20 AMAZING THINGS THAT SHOULD DO IN FORT MYERS
20 AMAZING THINGS THAT SHOULD DO IN FORT MYERS, Whether you ’re visiting Fort Myers as your sole destination or are passing through on a stint of the sun state, the megacity has numerous delightful lodestones to fill your time. No matter what kind of exertion you ’re interested in, you ’ll be suitable to find it then, from beautiful untouched strands, tranquil parkland and nature reserves to adrenaline sports complexes and wildlife- finding escapes.
Outdoorsy travellers will fall in love with the area’s nature trails and walks and the diverse wildlife species you can get up close to. Just a hop and a jump from Orlando, the range of museums, parks and excursions will keep you entertained if you’re travelling with kids. So start with these things to do in Fort Myers.
THINGS TO DO IN FORT MYERS
1- EXPLORE THE EDISON AND FORD WINTER ESTATES
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates are in downtown Fort Myers, built and owned by the two famous inventors who were close friends.
The estates are one of Fort Myers’ top attractions and cover 21 acres along the waterfront, making them an excellent option for a half-day of exploring.
The two estates are individually known as Seminole Lodge and The Mangoes.
Today, they are a national historic landmark where you can explore and learn more about the history of the two men.
Tours are on offer at the museum, which features seven galleries, and you can explore the expansive grounds where you’ll see vintage cars and incredible inventions.
Edison and Ford Winter Estates are at 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33901.
2- HANG OUT AT FORT MYERS RIVER DISTRICT
The Fort Myers River District is one of the best sightseeing spots and a great place to wander around.
The district has many interesting historical buildings to see as well as shopping, nightlife, theatres, markets and art galleries.
Some great places to visit include the Wisteria Tea Rooms and the Downtown House of Pizza for a bite to eat.
You can also take part in a True Tour, which will take you to various historical landmarks and hidden gems.
3- RELAX ON FORT MYERS BEACH
Fort Myers’ beach here has seven miles (11 km) of beautiful soft sand and warm waters typical of Florida.
In the summer, you’ll find it very busy with tourists and locals alike, but you can generally find a spot to camp out for the day.
Rent beach chairs and sports equipment if you want to spend the day on the water doing adrenaline sports.
You’ll find enough food and drink spots to keep you going through the day and night.
4- SIX MILE CYPRESS SLOUGH PRESERVE
The Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve is 3,500 acres (1416 ha) of lush green parkland filled with beautiful plant life.
The preserve is free to enter and has several loops and trails that will take you around the area and let you explore everything it has to offer.
The preserve is particularly popular for bird watching, and you may be able to spot varieties such as ibis, blue herons and other wading birds.
On top of this, the area is home to turtles, alligators, otters and other native species.
Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve is at 7751 Penzance Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33966.
5- EXPLORE LAKES REGIONAL PARK
Visiting Lakes Regional Park is another free thing to do in Fort Myers.
The 289-acre (116 ha) park is perfect for walking, exploring, bird spotting or picnicking and is a great place to relax in nature.
The park’s large lake in the centre is where you can rent a boat or even go fishing.
If you have kids, a fun activity is bringing a small motorised boat to use on the lake, and you’ll see many other people with their mini powerboats.
Staying overnight here is an enjoyable option, as camping is available, and you can also rent bikes to explore everything there is to see in the park fully.
6- SEE THE MANATEES IN MANATEE PARK
Fort Myers Manatee Park is a fun attraction for anyone looking to see some local wildlife.
The Florida Light Plant ensures water around this area remains toasty warm throughout the year, meaning in winter, you’ll see lots of manatees gathered around in the warm pools of water.
The best part is you can rent kayaks to explore the park and see all of the manatees, of which there are usually close to 100.
The park is free to enter, with the exception of parking, and can be a great activity during otherwise cold winters.
7- VISIT THE CALUSA NATURE CENTRE & PLANETARIUM
Another fun and exciting attraction where you can see and learn more about Florida’s diverse array of flora, fauna and wildlife, Calusa Nature Centre and Planetarium has 105 acres (43 ha) of entertaining events and exhibits to explore.
