{"id":69620,"date":"2025-12-03T14:14:08","date_gmt":"2025-12-03T14:14:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/69620\/"},"modified":"2025-12-03T14:14:08","modified_gmt":"2025-12-03T14:14:08","slug":"reasons-to-visit-fort-myers-florida","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/69620\/","title":{"rendered":"Reasons To Visit Fort Myers, Florida"},"content":{"rendered":"

Known as the gateway to Southwest Florida, Fort Myers is the kind of destination that does it all. Yearning to explore a vibrant metropolitan? Fort Myers\u2019s downtown has plenty to see, do, and eat\u2014and did we mention it\u2019s also situated on the beautiful Caloosahatchee River? Seeking a beach vacation where you can enjoy some R&R in the company of sand, sun, and surf? Fort Myers Beach has all you need. And if you want to venture down a road slightly less traveled, nearby Sanibel Island <\/a>and Captiva Island offer even more room to roam. After sustaining heavy damage from Hurricane Ian in 2022, Fort Myers, and its surrounding communities, have recovered nicely and are more than ready to welcome visitors to experience the magic of the City of Palms. These are the 20 best things to do in Fort Myers Florida.\n<\/p>\n

What To Do In Fort Myers, Florida
\n Take A Sunset Cruise <\/p>\n

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Courtesy of Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches & Neighborhoods<\/p>\n

There are a million ways to enjoy the ample water that surround Fort Myers, but one of the best ways to appreciate the deep blue expanse is on a cruise with Off The Leash Charters. Their 40-foot pontoon boat tricked out with lounge seating, bar top tables, LED lighting, and a Bluetooth sound system. Trips explore Cape Coral\u2019s 400 miles of \u00a0canals, as well as the Caloosahatchee River all the way to San Carlos Bay.<\/p>\n

offtheleashcharters.com<\/a>; 239-851-4663<\/p>\n

Visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates <\/p>\n

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Courtesy of Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches & Neighborhoods<\/p>\n

Like much of South Florida, Fort Myers was once a winter retreat for American industry\u2019s founding families. Both the Edisons and the Fords owned grand homes in Fort Myers, and today you can tour both of their former residences. Wander the main homes, guest houses, and gardens at these house museums to get a glimpse into the Gilded Age.<\/p>\n

edisonfordwinterestates.org<\/a>; 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33901; 239-334-7419\n<\/p>\n

Get In Touch With Nature At Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve <\/p>\n

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Courtesy of Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches & Neighborhoods<\/p>\n

Coastline is the primary landscape associated with Fort Myers, but the city is also home to a number of other diverse ecosystems. Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve gives visitors the opportunity to explore a 3,400-acre wetland ecosystem crawling with native critters like otters, turtles, alligators, and wading birds. The 1-mile boardwalk, punctuated by overlooks and interpretive signs, is the best way to get acquainted with this special spot.<\/p>\n

leegov.com\/parks\/parks\/sixmilecypress<\/a>; 7751 Penzance Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33966; (239) 218-1032<\/p>\n

Hit The Beach <\/p>\n

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Philippe TURPIN\/Getty Images\u00a0<\/p>\n

A Florida vacation doesn\u2019t feel like a Florida vacation without a dip in the ocean. Luckily, Fort Myers and its surrounding areas encompass 50 miles of white-sand beaches<\/a> to relax on. Book a stay with an ocean view on Fort Myers Beach, or make a small detour to visit nearby beaches like Bowman\u2019s Beach on Sanibel Island, Bonita Beach Park in Bonita Springs, and Gasparilla Island State Park on Gasparilla Island.<\/p>\n

fortmyersbeachfl.gov\/102\/Beaches<\/a><\/p>\n

Bike Through Cape Coral <\/p>\n

If you want to feel the wind in your hair, there\u2019s no better way to experience it than by biking through Cape Coral, a Fort Myers neighborhood known for its intricate canal system. Often called the Venice of the South, Cape Canal features 400 of miles canals lined with gorgeous waterfront homes. The best way to see it all is by hopping on a bike and weaving your way through 90 miles of interconnected trails.<\/p>\n

visitfortmyers.com\/neighborhoods\/cape-coral<\/a><\/p>\n

Take A Day Trip To Nearby Islands <\/p>\n

One of Fort Myers\u2019s biggest draws is that it allows visitors to experience what feels like several destination in one. To take full advantage of the lively, adventure-filled area, take a day trip to visit nearby islands like Sanibel, Captiva, Cayo Costa, Pine Island, and Gasparilla\u2014all are under a two-hour drive away and more than worthy of a day trip.<\/p>\n

