Last Updated on May 25, 2024
There are many fun things to do in Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach, Florida. We’ve put together a trip guide that includes the best places to go and the top things to do in 2024.
Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach are part ofSouthwest Florida. The Fort Myers area is a popular destination. It’s not far from other well-known places, such asSanibel Island, Captiva Island, and Naples.
Both Ft. Myers & Ft. Myers Beach are located in Lee County. Since this region is a popular gateway due to its proximity to other Florida cities and the Southwest Florida International Airport, it attracts visitors throughout the United States and beyond.
If you are looking for ideas on where to eat, shop, stay, and more, check out our suggestions below.
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Things to Do in Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach
There are lots of fun things to do in Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach for every type of visitor. Travelers of all ages enjoy both places for their relaxing atmosphere and varied attractions.
Whether you are looking for some outdoor activities, beautiful beaches, or a cool museum to spend the afternoon, we’ve put together some of the best things to do on your trip to Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach.
The Shell Factory and Nature Park
The Original Shell Factory
The Shell Factory in North Fort Myers, Florida has been a popular tourist attraction since it opened in 1938.
Founded by two brothers, the factory was initially opened as a tourism center where visitors could explore and purchase shells from around the world.
The Shell Factory and Nature Park – Today
Over the years, the business has evolved to include a variety of activities and attractions for locals and tourists alike.
This attraction has come a long way since its early beginnings. The Shell Factory is a staple of Fort Myers and it is a must-visit for any lover of kitsch.
Now, the Shell Factory is home to a few different shopping experiences. Pick a pearl, buy assorted gift items, and of course, see a large selection of unique sea shells.
While at the Shell Factory, you can enjoy a variety of attractions. Ride the bumper boats or carousel, visit the arcade, play miniature golf, experience the Soaring Eagle Zip Line, and stroll around the nature park to see many animals and birds.
There are many opportunities to take fun and memorable photos.
For more information, visit The Shell Factory website.
The Shell Factory Address: 16554 North Cleveland Avenue, 41 N. Tamiami Trail US, North Fort Myers, FL 33903
Shell Factory Events
The Shell Factory is also home to a variety of events throughout the year, including free live entertainment.
Day of the Dad
When: June 16th, 2024
Description: This Father’s Day, the Shell Factory is hosting fun games, music, and a barbecue in honor of dads. Dads also receive free entry to the Nature Park during the event.
Christmas in July Celebration
When: July 1st through July 31st, 2024
Description: The Shell Factory is home to the Christmas House, Southwest Florida’s biggest collection of Christmas gifts, trees, and ornaments. Visit during July to take advantage of this celebration’s super sale.
Jimmy Buffett Day Bash
When: August 30th, 2024
Description: Jimmy Buffett has quite a legacy in the Sunshine State. In fact, August 30th is now officially Jimmy Buffett Day in Florida.
The Shell Factory is celebrating this day with fun activities. More info to come.
Follow their Facebook page to stay up to date on their special events.
Learn more by visiting the official Shell Factory website.
Edison and Ford Winter Estates
Edison and Ford Winter Estates is a museum and popular spot to visit in Fort Myers. The property is a National Register Historic Site, dating back to 1885. It opened to the public in 1947.
The estates were once a winter retreat for Thomas Edison and his family. In the 1910s, Henry Ford and his family purchased an adjacent property for their own estate for the winter months.
There are plenty of things to do at Edison and Ford Winter Estates, including viewing the historic homes and exploring 20 acres of botanical gardens.
The Edison Ford Museum is another must-visit attraction. The informative exhibits about the famous inventors’ successes are educational and interesting.
TIPS:
- Edison and Ford Winter Estates are open daily from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm.
- Tickets for the estates are $25 for adults, $20 for teens ages 13 to 19, and $15 for children ages 6 to 12. Children 5 and under are admitted free.
- A selection of guided tours are offered at an additional cost.
For more information, visit theofficial Edison and Ford Winter Estates website.
Edison and Ford Winter EstatesAddress: 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33901
Edison Botanic Research Laboratory
Edison Botanic Research Laboratory is an interesting place to check out while visiting Edison and Ford Winter Estates. The lab is the only site in Florida to receive a designation as a National Historic Chemical Landmark.
