In search of all the most effective points of interest within the Metropolis of Palms? Our information to all the most effective issues to do in Fort Myers is all you want!
Infamous for its distinctive tropical local weather, impeccable array of out of doors leisure actions, and lengthy stretches of sandy seashores, Fort Myers, Florida, is a shocking journey vacation spot within the USA!
Referred to as the “Metropolis of Palms,” Fort Myers is famend for its historical past, fishing, tropical ecosystems, seafood, and a lot extra.
A visit to the waters of Fort Myers ensures a sighting of the lovely sea cow – manatees!
The endangered Florida manatee migrates to Fort Myers seasonally, so timing your go to to the realm is essential if you wish to see these lazy sea cows graze on seagrass as you paddleboard or kayak throughout the water.
The town additionally welcomes historical past buffs from throughout. At one level, well-known icons and innovators Thomas Edison and Henry Ford referred to as Fort Myers dwelling. And the town was additionally the bottom for the American Military within the 1800s in the course of the Seminole Indian Wars.
A visit to this beautiful Florida vacation spot is one you’ll always remember, stuffed with sandy actions, intriguing historical past, fascinating plant and animal species, and extra!
Take a look at our full information to the most effective issues to do in Florida if you need extra concepts for the Sunshine State!
The Greatest Issues to Do in Fort Myers, Florida
Our record of the most effective issues to do in Fort Myers saves you time and vitality scouring the web by compiling the most effective vacationer points of interest you don’t wish to miss out on.
From searching for manatees in Manatee Park, to biking or strolling below the enduring Florida palm timber, there may be an abundance of enjoyable awaiting you on Florida’s Gulf Coast!
1) Hit The Sand & The Water At Fort Myers Seaside
Round a 20-minute drive from the town heart, Fort Myers Seaside is a giant draw for vacationers.
It’s a seamless addition to our record of the most effective issues to do in Fort Myers due to its appreciable affect and tropical attraction for a lot of wishing to sink their toes within the sand and expertise a coastal seaside city.
Situated on Estero Island, a small barrier island, Fort Myers Seaside is legendary for its white sugar sands, impeccable sunsets, beachside eating places, and tropical temperatures. Tackle a world of water sports activities, from kayaking and paddleboarding to parasailing and boating.
This guided tour takes you kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding journey with a neighborhood information. In your journey, you possibly can pick West Indian manatees as they graze, dolphins as they play, and extra fascinating creatures within the waters, akin to sea turtles and crabs.
2) Witness The Transformation Of Butterflies At The Butterfly Estates
House to the Florida Native Butterfly Society Conservatory, the serenity of the Butterfly Estates is settled in Gardner’s Park within the downtown Fort Myers River District.
The Butterfly Estates embrace a butterfly conservatory, outlets, and a restaurant, all of that are “inexperienced pleasant.” The butterfly conservatory is among the finest issues to do in Fort Myers, that includes tropical nectar gardens, trickling waterfalls, and quite a few species of butterflies fluttering about.
The Florida Native Butterfly Society Conservatory’s mission is to guard and lift native Florida butterfly species whereas educating others on the significance of conserving these species.
- Handle: 1815 Fowler St, Fort Myers, FL 33901, United States
- Hours: 10 am – 3 pm (Closed Mondays)
- Value: $10
3) Expertise Famend Performances At The Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Corridor
Lower than twenty minutes from Fort Myers, the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Corridor presents symphonies, musicals, and different entertaining occasions on the Florida Southwestern State School campus.
The performing arts corridor was named after Barbara B. Mann, who labored as President of the Neighborhood Concert events Affiliation for greater than 40 years and was an avid member of the Lee County group.
The Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Corridor is the most important proscenium stage in Southwest Florida, that includes Nationwide Touring Broadway musicals and different famend performances.
- Handle: 13350 FSW Pkwy, Fort Myers, FL 33919, United States
Touring additional up the coast? Take a look at our guides to Tampa and Sarasota, two gems of Florida’s west coast.
