Nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Fort Myers is a vibrant blend of history, nature, family fun, and waterfront adventure. Whether you’re here for the sun-drenched beaches, historical estates, or local dining and festivals, the City of Palms has something for everyone. Here’s your complete guide to the best things to do in Fort Myers.
🏖️ Outdoor Adventures & Beaches
- 🏝️ Fort Myers Beach – Located on Estero Island with miles of sugar-white sand, gentle Gulf waves, and a laid-back atmosphere. The beach stretches for seven miles, ideal for sunbathing, volleyball, or simply watching colorful sunsets. 🏖️ Jet ski and parasailing rentals are available, and dolphin-watching tours depart from the pier daily. Visitors can also explore beachfront shops, savor fresh seafood at waterfront cafés, or enjoy beach yoga at sunrise. The area has a welcoming, small-town feel but offers amenities for both day trips and extended stays.
- 🌅 Bowditch Point Park – A 17-acre preserve at the northern tip of Fort Myers Beach with walking trails, picnic areas, and panoramic water views. 🌳 The park features a kayak launch, birdwatching platforms, and shaded picnic shelters perfect for families. Parking: $2/hr, open dawn–dusk, and restrooms are available on-site. Interpretive signs explain the local flora and fauna, and frequent dolphin sightings add to the experience. It’s also a great place for photography, sunset picnics, and peaceful morning strolls.
- 🛍️ Lynn Hall Park & Times Square Beach – Great for dining, shopping, and live entertainment along the waterfront. 🍹 Visitors enjoy open-air restaurants, craft markets, and street performers, especially at sunset. 🎶 It’s also a hub for fishing off the Fort Myers Beach Pier. With its lively boardwalk and family-friendly vibe, it’s perfect for evening outings. Public facilities, volleyball courts, and beach gear rentals make it one of the most accessible beach areas for first-time visitors.
- 🐚 Sanibel & Captiva Islands – Famous for their seashell-covered beaches and natural beauty. 🐦 Shell collectors flock here to perform the famous “Sanibel Stoop,” while nature lovers explore J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching and kayaking. 🚴 Biking trails connect many of the island’s pristine beaches. Sanibel also hosts the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum and numerous art galleries and cafés. Captiva, on the other hand, exudes a more exclusive charm with boutique resorts, sailing adventures, and quiet coves perfect for romantic getaways.
- 🌿 Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve – A 1.2-mile boardwalk through wetlands teeming with birds, turtles, and alligators. 🐢 Educational signage and observation decks make it ideal for photography and quiet nature walks. Open dawn–dusk, parking $1/hr. Guided tours are available for visitors eager to learn about the area’s ecosystem, and the observation tower offers panoramic views of cypress forests and wildlife.
- 🐋 Manatee Park – Winter refuge for manatees (Nov–Mar). 🛶 Offers kayak rentals and guided eco-tours that let visitors paddle near the gentle sea cows in warm waters. 🌸 The park also has picnic pavilions, butterfly gardens, and a playground, making it a full-day outing. Educational programs teach about manatee conservation, and the visitor center features interactive exhibits on Florida’s aquatic habitats.
- 🚴 Lakes Regional Park – Family-friendly park with walking trails, kayak rentals, playgrounds, picnic spots, and a miniature train ride on weekends. 🚂 Visitors can rent bikes or paddle boats, explore botanical gardens, or enjoy birdwatching from shaded benches. 🦜 It’s a favorite local gathering place for family picnics and community events. The park also includes themed gardens like a fragrance garden, rose garden, and butterfly garden, along with seasonal events such as outdoor movie nights and farmers markets.
- 🏕️ Koreshan State Park – Historic 19th-century utopian settlement with preserved buildings, nature trails, and kayak rentals along the Estero River. 🏞️ The park offers guided historical tours, fishing areas, and camping facilities for overnight stays. Entry: $5/vehicle, open daily 8 AM–sunset. Guests can participate in ranger-led programs, canoe trips, and heritage festivals held throughout the year. It’s a fascinating blend of history, culture, and nature.
- 🛶 Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail – A 190-mile marked kayak trail weaving through mangrove tunnels, estuaries, and coastal waters. 🐬 Perfect for both beginners and seasoned kayakers seeking dolphins and manatees in their natural habitat. The trail connects to various launch points and parks, offering access to remote beaches and fishing spots. Maps and apps help paddlers navigate safely while exploring the region’s pristine ecosystems.
