20+ Fun Things to Do in Fort Myers
This Fort Myers travel guide shares things to do in Fort Myers, Cape Coral and the surrounding area. The Fort Myers, Cape Coral & Sanibel area is so beautiful with endless options for enjoying the sunshine and fresh air.
Fort Myers is great for couples, friends and families so this list includes things to do that are more oriented for grown-ups as well as things to do with the whole family.
Fun Things to do in Fort Myers
Since you’re in Southwest Florida, the first thing I’m going to talk about is beaches! Any list of things to do in Fort Myers has to include some beaches and these are my faves:
Fort Myers Beach
One of the more popular beaches in the area and for good reason! If you’re looking for things to do in Fort Myers with kids this is the spot. This is a family friendly beach.
You’ll find seven miles of beach with a shoreline that very gradually eases into the Gulf. So there are no steep drop-offs and the undertow is gentle. It’s been named the “Worlds Safest Beach.”
Parking can be a bit of a challenge here – you might have to make a few loops to find a spot, but even then we always found it easy to find our own space once on the beach.
Fort Myers Beach is still in the process of recovery and rebuilding after Hurricane Ian in September 2022, however there are still things to do and it’s an easy option to spend a day in the sun.
However, while this beach is convenient, I don’t consider it the prettiest of the beaches near Fort Myers – you’ll have to keep scrolling for my other favorites.
Bowman’s Beach
Bowman’s is a gorgeous beach on Sanibel Island. Make a day out of it and explore the rest of Sanibel Island after an early visit to Bowman’s Beach.
Bowman’s Beach was named one of the Top 10 Best Beaches in the World by U.S. News Travel and one of the Top 25 Beaches in the United States by Travelocity.
This beach gives off a secluded vibe with the long (about 10 min) walk from the parking lot to the beach.There are tons of shells here to gather and waves to enjoy. You’ll wan to bring some snacks and water since there aren’t any concession stands.
Alison Hagerup Beach Park
Alison Hagerup Beach Park is known as one of the most romantic beaches due to its beautiful sunsets. The beach faces west so you get to see gorgeous colors as the sun sets on the Gulf.
It’s a bit smaller and doesn’t have great parking options, so best bet is to arrive early. Stores and restaurants are nearby and the beach itself offers restroom facilities and a volleyball net.
Lovers Key State Park
This one is my favorite! It is a bit of a drive to get here from where we stayed, but so worth it for the clear water and beautiful white sandy beaches. Lover’s Key was once only reachable by boat so its secluded nature led to the name “Lovers Key.” Now it’s a gorgeous, easily accessible beach with loads of parking.
The concession shop near the entrance offers all sorts of rentals and activities including kayak tours, bicycle, canoe, kayak, paddle board, beach chair and umbrella rentals.
Plus, you can find souvenirs, sun hats, sunscreen and some refreshments.
On the beach you’ll have access to Hurricane Charlies which offers a limited menu, think snacks like soft pretzels, pizza slices, and more. We enjoyed our snacks after a few hours of playing in the sun.
In addition to the beach, you’ll find 5 miles of trails for biking and hiking. I’m excited to return here and do some more exploring!
Visit Downtown Fort Myers AKA the River District
This neighborhood stretches along the Caloosahatchee River and offers an eclectic assortment of activities. You can hunt for antiques, go shopping, enjoy the local restaurants, take in some nature at Centennial Park and even hop along some bars or breweries.
My favorite spot for a drink is the 86 Room – I love any place that has speakeasy vibes. They make great craft cocktails. There is also Millennial Brewing which is a nice spot for a group to have a casual drink together.
Walk along First Street to do some window shopping and pop over to the Historic Fort Myers Riverfront for the views of the water.
And while you’re downtown…
Take a Haunted History Tour
True Tours offers a twice weekly walking haunted history tour of Fort Myers. It runs about 90 minutes long and you’ll learn about the unseen and paranormal activities of the darker side of Fort Myers.
If getting spooked isn’t your thing, you can also take a regular historical walking tour with True Tours River District History Tour. This tour also runs 90 minutes but since it’s during the daytime, you’ll want to be extra mindful of sun protection & staying hydrated.
IMAG History & Science Center
IMAG is an interactive, hands-on, educational museum with a large, open informal environment so kids and families can explore what interests them. And you’ll find educators and presenters throughout the space to learn even more.
IMAG History & Science Center has 60+ interactive exhibits and attractions so you can visit again and again and experience something new every time. There’s a touch tank, live shows, a walkthrough history of the beginnings of Southwest Florida and lots more!
IMAG History & Science Center: 2000 Cranford Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33916, United States
Sun splash Family Waterpark
There are days you want to go to the beach and there are days when you just want some more thrilling action. For those days I recommend heading to the Sun Splash Family Waterpark in Cape Coral.