There are three nature trails, the planetarium, an aviary filled with butterflies and birds, and a museum to see.
You can also watch live animal shows in the planetarium, which provides an educational insight into the creatures and their habitat.
You’ll see a lot of birdlife, including bald eagles, owls and hawks, and alligators and injured animals taken there for rehabilitation.
Calusa Nature Centre & Planetarium is at 3450 Ortiz Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33905.
8- EXPLORE IMAG HISTORY AND SCIENCE CENTRE
An entertaining attraction for families, the IMAG History and Science Centre has over 60 interactive exhibits about the earth, science, space, technology, nature, and Florida’s history to enjoy.
Once again, you can see some local wildlife such as frogs, snakes and turtles in the centre’s ‘Living Lab’ and even get the opportunity to feed them.
There is also a miniature museum and a vast aquarium, home to various native and exotic fish.
There is a 3D holographic version of the original Fort Myers for history buffs.
9- WATCH SOME BASEBALL SPRING TRAINING
As with many US states, Florida is a popular spot for baseball, and Spring Training is a fun way to watch it in action while the teams practice and train for the big leagues.
You can watch sessions at JetBlue Park, home to the famous Boston Red Sox, and Hammond Stadium at CenturyLink Sports Complex, where the Minnesota Twins train.
Compared to big league games, tickets to spring training are very affordable, as are hotdogs, drinks and concession stands.
It’s a fantastic way to spend the afternoon, especially if you’re from somewhere where you don’t often get to see baseball.
10- TAKE A DAYTRIP TO FLORIDA PANTHER WILDLIFE REFUGE
A bit further away from Fort Myers on Florida’s southwest coast, the Panther Wildlife Refuge is a popular trip from Fort Myers for visitors.
The refuge is home to many of these rare felines that are the last breeding animals in America, meaning it is vital they are protected.
Panthers are elusive creatures, so don’t be surprised if you don’t spot many on your trip to the park, but you can usually see them in the panther habitat exhibit.
A guided tour of the refuge is an exciting day trip from Fort Myers.
Florida Panther Wildlife Refuge is at 12085 SR 29 South, Immokalee, FL 34142.
11- HANG AROUND PELICAN PIER
The Pier at Fort Myers is a popular tourist hotspot and, unsurprisingly, is also popular with local pelicans, which you can spot hanging around on any given day.
It stretches for almost 500 feet (152 m) into the Gulf of Mexico, and walking its length makes a pretty cool activity while you’re visiting the beach.
Nearby activities include parasailing, dolphin watching and live music.
On the pier, you can find a bait shop, snack bar, and gift shop.
At the foot of the pier at sunset, you’ll often find an array of live performances and music playing into the evening, and you can set down a beach towel and get comfortable with some food and drink.
Pelican Pier is at 10 Old San Carlos Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931.
12- ESCAPE TO LOVERS KEY STATE PARK
If you’re searching for a quiet break from the hustle and bustle of central Fort Myers, Lovers Key State Park is a stunning and tranquil spot to head out to.
You can go canoeing, paddleboarding, and kayaking at the park’s picturesque beach. Or enjoy the soft white sand and crystal waters.
Nearby, you may spot local alligators, although nowhere near the swimming area!
You’ll be able to explore the canals and lagoons, home to manatees and many birds, and go scuba diving, surfing and horseback riding.
While riding the waves, you may be lucky enough to see dolphins cruising along with you.
Lovers Key State Park is at 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931.
13- EXPLORE CAPTIVA ISLAND
Captiva Island makes for a stunning excursion off Florida’s coastline, particularly if you don’t have time to visit the Florida Keys on your trip.
The island is a desert island haven where you can go biking, sailing and birdwatching.
You’ll enjoy untouched beaches and a wealth of activities such as swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving.
There is also a resort offering a variety of activities for kids if you’d rather stay overnight.
The island is home to some of Florida’s best wildlife, such as dolphins, racoons, herons and many tropical birds.
