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Things To Do in Fort Myers, Florida

Fort Myers is a coastal playground built for sunshine, relaxation, and easy access to Southwest Florida’s best beaches and islands. With beautiful Gulf shoreline, riverfront parks, family attractions, and quick routes to Sanibel and Captiva, the city offers something for every type of traveler — beach lovers, boaters, foodies, families, and outdoor explorers.

Find activities for your entire family and book online here:

Beaches & Waterfront Activities

Fort Myers Beach A lively Gulf Coast beach with soft sand, warm water, waterfront dining, and plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and family fun.

Sanibel Island Known worldwide for shelling, quiet beaches, and wildlife refuges, Sanibel offers a peaceful, nature‑focused escape just minutes from Fort Myers.

Captiva Island A scenic island with colorful sunsets, boutique shops, and relaxed beachfront restaurants — perfect for a laid‑back day trip.

Bunche Beach A natural, undeveloped shoreline ideal for kayaking, bird‑watching, and enjoying calm waters away from the crowds.

Downtown & Cultural Attractions

Downtown River District A walkable historic district filled with waterfront restaurants, boutiques, galleries, live music, and weekly farmers markets.

Edison & Ford Winter Estates Historic homes, museums, and botanical gardens where Thomas Edison and Henry Ford spent their winters — one of Fort Myers’ signature attractions.

IMAG History & Science Center An interactive museum with hands‑on exhibits, live animal encounters, and educational fun for families.

Nature & Outdoor Recreation

Lakes Park A large community park with trails, gardens, playgrounds, paddleboats, and shaded areas perfect for families and outdoor relaxation.

Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve A peaceful boardwalk through a lush wetland ecosystem, offering wildlife viewing, photography opportunities, and quiet nature walks.

Kayaking & Paddleboarding Explore mangrove tunnels, calm backwaters, and riverfront scenery with easy access to rentals throughout Fort Myers.

Boating & Fishing With the Caloosahatchee River and Gulf of Mexico nearby, Fort Myers is a prime spot for fishing charters, boat rentals, and sunset cruises.

Family-Friendly Activities

Mini Golf & Adventure Parks Fun, easy outings for families looking for light entertainment between beach days.

Wildlife Encounters Local nature centers and preserves offer chances to see native birds, turtles, and marine life up close.

Parks & Playgrounds Fort Myers has numerous family‑friendly parks with shaded play areas, walking paths, and open green spaces.

Experience Fort Myers Area Events & Festivals

The city hosts popular annual events including:

• Edison Festival of Light — February
• ArtFest Fort Myers — Early February
• Southwest Florida & Lee County Fair — Late February / Early March
• Caloosa Sound Concert Series — Various dates year‑round
• Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival — March
• River District Farmers Market & Art Walks — Monthly

These events bring live music, food, culture, and family fun to the city throughout the year.