Top 10 Things to Do in Fort Myers

Interesting Facts and Figures

• Fort Myers is located in Southwest Florida and has a population of approximately 87,000 people.
• The city is named after Colonel Abraham Myers, who was stationed in Florida during the Seminole Wars.
• Fort Myers is home to the winter estates of both Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.
• The city has over 50 miles of beautiful beaches.
• Fort Myers is a popular destination for spring breakers and families alike.

Top 10 Things to Do in Fort Myers

1. Visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates

   If you’re a history buff, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to visit the winter estates of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. The estates include beautiful gardens, historic homes, and fascinating exhibits.

   Personal Experience: I visited the estates last year and was blown away by the beauty of the grounds and the interesting artifacts on display. I especially enjoyed seeing the laboratory where Edison worked on his inventions.

2. Explore the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge

   If you’re a nature lover, you’ll want to check out the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge. This beautiful park is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and over 245 species of birds.

   Personal Experience: I went on a guided boat tour through the refuge and was amazed by the number of birds we saw. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and taught us a lot about the local ecosystem.

3. Relax on Fort Myers Beach

   No trip to Fort Myers is complete without a visit to the beach. Fort Myers Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand that offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching.

   Personal Experience: I spent an entire day lounging on the beach with a good book and a cold drink. It was the perfect way to unwind and soak up some sun.

4. Take a Boat Tour

   Fort Myers is surrounded by water, which means there are plenty of opportunities for boat tours. Whether you’re interested in dolphin watching or sunset cruises, there is a tour for you.

   Personal Experience: I went on a dolphin watching tour and was thrilled to see several pods of dolphins swimming alongside our boat. It was a truly unforgettable experience.

5. Learn about Local History at the Southwest Florida Museum of History

   If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Southwest Florida, be sure to check out the Southwest Florida Museum of History. The museum has exhibits on everything from the Calusa Indians to the modern-day city of Fort Myers.

   Personal Experience: I visited the museum with my family and we all enjoyed learning about the different cultures and events that have shaped the area over time.

6. Go Shopping at the Bell Tower Shops

   If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, head to the Bell Tower Shops. This outdoor mall has a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

   Personal Experience: I went to the Bell Tower Shops with some friends and we had a great time browsing the stores and trying different foods. We even caught a movie at the on-site theater.

7. See a Spring Training Game

   Fort Myers is home to both the Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins for spring training. Even if you’re not a baseball fan, it’s a fun way to spend an afternoon.

   Personal Experience: I’m not a huge baseball fan, but I went to a Red Sox game with some friends and had a blast. The atmosphere was electric and there were plenty of food and drink options available.

8. Visit the Imaginarium Science Center

   If you have kids (or are just a kid at heart), you won’t want to miss the Imaginarium Science Center. This interactive museum has exhibits on everything from weather to the human body.

   Personal Experience: I took my niece and nephew to the museum and they had a blast playing with all the different exhibits. We especially enjoyed the hurricane simulator.

9. Take a Day Trip to Sanibel Island

   If you’re up for a short drive, head to nearby Sanibel Island. This beautiful island is known for its shells and has plenty of opportunities for swimming, biking, and exploring.

   Personal Experience: I spent a day on Sanibel Island and was blown away by the beauty of the beaches and the variety of shells on display. It was the perfect day trip.

10. Enjoy the Nightlife in Downtown Fort Myers

    If you’re looking for a night out, head to downtown Fort Myers. The area has a variety of bars, restaurants, and live music venues.

    Personal Experience: I went to downtown Fort Myers with some friends and had a great time hopping from bar to bar and listening to live music. The atmosphere was lively and fun.

FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit Fort Myers?

The best time to visit Fort Myers is during the winter months, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, if you’re looking for a livelier atmosphere, consider visiting during spring break.

Are there any free things to do in Fort Myers?

Yes! Many of the beaches and parks in Fort Myers are free to visit. Additionally, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates offer free admission to children under 5.

What should I pack for a trip to Fort Myers?

Be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, as the sun in Florida can be intense. Additionally, bring comfortable shoes for walking and light, breathable clothing for the warm weather.