With 82 years of history, the Everglades Wonder Gardens received historical designation from the Bonita Springs Historic Preservation Board on Tuesday, May 23, 2017.

The site opened in 1936, originally as the Everglades Reptile Garden, and has been a staple in downtown Bonita Springs ever since.

"Being declared a historic site adds extra requirements during renovations," according to an article by Thaddeus Mast of the Naples Daily News. "Changes made to a historic building in the city must avoid destruction of its cultural significance."

There are more than 35 alligators at the Wonder Gardens, as well as a flock of pink American flamingos, Mast reported. "Trees planted decades ago have grown tall, creating a small haven in downtown Bonita Springs," the article says.

For more information and a photo gallery of the plaque presentation, click here.

Information courtesy of NaplesNews.com.