With spring break right around the corner, FGCU students and Fort Myers locals are on the hunt for fun, affordable plans. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach-lover or just looking for something unique, Fort Myers and the surrounding area have you covered! From exploring historic estates to catching a baseball game or hunting for shells on a sun-soaked beach, there’s something for every type of person looking to make the most of their week off.
Kick off your week at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates in historic Downtown Fort Myers.
The estates give you a glimpse into the lives of two American icons. You can stroll through the sprawling gardens, admire the unique inventions in the inventors’ laboratories and snap photos of the beautifully preserved homes. It’s a relaxing way to kick off your break, and it’s easy to spend a few hours wandering the estate’s grounds without feeling rushed. Bonus tip: the gardens are full of spots perfect for reading a book or just soaking up the Florida sun before your next adventure.
When you’re ready to visit somewhere peaceful with beautiful greenery, head to the Naples Botanical Garden. They offer beautiful, themed gardens, tropical plants and even a butterfly exhibit where you can capture some Insta-worthy shots. There’s also a café where you can grab a bite to eat or re-caffeinate for the rest of your day. This oasis is perfect for anyone looking to take a break from screens and classes. Whether you’re visiting with a group or having a solo day, the garden makes for a serene yet visually stunning stop during your break.
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Baseball fans, springtime in Florida is the best. The Minnesota Twins and Boston Red Sox both have their spring training camps in Fort Myers. Grab a ticket with your friends, enjoy some stadium food and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Even if you’re not a die-hard baseball fan, the mascot races and other in-between innings fun will keep you highly entertained. The games are always exciting and relatively inexpensive, and the energy of the ballpark is infectious. You may even get to witness the next MLB icon before they make it in the big leagues.
Of course, no spring break is ever complete without a beach day. The Sanibel and Captiva Islands are about an hour from campus and offer gorgeous beaches and fun shops to spend the day. If you have a sweet tooth during your beach day, stop by The Bubble Room on the north end of Captiva. This over-the-top, quirky restaurant has themed rooms and the biggest slices of cake you’ll ever see. You can’t go wrong with a trip to the restaurant’s gift shop either, for some fun souvenirs.
Whether you’re exploring the inventors’ winter homes, chasing butterflies at the botanical garden, cheering in the ballpark or enjoying delicious cake at a whimsical restaurant, Southwest Florida offers a mix of experiences that make spring break unforgettable. So, grab your friends, pack some sunscreen and take advantage of all the unique spots just a short drive from campus. You might be surprised how much adventure you can fit into one week.