Fort Myers combines rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant downtown energy into one of Southwest Florida's most appealing destinations. From Thomas Edison's legendary winter estate to the rebuilt Fort Myers Beach, from the thriving River District to world-class island adventures, Fort Myers offers experiences for every interest and budget.
Here's your comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Fort Myers for 2026.
Historic Attractions
Edison & Ford Winter Estates
America's most visited historic home site brings you into the world of two of history's greatest innovators. Thomas Edison built his winter retreat here in 1886, and his friend Henry Ford purchased the adjacent property in 1916. Today, the 20-acre campus includes laboratories, botanical gardens, a museum, and both historic homes.
Edison's laboratory, where he conducted over 1,000 experiments, remains remarkably preserved. The botanical gardens showcase over 1,700 plant species from six continents—many planted by Edison himself during his botanical research.
- Address: 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33901
- Hours: Daily 9 AM - 5:30 PM
- Admission: $30 adults, $25 seniors, $18 children (6-12)
- Allow: 2-3 hours minimum
- Best for: History buffs, families, photography
- Don't miss: Edison's laboratory, the Banyan Tree (largest in continental US), Model T in Ford garage
- Insider tip: Take the guided tour for stories you won't get from signage alone
Burroughs Home & Gardens
This Georgian Revival mansion on the Caloosahatchee River offers a glimpse into Fort Myers' gilded age. Built in 1901, the Burroughs Home features period furnishings and beautiful riverfront grounds perfect for weddings and events.
- Address: 2505 1st St, Fort Myers, FL 33901
- Hours: Tours available, check schedule
- Admission: $12 adults
- Best for: Architecture lovers, history enthusiasts
- Don't miss: River views from the back gardens
IMAG History & Science Center
Interactive museum perfect for families with hands-on exhibits covering Southwest Florida history, marine life, and science. The 3D theater and touch tanks keep kids engaged for hours.
- Address: 2000 Cranford Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33916
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10 AM - 5 PM, Sunday 12-5 PM
- Admission: $14 adults, $10 children
- Best for: Families with children, rainy days
- Don't miss: Touch tanks, 3D theater, Sea-to-See aquariums
Beaches
Fort Myers Beach
Seven miles of sandy beach rebuilt stronger after Hurricane Ian. The iconic Times Square entertainment district, fishing pier, and water sports rentals have all returned, along with beachfront restaurants and bars. The atmosphere is livelier than most Southwest Florida beaches—perfect for those who want activity along with their sand.
- Location: Estero Island, via San Carlos Boulevard
- Parking: Public lots and metered street parking ($3-5/hour)
- Best areas: Times Square for energy, mid-island for families, north end for quieter beach
- Water sports: Parasailing, jet skis, paddleboards available
- Post-Ian note: Most businesses have reopened; some construction continues
- Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds
Lovers Key State Park
Natural barrier island beach between Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs. Tram service takes you from the parking area to pristine beach. Excellent kayak trails through mangroves, and regular dolphin and manatee sightings make this a nature lover's paradise.
- Address: 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
- Entry fee: $8 per vehicle
- Hours: 8 AM to sunset
- Best for: Nature lovers, kayakers, wildlife viewing
- Rentals: Kayaks, paddleboards, bikes available
- Don't miss: Kayak through mangrove trails, watch for dolphins
Bunche Beach Preserve
Natural beach with no development—just sand, water, and wildlife. Excellent shelling and bird watching in a true Old Florida setting. Limited facilities mean you'll need to bring everything you need.
- Address: 18201 John Morris Rd, Fort Myers, FL 33931
- Admission: Free
- Facilities: Restrooms only, no concessions
- Best for: Shelling, bird watching, solitude seekers
- Tip: Bring water, snacks, and sun protection
Bowditch Point Park
Northern tip of Fort Myers Beach with two beaches, nature trails, and excellent bird watching. Less crowded than the main beach areas with better shelling opportunities.
- Address: 50 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
- Parking: Limited, arrive early
- Best for: Shelling, birding, quieter beach experience
- Don't miss: Walk both beaches, explore nature trails
Downtown & River District
River District
Downtown Fort Myers' entertainment hub transformed from historic buildings into a vibrant mix of galleries, restaurants, craft breweries, and live music venues. First Street is the main drag, lined with shops and sidewalk cafes.
- Location: Downtown Fort Myers, centered on First Street
- Parking: Free after 6 PM, paid garages during day
- Best times: Thursday Art Walk (first Thursday monthly), weekend evenings
- Don't miss: Craft breweries, rooftop bars, sidewalk dining
- Events: Art Walk, Music Walk, holiday events
First Street
The main thoroughfare through River District featuring the historic Arcade Theatre, independent shops, and diverse restaurants. Evening strolls are particularly pleasant when the palm-lined street lights up.
