Things to Do in Cape Coral

Stingrays, dinosaurs, and faux hurricanes can all be found at the Imaginarium Science Center, which soaks spongy young brains in knowledge via hands-on exhibits and 3-D movies about the natural world. Families can observe moray eels and other marine life in the Window to the Sea aquarium, or reach out to gentle stingrays in an open tank. Several daily shows with live animals compete for attention with a dino dig where patrons learn how archeologists excavate fossilized bones using nothing but the power of their minds. Kids can emulate their favorite sports heroes in the Sporty Science Arena simulator, then imitate their favorite TV weather-reporting heroes as they witness a simulated hurricane.

Sprawling alongside the historic Caloosahatchee River, Riverbend Golf and River Club's 18-hole executive course pairs picture-perfect drives with equally impeccable surroundings. Winding waterways, native woodlands, and crisp river breezes follow players across the course's 212 acres, and overhead, eagles soar gracefully while muttering swing critiques under their breath. After rounds, groups can celebrate new low scores at the club's 19th hole, Marker 34, which caps off pleasant days on the links with quaint waterfront views and eats from an onsite restaurant.

Classical, opera, and popular orchestral compositions make up the repertoire of the Southwest Florida Symphony, which has made quality programming its mission since 1961. Aiming to make music accessible to all, the symphony visits schools, offers scholarships, books youth-friendly concerts, and provides a friendly First-Timer’s Guide for new audience members unfamiliar with the proper way of applauding.

The staff at Dlynne Designs helps patrons to create iridescent, eye-catching jewelry and keepsake items. The lesson calendar contains a variety of options and subjects, including a two-hour introductory course and private instruction. During the workshops, blossoming artisans learn techniques for cutting and fusing glass, skills useful for creating colorful works of art or combining glass eyes into larger, unusable glass eyes. Experienced teachers show pupils how to make pendants and jewelry in small-group or private-party settings, both of which allow students to bond with one another.

The Alliance for the Arts' concerts, exhibitions, and art classes have become a staple for the aesthetically inclined since the institution's founding in 1975. The center’s three art galleries elicit awe with ongoing exhibits, and its educational programs inspire students to express their feelings through painting and drawing. The Alliance’s schedule of events keeps fans of the performing arts intrigued with plentiful music festivals and dance recitals.

With over 150 locations nationwide, Pump It Up’s play centers entertain kids with inflatable slides they can glide down, obstacle courses to navigate, and bounce houses capable of dislodging a slimy jawbreaker from a child’s slimy grip. For birthday parties at the venue, groups can rent private party rooms, and opt for festive themes such as superheroes or pirates. While children learn the limits of gravity, parents can surf the internet.