Warning: Due to Hurricane Ian, some of the information in this article may be out of date.
Along the southwest coast ofFlorida, the largest urban area is formed by the union offort myersmiCape Coral, which as a whole are an essential stop on a peninsular circumnavigation itinerary. With this article we are going to discover what we can see and do incity of palms, so nicknamed as the main streets of the city, mainly the long McGregor Boulevard, are a veritable profusion of palm trees.
Content
- How to Get to Fort Myers
- Best Time to Visit Fort Myers: Weather and Events
- The best things to do in Fort Myers
- From Edison to Ford: Celebrity Homes
- museums
- parks
- fort myers beach
- Places to eat in Fort Myers
- Places to Stay in Fort Myers
How to Get to Fort Myers
Fort Myers has its own airport,South Florida International Airport, from where you can easily reach the city center by LeeTran bus n.50(hereyou can find the map of all bus routes), the transportation company that serves all of Lee County. In some cases you will find a cheaper flight toMiami airport.From here, if you rent a car, you can get to Fort Myers in just over two hours. The cheapest public transport alternative is to take the bus, which takes 2.5 hours.
Whether you're traveling by rental car or public transportation, if you're landing in Miami and heading to Fort Myers, you may want to consider astop atNaples. If you come from the north,tampait is the closest big city. By car it takes almost two hours, while by bus you have an alternative between 2 hours and 20 minutes and, if you want to save the cost of the ticket, a cheaper bus that takes 3 hours and 50 minutes.
In both cases, I recommend that you take a look at the following link, where you can find offers to save on the route.
Best Time to Visit Fort Myers: Weather and Events
Climatically speaking,the winter monthsThey are the best for visiting much of Florida. The hot, dry climate of the state's dry season is preferable to the hot, humid days that can be found during the summer months. Your trip will also pass through other towns in the state, so we suggest you read our article dedicated toflorida weather, to get a more complete picture.
As in other Florida cities, the biggest events in Fort Myers take place during the months with the least chance of bad weather. Let's start with the sea: in November, there is theBeach Sand Sculpture Championship, a huge competition where you compete making sand sculptures on the beach. It lasts ten days and it is possible to see true works of art made only of sand by the sea. For sports lovers, in December theClassic City of Palms:a large basketball tournament dedicated to high school students, where NBA recruiters also look for young athletes.
Moving on to February, we can participate in theEdison Festival of Light, an event that lasts several days and includes a series of events related to the famous inventor, who built his own residence here. The main night is obviously the one dedicated to the parade of lights. In the same period we findasian party, organized by the Alliance for the Arts. This celebration of the lunar year is a great oriental event with exhibitions of martial arts, cultural animation, music and typical Asian food. Another event related to a foreign culture isgreek party, linked to the local Greek Orthodox Church, which aims to keep Greek traditions alive.
The best things to do in Fort Myers
Fort Myers is one of the main tourist centers in West Florida, frequented mainly for the beaches that surround it. This does not mean that here there is only sea. There's alsoa nice and pleasant city, which in addition to the holiday life is capable of proposing some historical and cultural clues. In addition, it is a good starting point to visit other nearby places, such asSarasota,Naplesand natural parks in the region.
The center of the city of palm trees is known asriver district: it is here, in fact, on the banks of the Caloosahatchee River and its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico where the most significant chapters of local history took place, in particular the different phases of the war with the native Seminoles. Thus, the center is the area adjacent to the river, crossed byFirst Of the, a street full of historical buildings, but also bars, restaurants and of course many palm trees. Around it, narrower and more characteristic streets, where some of the places to visit are located.
From Edison to Ford: Celebrity Homes
Not everyone knows that two great men who wrote important chapters of history had a winter residence in Fort Myers.Thomas Edison, father of the light bulb and other inventions such as the phonograph, had a mansion here with a pool and library. The winter residence, known asSeminola logia, is located at 2350 McGregor Boulevard and is next to the so-calledthe sleeves, which was owned byHenry Ford, the man who transformed the automobile industry to provide transportation for the middle class.
The two houses, built respectively in 1886 and 1915, are now part of asingle large propertyand it can be visited through guided tours or audio guides: schedules and tickets available on the webofficial website. These two beautiful winter houses representFort Myers Most Visited Attractionand it is worth dedicating a moment to them during your stay in the city. In addition to the residences themselves, the tour of the museum offers videos and images of the inventions and also a laboratory where Edison worked with his collaborators from 1928 to 1936. Around, large gardens with tropical plants enhance the beauty of the place.
