Top 12 Attractions and Activities in Fort Myers, Florida

Known as the gateway of Southwest Florida, Fort Myers has been a major tourist destination for decades. Way back when, Thomas Edison and his good friend Henry Ford vacationed here in adjoining homes. Moreover, the Native American Calusa tribe called this region home long before that. However, Fort Myers is not just about history; it is an ideal destination to experience some of the most beautiful Florida beaches, eye-catching natural encounters, and endless family fun.

Explore Sanibel and Captiva Island

By far one of the can’t-miss attractions when visiting Fort Myers is heading over to Sanibel and Captiva Islands. It’s only about a 45-minute drive to Sanibel and about an hour to Captiva, but it’s worth the trip. Furthermore, shuttle boats can get you there much quicker. Both islands are known for their pristine beaches, soft, smooth sand, and incredible seashells. Lodging and fine dining options abound, making this a tranquil overnight getaway.

Relax at Newton Park

Newton Park was the former beachfront home of Jim and Ellie Newton, who were friends of Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and Charles Lindbergh. The historic home features a bocce court, covered thatched hut, and picnic tables, providing a laid-back atmosphere for families with young children. Owned by the Town of Fort Myers Beach, the park often has free guided beach walks led by a master naturalist departing from the site. Amenities include metered parking, outdoor showers, restrooms, and easy beach access.

Go Shelling

The Fort Myers area is celebrated for its fantastic shelling due to its position on Florida’s west coast. Warm Gulf waters wash countless shells ashore daily, and the city of Fort Myers Beach and Captiva Island are top picks for finding these treasures. For shell enthusiasts, The National Shell Museum, located on Sanibel Island, is dedicated to shells and the mollusks that produce them, offering guided beach walks to learn more about shelling and other marine life. The Shell Factory, situated in north Fort Myers, is the largest shell retailer in the world, and visitors can also enjoy a fun park, nature center, and bumper boats attractions.

Tour the Imaginarium Science Center

The Imaginarium Science Center is an interactive experience suitable for all ages. It features more than 60 exhibits where visitors can explore science, technology, engineering, and math concepts. A new virtual reality exhibit allows guests to travel back 150 years to take in the sights of Fort Myers. The museum operates daily except Monday, and general admission encompasses all exhibits and the interactive touch tank experience, merging with the Southwest Florida Museum of History.

Take a Dolphin Tour

The warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico attract a wealth of marine life, making it an ideal spot for dolphin tours. These majestic and friendly mammals will impress any visitor. While you can rent a boat and explore on your own, numerous dolphin tour operators are available in the area. To ensure an enriching experience, consider joining a tour such as the Southwest Florida Dolphin & Nature Cruise Company, which provides a knowledgeable guide to enhance your time on the water.

Kayak the Great Calusa Blueway

The Great Calusa Blueway is a 190-mile canoe and kayak route that winds through three rivers and their tributaries, marked clearly with mile markers. It allows kayakers to explore lagoons and beaches while encountering a diverse array of wildlife, including playful manatees and dolphins. Visitors can choose to paddle the entire Blueway or portions of it, with numerous guided tour options available. Rentals typically run around $45 for the day, and launch locations can vary depending on the desired length and difficulty of the trail.

Explore Edison and Ford’s Winter Escape

History buffs will enjoy touring Thomas Edison and Henry Ford’s winter escape, where the two friends vacationed in adjoining homes during the early twentieth century. Today, the properties are maintained by the city of Fort Myers and open to the public. Walking tours and audio tours of the botanical gardens, Edison’s research lab, and the Edison Ford Museum allow visitors to experience what life was like for the early pioneers in Florida.

Visit the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium

The Calusa Nature Center is a 105-acre facility comprised of a museum, three hiking trails, butterfly and bird aviaries, and a planetarium. Families will appreciate the engaging exhibits that offer valuable learning experiences about gators, butterflies, and other local species. The affordability of this attraction makes it a must-visit for budget-conscious travelers.

Bike Around the Area

One enjoyable way to explore Fort Myers and its coastal surroundings is by renting bikes. This affordable and relaxing method allows visitors to see the sights up close, easily pulling off the road to enjoy a spot of interest. Rentals typically start around $25 per day and can often be arranged through hotels, although local rental shops may provide better rates. A helmet is usually included upon request.

Spend the Day at Sun Splash Waterpark

Sun Splash Waterpark, Southwest Florida’s largest waterpark, features over 14 acres of attractions and fun. A massive lazy river winds around the park while thrilling slides like Cape Fear—a pitch-black, 215-foot tube slide—promise to invigorate visitors. Younger guests can frolic in Pirate’s Cove, an interactive water play zone complete with slides, water gushers, and geyser fountains. To enhance the visit, the park also offers lounge chairs, multiple dining venues, and cabana rentals, making it only a 20-minute drive from Fort Myers well worth the trip.

Play at Zoomers Amusement Park

A day at Zoomers is guaranteed to delight children of all ages. This indoor-outdoor amusement park includes go-karts, mini golf, bumper boats, a Tilt-A-Whirl, Cobra roller coaster, and six brand-new Midway rides. An indoor arcade is also available. Admission to Zoomers is complimentary, while Z-cards can be purchased for ride access, which are swiped for each use. Zoomers remains open seven days a week, rain or shine.

Spend the Day at Fort Myers Beach

Located on Estero Island, Fort Myers Beach is a stunning 7-mile stretch of coastline. The island, which was once separated from the mainland, is now connected via San Carlos Blvd. The area is vibrant with restaurants, resorts, and nightlife, making it an exciting destination. While visiting, be sure to stop by Times Square—a unique shopping and dining hub at the Fort Myers Beach Pier.