4) Destress In Nature At The Matanzas Go Protect
Situated in Fort Myers Seaside alongside the Nice Calusa Blueway Paddling Path, the Matanzas Go Protect protects the unspoiled, affluent land of mangroves and the ecosystem for native plant and animal life.
Inside the protect, 4 native plant communities make up the land, together with coastal grassland, maritime hammock, black mangrove forest, and tidal swamp.
A stroll by the Matanzas Go Protect permits guests to see totally different native plant species of those ecosystems, from the Jamaican Caper and the Florida Mayten to the Cat Claw and Wild Cotton.
An ethnobotanist leads guided excursions by the protect for an academic expertise to be taught extra concerning the species that decision Matanzas Go Protect dwelling. For a lot of, merely strolling by the Matanzas Go Protect is the last word destresser away from the hustle and bustle of life!
5) Discover The Brick-Paved Streets Of The Historic Fort Myers River District
The principle portion of downtown, the Fort Myers River District, affords an enthralling historic attraction with a horde of riverside points of interest to discover.
The River District is by far probably the greatest issues to do in Fort Myers, its brick-paved streets teeming with hopping bars, boutique outlets, energetic nightlife, and noteworthy eating places.
The district holds probably the most important quantity of historic constructions in Southwest Florida, a lot of which have been established within the early 1900s.
Strolling excursions wind by magnificent constructions of Beaux Arts Neoclassical structure and different factors of curiosity to be taught concerning the influences and influential figures that helped set up the town.
Time your go to to Fort Myers proper to expertise the exuberant occasions within the River District, from block events and trend reveals to Artwork Walks and the Automobile Cruise-In automotive present!
6) Catch A Ballgame At The JetBlue Park
JetBlue Park, a baseball park typically referred to as the “Fenway South” coaching and growth facility, obtained a lot of its traits impressed by the legendary Fenway Park in Boston. For the Boston Crimson Sox spring coaching, the Main Baseball League workforce heads to JetBlue Park.
In case you’re within the space in March, you possibly can watch the Crimson Sox in motion as they practice and scrimmage within the spring. Followers of the Crimson Sox can peer at a reproduction of the Inexperienced Monster and see an old-school guide scoreboard up shut and private.
About 5 miles west of the baseball park within the CenturyLink Sports activities Advanced is the Hammond Stadium, the spring coaching dwelling to the Minnesota Twins.
Through the official season, Hammond Stadium is dwelling to the minor league associates of the MLB workforce, the Gulf Coast League Twins, and the Fort Myers Miracle.
- Handle: 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33913, United States
- Hours/Value: Go to the web site for more information about tickets!
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7) Bask In The Sundown At Fort Myers Seaside Pier
Stretching throughout the sand of Fort Myers Seaside and into the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the Fort Myers Seaside Pier is a spectacular spot to benefit from the tropical surroundings, solid a line, and take pictures to recollect the holiday by!
A hub spot for exercise, locals and vacationers journey to the pier to observe the dolphins soar by the water and bask within the breathtaking sunsets and sunrises.
Head on over to the pier to vibe to stay music with locals and fellow vacationers, the scent of salt on the breeze and the crash of waves radiating the proper ambiance of paradise.
For all of the anglers, the bait, snack, and present store on the pier is open, so you possibly can take a look at your luck at catching native catches like Spanish mackerel, cobia, noticed sea trout, and redfish.
Or take your sundown to the subsequent stage by becoming a member of a ship tour by the canals and mangroves of the realm!
- Handle: 10 Outdated San Carlos Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33931, United States
- Hours: 9 am – 9 pm
8) Study About Iconic Innovators At The Edison Ford Winter Estates
A botanical backyard and historic museum, the Edison & Ford Winter Estates date again to 1885. When Thomas Edison visited Southwest Florida, he constructed the estates as his trip dwelling, the place Edison additionally constructed a laboratory.
The property would quickly develop into referred to as the Seminole Lodge, the place Edison and his household would swim, boat, shell, and the place, in accordance with Edison, the most effective tarpon fishing on the planet was discovered.
Many well-known names, together with Herbert Hoover and Henry Ford, visited Edison’s estates. Ford fell in love with the realm, buying the property subsequent to Edison’s to determine The Mangoes, Ford’s bungalow property.