The best way to enjoy your time here is to take part in an evening cruise where you can admire a stunning Floridian sunset out on the water.
14- SEE THE TRAINS AT THE RAILROAD MUSEUM
This railroad museum is part of the previously mentioned Lakes Regional Park complex.
It’s an unusual and unique attraction and worth visiting if you are already there.
The 3,200 square foot area houses a massive array of different types of trains, making it a fun place to stop for any budding enthusiasts.
You can ride a miniature train that will take you on a 1.5-mile journey to the park’s north side.
You’ll see all sorts of train-related sights along the way, with four crossing signals, a waterfall, a windmill, a pedestrian bridge and a tunnel.
The museum also houses a treasure trove of train-related artefacts, from the area’s old locomotives to whistles, bells and engines.
The Railroad Museum is at 7330 Gladiolus Dr, Fort Myers, FL 33907.
15- WANDER DOWN MCGREGOR BOULEVARD
McGregor Boulevard should be one of your first stopping points in Fort Myers and is a famous attraction despite being simply a road.
The road is lined with more than 1800 palm trees which Thomas and Mina Edison imported, still reflecting the olden days of Fort Myers.
The boulevard has opulent and historic buildings, botanical gardens, and some of Fort Myers’ best food and drinks spots.
A fun thing to do here is head to Edison Park, where some of the area’s most luxurious homes are located. You’ll spot plenty of mansions and stunning stately homes.
16- GET AN ADRENALINE RUSH AT DEFY FORT MYERS
If you’ve got teenagers or are simply on the hunt for adrenaline sports that will increase your heart rate, DEFY is the place to go.
It’s an all-in-one centre housing a huge trampoline park, foam pits, dodgeball courts, trapezes, and a parkour pit.
The list goes on, with battle beams, a basketball court, a ninja course and a zip line.
The centre is the perfect place to get away from it if you’re an adrenaline junkie or sports enthusiast and have a thrilling day out for kids and families.
17- BUNCHE BEACH
For another serene beach getaway to escape the city heat of Fort Myers, Bunche beach is a beautiful stretch of paradise to head to for an afternoon.
The beach and its surrounds hold 718 acres (290 ha) of untouched nature, including salt flats and mangroves.
In the area, you can go swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking and surfboarding for a day out on the water.
You might even spot a few locals on the beach here – the bright pink flamingos that sometimes stroll along the waterfront.
18- GO SHOPPING AT FLEAMASTERS FLEA MARKET
To truly get a taste for Fort Myers culture and take part in a bit of retail therapy, visiting the Fleamasters Flea Market is one of the most fun things you can do.
The market has over 900 shops and 20 food stalls, so you will never be lost for something new to check out or a new item of clothing to try on.
The market doesn’t just offer clothes – you can also hunt for souvenirs, jewellery, sculptures, antiques and toys.
It recently opened a brand-new stage so that you can listen to live music while you shop or enjoy a bite to eat after a tiring few hours of shopping.
Fleamasters Flea Market is at 4135 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33916.
19- BARBARA B. MANN PERFORMING ARTS HALL
The performing arts hall is an excellent place to visit if you want something fun to fill your evening.
Check the theatre schedule ahead of time to see what’s showing on the biggest stage in southwest Florida.
Previous shows have included broadway hits such as The Lion King and Phantom of the Opera.
You can also catch dance performances and both modern and classical music concerts.
Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall is at 13350 FSW Pkwy, Fort Myers, FL 33919.
20- TASTE BEER AT FORT MYERS BREWING CO.
The Fort Myers Brewing Company is a drawcard when visiting Fort Myers and is often called the best brewery in Florida for those into their beer tastings.
They often host special events such as game nights, food truck nights and trivia nights, and their range of local brews on offer are a refreshing break from the heat after a day of exploring.
The brewery is open daily until late, making it the ideal place to come for relaxation and a refreshing brew, where you can sit back and enjoy some local performances or bring your travel buddies for a night of fun.
Fort Myers Brewing Co. is at 12811 Commerce Lakes Dr #28, Fort Myers, FL 33913.