Nestled along the sparkling Caloosahatchee River, Fort Myers is so much more than just a sunny getaway. This Southwest Florida gem is steeped in history, bursting with natural beauty, and buzzing with a laid-back, coastal vibe that’ll have you swapping your shoes for flip-flops in a heartbeat.
Forget the crowded theme parks and hectic pace. Fort Myers offers a different kind of Florida magic, one where wild dolphins play in the mangroves and history lives on in the winter homes of famous inventors.
Get ready to have your vacation expectations completely rewritten. We’re diving headfirst into the very best things to do in Fort Myers, from pristine barrier islands to quirky downtown hotspots.
This isn’t your average list; it’s your insider’s key to unlocking the authentic, unforgettable experiences that make this place so special.
Whether you’re a shell-seeking beach bum, a nature enthusiast, or a family craving quality time, pack your sense of adventure. Your ultimate Fort Myers Florida travel guide starts right now.
1. Lovers Key State Park – Best Overall & For Nature Lovers
If you only pick one place to experience the raw, unfiltered beauty of this region, make it Lovers Key State Park.
This isn’t your typical crowded beach. Spanning over 1,600 acres, this park is a sprawling sanctuary of barrier islands where the real locals—dolphins, manatees, and roseate spoonbills—come out to play.
The name alone sparks romance, and the moment you step onto its two-and-a-half miles of pristine, white-sand beach, you’ll feel it. It’s the crown jewel of any Fort Myers Florida travel guide for a reason.
Getting around is half the fun. Hop on the complimentary tram that winds through the mangroves to the main beach, or better yet, explore the network of trails by kayak, paddleboard, or bike.
Keep your eyes peeled for sea turtles nesting along the shore or a manatee gracefully gliding through the calm backwaters. The park is a vital part of the Great Calusa Blueway, a 190-mile marked canoe and kayak trail.
Finding fantastic things to do in Fort Myers for couples or solo adventurers is a breeze here. It’s a place that reminds you what Florida looked like before the high-rises.
2. Edison and Ford Winter Estates – Best For History & Inspiration
Prepare to be wowed by the brilliance and beauty of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. This isn’t just a museum; it’s a sprawling, riverfront property where two of America’s greatest minds, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, spent their winters.
Walking through the lush, 20-acre garden is a sensory delight, but stepping into their historic homes, laboratories, and museum is like traveling back in time. You’ll see Edison’s original botanical lab and the very same swimming pool where Henry Ford took a dip.
The grounds are a living museum, home to over 1,700 plants, including a massive Banyan tree that will absolutely take your breath away. It’s one of the largest in the continental United States.
A guided tour is a must to truly appreciate the stories of innovation and friendship that echo through these halls. This is, without a doubt, one of the top Fort Myers points of interest for anyone with a curious mind.
It’s more than a history lesson; it’s an inspiration. You’ll leave feeling motivated to tackle your own big ideas.
3. Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve – Best For a Budget-Friendly Nature Walk
Pronounced “sloo,” this place is a true hidden gem and a masterclass in natural engineering. The Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve is a 3,500-acre wetland ecosystem that acts like a slow-moving river, channeling rainwater through the community.
The star of the show is the incredible 1.2-mile raised boardwalk that lets you walk right through the heart of this cypress swamp without getting your feet wet. It’s a completely free activity that feels a million miles away from the city, yet it’s right in the middle of everything.
As you wander the boardwalk, you’re surrounded by a symphony of nature. Look for alligators sunning themselves on logs, turtles plopping into the water, and a spectacular variety of birds.
The preserve is a critical habitat for wildlife, and the beauty is in the quiet details. Bring your binoculars and a camera. This is one of the best free things to do in Fort Myers for families, photographers, or anyone needing a peaceful reset.
It’s a beautiful reminder that the best things in life are often free.
4. Fort Myers Beach – Best For Families & Classic Fun
When you picture a classic, sun-drenched Florida beach day, you’re probably picturing Fort Myers Beach. This seven-mile stretch of soft, white sand along Estero Island is the epicenter of fun in the sun.
