Things To Do
in Fort Myers
Fort Myers sits on the Caloosahatchee River along Florida's southwest coast, offering a laid-back beach-town vibe with a vibrant downtown. It blends history, waterfront scenery, and family-friendly attractions, from museum estates to pristine beaches. The city serves as a gateway to the greater Cape Coral–Fort Myers region and nearby islands like Sanibel and Captiva.
Expect warm weather, citrusy sunsets, and plenty of outdoor activities, from kayaking mangroves to shelling on powdery sands.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic downtown area, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant murals. Visit the Fort Myers Historical Museum to learn about the rich history of the area.
Enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant with views of the Caloosahatchee River, where you can indulge in fresh seafood. After your meal, take a guided tour of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, exploring the beautiful gardens and fascinating museum. Spend some time at the nearby Manatee Park, where you might spot some gentle giants swimming in the warm waters.
As the sun sets, head to the River District for an evening of entertainment. Enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant featuring local cuisine, followed by live music at one of the nearby venues. Conclude the day with a stroll along the riverfront, soaking in the picturesque views.
After breakfast, set off for Sanibel Island, famous for its beautiful beaches and shelling opportunities. Spend the morning relaxing on the soft sands of Bowman's Beach, taking in the sun and the sound of the gentle waves. Explore the shoreline for unique seashells, a beloved pastime on the island.
Grab a bite at one of the charming beachside cafes, enjoying fresh salads and tropical drinks. In the afternoon, rent a bike and ride along the scenic trails of the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife, including birds, alligators, and even dolphins in the waters.
As evening approaches, return to the beach for a stunning sunset view over the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can taste local specialties like grouper or stone crab. Cap off your night with a leisurely walk along the shore under the moonlight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $120-200 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-4 |
| 🛍️Weekly groceries | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Sunny climate and scenic coastlines
- Wide range of outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions
- Strong seafood scene and waterfront dining
- Spring training baseball and sports culture nearby
- Hot and humid summers with hurricane season risk
- Tourist crowds during peak winter and spring
- Car reliance outside the compact downtown area
Places to Visit in Fort Myers
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic homes with lush gardens and reflections on industrial-era Florida—great for architectural and landscape shots.
Brick sidewalks, murals, and the Caloosahatchee backdrop provide colorful urban and sunset photography opportunities.
Panoramic ocean views and pristine shoreline—ideal for sunrise and wide-beam seascapes.
Iconic lighthouse with shoreline foregrounds; a classic Florida coastal composition.
Food in Fort Myers
Fort Myers Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Florida classic featuring fresh grouper fillet on a bun with tartar sauce, often served with fries or a side salad.
Must-Try!
Crispy fried bites of conch mixed with herbs and batter; a staple at coastal eateries and beach shacks.
Pressed sandwich with roasted pork, ham, pickles, mustard, and cheese; popular in local Cuban-influenced spots.
Bright lime custard pie with a graham crust; a refreshing finish common in Florida cafes and bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the River District offering produce, prepared foods, and local crafts—great for sampling regional flavors.
Casual waterfront stalls and carts offering quick seafood bites, tacos, and tropical drinks with ocean views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Florida casual wear is widely accepted; beach-friendly clothing is fine in tourist areas, but dress modestly for nicer venues.
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, never feed animals, and follow local guidelines in nature reserves.
Social occasions are typically relaxed; business appointments are more punctual in urban settings.
Service workers rely on tips; leaving a gratuity is appreciated in restaurants and bars.
Safety
Tipping in Fort Myers
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% of the bill before tax is standard; add more for excellent service. For bar tabs, $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab. Tipping is customary for taxi drivers and tour guides as well.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with frequent afternoon storms and occasional tropical activity. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for mornings or late afternoons.
Still warm but slightly less crowded; hurricane season tapers, making outdoor exploration more comfortable with occasional rain.
Milder temperatures and peak tourist season; perfect for outdoor activities, shelling, and exploring the riverfront promenade.
Warm days with vibrant wildlife and blooming landscapes; great for boating, biking, and nature reserves.
Fort Myers at Night
Hiking in Fort Myers
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Boardwalked wetlands with elevated trails, ideal for wildlife watching and tranquil nature photography.
Long boardwalk through a pristine cypress swamp—excellent for birding and nature walks.
Coastal trails with marsh and beach views near Fort Myers Beach, suitable for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Fort Myers by plane.
Major regional airport serving Fort Myers with a broad range of domestic and some international flights; convenient for travelers heading to the city and surrounding areas.
Smaller regional airport north of Fort Myers, suitable for domestic connections and general aviation.
General aviation airport located in Fort Myers; limited or no commercial service, used for private flights and charter operations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant seasonal population that contributes to a relaxed pace and long-term community engagement.
Many attractions, beaches, and parks cater to family-friendly fun and educational experiences.
A growing urban scene in the River District with dining, nightlife, and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Fort Myers hosts MLB spring training for teams like the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins, drawing fans to games and practice sessions.
Fishing, boating, and sailing are popular year-round activities given easy access to Gulf waters.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fort Myers.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Fort Myers menus label vegetarian options and can accommodate substitutions; look for veggie burgers, salads, grain bowls, and seafood-free pastas.