21 Finest Issues To Do In Fort Myers, Florida (2023 Information)

On the lookout for all the very best sights within the Metropolis of Palms? Our information to all the very best 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 lovable sea cow – manatees!

The endangered Florida manatee migrates to Fort Myers seasonally, so timing your go to to the world is essential if you wish to see these lazy sea cows graze on seagrass as you paddleboard or kayak throughout the water. 

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 town was additionally the bottom for the American Military within the 1800s through the Seminole Indian Wars.

A visit to this beautiful Florida vacation spot is one you’ll always remember, filled with sandy actions, intriguing historical past, fascinating plant and animal species, and extra!

Try our full information to the very best issues to do in Florida in order for you extra concepts for the Sunshine State!

The Finest Issues to Do in Fort Myers, Florida

Our record of the very best issues to do in Fort Myers saves you time and vitality scouring the web by compiling the very best vacationer sights you don’t wish to miss out on.

From searching for manatees in Manatee Park, to biking or strolling beneath the long-lasting Florida palm bushes, there’s an abundance of enjoyable awaiting you on Florida’s Gulf Coast!

1) Hit The Sand & The Water At Fort Myers Seashore 

Round a 20-minute drive from town heart, Fort Myers Seashore is an enormous draw for vacationers.

It’s a seamless addition to our record of the very best issues to do in Fort Myers due to its appreciable impression and tropical enchantment 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 Seashore 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’ll be able to pick West Indian manatees as they graze, dolphins as they play, and extra fascinating creatures within the waters, reminiscent of sea turtles and crabs. 

2) Witness The Transformation Of Butterflies At The Butterfly Estates

Dwelling 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 embody a butterfly conservatory, outlets, and a restaurant, all of that are “inexperienced pleasant.” The butterfly conservatory is without doubt one of the greatest 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. 

• Deal with: 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 Hall presents symphonies, musicals, and different entertaining occasions on the Florida Southwestern State Faculty campus.

The performing arts corridor was named after Barbara B. Mann, who labored as President of the Group Live shows 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. 

• Deal with: 13350 FSW Pkwy, Fort Myers, FL 33919, United States

Touring additional up the coast? Try our guides to Tampa and Sarasota, two gems of Florida’s west coast.

4) Destress In Nature At The Matanzas Move Protect 

Situated in Fort Myers Seashore alongside the Nice Calusa Blueway Paddling Path, the Matanzas Pass Preserve 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 means of the Matanzas Move 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 means of the protect for an academic expertise to study extra concerning the species that decision Matanzas Move Protect dwelling. For a lot of, merely strolling by means of the Matanzas Move 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 primary portion of downtown, the Fort Myers River District, presents a captivating historic enchantment with a horde of riverside sights to discover. 

The River District is by far among the finest issues to do in Fort Myers, its brick-paved streets teeming with hopping bars, boutique outlets, energetic nightlife, and memorable eating places.

The district holds probably the most vital quantity of historic buildings in Southwest Florida, lots of which had been established within the early 1900s.

Strolling excursions wind by means of magnificent buildings of Beaux Arts Neoclassical structure and different factors of curiosity to study concerning the influences and influential figures that helped set up town.  

Time your go to to Fort Myers proper to expertise the exuberant occasions within the River District, from block events and vogue reveals to Artwork Walks and the Automotive Cruise-In automotive present! 

6) Catch A Ballgame At The JetBlue Park 

JetBlue Park, a baseball park typically generally known as the “Fenway South” coaching and growth facility, obtained lots of its traits impressed by the legendary Fenway Park in Boston. For the Boston Crimson Sox spring coaching, the Main Baseball League staff heads to JetBlue Park. 

In case you’re within the space in March, you’ll be able to watch the Crimson Sox in motion as they prepare and scrimmage within the spring. Followers of the Crimson Sox can peer at a reproduction of the Inexperienced Monster and see an old-school handbook 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.

In the course of the official season, Hammond Stadium is dwelling to the minor league associates of the MLB staff, the Gulf Coast League Twins, and the Fort Myers Miracle. 

• Deal with: 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33913, United States
• Hours/Value: Visit the website for more information about tickets!

Learn subsequent: The 21 Finest Issues To Do In Fort Lauderdale

7) Bask In The Sundown At Fort Myers Seashore Pier

Stretching throughout the sand of Fort Myers Seashore and into the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the Fort Myers Seashore Pier is a spectacular spot to benefit from the tropical surroundings, forged 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 means of the water and bask within the breathtaking sunsets and sunrises.

Head on over to the pier to vibe to dwell music with locals and fellow vacationers, the scent of salt on the breeze and the crash of waves radiating the right ambiance of paradise.

For all of the anglers, the bait, snack, and present store on the pier is open, so you’ll be able to 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 following stage by joining a boat tour by means of the canals and mangroves of the world!

• Deal with: 10 Previous San Carlos Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33931, United States
• Hours: 9 am – 9 pm

8) Be taught 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 turn into generally known as the Seminole Lodge, the place Edison and his household would swim, boat, shell, and the place, based on Edison, the very best 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 world, buying the property subsequent to Edison’s to ascertain The Mangoes, Ford’s bungalow property. 

Guests to the Edison & Ford Winter Estates can take within the houses of historic innovators and figures – the creator of the {photograph} and electrical mild bulb, Thomas Edison, and the pioneer of the American vehicle, Henry Ford. 

• Deal with: 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 standard 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 in the event you like birdwatching, you’ll be able to catch glimpses of black-crowned evening herons, scarlet ibis, and different intriguing species at this park.