The lab was built in 1928 because Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and Harvey Firestone were concerned about the country’s dependence on foreign rubber sources.
This space was primarily used to grow and test plant samples in their quest to find new sources of rubber that could be quickly produced domestically.
Nowadays, visitors can step into the lab and see original equipment and machines from when it was in operation nearly 100 years ago, including a chemical processing area, machine shop, and office.
TIPS:
- Edison Botanic Research Laboratory is open during Edison and Ford Winter Estates operating hours, which are daily from 9 am to 5:30 pm.
- Access to the laboratory is included with admission to the estates.
- The laboratory is visited on the daily Edison Ford Guided Tour, which is $30 for adults, $25 for teens ages 13 to 19, and $18 for children ages 6 to 12. Children 5 and under are free.
For more information, visit the official Edison and Ford Winter Estates website.
Edison Botanic Research Laboratory Address: 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33901
Lovers Key State Park
Lovers Key State Park is the perfect place for nature lovers to visit on a trip to Fort Myers Beach.
Located amongst the Gulf Coast’s barrier islands, the park contains beaches, mangrove forests, and waterways.
Visitors can enjoyshellingalong the beach, hiking through the park’s trails, or paddling through mangrove protected estuary.
The park is a great spot to see local wildlife, which ranges from ospreys to dolphins and manatees.
TIPS:
- Lovers Key State Park is open daily from 8 am to sundown.
- Entrance fees are $8 per vehicle (2 to 8 people), $4 for single-occupant vehicles, and $2 for pedestrians and bicyclists.
- Lovers Key is a remote destination that doesn’t have electricity.
- This park often reaches capacity on weekends and holidays. Arrive early if possible.
For more information, visit theofficial Florida State Parks website.
Lovers Key State Park Address: 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Downtown Fort Myers River District
There is always something to do in Downtown Fort Myers. The heart of the city is known as the River District, which is home to a wide variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Stop by on the third Friday of the month for Music Walk, which features live music from area musicians performing many different popular genres.
The River District hosts a bunch of different events throughout the year that offer a great way to see local talent.
Art Walk is another recurring event that takes place on the first Friday of the month. During this event, local artists display and sell art in a range of mediums.
TIPS:
- Downtown Fort Myers River District is open daily.
- There are three public parking garages in downtown.
- On-street metered parking is also available.
For more information, visit theofficial Fort Myers River District website.
Downtown Fort Myers River District Address: 2310 First St., Fort Myers, FL 33901
Murder Mystery Dinner Train
Murder Mystery Dinner Train is a must-book experience for murder mystery fans. The show takes place during an actual train ride from Colonial Station.
Every guest receives a playbill and clue sheet to follow along with the comedic, scripted show. At the end of the evening, one guest in each of the dinner cars is awarded a prize for their super-sleuthing skills.
During the 3.5-hour event, guests enjoy a 5-course meal, which includes an appetizer, soup, salad, fresh bread, choice of entrée, and dessert.
TIPS:
- Shows start at 6:30 pm Wednesday through Saturday and 5:30 pm on Sunday.
- Tickets are $129 per person on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday, and $135 per person on Saturday.
- Wine, beer, and co*cktails are available for an additional charge.
For more information, visit the official Murder Mystery Dinner Train website.
Murder Mystery Dinner Train Address: 2805 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33966
True Tours Historical Walking Tours
True Tours Historical Walking Tours is a great excursion to book if you want to learn more about Fort Myers’ history. Two of the company’s most popular tours are the Haunted History Tour and the River District History Tour.
It’s no secret that we love haunted places in Florida, so the Haunted History Tour caught our eye. It is a 90-minute walking ghost tour that takes visitors through Fort Myer’s historic district. You can learn about the area’s spooky history and potentially get glimpses of paranormal activity.
For those who prefer a less spooky experience, the River District History Tour is a fantastic option. This walking tour takes visitors through historical areas during the day and teaches you about the founding history of Fort Myers.
TIPS:
- Haunted History Tours are held on Wednesday and Saturday at 8 pm.
- River District History Tours are held on select dates at 10:30 am.
For more information, visit the official True Tours website.
