Looking for a fun Gulf Coast getaway that mixes beaches, history, and sunshine? I recently spent a weekend in Fort Myers and honestly, it checked all the boxes. Whether you’re into historic estates, kayaking through mangroves, or just sipping something cold by the water, you’ll find your pace here. If you need a day trip or a longer escape, Fort Myers delivers that laid-back coastal vibe with a splash of adventure.
Fort Myers, FL Highlights:
- Edison and Ford Winter Estates – I toured these beautifully preserved homes and wandered the gardens for hours. If you’re even a little curious about American innovation or love tropical plants, this is a must.
- Fort Myers River District – I spent a whole afternoon downtown—grabbing coffee, browsing galleries, and watching the sunset by the river. You’ll love the mix of old architecture and vibrant energy.
- Lakes Regional Park – I biked along shaded paths and watched kids splashing in the play areas. Whether you’re bringing little ones or just want a relaxing ride, this park is a great pick.
- IMAG History & Science Center – I took my niece and nephew here and they didn’t want to leave. Between the aquarium and hands-on exhibits, it’s educational fun you’ll enjoy too.
- Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve – I strolled the boardwalk trails and spotted herons, turtles, and even a gator. If you’re craving quiet time with nature, you’ll find it here.
Best Time to Visit
In my experience, November through April is the sweet spot for visiting Fort Myers. The weather is sunny and breezy—perfect for beach days, boat tours, or just walking downtown. Summer’s hot and humid, but if you don’t mind the heat, you’ll enjoy thinner crowds and better hotel deals.
How to Get There
- By Plane: I flew into Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)—super convenient, just 25 minutes from downtown. You’ll find plenty of nonstop flights from around the country.
- If you are traveling by car: I’ve driven in on I-75—it’s a smooth ride from Tampa (2 hours) or Miami (2.5 hours). You’ll enjoy scenic stretches along the way.
- By Bus: I’ve used FlixBus before for regional travel, and it’s a solid option if you’re coming from other Florida cities. Greyhound’s available too.
Where to Stay
- Luminary Hotel & Co., Autograph Collection – I stayed here once and absolutely loved the rooftop dining and river views. You’ll get sleek rooms and a perfect downtown location.
- Best Western Fort Myers Waterfront – I’ve recommended this to friends looking for comfort and value—it’s clean, cozy, and close to the River District.
- Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina – I spent a beach weekend here with the family and we couldn’t get enough. You’ll love the pool, ocean views, and easy beach access just minutes from town.
Best Things to Do in Fort Myers, Florida
Walk Wild Trails and Spot Wildlife at Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, known also as Six mile Cypress Slough, actually measures over 11 miles in length. With wetlands of 3,500 acres, the preserve is a 5-minute detour off I-75, and well worth it. Fort Myers is a haven for endangered species. With a positive influence on the environment and community, Six Mile Cypress Slough earned preserve status in 1970. Visitors to the preserve, will learn how it protects the Gulf, as well as the wildlife that inhabits the preserve. There is also a butterfly garden, and a 1.2-mile-long boardwalk at the preserve.
7751 Penzance Boulevard, Fort Myers, FL, Phone: 239-533-7557
Bike, Boat, or Play the Day Away at Lakes Regional Park
If serenity and easily accessible pathways are essential to visiting a nature park, then Lakes Regional Park is the place to visit. Lakes Regional Park provides rides for visitors who have trouble walking on long or uneven trails. Story Time for the park’s young guests takes place in the garden. Canoeing, fishing, kayaking, bird watching, and picnicking are fun activities on the lake and shores. Lakes Regional Park is truly a park for the nature enthusiast. Lakes Regional Park is operational seven days a week year-round, weather permitting.
7330 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers, FL, Phone: 239-533-7576
Catch a Show in a Historic Setting at Florida Repertory Theatre
The Florida Repertory Theatre has celebrated twenty-one years of award-winning performances. The historic theater has delivered performances to over 31,000 youngsters annually, with their emphasis on getting more of Southwest Florida’s youth involved in theater. It’s estimated that they’ve had over 87,000 people pass thru their doors annually, making the “Florida Rep” a one-of-a-kind experience in Southwest Florida. Their plays have been lauded by The New York Times and American Theatre Magazine. There’s no wonder why the Florida Repertory Theatre has garnered so much attention over the years.
2268 Bay Street, Fort Myers, FL, Phone: 239-332-4488
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
Step Into Innovation at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates
In the late 1800s, both Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, two of America’s most prominent inventors, chose to winter in Florida setting the stage for over a century of tourism to this little corner of the “Sunshine State.” Edison built Seminole Lodge along the Caloosahatchee River, and often invited friends from the north to visit. Among those was automobile magnate, Henry Ford.
By 1916, Ford had purchased the house next door, which he named The Mangoes. Guests are encouraged to visit the historic homes, gardens, Edison laboratory, and the 15,000-square-foot Edison Ford Museum. The museum presents the lives and legacies of both men.