Guests to the Edison & Ford Winter Estates can take within the properties of historic innovators and figures – the creator of the {photograph} and electrical mild bulb, Thomas Edison, and the pioneer of the American car, Henry Ford.
- Handle: 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33901, United States
- Hours: 9 am – 5:30 pm
- Value: $25
9) Spend A Household Day Paddleboarding or Biking At Lakes Regional Park
Opened in 1984, Lakes Regional Park was named after its scenic freshwater lakes. It’s typically referred to as Lakes Park for brief. There are quite a few common outside actions to take part in at Lakes Regional Park that you just don’t wish to miss out on!
Over 1,000 birds make Lakes Regional Park their dwelling throughout nesting season, so should you like birdwatching, you possibly can catch glimpses of black-crowned night time herons, scarlet ibis, and different intriguing species at this park.
For these seeking to keep lively on their trip, at Lakes Regional Park, take a look at the paddleboard and bike leases so you possibly can construct up an urge for food by burning energy out within the nice outdoor of Florida.
Lakes Park is family-friendly, that includes a mountain climbing wall, splash park, playground, and a Practice Village with a miniature railroad. The miniature railroad takes passengers on a 1.5-mile journey across the lake and thru a tunnel to bask within the sights.
10) Quench Your Thirst At Fort Myers Brewing Firm
Boasting the most effective brews on the town, the Fort Myers Brewing Firm serves native beer and nice vibes.
As the primary microbrewery to open its doorways in Lee County, this brewing firm has labored laborious to determine itself. It’s reputed for its household and pet-friendly ambiance, stay music, meals vehicles, and incredible brews.
Guests are inspired to participate in guided excursions to be taught concerning the course of of constructing beer. The tasting room is open for making an attempt out the totally different crafts and varieties made at Fort Myers Brewing Firm, with outside seating obtainable.
- Handle: 12811 Commerce Lakes Dr #28, Fort Myers, FL 33913, United States
- Hours: 12 pm – 10 pm Tuesday – Thursday, 12 pm – 11 pm Friday & Saturday, 12 pm – 8 pm Sunday & Monday
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11) Go Chicken Watching Or Mountaineering In Six Mile Cypress Slough Protect
A wetland protect defending the native ecosystem, the Six Mile Cypress Slough Protect’s cypress filters rainwater that heads towards Estero Bay.
Many species name the protect dwelling, together with alligators, otters, and quite a few migrating birds. The protect is among the stops alongside the Nice Florida Birding Path, so it’s a wonderful place for bird-watching!
On the Six Mile Cypress Slough Protect boardwalk path, guests can see the native and migratory plant and animal species in individual and study them extra on the protect’s Interpretive Heart.
The middle options interactive displays the place all ages are welcome to be taught extra concerning the significance of the cypress timber, the wetland ecosystem, and the species that decision it dwelling.
- Handle: 7751 Penzance Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33966, United States
- Hours: 10 am – 4 pm (Closed Mondays)
- Value: parking is $1 per hour or $5 for the day
12) Soak In The Solar & Historical past On Estero Island
Bordered by San Carlos Island and Large Carlos Go, Estero Island was as soon as a famend citrus institution. In the present day, Estero Island is the house of Florida Gulf Coast College, Mound Key Archaeological State Park, and different high issues to do in Fort Myers.
Estero Island could also be a scorching vacationer spot for its tropical vibes and Fort Myers Seaside, however it is usually stuffed with historical past.
For instance, the island was the middle of a non secular group that disbanded within the Nineteen Sixties, which might be realized about extra on the Koreshan State Historic Website, which is on the Nationwide Register of Historic Websites.
One other historic focal point on Estero Island is the Mound Key Archaeological State Park, which expands over 100 acres of the island.
The park preserves the ruins, together with giant ceremonial mounds, of the Native American Calusa individuals and remnants of Spanish explorers of hundred years earlier than.
13) Discover The Land & Waters Of Lovers Key State Park
Settled on 4 barrier islands, together with Lover’s Key, Black Island, Internal Key, and Lengthy Key, Lovers Key State Park is now a famend tropical getaway and web site for beachside weddings.