For these seeking to keep energetic on their trip, at Lakes Regional Park, try the paddleboard and bike leases so you’ll be able to construct up an urge for food by burning energy out within the nice outdoor of Florida. 

Lakes Park is family-friendly, that includes a mountaineering 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 very best brews on the town, the Fort Myers Brewing Company serves native beer and nice vibes.

As the primary microbrewery to open its doorways in Lee County, this brewing firm has labored exhausting to ascertain itself. It’s reputed for its household and pet-friendly ambiance, dwell music, meals vehicles, and improbable brews. 

Guests are inspired to participate in guided excursions to study concerning the course of of creating 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. 

• Deal with: 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

Discover extra concepts on our 2 Week Florida Street Journey Itinerary!

11) Go Hen 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 without doubt one of 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 Middle.

The middle options interactive displays the place all ages are welcome to study extra concerning the significance of the cypress bushes, the wetland ecosystem, and the species that decision it dwelling. 

• Deal with: 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 Huge Carlos Move, 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 sizzling vacationer spot for its tropical vibes and Fort Myers Seashore, however additionally it is filled with historical past.

For instance, the island was the middle of a spiritual group that disbanded within the Nineteen Sixties, which could be discovered about extra on the Koreshan State Historic Web site, 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 folks 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 website 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 long run.

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 inside the Gulf of Mexico and Estero Bay in Lover’s Key State Park. 

• Deal with: 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Seashore, FL 33931, United States
• Hours: 8 am – 6 pm
• Value: $8 per automobile

14) Hike & Picnic At Bowditch Level Park 

A scenic nature protect and recreation website, Bowditch Point Park is one other among the finest South Florida parks. Vacationers and locals each come right here for its beautiful 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 possibly can take pleasure in nature right here in varied methods, from basking within the thriving pure ecosystems inside the protect’s trails to grilling out beneath the shaded picnic areas.

Birding on the paths at Bowditch Level Park is extremely standard, with free guided walks provided seasonally to study extra concerning the native ecosystem and species that decision it dwelling. 

• Deal with: 50 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Seashore, FL 33931, United States

Heading to the east coast? Try 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 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 greatest seashores, fishing, shelling, eating, and leisure within the Sanibel and Captiva Islands! 

The untainted coastal islands thrive with wildlife, nature, and recent air, solidifying their locations as high getaway locations. Greater than 25 miles of motorcycle paths are open for bikers to remain energetic and bask within the recent air and surroundings of the islands.

Store till you drop on the Periwinkle Approach Outlets, reserve a keep at one of many luxurious resorts, and sink into the charming vibes of Captiva Island and Sanibel Island. 

Be a part of this Sanibel Seashore 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 info concerning the native space, with extra probabilities 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 Road Journal as “One among America’s high Repertory Corporations.” 

The theatre produces a broad vary of musicals, dramas, and comedies that pulls in over 87,000 folks yearly.

The theatre is devoted to establishing high-quality productions as a first-rate theatre in order that visitors can expertise a present of a lifetime!  

• Deal with: 2268 Bay St, Fort Myers, FL 33901, United States
• Hours/Value: Visit the website to browse performances and tickets.

17) Be taught About The Native Species At The Calusa Nature Middle & Planetarium

The Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium makes use of dwell native animals for instructional functions on the pure historical past museum.

The displays inside 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 setting. 

Opened in 1970, the Calusa Nature Middle & 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, hen and butterfly aviaries, scenic nature trails, and a planetarium theater for an interactive and healthful instructional expertise! 

• Deal with: 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 among the finest issues to do in Fort Myers, the place vacationers and locals can often 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 dwell.

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. 

• Deal with: 10901 Palm Seashore 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 necessary habitat for wildlife.

At round 65 miles lengthy, the river offers the right place for canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, or fishing.

The water could be fairly brackish, making it glorious for fishing and paddling however not so nice for swimming.

In case you paddle up the river, it’s possible you’ll even see the untouched landscapes of Caloosahatchee Nationwide Wildlife Refuge. This valuable location is closed to the general public to supply 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 may even see a lot 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 study concerning the space with a naturalist information!

20) Be a 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 prepare trip.

The dwell homicide mysteries are dropped at life on a shifting prepare, boasting one-of-a-kind leisure paired with scrumptious meals and drinks, plus a energetic theatrical ambiance. 

This is without doubt one of the high Fort Myers sights for households or anybody searching for a enjoyable evening 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 vegetation reminiscent of herbs, bromeliads, herbs, hibiscus, orchids, and extra to ponder over whereas basking within the recent ambiance of the backyard.

Discover shaded reduction beneath the gazebo with the sounds of the trickling water fountain and thriving vegetation surrounding you. 

• Deal with: 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 very best issues to do on this sunny Floridian metropolis, let’s discuss a number of the greatest locations to remain. There are nice choices for each price range!

Finest Low cost Resort in Fort Myers

Offering inexpensive lodging, the Econo Lodge North presents its visitors with complimentary espresso, Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, parking, and entry to the outside pool. So after an thrilling day of exploring the world, refresh within the solar’s rays on the lodge’s pool! 

Finest Mid-Vary Resort in Fort Myers

Solely ten minutes from the Southwest Florida Worldwide Airport, the Quality Suites Fort Myers Airport I-75 presents a fascinating location close to a number of the greatest Fort Myers sights, bars, and classy eating places.

Visitors can take pleasure in free Wi-Fi and breakfast earlier than spending the day outdoors on the pool or hitting up the numerous actions obtainable. 

Finest Luxurious Resort in Fort Myers

A part of the downtown Fort Myers River District, the Luminary Hotel & Co., Autograph Collection is opulent, inventive, 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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