Edison & Ford Winter Estates, 2350 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers, FL, Phone: 239-334-7419
Cheer on the Twins at CenturyLink Sports Complex - Hammond Stadium
Winters in Florida are synonymous with Major League Baseball. CenturyLink Sports Complex - Hammond Stadium is home to the Minnesota Twins’ spring training center. The park’s name comes from William H. Hammond, Jr., a retired Deputy Administrator for Lee County. Built in 1991, the stadium was renovated in 2014 to draw the Twins away from Orlando, their previous spring residence. Right from the start of the stadium being built, it was a good omen. The Twins won the World Series after only one spring season in the new training stadium. Hammond Stadium has hosted numerous other events like the Florida League (Minors) All-Star Game and Florida High State Championship games.
14100 Ben C Pratt/6 Mile Cypress Parkway, Fort Myers, FL, Phone: 239-533-7695
Experience Spring Training Fun at JetBlue Park
JetBlue Park is the spring training home to Major League Baseball team, the Boston Red Sox, and has been dubbed Fenway South. JetBlue, a major airline based out of Logan International Airport in Boston, purchased the rights for naming the stadium. The choice to move to JetBlue Park was an obvious one, since the Red Sox’s old facility lacked modern amenities. JetBlue Park is one of the few spring training facilities that has the same dimensions as their club’s home field ballpark, helping outfielders practice playing the ball off the wall. The park is one of the most visited spring training parks of all of Major League baseball.
11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers, FL, Phone: 239-226-4700
Cruise Iconic Palms Along McGregor Boulevard
The Grand Dame of roadways in Fort Myers is McGregor Boulevard. It represents some of the city’s oldest and wealthiest communities. Thomas Edison and his wife, Mina began the beautification of McGregor Boulevard by importing palm trees to line the roadway. Today, there are over 1800 palm trees and other types of trees along the boulevard. Visitors will find restored buildings, quaint eateries, and botanical gardens with over 1,000 plants. Some of the homes on McGregor Boulevard could easily be featured on Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, or on the cover of Better Homes and Gardens. The 14-mile-long boulevard is opulently eye catching.
2350 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers, FL, Phone: 239-334-7419
Shop, Dine, and Explore in the Fort Myers River District
After indulging in the culinary scene of Fort Myers River District, a walk along First Street is a must. There is plenty of art, live music, and shopping in the district to suit every taste. Large, rust-colored metal sculptures adorn the district in the form card players, musicians, jugglers, and street vendors. The installation is by Colombian artist, Edgardo Carmona, and self-guided walking tours are enchanting. Visitors can get a guide at any of the sculptures. Art enthusiasts will want to put the Sidney & Bernie Davis Arts Center on their to-do list. Checking out weekly farmers markets or monthly music and art walks give a deeper understanding of the neighborhood.
First Street Edwards Drive, Fort Myers, FL, Phone: 239-226-0006
Sip Craft Beers and Chill at Fort Myers Brewing Company
In 2011, the city of Fort Myers did not have a local brewery. That is until Rob and Jen Whyte moved to town. Rob, who had done some brewing in the 1990s in San Diego, decided to give it a go in Fort Myers. Two years into planning and researching, the Fort Myers Brewing Company was up and running. The Fort Myers Brewing Company is more than just a brewery. In fact, it has won many of Florida’s brewery and beer competitions. It also has game, burger, food truck and trivia nights. This is the place to be in Fort Myers for a local bar feel.
Fort Myers Brewing Company, 12811 Commerce Lakes Drive 28, Fort Myers, FL, Phone: 239-313-6576
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
See Gentle Giants Up Close at Manatee Park
Most winter days, people think of being inside with the heater on or in front of a cozy fire. But in Florida, it means being outside and enjoying nature. There’s no better place to do that than Manatee Park. Visitors can kayak through the park and see hundreds of manatee. The warm water from the Florida Power Light Plant causes warm, cozy spa conditions that draw the manatee to the canal. Although it is harder to see the manatee from the shore or banks, visitors can still see them at times in the murky water. The best bet is to see them from a canoe. Manatees are most likely to be in the area November through March.
10901 Palm Beach Boulevard, Fort Myers, FL, Phone: 239-533-7275
Jump to a Spot...
- • Walk Wild Trails and Spot Wildlife at Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
- • Bike, Boat, or Play the Day Away at Lakes Regional Park
- • Catch a Show in a Historic Setting at Florida Repertory Theatre
- • Step Into Innovation at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates
- • Cheer on the Twins at CenturyLink Sports Complex - Hammond Stadium
- • Experience Spring Training Fun at JetBlue Park
- • Cruise Iconic Palms Along McGregor Boulevard
- • Shop, Dine, and Explore in the Fort Myers River District
- • Sip Craft Beers and Chill at Fort Myers Brewing Company
- • See Gentle Giants Up Close at Manatee Park