The park preserves and protects the mangrove forests and lengthy stretches of sandy seaside of the barrier islands to seize its wild and majestic essence for guests and locals to take pleasure in far into the longer term.
Lovers Key State Park guests are welcome to journey the lagoons and canals the place manatees graze, dolphins play, and turtles swim by kayak, boat, paddleboard, or alongside the seaside.
On Black Island, quite a few trails are open for jogging, mountain climbing, biking, or boating throughout the Gulf of Mexico and Estero Bay in Lover’s Key State Park.
- Handle: 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Seaside, FL 33931, United States
- Hours: 8 am – 6 pm
- Value: $8 per car
14) Hike & Picnic At Bowditch Level Park
A scenic nature protect and recreation web site, Bowditch Level Park is one other probably the greatest South Florida parks. Vacationers and locals each come right here for its gorgeous bayside viewpoints, swimming seaside, and mountain climbing trails.
About seven acres of the park are developed and designated for leisure functions, whereas the opposite ten acres are untouched protect websites.
You may take pleasure in nature right here in varied methods, from basking within the thriving pure ecosystems throughout the protect’s trails to grilling out below the shaded picnic areas.
Birding on the paths at Bowditch Level Park is extremely common, with free guided walks supplied seasonally to be taught extra concerning the native ecosystem and species that decision it dwelling.
- Handle: 50 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Seaside, FL 33931, United States
Heading to the east coast? Take a look at our record of the highest issues to do in Miami!
15) Go to Paradise At Captiva & Sanibel Island
Lower than an hour’s drive from the town, Sanibel Island, and the close by Captiva Island are favored escapes from the hustle and bustle of life. These tropical paradise islands are infamous for his or her picturesque views, serene vibes, and splendid actions.
Anticipate finding a number of the finest seashores, fishing, shelling, eating, and leisure within the Sanibel and Captiva Islands!
The untainted coastal islands thrive with wildlife, nature, and contemporary air, solidifying their locations as high getaway locations. Greater than 25 miles of motorbike paths are open for bikers to remain lively and bask within the contemporary air and surroundings of the islands.
Store till you drop on the Periwinkle Method Outlets, reserve a keep at one of many luxurious resorts, and sink into the fascinating vibes of Captiva Island and Sanibel Island.
Be part of this Sanibel Seaside and Cape Coral dolphin boat tour for an journey of the waters to catch sight of dolphins as they soar above water.
Your information will recite intriguing details concerning the native space, with extra possibilities to see sea turtles, manatees, and extra thrilling modifications for animal sightings on the water!
16) Watch A Efficiency At The Florida Repertory Theatre
Settled in a historic 1917 venue within the Fort Myers River District, the Florida Repertory Theatre is an award-winning theatre featured within the Wall Avenue Journal as “Considered one of America’s high Repertory Firms.”
The theatre produces a broad vary of musicals, dramas, and comedies that pulls in over 87,000 individuals yearly.
The theatre is devoted to establishing high-quality productions as a first-rate theatre in order that friends can expertise a present of a lifetime!
- Handle: 2268 Bay St, Fort Myers, FL 33901, United States
- Hours/Value: Go to the web site to browse performances and tickets.
17) Study About The Native Species At The Calusa Nature Heart & Planetarium
The Calusa Nature Heart & Planetarium makes use of stay native animals for instructional functions on the pure historical past museum.
The displays throughout the heart train guests concerning the environments that nurture these native species and the way these animal and plant species have come to adapt to the surroundings.
Opened in 1970, the Calusa Nature Heart & Planetarium has been devoted to educating others on the significance of group and conservation for nearly 50 years.
The 105-acre heart is dwelling to quite a few rescue animals, fowl and butterfly aviaries, scenic nature trails, and a planetarium theater for an interactive and healthful instructional expertise!
- Handle: 3450 Ortiz Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33905, United States
- Hours: 10 am – 4 pm (Closed Mondays)
- Value: $10
18) Sight The Majestic Sea Cow At The Manatee Park
A picturesque waterfront park, Manatee Park is a non-captive heat water refuge for native Florida manatees.
