five years the Everglades Wonder Gardens has inspired, educated, and engaged our community and visitors with a one-of-a-kind experience.
In April of 2013 the Piper’s closed the Wonder Gardens and local photographer and conservationist, John Brady took over the property as a tenant and reopened the park.  With the help of Ellie Krier, they started the formation of the non-profit 501(c)(3), Bonita Wonder Gardens.  The founding board members were, Ray Carrol President, Scott Klabunde board member and John Brady, and soon after, Dennis Gilkey, Trish Leonard, Jacke McCurdy, and Marjory Rubacky.
In July of 2015 the City of Bonita Springs recognized the economic, cultural and historic value of this zoological and botanical attraction, and made a loan, enabling the nonprofit to purchase the 3-acre property.

Tickets Expire 4/30/2026