Third Street South is a delightful experience in the heart of Old Naples. With the laidback social atmosphere of an old town center, the street runs parallel to the beach and extends from below 12th Avenue South and Naples Pier northwards past Fifth Avenue South.
Photo credit Nita Ettinger
The historic ambiance and friendly neighborhood feel of Third Street South is quite authentic as it was developed by early settlers in the late 19th century. It provided the community with a range of essential stores, businesses and services such as the Naples Hotel and the Seminole Market with the Western Union Office above. Nowadays the shell road may be gone but many of the original structures remain, housing businesses, shops, and restaurants that still serve the needs of this upscale community. It’s the perfect street for strolling, window-shopping, dining, and people-watching!
Community Events on Third Street South in Naples
All the usual holidays and festivals are remembered and celebrated on this historic street. You’ll find lively parties with hats, party favors and fun-for-all on New Year’s Eve and the Fourth of July – and the fireworks are just two blocks over on Naples Pier. You’ll know when it’s Christmas as the shops and sidewalks are decorated with twinkling lights and seasonal decorations and they even arrange real snow flurries!
Photo credit Nita Ettinger
Fashion shows, jewelry exhibitions, gallery open days, wine tastings, garden tours, pets’ days and special exhibitions keep the Third Street Concierge Kiosk busy. Located opposite the Fleishmann Fountain, this is the place to stop and find out about up-and-coming local events. They even provide a package-held service so when those bags get a little heavy you can deposit them with the concierge, freeing up your hands for more browsing and shopping!
Photo credit Nita Ettinger
Every Saturday morning there’s the Third Street Farmer’s Market, just behind Tommy Bahamas.
Photo credit Debi Pittman Wilkey
Shopping on Third
Amidst the landmark courtyards, fountains and flower tubs you’ll discover select boutiques brimming with Florida fashions, menswear stores and great shops for finding unusual purses, tasteful bags, jewelry and unusual gifts.
Photo credit Debi Pittman Wilkey
Art galleries entice you to look around while antique stores and home accent shops vie for your attention. On a more practical note, you’ll find salons and spas, realtors and lawyers all running established businesses in this heart of Old Naples.
Photo credit Debi Pittman Wilkey
Third Street South in Naples, Florida is just as well known for its gardens as it is for its shops and restaurants. Tended by a dedicated horticulturist, Third Street South displays colorful blooms and hanging baskets in every season.
Dining Out Third Street South Style!
Photo credit Nita Ettinger
Award-winning restaurants and casual eateries can be found scattered along Third Street South offering international cuisine. Whether you like baby back ribs from Old Naples Pub or Tuscan specialties from Barbatella, you will be spoiled for choice. It’s the sort of place to enjoy dinner in one place then move on to an outdoor bar or coffee shop such as Tony’s Off Third to enjoy specialty pastries for dessert!