Sun Splash is a seasonal water park with 14+ acres of waterslides, a lazy river & kids’ water play area. You can rent cabanas and make it an entire day long outing. There are waterslides for everyone from kid-friendly to more thrilling and intense with darkened tunnels.
They have dining available on-site (no outside food or beverages allows), expect your typical park items like burgers and hot dogs, plus lots of frozen treats and frosty drinks.
Sun Splash Family Waterpark: 500 W Lake Kennedy Dr, Cape Coral, FL 33991
Explore Edison & Ford Winter Estates
Just south of downtown you’ll find the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. This is for the historians, the older kids and honestly anyone who has a curious mind.
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates date back to 1885, when Thomas Edison first visited the area and purchased the property to build a vacation home. You can explore the multiple homes on the property, as well as the laboratory, gardens and museum.
They also offer an annual holiday celebration with thousands of lights on the property making for a festive visit just before and after Christmas.
Edison & Ford Winter Estates: 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33901
Find a Farmers Market
Fort Myers and the surrounding area is rich with farmers markets and for good reason with all the great, fresh local produce. Plus, other items from makers and bakers.
I’m a big fan of the Cape Coral Farmers Market, every Saturday at the Club Square in South Cape. We picked up veggies for grilling, but also enjoyed some morning coffee and baked goods. And shopped some vintage watches.
Plus, you’ll find the most delicious handmade empanadas here. Absolutely worth the trip!
There’s an evening market you can check out monthly – the Night Market for the Alliance of the Arts with live music, food trucks, wine and more in addition to the usual market fare.
Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Miromar Outlets
Miromar Outlets was voted the Best Shopping Experience & Best Factory Outlet Mall. With over 140 outlets to shop at there’s something for everyone including Adidas, Bath & Body Works and Saks off 5th, just to name a few.
Miromar Outlets: 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero, FL 33928, United States
Gator Mike’s Family Fun Park
Gator Mike’s is another outdoor amusement center, but this one is without all the water. Here you’ll find go-karts, batting cages, carnival rides, a climbing wall, mini-golf and even arcade games. They have a snack bar and Mellow Mushroom Pizza on site so you can have fun all day.
Gator Mike’s Family Fun Park: 35 NE Pine Island Rd, Cape Coral, FL 33909
Castle Golf Mini Golf Course Park
If you’re a mini golf aficionado then you must visit Castle Golf! Here you can enjoy a Medieval castle-themed mini-golf course amid with waterfalls and stunning tropical foliage.
Castle Golf: 7400 Gladiolus Dr, Fort Myers, FL 33908
Take in the Vibes at Jungle Bird Tiki
Jungle Bird is such a fun addition to the Cape Coral – Fort Myers area. It’s an authentic tiki bar with great decor and really good food including fresh tuna, steaks, and more. I also love their creative cocktail menu and the tiki glasses the drinks are served in – enjoy them on their spacious patio.
Jungle Bird Tiki: 1520 Lafayette St, Cape Coral, FL 33904
Try a Custom Energy Drink at Urban Buzz Coffee
Urban Buzz is not your typical coffee spot – in addition to deliciously prepared coffee – they also create custom energy drinks. You can choose from dozens of flavor combinations like orange, pomegranate, blue raspberry and many many more to combine with their plant based sting’r energy. I love the Sharkbite combo!
Alongside their caffeinated beverages you can grab a few breakfast items – including plenty of vegan options.
There are two locations – one in the University Village neighborhood of Fort Myers and one in Cape Coral.
Urban Buzz Coffee: 19810 Village Center Dr unit 100a, Fort Myers, FL 33913 and 4413 Del Prado Blvd S, Cape Coral, FL 33904.
Indulge in the Cinnamon Roll at Penny’s Coffee Bar
Penny’s has the cutest neighborhood coffee spot vibe – like I could imagine the characters of Friends hanging out here if they have a Florida version of the show.
In addition to their coffees and teas they also offer fruity refresher drinks and the MOST DELICIOUS cinnamon roll. It’s worth a stop for breakfast before heading out for the day to kick things off with a calming, sweet start.
Penny’s Coffee Bar: 1112 SE 47th Terrace Unit D, Cape Coral, FL 33904
Things to do in Fort Myers for Adults: Take a Rum Distillery Tour
I highly recommend taking a rum distillery or brewery tour during your visit. The region has many to offer, but my favorite tour would have to be Wicked Dolphin.
For starters, it’s a free (!!) tour. Plus, the staff is hilarious and friendly. And the rum is delicious! I’m not a big drinker, but I am a picky drinker. And this rum sets a high standard.