Another historic home worth visiting at 2505 First Street isMurphy-Barrios House. A beautiful luxury property built in the neo-Georgian style in 1901 and luxuriously furnished, it owes its name to its successive owners: first John T. Murphy and then Nelson Borroughs. Today it is a house-museum that can be visited and it is difficult to find houses of this type so cared for and cared for down to the last detail.
museums
In addition to the already mentioned historical residences, there are also some museums that may be interesting to visit.
- Southwest Florida Museum of History. The place to better understand the history of Southwest Florida and how these lands passed from the native peoples to Spanish explorers and early settlers to the present day. A collection of artifacts guides you step by step through chapters of local history.
- Railroad Museum of South Florida. A rich display of trains, including a miniature train that you can ride on for a 15-minute tour of a miniature southeast Florida town. Inside are also scale locomotives and rails - a museum for railway and train enthusiasts.
- Imaginarium Science Center. Do you want to enjoy a full immersion in the history of the world, including earth, space and dinosaurs, but at the same time have a close encounter with live animals such as sea turtles, crabs and rays, feeding them? This is the right museum, especially ideal if you are traveling with children.
parks
Throughout Florida, nature reigns supreme, whether it's the ocean, forests, or wildlife. Even in the cities or surroundings, you cannot miss contact with nature.
- Calusa Nature and Planetarium Center. In addition to the planetarium, here you can see and study various animals, starting with birds and butterflies. Thanks to the network of trails, interspersed with picnic areas, it is easy to immerse yourself in the green of tropical plants. The name of the natural center, Calusa, comes from a tribe of Indians, now extinct, that lived in this area.
- Lakes Regional Park. A wide area with several lakes next to each other, ideal for long walks in the middle of the vegetation. One of the most curious areas is the garden of fragrances, herbs and cacti.
- Lee Manatee County Park. This natural park is the ideal place to observe manatees, the docile cetaceans that inhabit the lagoon waters of these coasts. Admission is free and from March to November it is easy to see them swimming in the long channel that runs through the 7 hectares of the park. There is also the possibility of renting a canoe or kayak to paddle in the water, in order to admire these magnificent animals even more closely.
- 6 Millas Cypress Slough Preserve. Much less docile than manatees, alligators are the stars of this nature reserve. One of Florida's many wetlands, just steps from Fort Myers, it's perfect for viewing alligators, turtles, otters, birds of all species, and other animals. With boardwalk trails and picnic areas, combined with an interactive information center, you can get around the area with ease.
- Parque Memorial Lynn Hall. On Isla Estero, a long and narrow island that runs parallel to the coast and south of the city, we find this beautiful park overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Next to the green area there is a large equipped beach.
fort myers beach
The main beach near the city isFort myers beach, located on Estero Island. This long and narrow island is also calledbarrier island, since it forms a kind of barrier between the continent and the open sea of the Gulf of Mexico, creating a kind of back channel. The island's beach is clear and fine: perfect for spending hours in the sun. But there is also no shortage of activities to enjoy: here you can practice water sports or take boat trips to see dolphins.
If you want to enjoy life on the beach, you can also go further south,near naples, where there is a greater offer of sandy beaches. Anyway, reading our article on the bestflorida beacheswill give you a complete overview.
Are you planning a tour of Florida?
I recommend these articles:
- How to organize a tour of Florida on your own?
- Florida Weather: When to Go and What Temperatures to Expect
- Miami Travel Guide: Helpful Tips for Planning a Vacation
Places to eat in Fort Myers
There is a wide variety of places to eat in Fort Myers. We suggest some restaurants where, in our opinion, you will surely eat well.
- The store(First Street 2278). Right in the center of town, this restaurant's wooden building resembles a mountain cabin, and inside you'll also find a fake stained glass window depicting a mountain range. Roast beef is the local specialty.
- The balcony(Calle Calle 2122). A bit pricey but upscale, this restaurant is defined by its "antebellum" pre-Civil War architectural charm. Open since 1978, it offers local cuisine, both meat and seafood.
- Fancy's Southern Cafe(8890 Salrose Ln.). This space has a much more relaxed atmosphere, where it is still possible to taste excellent meat or fish dishes and delicious desserts, such as the famous Florida Key Lime Pie, particularly popular inKey Islands.
- Salty Papa's Shrimp House(15271 McGregor Blvd.). If you like shrimp, have dinner here at least once. Caught exclusively in the Gulf of Mexico, the shrimp prepared at this restaurant are delicious. For those who don't like seafood, don't worry, there are other dishes you can try.