- 🌴 Lovers Key State Park – Located south of Fort Myers Beach, this barrier island park is renowned for secluded beaches, hiking trails, and kayak routes along Black Island. 🏖️ It’s one of the best spots for swimming and birdwatching. The park offers paddleboard rentals, guided wildlife tours, and picnic shelters. Visitors often see dolphins, ospreys, and even gentle manatees offshore. Its romantic setting also makes it a popular choice for weddings and sunset photography.
🏡 Historical & Cultural Experiences
- 🧪 Edison & Ford Winter Estates – 2350 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers’ crown jewel of history featuring the winter homes, gardens, and laboratories of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. ⚙️ The museum spans over 15,000 sq ft of exhibits, including original Edison phonographs, vintage Model Ts, and experimental botanical gardens filled with bamboo and royal palms planted by Edison himself. The estate also features a museum shop and guided audio tours. 🕰️ Open daily 9 AM–5:30 PM.
- 🏛️ Burroughs Home & Gardens – 2505 First St. A 1901 Georgian Revival mansion with elegant rooms, period furnishings, and manicured gardens. 🌷 The Burroughs estate is one of the oldest homes in Fort Myers and offers riverfront views that transport visitors back to the early 1900s. Guests can attend high tea events, weddings, and the annual Holiday House celebration. Guided tours Tue–Thu, 11 AM–3 PM, offer stories of Fort Myers’ high society and prominent families who helped shape the city’s development.
- 🏺 Southwest Florida Museum of History – Located in the former Atlantic Coastline Railroad depot, this museum showcases Calusa artifacts, pioneer exhibits, railroad memorabilia, and Civil War relics that tell the region’s story. 🗿 The museum’s immersive dioramas display Florida’s ancient inhabitants, early settlers, and industrial transformation. Temporary exhibits highlight local heroes and vintage transportation displays, making it a great stop for families and history buffs alike.
- 🌌 Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium – A 105-acre sanctuary with nature trails, live animal exhibits, and astronomy shows for visitors of all ages. 🌠 The planetarium hosts weekly night-sky programs and laser light shows, while outdoor exhibits feature rescued owls, snakes, and alligators. The nature center also runs educational programs for kids, volunteer opportunities, and seasonal events like “Haunted Walk” and “Holiday Lights under the Stars.” Its combination of science, wildlife, and fun makes it a local favorite for both learning and adventure.
🛋️ Family-Friendly Fun
- 🧒 IMAG History & Science Center – A hands-on attraction with more than 60 interactive exhibits, live animal encounters, and 3D educational films. 🎥 Admission is around $13 for adults and $9 for kids. The center also features STEM workshops, a virtual reality lab, and seasonal exhibits that change throughout the year. Families can meet turtles, lizards, and even baby alligators while learning about Florida’s ecosystems. There’s a science theater for demonstrations, a weather experience area where kids can “make a tornado,” and interactive water tables perfect for younger children. The IMAG frequently hosts themed weekends, school programs, and planetarium nights, making it a must-see educational stop for curious minds.
- 🚂 Lakes Regional Park – Children can ride the miniature train, play on expansive playgrounds, or rent pedal boats for an afternoon on the lake. 🌈 The park also hosts a lively farmers market every Wednesday from October to April. Beyond that, it’s a haven for outdoor family recreation—visitors can rent bicycles, walk through fragrant botanical gardens, and enjoy picnics under the shade of tropical trees. 🦜 The park’s Railroad Museum features scale-model trains and themed holiday rides. Seasonal events like “Boo at the Park” during Halloween and outdoor movie nights keep families entertained year-round. With its scenic walking paths, splash pad area for little ones, and birdwatching platforms, Lakes Regional Park is a hub for fun, education, and relaxation for families of all ages.
🍽️ Dining & Nightlife in the River District
Fort Myers’ River District is the lively heart of the city’s culinary and nightlife scene. 🌆 As the sun sets, the palm-lined streets glow with string lights, and the air fills with live jazz, laughter, and the aromas of Southern comfort food and coastal seafood. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront promenade, stop by boutique bars for craft cocktails, or dine al fresco under the stars. 🎶
- 🍗 Fancy’s Southern Café – Known for its Southern charm and bold flavors, this restaurant serves up favorites like shrimp & grits, fried chicken, and bourbon-glazed ribs. 🥃 The décor is warm and rustic, with vintage accents and friendly staff who make guests feel right at home. On weekends, live blues and acoustic sets elevate the experience.