This capturing facet of the park makes it probably the greatest issues to do in Fort Myers, the place vacationers and locals can ceaselessly sight manatees as they graze, laze, and swim within the water.
The Florida manatee is an endangered species, and Manatee Park is a pure habitat for the species to eat, reproduce, and stay.
Manatee Park additionally has engaging options, together with butterfly and native plant gardens, picnic areas, kayak and canoe leases, and a ship launch within the Orange River.
- Handle: 10901 Palm Seaside Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33905, United States
- Hours: 8 am – Sundown
- Value: Free
19) Take To The Water Of The Caloosahatchee River
The Caloosahatchee River stretches from the Florida Everglades out to the Gulf of Mexico, creating an vital habitat for wildlife.
At round 65 miles lengthy, the river offers the proper place for canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, or fishing.
The water might be fairly brackish, making it wonderful for fishing and paddling however not so nice for swimming.
In case you paddle up the river, you could even see the untouched landscapes of Caloosahatchee Nationwide Wildlife Refuge. This valuable location is closed to the general public to offer a secure panorama for wildlife, as is its neighboring Ding Darling Nationwide Wildlife Refuge.
However no matter the place you might be on the Caloosahatchee River, you might even see plenty of land and water animals thriving within the space!
To see extra of the native wildlife, soar on an Everglades Day Safari from Fort Myers and be taught concerning the space with a naturalist information!
20) Be part of The Present On The Homicide Thriller Dinner Practice
Step onto the Homicide Thriller Dinner Practice in Fort Myers for an expertise like no different!
The Homicide Thriller Dinner Practice presents a comic book thriller paired with a five-course American-cuisine meal on a retro practice journey.
The stay homicide mysteries are delivered to life on a shifting practice, boasting one-of-a-kind leisure paired with scrumptious meals and drinks, plus a energetic theatrical ambiance.
This is among the high Fort Myers points of interest for households or anybody searching for a enjoyable night time out!
21) Get pleasure from A Stroll By way of The Berne Davis Botanical Gardens
Planted by the Fort Myers-Lee County Backyard Council members, the Berne Davis Botanical Backyard is lovingly cared for.
The gardens promote a serene and rejuvenating ambiance that’s nice for strolling or enjoyable.
All through the Berne Davis Botanical Backyard are uncommon and tropical fruit species together with different crops akin to herbs, bromeliads, herbs, hibiscus, orchids, and extra to ponder over whereas basking within the contemporary ambiance of the backyard.
Discover shaded aid below the gazebo with the sounds of the trickling water fountain and thriving crops surrounding you.
- Handle: 2166 Virginia Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33901, United States
- Hours: 10 am – 1 pm Tuesdays and Thursdays
- Value: Free
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The place to Keep in Fort Myers
Now that we’ve coated all the most effective issues to do on this sunny Floridian metropolis, let’s speak about a number of the finest locations to remain. There are nice choices for each funds!
Greatest Low-cost Resort in Fort Myers
Offering inexpensive lodging, the Econo Lodge North presents its friends with complimentary espresso, Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, parking, and entry to the outside pool. So after an thrilling day of exploring the realm, refresh within the solar’s rays on the lodge’s pool!
Greatest Mid-Vary Resort in Fort Myers
Solely ten minutes from the Southwest Florida Worldwide Airport, the High quality Suites Fort Myers Airport I-75 affords a fascinating location close to a number of the finest Fort Myers points of interest, bars, and classy eating places.
Visitors can take pleasure in free Wi-Fi and breakfast earlier than spending the day exterior on the pool or hitting up the various actions obtainable.
Greatest Luxurious Resort in Fort Myers
A part of the downtown Fort Myers River District, the Luminary Resort & Co., Autograph Assortment is lush, artistic, and exuberant in its masterful design.
So hang around on the rooftop bar for drinks, sink into luxurious on the outside pool on the fourth flooring that oversees downtown, and have a romantic meal on the lodge restaurant – luxurious is assured at this distinctive keep!
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