Things to do in Fort Myers

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Burroughs Home featuring a garden and a house

Fort Myers Attractions

Considered the gateway to Southwest Florida, Fort Myers is more than just a resort town on the banks of the Caloosahatchee River. In 1885, Thomas Edison selected this former military stronghold as the perfect place to build a sprawling winter estate. In 1916, his close friend Henry Ford joined him. Today, in addition to the must-see Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Fort Myers beckons with a host of tropical-weather activities. From fishing for redfish and tarpon to the chance to spectate a spring training baseball game—it's all here in the City of Palms.


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Most popular activities in Fort Myers

What to do in Fort Myers

Free Things to Do in Fort Myers

Some say the best things in life are free. Make sure you visit the following around Fort Myers:

Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center - If you're eager to learn more about the cultural and artistic side of the region, be sure to pay a visit.

Dunbar Park - Plenty of excitement is in store for you at this terrific place.

Vietnam War Memorial - Educate yourself about some of the intriguing history of the area through this attraction.

Lee Cancer Care Center - Make room in your must-see list to visit this site of local importance.

Thomas Edison Congregational Church - No matter what you believe in, this site will invoke a sense of reverence.

Centennial Park - Prepare a picnic and enjoy a relaxing walk around the interesting plants.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Fort Myers

The city of Fort Myers is home to charming historic districts and a bustling downtown that features some of the best shopping in the Sunshine State.

Fort Myers River District

Stroll along First Street in Downtown Fort Myers and you'll find yourself in the heart of the Fort Myers River District—a scenic stretch of independent art galleries, retail boutiques, and esteemed local eateries. Grab a to-go lunch and head to Centennial Park to picnic with waterfront views.

Dean Park Historic District

A collection of craftsman bungalows and English Tudor homes line the drive in this district within walking distance of Downtown Fort Myers. Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, the Dean Park Historic District appeals to history buffs as well as those who want to stretch their legs after a filling meal at one of Fort Myers' top-notch restaurants.

Bunche Beach

At Bunche Beach, extensive tidal wetlands and incredible wildlife can be found. In addition to sunbathing and swimming in San Carlos Bay, a birding trail appeals to nature enthusiasts and a kayak outfitter allows you to experience the region from the water.

Things to See in Fort Myers

Of all the things to see in Fort Myers, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates belong at the top of every traveler’s sightseeing bucket list. In addition to admiring the vacation complexes of the American inventors, stroll the botanical gardens and tour the rubber laboratory, built to develop a domestic rubber supply for the booming auto industry. Looking to take in a play during your travels? The Arcade Theater, which was used to show Edison's first films, now houses the Florida Repertory Theatre. Young travelers also delight in the Imaginarium—Fort Myers' kid-friendly interactive science center.

Sightseeing in Fort Myers

Whether you're looking for a bit of retail therapy or an idyllic riverboat cruise, Fort Myers delivers. For a shopping experience plus a chance to interact with Florida's native butterflies, head to the Shops at Butterfly Estates. If it's designer clothing you're after, check out Edison Mall. Nature lovers rave about the river cruises that get you up close to manatee and osprey. Sports fans who visit in spring won't want to pass up the chance to watch the Minnesota Twins and the Boston Red Sox preparing for baseball season at the nearby sports complexes. Finally, there’s no need to limit your adventures to the Fort Myers city limits—consider a memorable getaway to the Everglades for the ultimate Florida outdoor experience.

Things to Do in Fort Myers with Kids

There's fun for all the family in Fort Myers. Here are a few family friendly experiences to do together that are certain to make your escape unforgettable:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Fort Myers? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What should I not miss in Fort Myers?
You just can’t go home without crossing off the following list of incredible sights:

  • Edison and Ford Winter Estates
  • Manatee Park
  • Sun Splash Water Park
  • Imaginarium Hands - On Museum

Are there cheap things to do in Fort Myers?
What can you do in Fort Myers for free?
Your trip to Fort Myers won’t cost an arm and a leg with free attractions like these to keep you on the go:

  • Florida Gulf Coast University
  • Captiva Beach
  • Coconut Point Mall
  • Sanibel Island Southern Beach


Discover the most popular places to visit in Fort Myers

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Fort Myers

Florida Repertory Theater showing signage

Downtown Historic District

While visiting Downtown Historic District, you might make a stop by sights like Centennial Park and Florida Repertory Theater.

Downtown Historic District
Burroughs Home featuring a garden and a house

Fort Myers River District

4.5/5(57 area reviews)

Henry Ford and Thomas Edison are among the famous people who socialized in this historic riverside setting full of art and culture.

Fort Myers River District
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Miromar Lakes

Miromar Lakes might not have many top sights, but Alico Arena and Gulf Coast Town Center are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Miromar Lakes
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Heritage Palms

While Heritage Palms might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve and Edison Mall.

Heritage Palms
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Pelican Preserve

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Pelican Preserve and surrounding area, you can visit Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve and JetBlue Park at Fenway South.

Pelican Preserve
Edison Mall showing signage

Winkler

3/5(38 area reviews)

Though Winkler might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Edison Mall and Fort Myers Country Club.

Winkler

Popular day trips from Fort Myers