How to Get There

  • By Car: Estero is easily accessible via I-75, about 2 hours from Tampa and 2.5 hours from Miami.
  • By Air: Fly into Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), just 15–20 minutes away from Estero.
  • By Bus: Greyhound and local bus services run through nearby Fort Myers and Naples with connections to Estero.

Where to Stay

  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Fort Myers-Estero – Spacious suites, free breakfast, and a central location near shopping and dining.
  • Hyatt Place Coconut Point – Modern, pet-friendly hotel within walking distance of shops and restaurants.
  • Hampton Inn & Suites Estero – Comfortable, affordable stay with easy access to beaches and attractions.

Top Attractions

Time Travel Through Utopian Dreams at Koreshan State Historic Site

Time Travel Through Utopian Dreams at Koreshan State Historic Site

© Jaycee/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Koreshan State Historic Site?
    • Koreshan State Historic Site preserves the former site of the Koreshan Unity religious colony, which was originally founded in New York state in the 1870s and seceded the last of its colony lands in Florida in 1961.
  • When was the Koreshan State Historic Site established as a state park?
    • Since 1976, the historic site has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places and operated as a Florida state park, protecting beautiful pine flatwoods ecosystems.
  • What wildlife can be seen at the Koreshan State Historic Site?
    • Park visitors can observe extensive populations of native Florida wildlife in its natural habitat, ranging from bobcats and gray foxes to American alligators and North American river otters.
  • What outdoor activities are available at the park?
    • Opportunities for outdoor recreation include chances for fishing, boating, canoeing, hiking, and overnight camping.
  • What is the contact information for Koreshan State Historic Site?
    • 3800 Corkscrew Rd, Estero FL 33928, Phone: 239-992-0311

Score Big Deals and Style Wins at Miromar Outlets

Score Big Deals and Style Wins at Miromar Outlets

© Miromar Outlets

  • What is Miromar Outlets?
    • Miromar Outlets are home to more than 140 of the world's top designer and brand-name outlet retail stores, offering savings of up to 70% off original listed prices.
  • What major retailers can be found at Miromar Outlets?
    • The open-air shopping center is home to flagship apparel retailer favorites such as Saks OFF 5th, Neiman Marcus Last Call, Bloomingdale's The Outlet, and J.Crew Factory.
  • What designer and brand-name outlets are available?
    • Branded outlets include high-end women's designer Kate Spade New York, trendy clothiers H&M, sporting goods favorites such as Puma Outlet, and children's favorites such as the OshKosh B'Gosh and Janie and Jack.
  • What dining options are available at Miromar Outlets?
    • After a long day of shopping, guests can dine at full-service and quick-casual restaurant favorites such as La Bamba Real Mexican Food, Starbucks, Dairy Queen, and the Wasabi Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Lounge.
  • What is the contact information for Miromar Outlets?
    • 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero, FL 33928, Phone: 239-948-3766

Catch the Action and Feel the Roar at Hertz Arena

Catch the Action and Feel the Roar at Hertz Arena

© johnalexandr/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Hertz Arena?
    • Hertz Arena is Estero's premiere multipurpose sporting arena, originally opened in 1998 as the official home of the Florida Everblades ECHL professional ice hockey team.
  • What sports teams play at Hertz Arena?
    • The arena, which has also been known as Everblades Arena and Germain Arena, hosts Florida Everblades games throughout the year, along with regular season games for the Florida Tarpons indoor football team.
  • What other sporting events are held at Hertz Arena?
    • Other regular sporting events include home games for the Florida Gulf Coast University Eagles ACHA club hockey team and the annual Florida College Hockey Classic collegiate hockey tournament.
  • What entertainment events are hosted at Hertz Arena?
    • Throughout the year, the arena also hosts a full lineup of live music performances by internationally-renowned artists, along with special events such as MMA and WWE fights, professional bull riding championships, boxing matches, and touring circuses.
  • What is the contact information for Hertz Arena?
    • 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero, FL 33928, Phone: 239-948-7825

Paddle Back in Time to Mound Key Archeological State Park

Paddle Back in Time to Mound Key Archeological State Park

© slonme/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Mound Key Archeological State Park?
  • What historical significance does Mound Key have?
    • The park's lands are believed to have served as a significant ceremonial center for the Calusa indigenous people prior to Spanish colonization.
  • When was Mound Key added to the National Register of Historic Places?
    • Since 1970, the site has been protected on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • How can visitors access Mound Key Archeological State Park?
    • Visitors can access the park via boat from the nearby Koreshan State Historic Site or Lovers Key State Park and explore the park's interactive informational trail, which details the historical context of the park's preserved artifacts.
  • What recreational activities are available at Mound Key?
    • Outdoor recreational opportunities include chances for saltwater fishing, boating, and wildlife watching for native bird and marine species, including manatees and dolphins.
  • What is the contact information for Mound Key Archeological State Park?
    • Estero, FL 33928, Phone: 239-992-0311