Places to Stay in Fort Myers
There are many lodging options in Fort Myers - find everything from luxury hotels to budget B&Bs. Here are some suggestions on where you can spend the night.
- Pousada Casa Hibisco(2135 McGregor Blvd.). A Bed & Breakfast located in a historic house of the 20th century with rooms with wooden walls, cozy and bright. Highly recommended.
- rock lake resort(2937 Palm Beach Blvd.). A very cozy hotel, with a lake in the park where you can play tennis, swim in the heated outdoor pools or rent a kayak during your stay.
- La Quinta Central Guesthouse(4850 South Cleveland Avenue). It is a hotel from a well-known chain, certainly less personal than the previous ones, but equipped with all the comforts and services.
- Hotel Hilton Garden(12600 University Dr.). Another chain hotel, but equipped with all the necessary services, including a swimming pool. Being outside the city center and not far from the airport, it is ideally located for those who are just passing through and don't want to waste a lot of time commuting.
Are you planning a tour of Florida?
I recommend these articles:
- How to organize a tour of Florida on your own?
- Florida Weather: When to Go and What Temperatures to Expect
- Miami Travel Guide: Helpful Tips for Planning a Vacation
FAQs
How do I spend a day in Fort Myers? ›
- 1- Explore The Edison and Ford Winter Estates. ...
- 2- Hang Out At Fort Myers River District. ...
- 3- Relax On Fort Myers Beach. ...
- 4- Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve. ...
- 5- Explore Lakes Regional Park. ...
- 6- See The Manatees In Manatee Park. ...
- 7- Visit The Calusa Nature Centre & Planetarium.
Fort Myers Is a Shelling Mecca
The beaches and isles of Fort Myers are on a shallow water plateau that collects shells on a natural shelf that flows to the shoreline. It's the location along the Gulf of Mexico that makes Fort Myers a shelling mecca boasting more shell varieties than any other spot in North America.
The Fort Myers, Florida area offers 50 miles of beautiful white-sand beaches, uninhabited islands, and exotic, tropical, wildlife. Sanibel and Captiva Island are a beachcomber's heaven–with shell-laden beaches that have earned Sanibel-Captiva Islands a reputation for some of the best shelling in the world!
What beach do the locals go to in Fort Myers? ›Fort Myers Beach on Estero Island is a favorite destination of many locals, snowbirds and vacationers. The Island boasts seven miles of white sandy beaches along the Gulf of Mexico where the ocean floor slopes gently towards the horizon with no sudden drop-offs or big waves.
What time of day is best to go to Fort Myers Beach? ›If if you get on the road to the beach by about 9:00 AM or so at the latest you`ll get there easily on most days, especially on weekdays. On any day, the key is to go early.
What famous people live in Fort Myers? ›...
Other lovers of the land here:
- NBA star Larry Bird.
- Rocker Bob Seger.
- Alex Lifeson of Rush.
- Legendary NFL coach Mike Ditka.
- PGA star Rocco Mediate.
- LPGA's Nancy Lopez.
- A half dozen MLB stars, including Greg Luzinski and Bullet Bob Turley.
This Florida Gulf Coast city is a great place to live, thanks to its budget-friendly housing, excellent weather, beach access, incredible restaurants, and more. Check out these 17 things to know about living in Fort Myers!
Why do people go to Fort Myers Florida? ›Fort Myers, known for its nature and historical estates, serves as a gateway to a stretch of islands including the Sanibel area, known for its famous shelling beaches.
What is downtown Fort Myers known for? ›To Downtown Fort Myers
The brick paved streets of Fort Myers are known for their rich history, flavorful restaurants and eclectic shops. Our CHARMING town boasts the most historic buildings still standing in all of Southwest Florida which enhances our VIBRANT downtown.
Yes, Fort Myers is a good place to visit because of its good weather, beaches, and nature attractions. It also has a laid-back vibe that a lot of visitors enjoy. If you avoid the hurricane-prone months of August to October, you'll love visiting this Southwest Florida city, especially during manatee season.
Is there a ferry from Fort Myers to Sanibel Island? ›
There is no ferry to Sanibel Island, but you can easily drive from Fort Myers or Cape Coral to the island using the Sanibel Causeway.
What is the nicest beach near Fort Myers? ›- Cayo Costa Island State Park.
- Yacht Club Community Park.
- Rotary Park.
- Causeway Beaches.
- Captiva Beach and Turner Beach.
Fort Myers Beach Rules
Fort Myers Beach access in Estero Island, Florida is open year-round from sunrise until 30-minutes past sunset.
