Plan Your Weekend Around an FC Naples Home Game

There’s no better excuse to plan a weekend getaway to Florida’s Paradise Coast than an FC Naples home game. With the match at the center of your visit, you’ll also have time to enjoy 30 miles of white-sand beaches, exciting family-friendly attractions and museums, and fresh-from-the-Gulf seafood—all within 30 minutes of the stadium. Here’s how to make the most of a family sports weekend in Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades.

Day One: Kick Off Your Weekend in Paradise

Welcome to Florida’s Paradise Coast! Whether you’re driving to the area or flying into Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), it’s easy to see why this destination draws visitors throughout the year. And with FC Naples now in the mix, there’s a whole new reason to start planning your visit.

Great Wolf Lodge - South Florida is your most convenient option for staying close to the stadium, and it’s a favorite among families traveling with kids. Just steps from the Paradise Coast Sports Complex, this family-friendly resort features an indoor waterpark, a ropes course, bowling, and plenty of other ways to keep the little ones entertained.

Other popular places to stay nearby (especially if you’re looking to be on the beach) include the Naples Grande Beach Resort, LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort, or The Ritz-Carlton, Naples. Alternatively, for those who prefer the heart of downtown Naples, the Inn on Fifth or The Escalante offer prime locations for shopping and dining on 5th Avenue South.

After settling in, consider crossing an item off your Paradise Coast bucket list. For example, families might enjoy a trip to the Naples Zoo, while plant lovers can find peace and color at the Naples Botanical Garden. And, of course, the Children’s Museum of Naples is also an excellent option for hands-on activities.

For dinner, head to 5th Avenue South, where local restaurants range from upscale seafood to casual sidewalk cafés. Discover rustic Italian fare at Osteria Tulia, fresh seafood at Sea Salt, and elegant European classics at The French.

Day Two: Game Day with FC Naples

Spend your morning sunbathing at one of the area’s scenic beaches. If you're staying near downtown, consider Naples Beach or Lowdermilk Park for their convenient access. To get a better sense of which coastal spot best suits your preferences, check out this comprehensive guide to local beaches.

After a few hours by the Gulf, recharge with lunch from local favorites like Jane’s Garden Café on 3rd or grab picnic fare from Food & Thought before heading to the stadium. By 5:00 p.m., fans begin gathering at The Cove and the Great Lawn outside the Paradise Coast Sports Complex.

The complex also features walking trails and sand volleyball courts, providing visitors with plenty of ways to stay active and enjoy the surroundings before kickoff. And for the official pregame party, you can expect food trucks, family-friendly games, face painting, and live music. Many attendees wear team gear and wave flags in the official team color: deep water blue!

As 6:00 p.m. approaches, the stadium gates open and ticket holders begin taking their seats. Options range from sideline seating to the supporter section and even pitch-side seating. Those looking for a social setting may opt for the Seminole Casino Hotel Beer Garden, which lines the east side of the stadium.

FC Naples takes the field just after 7:00 p.m., typically following a flag presentation and performance of the national anthem. The team competes in USL League One, the United Soccer League’s third division, created to bring professional soccer to mid-sized markets across the country. They play against clubs such as AV Alta FC, Spokane Velocity FC, Texoma FC, and Greenville Triumph SC.

The supporters section, known as La Barra 239, keeps spirits high with rhythmic chants and percussion throughout the match. First-time visitors often find themselves swept up in the energy and cheering alongside longtime fans.

After the final whistle, many players remain to thank fans, pose for photos, and sign autographs. You can keep the evening going by returning to The Cove or relaxing with a drink at the Beer Garden, where live entertainment often continues post-match.

Day Three: Explore Beyond the Game

Use your final morning to explore more fun things to do near FC Naples before heading home. For an interactive start to your day, stop by the Children’s Museum of Naples (C'MON) or browse the rotating exhibits at Artis–Naples, The Baker Museum.

If you're looking to fit in one last outdoor experience, consider kayaking through the mangroves at Rookery Bay or spotting wildlife along the boardwalk at Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. Those more interested in shopping and local eats can swing by Tin City, a fun waterfront marketplace filled with artisan shops and casual dining.

Whether it’s your first professional soccer match or you're showing up in full face paint, catching an FC Naples home game is a great way to experience Florida’s Paradise Coast. The action on the field, the cheers from the crowd, and the community-wide enthusiasm create a matchday experience that's easy to get into, no matter your age or soccer knowledge. And if you’re already planning to return, don’t forget to check out the FC Naples schedule and grab your tickets for the next match.

To make the most of a weekend filled with great food, Gulf views, and a stadium full of heart, ONLY Paradise will do.