- Best for: Shopping, dining, evening walks
- Highlights: Arcade Theatre, local boutiques, craft cocktail bars
Centennial Park
Riverfront park on the Caloosahatchee hosting concerts, festivals, and community events throughout the year. Beautiful views and walking paths connect to the River District.
- Address: 2000 W First St, Fort Myers, FL 33901
- Best for: Events, river views, family outings
- Events: Concerts, festivals, holiday celebrations
Caloosahatchee Riverfront
Walk or bike the riverfront paths connecting downtown parks. Sunset views over the river are spectacular, and you'll often see manatees, dolphins, and diverse bird life.
Arts & Culture
Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center
Stunning neoclassical building (former post office) hosting art exhibitions, performances, concerts, and special events. The architecture alone is worth a visit, and the rotating exhibits showcase regional and international artists.
- Address: 2301 First St, Fort Myers, FL 33901
- Hours: Check event schedule
- Best for: Art lovers, concert-goers, architecture fans
- Events: Art After Dark, concerts, gallery openings
Florida Repertory Theatre
Professional regional theater in the historic Arcade Theatre producing Broadway-quality shows year-round. Their ArtStage Studio Theatre hosts more intimate productions.
- Address: 2268 Bay St, Fort Myers, FL 33901
- Season: September through May
- Best for: Theater lovers, date nights
- Tip: Book popular shows well in advance
Alliance for the Arts
Visual and performing arts campus with galleries, theater, outdoor concerts, and art classes. The GreenMarket on Saturdays draws crowds for local produce and artisan goods.
- Address: 10091 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33919
- Best for: Art exhibitions, outdoor concerts, GreenMarket
- GreenMarket: Saturdays 9 AM - 1 PM (October-May)
Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall
Major touring Broadway shows, concerts, and performances at Florida SouthWestern State College. This is where big-name acts stop in Fort Myers.
- Address: 13350 FSW Pkwy, Fort Myers, FL 33919
- Best for: Broadway tours, major concerts
- Tip: Check season schedule early for popular shows
Nature & Wildlife
J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge
Located on Sanibel Island (30 minutes from Fort Myers), this is one of America's premier wildlife refuges. Wildlife Drive offers a 4-mile route through mangroves teeming with birds, alligators, and other wildlife. Kayak and paddleboard through backwater trails, or take a guided tram tour.
- Location: Sanibel Island (via Causeway, $6 toll)
- Entry fee: $5 per vehicle (Wildlife Drive)
- Hours: Sunrise to sunset (Wildlife Drive closed Fridays)
- Best for: Bird watching, wildlife photography, kayaking
- Don't miss: Wildlife Drive at low tide, kayak rentals at Tarpon Bay
Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
1.2-mile boardwalk through pristine wetland ecosystem. Free admission (small parking fee) makes this one of the best values in Southwest Florida. Alligators, birds, turtles, and native wildlife are regular sightings.
- Address: 7751 Penzance Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33966
- Admission: Free (parking $1/hour or $5/day)
- Hours: Dawn to dusk
- Best for: Nature walks, wildlife viewing, photography
- Don't miss: Guided walks (check schedule), alligator viewing platforms
Manatee Park
Winter home to gentle manatees seeking warm water from the adjacent power plant outflow. November through March is prime viewing season—sometimes hundreds of manatees gather here.
- Address: 10901 FL-80, Fort Myers, FL 33905
- Admission: Free (parking $2/hour or $5/day)
- Season: November through March for manatees
- Best for: Manatee viewing, families, kayaking
- Don't miss: Early morning visits for best viewing
Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium
Nature trails, planetarium shows, and wildlife exhibits including an aviary, butterfly house, and native Florida animals. Educational programs make this excellent for families.
- Address: 3450 Ortiz Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33905
- Admission: $12 adults, $7 children
- Best for: Families, nature education
- Don't miss: Planetarium shows, butterfly house
ECHO Global Farm
Unique agricultural demonstration farm showcasing solutions for world hunger. Tours reveal innovative farming techniques from around the world, with gardens representing different climates and regions.
- Address: 17391 Durrance Rd, North Fort Myers, FL 33917
- Tours: Tuesday-Saturday, reservations recommended
- Best for: Gardeners, sustainable agriculture enthusiasts
- Tip: The nursery sells unusual edible plants
Activities & Recreation
Shelling on Sanibel
Just 30 minutes away, Sanibel Island offers world-famous shelling. The island's unique east-west orientation acts as a natural shell catcher. Bowman's Beach and Lighthouse Beach are top spots.
- Getting there: Via Sanibel Causeway ($6 toll)
- Best beaches: Bowman's Beach, Lighthouse Beach, Blind Pass
- Best times: Early morning, low tide, after storms
- Tip: Bring a mesh bag and arrive at sunrise
Fishing
Charter fishing from Fort Myers Beach, Pine Island, or Matlacha offers offshore, inshore, and backcountry options. Target species include snook, redfish, tarpon, grouper, and more.