Sanibel Island
If you're looking for clear blue water beaches in Florida as well as shells, Sanibel Island is a great island to visit. It is just off the coast of Fort Myers and is known as the shelling capital of the world.
March and May – The best time to visit Fort Myers. The summer months see the most crowds, especially families, so plan to book at least three months in advance if you'll be travelling then. June-August – Experience the hot and sweltering summer temps!
What is hurricane season in Fort Myers? ›According to the Florida State University Climate Center hurricane season in Florida is a six-month long period that occurs from June 1st to November 30th of each year.
When can you see dolphins in Fort Myers Beach? ›The best time to spot dolphins is right around sunset, according to the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. Many tourists come here in hopes of seeing one of the most captivating creatures of the ocean.
How far is downtown Fort Myers from the beach? ›The beach is a trek Despite its name, Fort Myers Beach is actually located on Estero Island, about 20 miles south of downtown.
Is Fort Myers Beach walkable? ›Downtown Fort Myers Beach is compact and walkable, and it is an entertaining stroll in the evenings. Sunset attracts crowds around the free pier. Nearby, the Time Square area is busy with street performers, music and strolling families.
What beach is closest to Fort Myers Florida? ›Lighthouse Beach, Sanibel
If you're staying in downtown Fort Myers and want to check out a beach on Sanibel Island, Lighthouse Beach is one of the best beaches near Fort Myers and the closest beach to the mainland.
What movies have been filmed in Fort Myers? ›
- Manhunter (1986) R | 120 min | Crime, Mystery, Thriller. ...
- Just Cause (1995) R | 102 min | Action, Crime, Drama. ...
- Day of the Dead (1985) ...
- Cops (1989–2022) ...
- Inside Deep Throat (2005) ...
- Gone Fishin' (1997) ...
- Palmetto (1998) ...
- Coupe de Ville (1990)
Many well-known personalities from the worlds of broadcast media, film, business, music, books and politics have homes in Naples and Marco Island on Florida's Paradise Coast. The area has long attracted stars to its white-sand shores.
Why is Fort Myers so cheap? ›Fort Myers also features numerous museums, art galleries, and amusement parks, so you'll always be able to find something to see or do. The cost of living tends to be fairly affordable in Fort Myers, thanks in large part to the fact that residents don't have to pay state income taxes.
Are there alligators in Fort Myers? ›Nature's beauty abounds in Southwest Florida. Wildlife in Fort Myers and Sanibel includes some of the most unique creatures on the planet. From the once-critically endangered manatee to alligators and birds, you'll find so much nature to experience here.
What is the coldest month in Fort Myers Florida? ›The cool season lasts for 2.7 months, from December 7 to February 26, with an average daily high temperature below 77°F. The coldest month of the year in Fort Myers is January, with an average low of 55°F and high of 74°F.
Is Fort Myers crowded? ›Fort Myers is Densely Packed with People
With a population density of 1600 people per square mile, it's one of the most crowded in the state. That doesn't even consider the 5 million people per year that come to visit!
As the commercial center of County Lee, Fort Myers stands as a gateway to the Southwest Florida region. It's also the gateway to unforgettable party activities, fun nightlife, and many more.
Is Fort Myers a cheap place to live? ›Considered one of the five most affordable places to live in Florida, Fort Myers' small-town feel endears it to its residents. With its many affordable housing options and low cost of living, Fort Myers has quickly become one of the most desired places to live in the Sunshine State.
What time is the fireworks downtown Fort Myers? ›The Town hosts a fireworks show that begins at 9 p.m. and lasts for 20 minutes. The fireworks are launched from the end of the Pier (Lee County's Lynn Hall Memorial Park & Pier) by Times Square.
Does Fort Myers have a boardwalk? ›"The Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve offers an amazing wetlands experience. It features a one and a half mile around wooden boardwalk that takes you through different wildlife habitats.
What is Fort Myers sister city? ›
One of the staging areas for Russia's invasion is connected to Southwest Florida. That city is Gomel, Belarus, and it happens to be Fort Myers' sister city.
Is Fort Myers Beach swimmable? ›Best for Things to Do with Kids Because: Fort Myers Beach offers water sports, sunning, shelling and swimming, along with lovely nature parks and preserves.
Is downtown Fort Myers walkable? ›The culture and history-rich core of Downtown Fort Myers is the River District which combines walkable, waterfront neighborhoods with commercial and residential.
How much is Fort Myers Beach? ›Fort Myers Beach is free to visit, but there is a fee to park. Visitors can find short-term, metered parking and long-term parking for about $2 to $3 per hour.
