Learn why the Cypress Lake name is fitting when you view the trees and waterways of this attractive neighborhood. The area features numerous residential developments where people come for active retirement living to enjoy golf, tennis and other pursuits in glorious Florida sunshine.

Travel east from the neighborhood’s residential center to Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve. Take a guided tour or wander along the boardwalk to be immersed in this 3,500-acre (1,400-hectare) natural wetland ecosystem. Learn about conservation in the interpretive center and look for alligators, turtles, otters, birds and butterflies in the preserve.

Nearer the town center, Lakes Park has bird-watching and picnic areas along with a children’s playground, weekly farmers market, walking paths and several gardens. Bring the family to the Railroad Museum of South Florida at the park to learn about trains from exhibits and full-size locomotives. Enjoy a scenic 15-minute ride on a miniature train through a tunnel, over a bridge and between the lakes of the park.

Florida SouthWestern State College has a pretty campus dotted with palms and ponds. The facilities include the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, which features a touring Broadway series and other entertainment. The Bob Rauschenberg Gallery offers exhibitions of modern and contemporary international fine art, including access to a permanent exhibit of Rauschenberg’s art.

From Cypress Lake, follow McGregor Boulevard north along the Caloosahatchee River to Historical Fort Myers. The wide street is lined with more than 1,000 tall royal palms. In town, visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Florida Repertory Theatre and practice fields for spring training for several professional baseball teams.

Drive southwest from Cypress Lake to Sanibel Island for shelling on sandy beaches. Head south to Estero Bay Preserve State Park, where you can hike, kayak and observe wildlife.

Cypress Lake is 8 miles (13 kilometers) from central Fort Myers. Fly to Southwest Florida International Airport from major cities and drive or use Lee County buses to travel around the neighborhood.