- 🍣 OISE – A trendy fusion spot blending Japanese precision with Italian flair. 🍜 Enjoy sushi rolls topped with truffle oil, miso-infused pasta, and signature cocktails crafted with yuzu and sake. The modern minimalist interior makes it a favorite date-night destination for locals and travelers alike.
- 🦞 Silver King Coastal Kitchen – Located inside The Luminary Hotel, this upscale venue specializes in tapas-style seafood and global small plates. 🍷 Diners rave about the Spanish octopus, lobster risotto, and expertly paired wine list. The waterfront views and refined atmosphere make it perfect for special occasions.
- 🍺 Swamp Cat Brewing Co. – A local craft brewery featuring creative ales and ciders with playful names and bold flavors. 🍻 Try the Tropical Mango IPA or Cinnamon Stout while enjoying trivia nights, live music, or brewery tours. Its laid-back vibe captures the essence of Fort Myers’ community spirit.
- 🍸 Hogwash Speakeasy – Hidden behind an unmarked door, this Art Deco-style cocktail bar evokes the glamour of the 1920s. 🎩 Bartenders mix handcrafted cocktails with fresh ingredients, like smoked old fashioneds and lavender gin tonics. Dim lighting and vintage jazz create a cozy, secretive ambiance.
Beyond downtown, the culinary energy extends to Fort Myers Beach, where Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille serves Caribbean-inspired dishes such as mahi tacos, plantain-crusted snapper, and rum-glazed pork belly. 🌅 Sunset views over the bay draw both tourists and locals, and the tiki lounges nearby offer frozen drinks, live reggae, and the easygoing rhythm of coastal life.
Food lovers can also explore hidden gems like rooftop lounges offering panoramic city views, casual oyster bars, and dessert cafés tucked into restored historic buildings. 🍰 Whether you crave fine dining, fusion experiences, or toes-in-the-sand beach bars, Fort Myers’ dining and nightlife scene promises warmth, flavor, and unforgettable memories.
🎉 Seasonal Events & Festivals
Fort Myers’ festival calendar shines brightest in the cooler months, when mild weather and breezy evenings make outdoor events especially enjoyable. The city celebrates its culture, art, and community spirit through a wide variety of annual events that attract locals and visitors from across Florida. 🎊
- 🎆 Edison Festival of Light (February) – One of the oldest and most beloved traditions in Southwest Florida, honoring Thomas Edison’s legacy. The multi-day celebration includes parades, fireworks, a grand street fair, 5K races, and the spectacular Grand Parade of Light. The festival transforms downtown Fort Myers into a lively carnival filled with food vendors, artisans, and live music stages.
- 🎨 ArtFest Fort Myers (February) – A juried art festival that brings hundreds of national and international artists to the scenic riverfront. Visitors can explore painting, sculpture, jewelry, and photography exhibits while enjoying live demonstrations and performances. Family-friendly zones and food courts create a creative, inclusive atmosphere perfect for art lovers of all ages.
- 🍤 Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival (March) – A two-day seaside celebration showcasing the region’s fishing heritage. The event features shrimp-eating contests, seafood booths, arts-and-crafts vendors, and a fun-filled parade along Estero Boulevard. Live bands perform beachside throughout the weekend, making it one of the area’s most anticipated spring festivals.
- 🌸 River District Music Walk (Monthly) – Held on the third Friday of every month, this event turns downtown into an open-air concert. Local musicians perform everything from blues and jazz to indie rock and Latin beats. Restaurants and bars extend their patios to create a block-party vibe where visitors can stroll, dance, and enjoy cocktails under the stars.
- 🏖️ Island Hopper Songwriter Fest (September) – A late-summer musical highlight that spans Fort Myers Beach, Captiva Island, and downtown. Featuring more than 100 singer-songwriters, this multi-day festival showcases emerging talent and award-winning performers in intimate venues. Music fans can enjoy beachfront performances and storytelling sessions by Nashville songwriters.
- 🎄 Holiday Lights at the Calusa Nature Center (December) – A cherished local holiday tradition where the nature center transforms into a glowing winter wonderland. Families can walk through illuminated trails, meet Santa, and enjoy seasonal treats while supporting the center’s wildlife rescue efforts. The event also includes themed nights, live choirs, and light shows synchronized to music.
