The best things to do in Fort Myers
Edison and Ford Winter Estates
Explore the minds and lives of two iconic Americans, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, who built their neighboring winter escapes in Fort Myers. Choose a professional or self-guided tour of their historic homes, gardens and laboratory and admire exhibits including Edison’s 1916 Model T and phonograph.
Muscle Car City
Located along Tamiami Trail (Route 41) to the north, Muscle Car City has been building an impressive collection of classic cars for more than 40 years. Part museum, part vintage car dealership, the exhibition constantly changes. Most of the cars date back to the 1950s to 1970s, with a retro diner completing the throwback experience.
Spring Training
Warmer weather attracts the likes of baseball’s Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins for a few training games every spring before the season starts. Usually taking place at Hammond Stadium (33912) in March, catch a game and immerse yourself in the relaxed, friendly atmosphere for a lot less than regular season games.
IMAG History and Science Center
Interactive exhibits bring science, history and nature to life in this incredible downtown museum that combines an aquarium, museum, cinema and garden into one. Travel back 150 years with the virtual reality experience of Fort Myers in the mid-19th century. Here, you can interact with sea creatures in the Touch Tank and improve your brain power with Mind Magic puzzles.
The best restaurants in Fort Myers
The Veranda
For more than 40 years, The Veranda has been impressing diners in downtown Fort Myers. Its leafy courtyard and early-20th century decor are matched only by an enticing menu, full of southern seafood and steak dishes.
Harold’s
South along Tamiami Trail sits Harold’s 30-seat restaurant. The farm to table approach means the menu changes weekly, depending on seasonality. Expect top-notch traditional American meals, with everything from the beet salad to delicious desserts made from scratch.
Blanc
Close to the Cypress Lake neighborhood lies this French-owned restaurant. Its small size, just 22 seats, contrasts with the big flavors on a menu packed with Florida favorites such as stone crab claws, prawns, cured salmon and Duroc pork chops.
Where to stay in Fort Myers
Hotel Indigo
Stay in the buzzing riverfront commercial district at the heart of downtown. This boutique hotel, just two blocks from Centennial Park, has comfortable rooms and the added class of a rooftop pool.
Pink Shell Beach Resort
The Pink Shell Beach Resort is a relaxed sanctuary along Fort Myers Beach. Aside from the studio, villa and condo rooms all with ocean views, a massive Octopool is the resort’s main highlight. It keeps adults and kids alike entertained, while there’s a tranquil Aquagene Spa too.
DiamondHead Beach Resort
At the north end of Fort Myers Beach, not far from Times Square, DiamondHead Beach Resort is a family-friendly resort overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Relax with sunset ocean views, join in with organized activities such as arts and crafts or rent a kayak and get out on the water.
Best beaches in Fort Myers
Fort Myers Beach
Seven miles of white-sand coastline stretch out along Fort Myers Beach, making finding a peaceful spot easy. Look out for the shells washed ashore and walk along the pier for picturesque views.
Cayo Costa Beach
One of the largest Floridian barrier islands, Cayo Costa is perfect for peaceful activities such as shelling, fishing and camping. Mostly unspoiled, as it’s only accessible by boat, you might see a dolphin if you’re lucky.