The vibe at the main area, Times Square, is energetic and family-friendly, with plenty of shops, ice cream parlors, and places to grab a bite. The gentle slope of the beach and the calm, warm waters of the Gulf make it a perfect and safe playground for kids of all ages.
You can simply plant your umbrella and relax, or you can get in on the action. Book a parasailing adventure for a bird’s-eye view, hop on a dolphin-watching tour, or try your hand at jet skiing.
The iconic Fort Myers Beach Pier is a fantastic spot for fishing or just watching the world go by. For a quintessential, action-packed day by the ocean, this is the top pick for fun things to do in Fort Myers with kids.
It’s the kind of place where sandy toes and big smiles are guaranteed.
5. Manatee Park – Best For a Unique Wildlife Encounter
For a truly magical and uniquely Floridian experience, you have to visit Manatee Park. This isn’t a zoo; it’s a passive park situated on a warm-water discharge canal from a nearby power plant.
When the Gulf of Mexico water temperature drops below 68 degrees, these gentle giants, also known as sea cows, flock to the canal to stay warm. Seeing a dozen or more of these massive, peaceful creatures lazily swimming and playing is a sight you will never, ever forget.
The best time to visit is between November and March, but it’s a beautiful park year-round. You can observe them from the boardwalk or get up close by renting a kayak and paddling quietly nearby.
The park also has beautiful butterfly gardens and educational displays. A trip here is easily one of the most memorable and unique things to do in Fort Myers.
It’s a heartwarming encounter that highlights the importance of protecting Florida’s precious wildlife.
6. The Shell Factory & Nature Park – Best For a Quirky, Fun-Filled Day
Get ready for a dose of pure, unadulterated fun at The Shell Factory. This legendary spot has been a Fort Myers institution since 1938, and it is so much more than its name suggests.
Yes, it houses over five million shells, which is mind-boggling in itself, but it’s also a massive entertainment complex. Think of it as a quirky, all-in-one wonderland that’s perfect for when you need a break from the beach.
Inside, you’ll find a huge gift shop, a fun park with rides and mini-golf, a sprawling nature park with animal encounters, and even a restaurant with something for everyone.
It’s a little bit quirky, a little bit educational, and a whole lot of fun. This is the ultimate rainy-day or too-hot afternoon savior.
For a one-stop-shop of entertainment that will keep the whole family happy for hours, this is a top contender for things to do in Fort Myers. It’s a vibrant, colorful, and totally unforgettable place.
7. Lakes Regional Park – Best For Recreation & A Peaceful Escape
If you’re looking for a massive, clean, and incredibly well-maintained park to spend a perfect afternoon, head straight to Lakes Regional Park. This 279-acre park is a local favorite for a reason.
It’s centered around a series of beautiful freshwater lakes and is packed with enough amenities to keep everyone entertained. You can rent a bike or a surrey to explore the paved trails, let the kids loose on one of the several fantastic playgrounds, or simply find a shady spot for a picnic.
One of its standout features is a charming miniature train that takes you on a scenic tour of the entire park. It’s a huge hit with families.
The park also has a wonderful water playground, perfect for cooling off on a warm day. For a dose of simple, wholesome, and active fun, this park is a home run.
It’s a breath of fresh air and a fantastic addition to your list of Fort Myers Florida activities.
8. Captiva Island – Best For a Picturesque Day Trip
Just a short, scenic drive over the bridge from Fort Myers, you’ll find the enchanting Captiva Island. If you’re dreaming of a picture-perfect, storybook Florida island, this is it.
Captiva is smaller, quieter, and more exclusive than its neighbor Sanibel, known for its charming, pastel-colored homes and world-famous shelling beaches. The entire island has a laid-back, artistic vibe that feels like a true escape.
This is one of the best things to do near Fort Myers for a change of pace.
Spend your day beachcombing for rare and beautiful shells, browsing the unique art galleries and boutiques, or indulging in a delicious meal at a waterfront restaurant.