True Tours Historical Walking Tours Address: 2200 First St., Fort Myers, FL 33901
Mound House
Mound House preserves 2,000 years of local history through its exhibits and tours. You can learn about indigenous Southwest Florida cultures at the museum.
We recommend checking out the underground exhibit, “Stories Beneath Our Feet,” where you can see a nearly 2,000-year-old Calusa shell mound that the museum is built around.
To see Estero Bay’s tidal creeks and mangrove tunnels, consider booking a kayak tour through Mound House. These beginner-friendly eco-tours are perfect for learning about and experiencing the area’s natural environment first-hand.
TIPS:
- Mound House grounds are open daily from 7 am to 6 pm.
- Mound House Museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm.
- Admission to the museum is $15 per adult, $8 for students with ID, and $5 for children ages 6 to 12. Children ages 5 and under are admitted for free.
- Kayak tours start at $20 per person for members and $50 per person for nonmembers.
For more information, visit the official Mound House website.
Mound House Address: 451 Connecticut St., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf
Florida has plenty of cool mini-golf experiences, and Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf is one of them. The 18-hole course is packed full of adventure, with caves, waterfalls, and pirate ships to navigate as you play.
This family-friendly spot also features an educational American alligator habit, which is home to approximately 20 gators. For a small fee, golfers can feed the gators during their visit.
Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf is open daily from 9 am to 11 pm.
TIPS:
- Pricing is $17.99 plus tax for adults and 15.99 plus tax for children 12 and under.
- Visit before 7 pm to receive Daytime Special pricing: $16.99 plus tax for adults and $14.99 plus tax for children 12 and under.
For more information, visit the official Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf website.
Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf Address: 17450 San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931.
Additional Things to Do in Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach
- Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, 7751 Penzance Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33966
- Manatee Park, 10901 Palm Beach Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33905
- The Berne Davis Botanical Garden, 2166 Virginia Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33901
- IMAG History & Science Center, 2000 Cranford Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33916
- Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, 3450 Ortiz Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33905
- JetBlue Park, 11500 Fenway South Dr., Fort Myers, FL 33913
- Bowditch Point Park, 50 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
- Crescent Beach Family Park, 1100 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Places to Stay in Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach
The Hibiscus House of Fort Myers
The Hibiscus House has been known by many names over the years, with a history that dates back to 1923. There are five lovely rooms to choose from, all of which include Wi-Fi and private exterior entrances.
The house is a great place to stay because it is conveniently located near Downtown Fort Myers and is within walking distance of many cool spots.
Enjoy water, coffee, and tea in the dining room, and don’t miss a visit to the property’s garden area.
TIPS:
- Check-in is after 3 pm. Check-out is at 11 am.
- This property is not pet-friendly.
- Quiet time is daily between 9:00 pm and 7:00 am.
For more information, visit theofficial Hibiscus House website.
The Hibiscus House Address: 2135 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33901
Lighthouse Island Resort
Located 200 feet away from the beach on Estero Island, Lighthouse Island Resort is a great place to stay in Fort Myers Beach.
The resort has a selection of suites, all of which have either a kitchen or kitchenette and dining area for its guests.
Onsite dining options include a poolside tiki bar and a beach stand. Both spots are open daily, serving tasty food and specialty drinks.
TIPS:
- Check-in is after 4:00 pm. Check-out is before 11:00 am.
- Dogs and cats that weigh less than 15 pounds can stay at the resort for an additional charge.
For more information, visit theofficial Lighthouse Island Resort website.
Lighthouse Island Resort Address: 1051 Fifth Ave, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Additional Places to Stay in Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach
- Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina, 275 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
- Edison Beach House, 830 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
- Luminary Hotel and Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers, FL 33901
Margaritaville Beach Resort is now open on Fort Myers Beach. The 254-room resort includes a 380,000-gallon pool and a 43,000-square-foot sunset terrace called “Take Me Away From My Problems.”
Where to Eat in Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach
Farmers Market Restaurant
The Farmers Market Restaurant has been serving the area since 1952. This local favorite has plenty of options on its menu, from breakfast dishes to soups and sandwiches to its main entrees.
Farmers Market is known for its daily specials and hearty entrees. If you are looking for comfort foods such as Country Fried Steak and Meatloaf with Gravy, make sure to stop in while visiting Fort Myers.
