Things To Do
in Fort Myers

Fort Myers is a vibrant city located in southwest Florida, known for its beautiful beaches and rich history. It serves as a gateway to the nearby Gulf Coast islands, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city boasts a warm climate, attracting visitors year-round with its stunning sunsets and lively arts scene.

With a mix of cultural attractions and natural beauty, Fort Myers offers something for everyone.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown and the River District
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then stroll along the historic streets of downtown Fort Myers, visiting boutique shops and art galleries.

afternoon
:

Visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates to learn about the lives of these famous inventors, followed by lunch at a nearby restaurant with river views.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, then take a sunset cruise along the Caloosahatchee River for breathtaking views.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Beaches
morning
:

Head to the nearby Lovers Key State Park for a morning hike and wildlife viewing, followed by a picnic on the beach.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon relaxing at Fort Myers Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, or rent jet skis.

evening
:

Dine at a beachfront restaurant, then explore the vibrant nightlife at local bars featuring live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15-25
Coffee$3-5
🍺Domestic Beer$4-7
🚌Public Transportation Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night$100-250

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.
  • Rich history and cultural attractions.
  • Pleasant winter climate attracts tourists.
  • High humidity and heat in summer.
  • Tourist crowds in peak season.
  • Limited public transportation options.

Places to Visit in Fort Myers

Visit one of these nice places.

Edison and Ford Winter Estates

Beautiful gardens and historic buildings provide stunning backdrops for photography.

Fort Myers Beach

The picturesque shoreline offers breathtaking sunset views and vibrant beach scenes.

Caloosahatchee River

Capture the serene waters and wildlife along the river, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Fort Myers

Fort Myers offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its coastal charm and diverse culture. You can enjoy fresh seafood, Southern cuisine, and a variety of international dishes.

Fort Myers Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grouper Sandwich

A local favorite made with fresh grouper, usually grilled or fried, served on a bun with toppings.

Must-Try!

Key Lime Pie

A classic Florida dessert made from key lime juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk, served chilled.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Fort Myers Farmers Market

Held every Thursday morning, this market features local produce, artisanal goods, and food vendors.

Food Trucks at the River District

Various food trucks gather in the River District, offering a rotating selection of street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Fort Myers has a tropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures range from 75°F to 92°F (24°C to 33°C), with high humidity and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Winter temperatures are much cooler, averaging between 50°F and 75°F (10°C to 24°C), making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Rainfall is highest from June to September, while winters are relatively dry.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Residents appreciate polite greetings and friendly interactions; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is important.

Beach Etiquette

Respect personal space on the beach, and follow posted rules about swimming and beach activities.

Wildlife Respect

When encountering wildlife, maintain a safe distance and do not feed the animals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Fort Myers is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be followed. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas, and keep personal belongings secure. Be cautious in crowded places and be aware of your surroundings. Local emergency services can be reached by calling 911 for any urgent matters.

Tipping in Fort Myers

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Standard tipping is 15-20% in restaurants; it's customary to tip bartenders $1-2 per drink.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash on hand for smaller vendors and markets is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and fewer crowds make spring an excellent time for outdoor activities and events.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather with afternoon thunderstorms; perfect for beach visits and indoor attractions.

Fall

Temperatures start to cool, and the humidity decreases, making it an enjoyable time for sightseeing.

Winter

The weather is pleasantly cool with low humidity, making it popular for tourists escaping colder climates.

Nightlife Guide

Fort Myers at Night

Fort Myers boasts a lively nightlife scene, particularly in the downtown River District. Visitors can find a mix of bars, live music venues, and dance clubs. Many establishments offer outdoor seating along the river, perfect for enjoying the warm evenings. Popular spots include the Barrel Room for craft cocktails and the Music Walk, where you can enjoy live performances by local artists.

Hiking in Fort Myers

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lovers Key State Park

This park offers several trails through mangroves and coastal habitats; ideal for birdwatching and enjoying nature.

Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve

A well-maintained boardwalk trail provides access to wetlands and diverse wildlife in a peaceful setting.

Airports

How to reach Fort Myers by plane.

Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)

Located about 15 miles from Fort Myers, this airport serves both domestic and international flights and is the primary airport for the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Fort Myers is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area where many shops, restaurants, and attractions are in close proximity. However, outside the downtown core, walkability decreases, and a car might be necessary to reach more distant attractions and beaches. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and there are pedestrian-friendly areas along the River District.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Retirees

Fort Myers has a significant population of retirees, drawn by the warm climate and recreational activities.

Families

The city is also home to many families who enjoy the area's parks, schools, and community events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Fort Myers is home to the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins spring training facilities, attracting baseball fans each spring.

Fishing

The region is popular for recreational fishing, with many charter companies offering deep-sea and inshore fishing experiences.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Fort Myers can be moderate, particularly during peak tourist seasons and rush hours. The main roads are well-maintained, but congestion may occur on major routes. Public transportation options are available, including buses that connect key areas, but many visitors prefer to use rental cars for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Fort Myers.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Fort Myers offer vegetarian and vegan options, but it's advisable to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free dishes are available at most restaurants; inform your server of your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Fort Myers is facilitated by several hospitals and clinics, including Lee Memorial Health System and Gulf Coast Medical Center. Emergency services are accessible, and many healthcare providers accept insurance. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies while visiting the area.

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Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

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