What to do in Fort Myers, FL

Activities, attractions and tours
Burroughs Home featuring a garden and a house

Fort Myers Attractions

Considered the gateway to Southwest Florida, Fort Myers is more than just a resort town on the banks of the Caloosahatchee River. In 1885, Thomas Edison selected this former military stronghold as the perfect place to build a sprawling winter estate. In 1916, his close friend Henry Ford joined him. Today, in addition to the must-see Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Fort Myers beckons with a host of tropical-weather activities. From fishing for redfish and tarpon to the chance to spectate a spring training baseball game—it's all here in the City of Palms.


Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.

Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.

Members get extra discounts on thousands of experiences and hotels. Sign up today.


Most fun & popular experiences in Fort Myers

What to do in Fort Myers

Free Things to Do in Fort Myers

Some say the best things in life are free. Make sure you visit the following around Fort Myers:

Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center - If you're eager to learn more about the cultural and artistic side of the region, be sure to pay a visit.

Dunbar Park - Plenty of excitement is in store for you at this terrific place.

Vietnam War Memorial - Educate yourself about some of the intriguing history of the area through this attraction.

Lee Cancer Care Center - Make room in your must-see list to visit this site of local importance.

Thomas Edison Congregational Church - No matter what you believe in, this site will invoke a sense of reverence.

Centennial Park - Prepare a picnic and enjoy a relaxing walk around the interesting plants.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Fort Myers

The city of Fort Myers is home to charming historic districts and a bustling downtown that features some of the best shopping in the Sunshine State.

Fort Myers River District

Stroll along First Street in Downtown Fort Myers and you'll find yourself in the heart of the Fort Myers River District—a scenic stretch of independent art galleries, retail boutiques, and esteemed local eateries. Grab a to-go lunch and head to Centennial Park to picnic with waterfront views.

Dean Park Historic District

A collection of craftsman bungalows and English Tudor homes line the drive in this district within walking distance of Downtown Fort Myers. Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, the Dean Park Historic District appeals to history buffs as well as those who want to stretch their legs after a filling meal at one of Fort Myers' top-notch restaurants.

Bunche Beach

At Bunche Beach, extensive tidal wetlands and incredible wildlife can be found. In addition to sunbathing and swimming in San Carlos Bay, a birding trail appeals to nature enthusiasts and a kayak outfitter allows you to experience the region from the water.

Things to See in Fort Myers

Of all the things to see in Fort Myers, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates belong at the top of every traveler’s sightseeing bucket list. In addition to admiring the vacation complexes of the American inventors, stroll the botanical gardens and tour the rubber laboratory, built to develop a domestic rubber supply for the booming auto industry. Looking to take in a play during your travels? The Arcade Theater, which was used to show Edison's first films, now houses the Florida Repertory Theatre. Young travelers also delight in the Imaginarium—Fort Myers' kid-friendly interactive science center.

Sightseeing in Fort Myers

Whether you're looking for a bit of retail therapy or an idyllic riverboat cruise, Fort Myers delivers. For a shopping experience plus a chance to interact with Florida's native butterflies, head to the Shops at Butterfly Estates. If it's designer clothing you're after, check out Edison Mall. Nature lovers rave about the river cruises that get you up close to manatee and osprey. Sports fans who visit in spring won't want to pass up the chance to watch the Minnesota Twins and the Boston Red Sox preparing for baseball season at the nearby sports complexes. Finally, there’s no need to limit your adventures to the Fort Myers city limits—consider a memorable getaway to the Everglades for the ultimate Florida outdoor experience.

Things to Do in Fort Myers with Kids

There's fun for all the family in Fort Myers. Here are a few family friendly experiences to do together that are certain to make your escape unforgettable:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Fort Myers? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What should I not miss in Fort Myers?
You just can’t go home without crossing off the following list of incredible sights:

  • Edison and Ford Winter Estates
  • Manatee Park
  • Sun Splash Water Park
  • Imaginarium Hands - On Museum

Are there cheap things to do in Fort Myers?
What can you do in Fort Myers for free?
Your trip to Fort Myers won’t cost an arm and a leg with free attractions like these to keep you on the go:

  • Florida Gulf Coast University
  • Captiva Beach
  • Coconut Point Mall
  • Sanibel Island Southern Beach


Popular places to visit

Explore areas of Fort Myers

Day trip destinations from Fort Myers