The waters are a stunning shade of aqua, and the sunsets are nothing short of spectacular. A day trip to Captiva Island feels like you’ve been let in on a wonderful secret.
It’s the perfect place to slow down, relax, and soak in the absolute best of the Florida coastal lifestyle.
9. IMAG History & Science Center – Best For a Hands-On Learning Experience
When you need an engaging, air-conditioned break that’s both fun and educational, the IMAG History & Science Center is your spot. This isn’t a stuffy museum; it’s a hands-on, interactive wonderland that brilliantly combines live science exhibits with the rich history of Southwest Florida.
You can touch a stingray in the marine touch tank, get up close with native reptiles, and explore fascinating exhibits on the Calusa Indians, the area’s original inhabitants.
The IMAG’s 3D theater shows educational films that bring science to life, and their hurricane simulator lets you feel the power of a Category 1 storm.
It’s a place where kids (and let’s be honest, adults too) can learn through play and discovery. For a brain-boosting and incredibly fun outing, this is a premier choice for things to do in Fort Myers with family.
It’s a surefire way to spark curiosity and create lasting memories.
10. Bunche Beach Preserve – Best For Birdwatching & Seclusion
For those in the know, Bunche Beach Preserve is a slice of coastal paradise. This 718-acre Lee County preserve offers a more rustic and natural beach experience.
Instead of wide, open sands, you’ll find a beautiful landscape of mangroves, tidal flats, and sandy stretches that seem to go on forever during low tide. It’s a haven for birdwatchers, with hundreds of species, including majestic ospreys and graceful herons, frequenting the area.
This is the perfect spot for a quiet walk, kayaking through the mangrove tunnels, or simply sitting and watching the incredible sunset over the Sanibel Causeway.
Because it’s a bit off the main tourist path, it rarely feels crowded. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape and some of the best birding in the region, Bunche Beach is a must-visit.
It’s a beautiful, unspoiled piece of Florida that encourages you to connect with nature.
11. The River District – Best For Shopping, Dining & Local Vibe
To feel the pulse of the city, you have to spend some time exploring Downtown Fort Myers’ River District.
This historic area is a vibrant hub of activity, with beautifully restored buildings housing a fantastic mix of independent art galleries, quirky boutiques, and a wide array of restaurants.
You can find everything from juicy burgers to fresh seafood and vegan delights here. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with plenty of public art and murals adding to the colorful scene.
Stroll along the scenic Caloosahatchee Riverwalk, watch the boats go by, and soak in the local flavor. On certain nights, the area hosts art walks and street festivals that really bring the community together.
Exploring the River District is one of the top things to do in Fort Myers for a taste of local culture and a great meal. It’s the perfect place to shop for unique souvenirs and support local businesses.
12. J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge – Best For a World-Class Eco-Tour
Last but certainly not least, a trip to the nearby J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island is an absolute must for any nature lover.
This isn’t just a park; it’s a world-renowned, 6,400-acre sanctuary that protects one of the largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystems in the United States.
The main way to explore is by driving, biking, or walking the four-mile Wildlife Drive, where you’re almost guaranteed to see an incredible array of birds, alligators, and raccoons.
For the best experience, rent a kayak and paddle through the Commodore Creek Trail, a marked kayak trail that winds through a mangrove forest. It’s a surreal and peaceful adventure.
The refuge is a vital stop on the Great Florida Birding Trail. A day spent here is a day spent in one of the most ecologically significant places in all of Florida.
It’s the perfect, grand finale to your Fort Myers adventure.
Conclusion
From the gentle manatees in a warm canal to the brilliant minds that once wintered here, Fort Myers is a destination that surprises and delights at every turn. It’s a place where you can build sandcastles on a bustling beach one day and paddle through a silent mangrove forest the next.
The hardest part is choosing where to start your exploration.
So, what are you waiting for? The shells are waiting to be collected on Captiva, the dolphins are playing in the estuaries, and the sun is shining over Lovers Key.
Grab your calendar, pick your favorites from this list, and start planning your trip to discover the very best of Fort Myers, Florida, today. Your perfect Southwest Florida escape is calling.