- 🎇 Fourth of July Riverfest (July) – A patriotic celebration along the Caloosahatchee River with food trucks, live bands, and a breathtaking fireworks display reflecting over the water. It’s one of the largest Independence Day celebrations in Southwest Florida, drawing crowds for an evening of fun, food, and festivity.
Winter (December–April) offers the best weather and the majority of major events, while spring and fall provide cultural experiences with fewer crowds and more local flavor. 🌤️ Visitors can plan their trip around these festivals to experience Fort Myers’ vibrant community and year-round coastal charm.
🎣️ Water Sports & Tours
Water adventures are everywhere in Fort Myers, offering endless opportunities for exploration, relaxation, and thrill-seeking fun. 🌊 Paddle through tranquil mangroves, embark on exciting fishing charters, or hop on scenic boat tours to spot dolphins and manatees in their natural habitats. The area’s coastal geography makes it one of Florida’s best destinations for water sports, combining the Gulf’s calm waters with abundant wildlife and breathtaking sunsets.
Paddle the Great Calusa Blueway, a 190-mile marked kayak trail weaving through mangrove estuaries, rivers, and coastal waterways. 🛶 Local outfitters such as Kayak Excursions, Manatee Kayaking Company, and Gulf Coast Kayak offer guided tours for beginners and experts alike. These excursions often include educational commentary about the area’s marine ecology and a chance to encounter dolphins, rays, and sea turtles up close. For adventure seekers, multi-day paddling packages and night tours under the stars are also available.
- 🐬 Dolphin & Sunset Cruises – Join daily excursions departing from Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel, or Captiva Island. 🌅 Companies like Adventures in Paradise and Sanibel Thriller provide eco-cruises, shelling trips, and private charters, with expert captains who share insights about local wildlife and history. Some tours offer glass-bottom viewing, onboard snacks, or music as you watch the sky turn orange over the Gulf. Sunset cruises are especially romantic and family-friendly, combining relaxation with scenic beauty.
- 🎣 Fishing Charters – Fort Myers is a fisherman’s paradise, where the Gulf of Mexico and Caloosahatchee River converge to create rich fishing grounds. 🎯 Book inshore or offshore trips targeting tarpon, snook, redfish, and grouper. 🦈 Local guides such as Sea Reaper Charters and Angler’s Dream provide half- and full-day adventures with all gear included. For a twist, try fly-fishing in backwaters or nighttime excursions for snook under the city bridges. Jet-skiing, parasailing, and banana-boat rides are also popular choices for adrenaline lovers.
- 🏝️ Cayo Costa State Park – Accessible only by ferry or private boat, this unspoiled island offers miles of pristine beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lush pine forests. 🐚 Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and world-class shelling, as the island’s currents deliver countless rare shells to its shores. Camping is available for those wanting an overnight adventure beneath the stars. Several ferry services depart daily from Pine Island and Captiva, providing easy access to this hidden gem.
- 🚤 Eco & Wildlife Tours – Experience the delicate balance of Fort Myers’ ecosystems through small-group eco-boat tours and airboat rides. 🐊 Explore the mangroves of Estero Bay, see osprey nests up close, or glide over shallow marshlands as guides explain the region’s flora and fauna. Many tours include opportunities for photography, birdwatching, or even short island stops for exploration.
- 🪸 Snorkeling & Diving Adventures – Discover the underwater world of artificial reefs and natural coral formations off the Gulf Coast. 🤿 Dive charters cater to beginners and certified divers, showcasing marine life like angelfish, stingrays, and sea turtles. Some excursions even visit sunken shipwrecks that create thriving habitats for tropical fish.
With its mix of serenity and excitement, Fort Myers’ waterways invite exploration for every type of traveler. Whether you’re gliding through calm estuaries at sunrise, reeling in a trophy fish, or watching dolphins leap alongside your boat, the city delivers unforgettable aquatic experiences that capture the spirit of Florida’s Gulf Coast. 🌅🐠
🕊️ Final Tips
Fort Myers blends relaxation, history, and adventure into one unforgettable destination. 🌴 Whether you’re kayaking with manatees, exploring Edison’s inventions, or enjoying live music downtown, the City of Palms offers experiences you’ll cherish year-round.
Best time to visit: 🌞 December–April for mild weather and events.
Travel tip: 🧳 Book accommodations early during peak season and consider visiting nearby islands for day trips.
