The Most Exciting Things to Do in Fort Myers

Visiting the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, Florida, is like taking a step back in time to the winter retreats of two of America's most prominent inventors: Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. Nestled along the picturesque Caloosahatchee River, this historical site offers a captivating glimpse into the lives and innovations of these iconic figures.

The estates encompass beautifully preserved homes, lush botanical gardens, and a wealth of educational exhibits. Touring Edison's grand, Mediterranean-style home, known as Seminole Lodge, allows you to explore the inventor's living quarters, personal library, and even his laboratory, where he conducted groundbreaking experiments.

Relaxing on Fort Myers Beach is a quintessential Florida experience that offers a perfect blend of sun, sand, and serene coastal beauty. Located on Estero Island along the Gulf of Mexico's southwestern coast, this pristine beach destination is renowned for its inviting atmosphere and captivating natural surroundings.

Beyond sunbathing and swimming, the beach offers an array of water-based activities, including jet-skiing, paddleboarding, parasailing, and fishing. The clear, emerald waters provide excellent opportunities for snorkeling and shelling, with the chance to discover unique seashells along the shore.

Taking a Dolphin Cruise is a delightful and enchanting experience that allows you to connect with the natural wonders of the sea while observing one of the ocean's most playful and beloved creatures: dolphins. These cruises offer an opportunity to get up close and personal with these intelligent marine mammals in their natural habitat, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

The Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium, located in Fort Myers, Florida, is a captivating destination that invites visitors to explore the wonders of the natural world and the mysteries of the cosmos. This educational and immersive facility offers a blend of environmental education, wildlife encounters, and stargazing adventures.

The center is home to a diverse range of exhibits and interactive displays that showcase the local flora and fauna of Southwest Florida. Visitors can encounter rescued birds of prey, reptiles, and other native wildlife, providing a unique opportunity to learn about the region's ecosystems and conservation efforts.

Manatee Park, located in Fort Myers, Florida, is a unique and enchanting destination where visitors can witness and learn about the gentle giants of the sea, the manatees. This park provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to observe these remarkable marine mammals in their natural habitat during the winter months.

Manatee Park is situated along the warm waters of the Orange River, which serves as a critical refuge for manatees seeking shelter from colder temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico. As the water temperature drops in the Gulf, manatees gather in the park's natural springs, where the water remains comfortably warm.

JetBlue Park, situated in Fort Myers, Florida, is a state-of-the-art sports complex and a beloved destination for baseball enthusiasts. As the spring training home of the Boston Red Sox, this modern facility offers fans an exciting opportunity to experience America's pastime up close and personal.

During spring training, JetBlue Park hosts a series of exhibition games, giving fans a chance to watch their favorite players practice and prepare for the upcoming season. The atmosphere is electric as fans gather to cheer on the team, enjoy ballpark concessions, and relish the thrill of live baseball action.

The Imaginarium Science Center, located in Fort Myers, Florida, is a dynamic and interactive destination that ignites curiosity, sparks imagination, and fosters a love for science and learning. This family-friendly center offers a wide range of hands-on exhibits, educational programs, and engaging experiences that make science come alive for visitors of all ages.

At the heart of the Imaginarium is its array of interactive exhibits covering various scientific disciplines, from physics and biology to astronomy and paleontology. Visitors can explore these exhibits to better understand natural phenomena, experiment with concepts, and appreciate the wonders of the natural world.

Art galleries are vibrant and enriching spaces that celebrate creativity and provide a platform for artists to showcase their talents. These cultural hubs are scattered throughout cities and communities, offering visitors an opportunity to engage with diverse forms of artistic expression and gain a deeper appreciation for the arts.

Art galleries typically curate rotating exhibitions that feature a wide range of artistic styles, mediums, and themes. From traditional paintings and sculptures to contemporary installations and digital art, galleries offer a diverse visual landscape that appeals to a broad spectrum of tastes and interests.

The Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, located in Fort Myers, Florida, is a serene and enchanting natural oasis that offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore one of the region's most diverse and well-preserved wetland ecosystems. This 3,400-acre preserve is a hidden gem, providing a peaceful escape into the heart of nature amid the urban surroundings of Fort Myers.

Butterfly Estates, located in Fort Myers, Florida, is a magical and enchanting destination that celebrates the delicate beauty of butterflies and the wonders of tropical gardens. This unique attraction provides visitors with a captivating opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of these graceful insects amidst a lush and vibrant environment.

In addition to the conservatory, Butterfly Estates offers educational displays and informative exhibits that provide insights into the life cycle of butterflies, their role in pollination, and the importance of conserving their habitats. Knowledgeable staff and guides are often available to answer questions and share fascinating facts about these captivating creatures.

The Burroughs Home and Gardens, situated in Fort Myers, Florida, is a historic and picturesque estate that offers a glimpse into the elegant lifestyle of the early 20th century. This beautifully preserved home and its lush gardens provide visitors with a captivating journey into the past, showcasing the architectural and cultural heritage of the region.

For history enthusiasts, garden lovers, and those seeking a tranquil and nostalgic escape, the Burroughs Home and Gardens offers a delightful and educational experience. It's a place where the charm of a bygone era is beautifully preserved, inviting visitors to step back in time and savor the timeless elegance of Southwest Florida's past.

Fleamasters Flea Market, located in Fort Myers, Florida, is a bustling and eclectic marketplace that offers a treasure trove of goods, from antiques and collectibles to fresh produce and artisan crafts. This expansive market is a popular destination for shoppers and bargain hunters looking for unique finds and a diverse range of products.

Fleamasters Flea Market is not just a place for buying and selling; it's a vibrant community hub where visitors can interact with local vendors, artisans, and fellow shoppers. The market often hosts special events, live entertainment, and seasonal festivals, creating a festive and lively atmosphere that adds to the overall experience.

The Harborside Event Center, located in downtown Fort Myers, Florida, is a versatile and modern event venue that serves as a hub for community gatherings, conferences, concerts, and cultural events. This multipurpose facility provides a dynamic space for hosting a wide range of events, making it a central and vibrant part of the city's social and cultural scene.

In addition to its role as an event venue, the Harborside Event Center plays a crucial role in fostering community engagement and providing a space for local organizations and businesses to connect with the public. It's a place where ideas are exchanged, celebrations are held, and memorable moments are created.