Welcome to the City of Palms. That’s the famous slogan in this beautiful southwestern Florida city. Perhaps not as well known as Central Florida’s theme parks or the East Coast’s popular sun and surf spots, the city of Fort Myers offers something for everyone. In fact, there is so much to do in Fort Myers, that narrowing a list down to the top ten choices was no easy feat!
Things to in Fort Myers
Fort Myers is a city in and the county seat and commercial center of Lee County, Florida, United States. As of the 2010 U.S. Census, the population was 62,298 and in 2019 was estimated at 87,103. Together with the larger and more residential Cape Coral, it anchors a metropolitan statistical area (MSA) which comprises Lee County and has a population of 770,577 in 2019.
Outdoor Life
There’s no saving the best for last on this top 10 list. Undoubtedly the most wonderful aspect of Fort Myers is the lush tropical outdoor scenery. Whether you dangle your toes in the Caloosahatchee River or swim in the Gulf of Mexico, the white sand, clear water and famously tall palm trees are a sight and an experience to behold. Watch dolphins swimming close to shore or photograph a nest of egrets. The outdoor life in this gulf coast city is sublime.
Edison-Ford Winter Estates
Set aside a half-day (at least!) to spend at the Edison-Ford Winter Estates. Located at 2350 McGregor Boulevard, this combination of museum, gardens, home tour and laboratory tour offer firsthand glimpses into some of our country’s most intriguing history. Thomas Edison and Henry Ford were neighbours in the winter. Their homes have been preserved and are open to visitors seven days a week. Ford enthusiasts will marvel at the collection of Model A’s and T’s. Science buffs will be enthralled with a tour through Thomas Edison’s laboratory and machine shop. Enjoy lunch at an outdoor cafe on the premises. Before leaving be sure to take a photo under one of the largest banyan trees in the United States.
Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall
Performing arts enthusiasts must take in a show at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. Located on the campus of the Edison Community College, at 8099 College Parkway, world-famous entertainers like Bill Cosby, singer Tom Jones and famous Broadway acts have graced this stage.
Southwest Florida Symphony
The Southwest Florida Symphony is the only professional orchestra in Southwest Florida. Both indoor and outdoor performances are revered as outstanding by music critics across the country.
View from the Water
Don’t disregard a view from the water while visiting Fort Myers. The J.C. Sightseeing Boat Cruises, located on Lee St., offer jungle cruises and tours of many of Fort Myers’ historical sites. Sometimes seeing these sites from a different perspective a water view provides additional insight into the cultural and historical past of this fascinating region.
Getaway Marina
You can’t miss the Getaway Marina when headed toward Fort Myers Beach. Located at 18400 San Carlos Boulevard, this famous waterside business provides half-day and full-day sightseeing tours and fishing expeditions. Don’t worry if you forgot your fishing pole and tackle everything is available for rent or sale here and some tours include the price of equipment.
Baseball
If you visit the region in February and/or March, take in a spring training baseball game or practice. The Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins both call Fort Myers home during these months and host a variety of public events that are well worth the time. The Red Sox plays at the City of Palms Park, located at 2201 Edison Avenue. The Minnesota Twins play at the Lee County Sports Complex, located at Six Mile Cypress and Daniels Road. Both teams offer free admission to practices beginning in mid-February. Be sure to bring a baseball, T-shirt or other favourite team mementoes to practices, as the players are often known to sign autographs following their practice.
Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
The Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve is among the most notable wildlife refuges in the southeastern United States. Located on Ben Pratt-Six Mile Cypress Parkway in Fort Myers, it features a mile-long walking trail, access to wetlands, and views of flora and fauna unlike any other. Aside from a nominal hourly fee to park your car, there is no cost to visit this wildlife sanctuary.
Beaches
You simply can’t visit the Fort Myers region without collecting a few seashells. The region is known for having the best and most variety of shells in the entire world. Visit any of the local beaches prepared to hunt for treasure. The law prohibits taking any shells with live creatures inside so be sure to check your finds thoroughly. Arrive at the beach as early as possible, as the hardcore beachcombers get there first and often scoop up the day’s best finds.
Amazingly, since Hurricane Charley hit the region, many picnic areas and rest stop near the beaches have become great sources of finding seashells displaced when the weather wreaked havoc on their environment. A guidebook available locally at many gift shops is the best source of acquiring knowledge about your newfound collectables.
Shell Factory
If all else fails and you come up empty-handed at the beach, a visit to The Shell Factory is a necessity. In fact, even if you find what you’re looking for at the beach, this facility offers a little something for everyone. In addition to an astounding exhibit of shells, items fashioned from seashells, and every book imaginable on the topic, The Shell Factory will feed you, entertain you with animal shows and miniature golf, and send you home with souvenirs galore.
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