Ave Maria, FL

Ave Maria is a planned community located in Southwest Florida, in the United States. It was established in the early 2000s and is known for its strong ties to the Catholic Church. The history of Ave Maria is deeply intertwined with the vision of its founder, Tom Monaghan.

Tom Monaghan, a businessman and philanthropist, is best known as the founder of Domino's Pizza. In the late 1980s, he developed the idea of creating an ideal Catholic town. Monaghan envisioned a community that would foster a strong religious and academic environment, with a focus on traditional Catholic values.

In 2004, Monaghan acquired a large parcel of land in Collier County, Florida, to bring his vision to life. The area chosen for the community was predominantly rural and undeveloped. Monaghan named the town Ave Maria, after the Latin phrase meaning "Hail Mary," a traditional Catholic prayer.

The planning and development of Ave Maria began in earnest in 2005. Monaghan partnered with the Barron Collier Companies, a prominent Florida land developer, to bring his vision to fruition. The design of the community was influenced by the principles of new urbanism, with an emphasis on creating a pedestrian-friendly town center and incorporating green spaces.

Construction in Ave Maria started in 2006, and the first residents began moving in the following year. The town center, known as the Ave Maria Downtown, features a variety of amenities, including shops, restaurants, offices, and a university. Ave Maria University, a Catholic institution, moved from its previous location in Michigan to be at the heart of the community.

Over the years, Ave Maria has continued to evolve. The town has expanded its residential offerings, with various types of housing, ranging from single-family homes to condos and apartments. The community also includes schools, churches, parks, and recreational facilities.

Ave Maria has attracted both residents and visitors due to its religious identity and unique charm. The community has actively sought to maintain its Catholic traditions, organizing events such as the annual "Festival of Lights" to commemorate the Christmas season.

While Ave Maria faced some challenges during the economic downturn of the late 2000s, it has rebounded and continued to grow. Today, it boasts a population of over 11,000 residents and serves as a notable example of a planned Catholic community in the United States.

Ave Maria Oratory

A stunning Roman Catholic church that is the center of the Ave Maria community.

Ave Maria Water Park

A popular spot for families, featuring water slides, a lazy river, and a large pool.

Panther Run Golf Club

An 18-hole golf course designed by Gordon Lewis, offering beautiful views and challenging play.

Joe Nagy Nature Park

A peaceful nature preserve with walking trails, picnic areas, and a pond for fishing.

Oratory Park

A serene park with walking paths, benches, and beautiful landscaping, perfect for a relaxing stroll or picnic.

Ave Maria Town Center

A vibrant shopping and dining area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Ave Maria University

Visitors can explore the campus of this private Catholic university, attend sporting events, or explore the Hail Mary Chapel.

Del Webb Naples Clubhouse

Located within the larger Del Webb Naples community, it offers a fitness center, pool, and various amenities for active adults.

Ave Maria Children's Park

A playground with various play structures, swings, and slides for younger visitors.

Ecology Park

A serene green space with walking trails, native plants, and educational exhibits about the natural habitats in the area.

The climate of Ave Maria, FL can be described as a humid subtropical climate. It experiences hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters.

Summers in Ave Maria are typically hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-80s°F (around 30°C) to the low 90s°F (around 32-35°C). High levels of humidity can make it feel even hotter. Rainfall is relatively high during the summer months, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.

Winters in Ave Maria are generally mild and dry. Average temperatures range from the mid-60s°F (around 18°C) to the low 70s°F (around 21-24°C). However, occasional cold fronts can bring cooler temperatures for short periods. Rainfall is generally lower during the winter months.

Spring and fall in Ave Maria are transition periods, with pleasant temperatures ranging from the 70s°F (around 21-26°C) to the 80s°F (around 27-30°C). These seasons continue to have higher humidity levels and the possibility of afternoon showers.

Overall, Ave Maria, FL has a warm and humid climate throughout the year, with high temperatures and humidity in the summer and relatively mild winters. It is important to note that weather patterns can vary from year to year, so it is always advisable to check local forecasts for more accurate and up-to-date information.

Ave Maria, Florida is a planned community located in Collier County, southwest Florida. It was established in 2007 and has since become a popular destination for families, retirees, and students attending nearby Ave Maria University.

The town is divided into several neighborhoods, each offering its own unique characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the main neighborhoods in Ave Maria:

Hampton Village

This is the original neighborhood of Ave Maria and is located near the town center. It offers a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. Hampton Village features a central lake, walking trails, and a community pool.

Del Webb

Known as an active adult community within Ave Maria, Del Webb is designed for residents aged 55 and older. It offers a range of amenities such as a clubhouse, fitness center, swimming pools, golf course, and social clubs.

Coquina at Maple Ridge

Coquina is a neighborhood within the Maple Ridge community of Ave Maria. It offers a variety of single-family homes and townhouses, with beautiful lake views and a nearby water park.

Emerson Park

Emerson Park is a family-friendly neighborhood featuring single-family homes. It is located near the town center, schools, and has its own park with playgrounds and sports fields.

Maple Ridge

Maple Ridge is one of the larger neighborhoods in Ave Maria, offering a range of housing options including single-family homes and townhouses. It has its own clubhouse, swimming pool, fitness center, and walking trails.

Avalon Park

Avalon Park is a new neighborhood in Ave Maria, currently under development. It will feature a mix of residential, commercial, and retail spaces, creating a vibrant town center with a variety of amenities.

Each Ave Maria neighborhood is designed to promote a sense of community and provides residents with access to parks, recreational facilities, and social events. The town center, known as La Piazza, serves as the hub for dining, shopping, and community gatherings. Additionally, Ave Maria offers a range of educational institutions, including Ave Maria University and nearby public and private schools.