Wicked Dolphin Distillery: 131 SW 3rd Pl, Cape Coral, FL 33991
Things to Do in Fort Myers: Manatee Park
Yes, you can see manatees! Manatee Park is a non-captive warm water refuge for Florida manatees and it is one of the most fun things to do in Fort Myers. Since it’s non-captive you are not guaranteed to see manatees during a visit and they come and go as they please.
However, your chances of seeing manatees during a visit increases greatly during the winter months (late December, January and February) as the manatees want to get away from the colder Gulf water.
The park provides specific guidelines for manatee watching, though I think this sums it up best: If a manatee responds to your presence, you are too close. Move away to a distance that does not change the animal’s natural behavior.
Visit the Manatee Park overview for information on location, parking, kayak rental and more.
Manatee Park: 10901 Palm Beach Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33905
Rent Bicycles
Renting bicycles is one of the most fun things to do in Fort Myers and the Sanibel area. I highly recommend spending an afternoon bicycling around Sanibel Island. Road traffic can be slow, but you can avoid that headache with a bike rental and enjoy the fresh air.
You’ll find over 27 miles of paved, multi-use paths for biking or hiking throughout Sanibel that take you all over the island. You’ll find bike racks regularly throughout the island so you can stop as needed and lock up.
Bike Rental Details
For your bike rental, I recommend Billy’s Rentals as the most comprehensive, full-service option with a variety of bikes for everyone (even wheelchair friendly options!)
Billy’s Rentals: 1470 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957
Take a Drive Down to Naples
Take a day trip down to another popular southwest Florida city – Naples! You can explore the Naples Botanical Garden, Crayton Cove, multiple museums, Naples beach, Downtown Naples and more.
Explore JN Ding National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island
You can even take your rental bike through the JN Ding National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel too! JN Ding is a massive refuge of 7,600 acres where you can spot wildlife, go boating, fishing, birding, paddleboarding, biking, hiking and more.
You can also take wildlife drive which is a 4-mile trail showcasing a large variety of birds, but other wildlife too, especially during the winter months. Keep in mind that the wildlife drive is closed every Friday.
JN Ding National Wildlife Refuge: 1 Wildlife Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957
Sun Harvest Citrus
Visit Sun Harvest Citrus to enjoy local, fresh as heck Florida citrus fruit. You’ll be able to enjoy and sample fresh squeezed orange juice, fruit smoothies and soft serve ice cream.If you love fresh, tropical fruit, let me also recommend…
Sun Harvest Citrus: 14601 6 Mile Cypress Pkwy, Fort Myers, FL 33912
Visit Pine Island for Fresh Tropical Fruits in Fort Myers
There are multiple orchards, nurseries and markets to pickup fresh fruit, explore & pick your own or even purchase your own trees.
A few spots to explore include: Pine Island Tropicals, The Mango Factory, FruitScapes and Pine Island Tropical Fruit Market. In June you can experience MangoMania, an entire festival for the beloved mango fruit.
Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
There is really so much to do outdoors in Fort Myers, including the Slough Preserve. The boardwalk takes you through the slough where you can see otters, turtles, wading birds and even alligators.
Expect to take about an hour to walk through the preserve. And don’t forget a camera for wildlife photography.
Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve: 7751 Penzance Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33966
Four Mile Cove Preserve
Similar to Cypress Slough, the Cove Preserve lets you spend time in relaxing, peaceful nature.
The Cove Preserve offers canoe and kayak waterways, along with 6,000 ft boardwalk and walking trails through the space. This Preserve is located in Cape Coral. From personal experience – wear the bug spray!!
Four Mile Cove Preserve: 2500 SE 24th St, Cape Coral, FL 33990
One of the Most Unique Things to Do in Fort Myers: Visit Cayo Costa
If you’re looking for a really unique experience, let me recommend Cayo Costa.
Cayo Costa is a large barrier island that is only accessible by boat. There are nine miles of beautiful secluded beach and more than six miles of biking and hiking trails.
You can take a public ferry, charter boat or private boat to the island. Or take a helicopter if you’re super bougie!
You can visit for a half-day or even stay overnight on the campgrounds. They do have some very primitive cabins for rent, though there is no electricity.
The island has restrooms, potable water and cold showers. You’ll want to pack in and out all the food, drink sand supplies you need whether you’re visiting for a few hours or overnight.
What is Fort Myers known for?
Fort Myers is known for it’s beaches and outdoor related activities, like beachcombing, shelling, kayaking and all the beautiful nature preserves.
Compared to other places, Fort Myers beaches are on a shallow water plateau so they more easily collect shells and bring them to the shoreline where everyone can enjoy them.
Plus, there’s great history in Fort Myers knowing that Thomas Edison, the famous inventor who invented the lightbulb, lived here part time.
I hope you enjoyed this list of things to do in Fort Myers and the surrounding area. Happy travels!
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