Ave Maria

The growing community of Ave Maria is home to Ave Maria University, a parochial school, a town center with a variety of dining opportunities, convenient shopping, a water park, a golf course and other recreational facilities.

The newest community in Collier County, Ave Maria is conveniently located east of Interstate 75. The town and university were founded in 2005 by Tom Monaghan, also the founder of Domino's Pizza and chancellor of the university. The award-winning Roman Catholic oratory at Ave Maria University is based on Frank Lloyd Wright's work. One of the oratory's most distinctive characteristics is its steel structure, much of which is exposed internally and externally. The community is also home to adventure outfitters such as Orange Jeep Tours. 

Signature events in Ave Maria include the Holiday Celebration of Lights and the Sunshine State Steak Cook-Off.