Where to Eat

Savor Bold Bites and Craft Sips at Naples Flatbread Kitchen and Bar

Savor Bold Bites and Craft Sips at Naples Flatbread Kitchen and Bar

© Naples Flatbread Kitchen and Bar

  • What is Naples Flatbread Kitchen and Bar?
    • Naples Flatbread Kitchen and Bar opened its first location in Naples in 2009, overseen by restaurateur Ralph Desiano. Today, the regional chain operates three locations throughout Florida, including a location in Estero opened in 2009.
  • What type of cuisine does Naples Flatbread serve?
    • Delicious Mediterranean and American fusion menus highlight the restaurant's signature artisanal pizzas, which are available as gourmet flatbreads or prepared traditional Neapolitan or New York style.
  • What are some signature dishes at Naples Flatbread?
    • Signature half-pound overstuffed burgers are topped with gourmet ingredients such as quinoa, portobello mushrooms, and guacamole. A variety of gastropub-style appetizers are also served up for sharing, including concoctions such as Santa Fe-style chicken egg rolls and fire-roasted chicken or cauliflower wings.
  • What drinks are available at Naples Flatbread?
    • A full-service bar serves up craft beers and more than 30 wines served by the glass.
  • What is the contact information for Naples Flatbread Kitchen and Bar?
    • 10801 Corkscrew Rd #520, Estero, FL 33928, Phone: 239-495-3528

Refuel Retro-Style at the Iconic Ford's Garage

Refuel Retro-Style at the Iconic Ford's Garage

© Ford's Garage

  • What is Ford's Garage?
    • Ford's Garage is a classic-style neighborhood beer and burger joint, decorated in the style of a vintage 1920s-era gas service station.
  • What makes Ford's Garage unique?
    • As the first restaurant to enter into a brand licensing agreement with the Ford Motor Corporation, the restaurant showcases restored Model T Fords and old-fashioned gas pumps in its dining room alongside Prohibition-style design elements.
  • What type of food does Ford's Garage serve?
    • Gourmet burgers are served up at lunch and dinner, stuffed with delectable toppings such as Gouda cheese, hickory-smoked brisket, guacamole, and fried eggs.
  • What protein options are available for burgers?
    • All burgers are prepared with diners' choice of Black Angus beef, turkey, chicken, or vegetarian patties.
  • What drinks are available at Ford's Garage?
    • A tap selection of American craft brews is served up at the restaurant's bar throughout the day, along with craft cocktails, fine wines, and non-alcoholic beverages.
  • What is the contact information for Ford's Garage?
    • 10801 Corkscrew Rd Suite 519, Estero, FL 33928, Phone: 239-495-3673

More Places to Eat

  • Rib City – Local BBQ favorite serving baby back ribs, pulled pork, and homestyle sides.
  • – Upscale-casual dining with seafood, steaks, and craft cocktails at Coconut Point.
  • Divieto Ristorante – Italian-American fusion with pastas, pizzas, and elegant ambiance near the mall.

Local Events

  • Coconut Point Art Festivals (Winter/Spring) – Juried fine art shows held throughout the season at Coconut Point Mall.
  • Koreshan Sunday Farmer’s Market – Weekly market with local produce, crafts, and food vendors in a scenic park setting.
  • Everblades Games at Hertz Arena (October–April) – Family-friendly hockey games with high energy and giveaways.

Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Estero, Florida

  • Estero Bay Preserve State Park (10–15 min) – Hike oak-canopied trails, spot wading birds, and explore one of Florida’s oldest aquatic preserves.
  • Lovers Key State Park (25–30 min) – Kayak through mangrove tunnels, bike scenic trails, or relax on a secluded Gulf beach with abundant wildlife.
  • Bonita Beach Park (20–25 min) – Swim, sunbathe, or picnic by the sea at this family-friendly beach with calm waves and easy access.
  • Fort Myers Beach (north end) (25–30 min) – Explore vibrant shops, live music, and restaurants along the island’s bustling beachfront strip.
  • CREW Flint Pen Strand Trails (15–20 min) – Hike through wetlands and pine flatwoods, birdwatch, or take photos in this peaceful inland preserve.
  • Railhead Scrub Preserve (20–25 min) – Discover rare plants, scrub habitats, and wildlife while hiking quiet, sandy trails near Bonita Springs.

FAQ

  • Where is Estero located?
    • Estero is a lovely village located along Florida's Gulf Coast.
    • It is conveniently located within day trip distance from Fort Myers and Naples.
  • What is Estero known for?
    • Estero is best known as the former home of the Koreshan Unity religious colony.
    • The village continues to operate area attractions and retreat centers under the supervision of the College of Life spirituality organization.
  • What are some top things to do in Estero?
    • Watch Florida Everblades hockey games at Hertz Arena.
    • Explore the pristine waters and archaeological artifacts of Mound Key Archaeological State Park, which preserves significant Calusa indigenous sites.

At a Glance


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Warm temperatures and fewer crowds before summer. Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa – A luxurious stay with a private beach and waterpark. Explore Koreshan State Park – Walk through historic grounds and scenic nature trails.
Summer (June-August) – Hot and humid, great for beach lovers. Embassy Suites by Hilton Fort Myers-Estero – A comfortable and centrally located hotel. Visit Miromar Outlets – Shop at designer stores and enjoy great dining options.
Fall (September-November) – Fewer tourists and warm, pleasant weather. TownePlace Suites by Marriott Fort Myers Estero – A budget-friendly extended-stay option. Take a Day Trip to Lovers Key State Park – Enjoy kayaking, wildlife viewing, and pristine beaches.
Winter (December-February) – Mild temperatures and peak season for visitors. Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Myers-Estero – A convenient stay near key attractions. Watch an NHL Game at Hertz Arena – Catch the Florida Everblades in action.


Plan Your Trip