How much does it cost to get on Sanibel Island? ›Sanibel Causeway Toll – $9+ Charge For Vacation Goers
The basic toll for most passenger vehicles on the Sanibel Causeway is still $6. But as of Oct. 1, 2021, vehicles crossing the causeway without an eligible transponder will be charged an additional $3 administrative fee.
For passenger cars, trucks and motorcycles, the charge to get over the bridge, which is the sole roadway access to both Sanibel and Captiva islands, is $6 for vehicles with transponders or $9 without one.
How long is the ferry ride from Fort Myers Beach to Key West? ›Getting to Key West from Fort Myers is very easy. The Key West Express runs a daily ferry boat from Fort Myers to Key West. And it is worth it! It takes just a fraction of the time – about 4 hours – then it would be to drive and a fraction of the cost to fly.
Is it better to stay on Sanibel Island or Fort Myers? ›Nights in Fort Myers Beach are best spent exploring Times Square, the city center and known as the heartbeat of Estero. During high season, this area has a happening night-life. Sanibel Island is a bit more low-key than Fort Myers Beach and perfect for those seeking a slightly less scheduled vacation.
Can you drink Fort Myers Beach water? ›For the latest quarter assessed by the U.S. EPA (January 2021 - March 2021), tap water provided by this water utility was in compliance with federal health-based drinking water standards.
Why is Fort Myers Beach closed? ›There is no reopening date set for any of the county's beach parks on Fort Myers Beach. “Debris in the water and buried in the sand at the water's edge creates a safety hazard. The county is working alongside state and federal agencies to clean and remove the debris so that beaches are safe for visitors.
What is the curfew on Fort Myers Beach? ›
FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. – Staring Monday, January 9th the Town of Fort Myers Beach will change its curfew hours from Midnight to 6 am on the Matanzas Pass Bridge and the Big Carlos Pass Bridge. “The beach is coming back.
Can you walk on Fort Myers Beach with alcohol? ›Consuming, using, or selling any alcoholic beverage, or manually possessing any open container of any kind that contains any alcoholic beverage while on or within any public area, or while on or within any vehicle located in a public area is prohibited.
Can you bring a cooler on Fort Myers Beach? ›You ARE NOT allowed to bring alcohol to the beach but I see people do it all the time. There is beach security riding around so don't get caught if you choose to drink. Coolers are allowed on the beach but not beer/alcohol.
Which beach has the bluest water in Florida? ›Just east of Destin on Hwy 98, Panama City Beach marks the end of the beaches of South Walton. These beaches are widely considered to be the clearest and pure in the country.
Is there sea glass in Fort Myers Florida? ›The Shell Factory in North Fort Myers also offers small bags of cultured sea glass.
What beach in Florida has the prettiest water? ›- 8 Destin Beach.
- 7 Siesta Key Beach.
- 6 Anna Maria Island.
- 5 Florida Keys.
- 4 Smathers Beach.
- 3 Jupiter.
- 2 Biscayne Beach.
- 1 Dry Tortugas.
Yes, Fort Myers is a good place to visit because of its good weather, beaches, and nature attractions. It also has a laid-back vibe that a lot of visitors enjoy. If you avoid the hurricane-prone months of August to October, you'll love visiting this Southwest Florida city, especially during manatee season.
Is Fort Myers a walkable city? ›Fort Myers has an average Walk Score of 35 with 62,298 residents. Fort Myers does not have many bike lanes. The most walkable Fort Myers neighborhoods are Lincoln Park, Winkler Safe Neighborhood and Bowling Green.
Can you get around Fort Myers without a car? ›In addition to walking to local destinations and attractions, you can reach other areas of the island by catching a ride on the Fort Myers Beach Trolley. The trolley is an easy, fun, and inexpensive way to get around.
How long is the boat ride from Fort Myers to the Keys? ›Sailing Schedule
Travel time and actual time on Island varies depending on weather & sea conditions however, plan on approximately 3.5 hours between ports. Ft. Myers Beach offers year-round travel and the Marco Island location sails seasonally through the winter months.
Is the trolley in Fort Myers Beach free? ›
Fare Information
The Trolley only costs 75 cents a ride, $2 for an all-day pass or $4 for a 3-day pass. Be sure to have the exact fare as the drivers CANNOT make change! You can also use the cashless methods described below in the next section.
The free tram operates around the northern end of Estero Island. Note that you will need exact change for the Trolley. Drivers can't make change. You may also choose to buy an all-day pass for $2 or a 3-day pass for $4 (available at Publix Grocery stores and Beach Park and Ride).