Deep sea, inshore, and backcountry fishing trips from Fort Myers
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Golf
Fort Myers offers excellent golf variety:
- Fort Myers Country Club - Oldest in Lee County, public
- Gateway Golf & Country Club - Championship public course
- Eastwood Golf Course - Affordable public option
- Shell Point Golf Club - Scenic riverfront course
Spring Training Baseball
- JetBlue Park - Boston Red Sox spring training (February-March)
- Hammond Stadium - Minnesota Twins spring training
- Both venues: Games February through March, affordable tickets
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Launch points throughout the area:
- Manatee Park - Calm waters, manatee season
- Six Mile Cypress - Wetland paddling
- Lovers Key - Mangrove trails, dolphins
- Sanibel - Tarpon Bay, "Ding" Darling refuge
Day Trips from Fort Myers
Sanibel & Captiva Islands (30 minutes)
World-famous shelling beaches, J.N. "Ding" Darling Wildlife Refuge, charming island communities, and excellent dining. Plan a full day to experience both islands.
Shelling tours, dolphin cruises, and island excursions
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Pine Island & Matlacha (30 minutes)
Old Florida fishing community with colorful art galleries, fresh seafood, and island adventures. Matlacha's painted cottages and funky galleries make for great photo opportunities.
- Highlights: Art galleries, fresh seafood, Old Florida character
- Don't miss: Bert's Bar, Matlacha art galleries, mangrove kayaking
Cape Coral (15 minutes)
Canal city with waterfront dining, Sun Splash Family Waterpark, and Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve. More than 400 miles of canals make it a boater's paradise.
- Highlights: Sun Splash waterpark, Four Mile Cove kayaking, waterfront dining
- Best for: Families, boaters, kayakers
Babcock Ranch (25 minutes)
America's first solar-powered town offers eco-tours via swamp buggy through working ranch and wilderness. See Florida wildlife including alligators, wild boar, and native birds.
- Highlights: Swamp buggy eco-tours, solar-powered community, restaurant
- Best for: Nature lovers, eco-tourists
Naples (45 minutes)
Upscale shopping, dining, and pristine beaches. 5th Avenue South and 3rd Street South offer world-class shopping and restaurants.
- Highlights: 5th Avenue shopping, Naples Pier, Naples Zoo
- Best for: Shopping, fine dining, beach day
Free Things to Do in Fort Myers
Not everything costs money. Here are the best free activities:
- Six Mile Cypress Slough - Free admission (parking $5)
- Manatee Park - Free admission (parking $5)
- River District walking - Explore downtown's historic streets
- Bunche Beach - Free natural beach
- Centennial Park - Riverfront paths and views
- Art Walk - First Thursday monthly, free gallery access
- Alliance for the Arts GreenMarket - Free to browse
- Sunset at Fort Myers Beach - No charge for spectacular views
Rainy Day Activities
When afternoon storms roll in:
- IMAG History & Science Center - Interactive exhibits
- Edison & Ford Estates Museum - Much is indoors
- Florida Repertory Theatre - Catch a matinee
- Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center - Explore galleries
- Miromar Outlets - Covered shopping (nearby Estero)
- Movies - Regal theaters throughout area
Family Activities
Best options for kids:
- IMAG History & Science Center - Hands-on science
- Sun Splash Family Waterpark (Cape Coral) - Summer fun
- Fort Myers Beach - Swimming, sandcastles
- Manatee Park - Wildlife viewing
- Calusa Nature Center - Planetarium, animals
- Spring Training Games - Affordable baseball
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fort Myers known for?
Fort Myers is known for Edison & Ford Winter Estates, Fort Myers Beach, proximity to Sanibel Island, spring training baseball (Red Sox and Twins), and the revitalized River District downtown.
Is Fort Myers Beach open after Hurricane Ian?
Yes. Fort Myers Beach has substantially rebuilt and reopened. Times Square, the pier, and most businesses are operating. Some construction continues, but the beach is beautiful and fully accessible.
What is there to do in Fort Myers at night?
The River District offers restaurants, breweries, and live music. Fort Myers Beach has beach bars and entertainment. Barbara B. Mann hosts evening performances. First Friday Art Walk brings downtown to life monthly.
How far is Fort Myers from Sanibel Island?
Sanibel Island is about 30 minutes from downtown Fort Myers via the Sanibel Causeway ($6 toll each direction).
What's the best time to visit Fort Myers?
November through April offers ideal weather (70s-80s) and peak activities including spring training. Summer is hot and humid with afternoon storms, but offers lower prices and fewer crowds.
Is Fort Myers good for families?
Excellent. IMAG, beaches, Manatee Park, spring training, and numerous outdoor activities make Fort Myers very family-friendly at reasonable prices.
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