visitfortmyers.com\/islands<\/a><\/p>\n

Stroll The River District <\/p>\n

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Getty Images<\/p>\n

The heart of the city can be found in the River District, a lively waterfront neighborhood whose brick-paved streets are lined with excellent restaurants, creative shops, and historic buildings, and colorful murals. The historic downtown is a joy to visit any day or night, but it\u2019s at its best during monthly Art Walks, where local vendors, artists, and crafters put their best works on display.<\/p>\n

myriverdistrict.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Go Kayaking At Manatee Park <\/p>\n

This public park was once a popular winter retreat for manatees seeking warmer water in the winter. Today, manatee sightings here are scarce, but there\u2019s still plenty of reason to pay a visit. Kayak rentals, playgrounds, a butterfly garden, and plenty of picnic areas make this a lovely place to spend an afternoon.<\/p>\n

leegov.com\/parks\/parks\/manateepark<\/a>; 10901 Palm Beach Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33905; 239-913-9993<\/p>\n

Attend A Spring Training Game <\/p>\n

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Getty Images<\/p>\n

Snowbirds who flock to this South Florida city get the bonus of being around for MLB spring training, which takes place at JetBlue Park and Hammond Stadium for the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins, respectively. Snag a ticket to these pre-season games that run from February to March, and don\u2019t forget the peanuts and Cracker Jacks!\n<\/p>\n

visitfortmyers.com\/spring-training<\/a><\/p>\n

Where To Eat In Fort Myers, Florida
\n Try The Yucatan Shrimp At Doc Ford\u2019s Rum Bar & Grill (P) <\/p>\n

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Courtesy of Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches & Neighborhoods<\/p>\n

Inspired by Doc Ford, the protagonist of author Randy Wayne White\u2019s extensive novel series by the same name, this restaurant and bar is a longtime favorite in the area. The menu reflects classic coastal cuisine with a Caribbean twist. The restaurant\u2019s signature dish, the Yucatan Shrimp, is a must-order. Order a \u00bd or full pound of the steamed peel-and-eat shrimp dressed in an addictive sauce of butter, garlic, Colombian chiles, cilantro, and Key lime juice.<\/p>\n

docfords.com<\/a>; 708 Fishermans Wharf, Ft Myers Beach, FL 33931; 239-765-9660<\/p>\n

Have Drinks At Beacon Social Drinkery <\/p>\n

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Courtesy of Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches & Neighborhoods<\/p>\n

Located 12 stories above downtown Fort Myers, this rooftop bar at the top of Luminary Hotel is the place to go for an incredible view and a tasty cocktail. Go for happy hour and order a few small plates, or swing by in the evening for a spectacular sunset show.<\/p>\n

luminaryhotel.com\/taste\/beacon-social-drinkery<\/a>; 2200 Edwards Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33901; 833-918-1512<\/p>\n

Have A Fresh Fish Dinner <\/p>\n

A seafood dinner is a prerequisite when visiting any destination near a body of water. Fort Myers definitely got the memo, as evidenced by their many great restaurants that specialize in fresh-caught fish, shrimp, oysters, and the like. Izzy\u2019s Fish and Oyster, a modern eatery in the heart of the River District is an excellent place to go all out by ordering a seafood tower or diving into creative dishes like Coconut & Macadamia Crusted Triple Tail with coconut rice, green papaya, and red curry sauce. For a more tried-and-true dinner, visit Dixie Fish Company, an Old Florida fish house that\u2019s been around since 1937.\n<\/p>\n

izzysftmyers.com<\/a>; 2282 First Street, Fort Myers, Fl 33901; 239-337-4999<\/p>\n

dixiefishfmb.com; 714 Fishermans Wharf, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931; 239-233-8837<\/p>\n

Eat Authentic Italian At Bruno\u2019s Of Brooklyn <\/p>\n

If seafood isn\u2019t quite your jam, or you\u2019re just looking for something different, family-owned Bruno\u2019s of Brooklyn always delivers. Decades-old recipes for authentic Italian cuisine like lasagna with meatballs, veal piccata, and eggplant parmigiano make this a neighborhood favorite.<\/p>\n

brunosofbrooklyn.com<\/a>; 149 First Street, Fort Myers, FL 33901; 239-278-0211<\/p>\n