TIPS:
- Farmers Market Restaurant is open Monday through Saturday from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm.
- Breakfast is served until 10:30 am.
For more information, visit theofficial Farmers Market Restaurant website.
Farmers Market Restaurant Address: 2736 Edison Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33916
Parrot Key Caribbean Grill
Parrot Key Caribbean Grill is a great spot in Fort Myers Beach for waterfront dining. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner, with a selection of specialty co*cktails to enjoy.
Order favorites like the Coconut Shrimp Basket or Cajun Shrimp & Grits. Desserts include Florida Key Lime Pie and Fried Cheese Cake.
Parrot Key Caribbean Grill is open Monday through Thursday from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, and Sunday from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.
For more information, visit theofficial Parrot Key Caribbean Grill website.
Parrot Key Caribbean Grill Address: 2500 Main St., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Additional Places to Eat in Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach
- Oasis Restaurant, 2260 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33901
- El Gaucho Inca Steakhouse, 4383 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33966
- The Yucatan Beach Stand, 250 Old San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
- Izzy’s Fish & Oyster, 2282 First St, Fort Myers, FL 33901
- Matanzas On the Bay, 416 Crescent St., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Where to Shop in Fort Myers & Fort Myers Beach
The Franklin Shops
The Franklin Shops is a River District shopping destination with 100 shops on the property. Have a great time browsing everything from clothes to jewelry and more.
Art lovers will appreciate the variety of fine art and photography available at the Franklin Shops.
The René Miville Gallery, for example, is a gallery located onsite that hosts the work of a selection of international artists.
TIPS:
- The Franklin Shops is open Monday through Wednesday from 10 am to 8 pm, Thursday from 10 am to 9 pm, Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 10 pm, and Sunday from 11 am to 7 pm.
- During event nights in the River District, the shops are open until 10 pm.
For more information, visit theofficial Franklin Shops website.
The Franklin Shops Address: 2200 First St., Fort Myers, FL 33901
Additional Places to Shop in Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach
- Edison Mall, 4125 Cleveland Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33901
- Royal Palm Square, 1400 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33907
Planning a Trip to Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach
There are many things to consider when planning a trip to Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach. Consider a few of these questions, as they can provide a good starting point for planning your trip:
- Are you taking your trip with kids, a partner, or solo?
- Where are you traveling from?
- How many days are you planning on staying in the area?
- What are you most interested in seeing on your visit?
Keep your answers to these questions in mind as you start to make plans.
Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach have great options for everyone, whether you are looking for a solo trip, a romantic getaway, or fun for the whole family.
How to Get to Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach
You can drive to the Fort Myers area or fly into one of the region’s airports. If you are flying in, you will likely want to rent a car.
Driving
FromOrlando, Fort Myers is approximately 3.5 hours away via Highway 17 S.
FromTampa, Fort Myers is 2 hours away via I-75 S. FromMiami, it is roughly 3 hours away via I-75 N.
Flying
Southwest Florida International Airport is likely the best airport to fly into for your trip, as it serves many different airlines and is located in Fort Myers.
Depending on if you plan to visit other cities in the region, Punta Gorda Airport and Naples Municipal Airport might be viable options. Both airports are located within 50 miles of these cities.
How to Get Around
If you plan on visiting both Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach, you might be wondering what will be the best way to get around.
For this, take into consideration what sites and attractions you plan on visiting while in the area.
Car
A car is generally the best way to get around the Fort Myers area. Fort Myers itself is about a half-hour drive away from Fort Myers Beach.
An added bonus for using a car is that you can easily add other towns in the surrounding area to your travel itinerary.
Bus and Trolley
Fort Myers has a public transit system called LeeTran. The system includes bus and trolley services and is an easy, affordable way to travel to the beach and the downtown area.
Looking for other articles onSouthwest Florida? Check out:
- Top 10 Best Beaches in Southwest Florida
- Ultimate Guide to Naples, Florida 2023
- Sanibel Island Ultimate Trip Guide
- 7 Places to Discover in Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands
- A Road Trip to Southwest Florida’s Best Shell Destinations
- A List of Hurricane Resources in Florida