Follow The Southwest Florida Ale Trail (P) <\/p>\n

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Courtesy of Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches & Neighborhoods<\/p>\n

Sip your way through town along the Southwest Florida Ale Trail, which includes 16 breweries that span Lee, Collier, and Hendry Counties. Fort Myers favorites include Fort Myers Brewing Company<\/a>, Riptide Brewing Company<\/a>, and Millennial Brewing Company<\/a>.<\/p>\n

swflaletrail.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Start Your Morning At McGregor Caf\u00e9 <\/p>\n

Fueling up before a long day of exploring is always a smart idea. McGregor Caf\u00e9\u2019s menu of breakfast staples like scratch-made drop biscuits smothered in sausage gravy and malted flour buttermilk pancakes will keep you full for all your morning activities and beyond.\n<\/p>\n

mcgregorcafe.com<\/a>; 4305 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33901; 239-936-1771<\/p>\n

Savor A Sweet Treat At Pinocchio\u2019s <\/p>\n

Take a quick trip to the coast of Italy with a scoop or two from Pinocchio\u2019s Original Italian Ice Cream. Popular flavors include the Sanibel Crunch (vanilla ice cream with toasted coconut, chocolate, and mixed nuts) and the Dirty Sand Dollar (caramel ice cream with malted milk balls and chocolate flakes).<\/p>\n

pinocchiosicecream.com<\/a>; 16230 Summerlin Rd., #202, Ft. Myers, FL 33908; 239-472-0547<\/p>\n

Have Lunch At Farmers Market Restaurant <\/p>\n

Grab a homecooked meat \u2018n\u2019 three lunch at this beloved spot that\u2019s been serving Southwest Florida since 1952. Main entrees like country fried pork chops, chicken and dumplings, and barbecue ribs play well with an array of Southern-style vegetables like fresh-cut collards, fried okra, and black-eyed peas.<\/p>\n

farmersmarketrestaurant.com<\/a>; 2736 Edison Ave, Fort Myers FL 33916; 239-334-1687<\/p>\n

Where To Stay In Fort Myers, Florida
\n Secure An Ocean View At The Pink Shell Resort & Marina (P) <\/p>\n

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Courtesy of Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches & Neighborhoods<\/p>\n

This beachfront resort\u2019s distinct bubblegum-colored fa\u00e7ade puts guests in a good mood on sight. The 12-acre campus features 1,500 feet of private white-sand beaches, luxurious rooms and suites, a full-service spa, marina, rooftop and oceanfront pools, and two restaurants. When you\u2019re ready to explore offsite, concierge can set you up with fishing and boating excursions or watersports.<\/p>\n

pinkshell.com<\/a>; 275 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931; 877-583-2901<\/p>\n

Spend The Night At The Banyan Hotel <\/p>\n

Credit: <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches & Neighborhoods<\/p>\n

If a sleeker city stay is more your speed, The Banyan Hotel (part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton) is a great choice. The boutique hotel is located in the heart of the River District, which makes it super convenient for walking to shops, restaurants, historical attractions, and more. The hotel opened in late 2023, so it\u2019s fairly new, but is already on track to becoming a Fort Myers favorite.<\/p>\n

hilton.com\/en\/hotels\/fmyfmup-the-banyan-hotel-fort-myers<\/a>; 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers, FL, 33901; 239-337-3446<\/p>\n

Relax At The Hibiscus House Bed And Breakfast \u00a0 <\/p>\n

For a more intimate experience, consider reserving one of five rooms inside The Hibiscus House. The historic house dates to 1923 and has a storied history that includes time as four different inns. Today, it\u2019s run by mother-daughter team Lisette Puebla and Lisette Puebla Jr. With breakfast served each morning at 7 a.m., plus snack served in the afternoon, you\u2019ll fell right at home during your stay.<\/p>\n

thehibiscushousebnb.com<\/a>; 2135 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers, FL 33901; 833- 545-3776<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Known as the gateway to Southwest Florida, Fort Myers is the kind of destination that does it all.…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":69621,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[14],"tags":[209,211,210],"class_list":["post-69620","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-cape-coral","tag-cape-coral","tag-cape-coral-headlines","tag-cape-coral-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/69620","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=69620"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/69620\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/69621"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=69620"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=69620"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=69620"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}