Top 15 Activities in Estero, Florida You Can’t Miss

Before the 1990s, Estero was home to only a handful of residents, functioning as a rural village located between Naples and Fort Myers.

Approximately three decades later, the population has expanded to nearly 40,000 individuals, indicating a significant transformation in local attractions toward modern developments.

Prominent examples include the Hertz Arena, the Coconut Point lifestyle center, and Miromar Outlets, an acclaimed outlet mall.

Nonetheless, Estero retains a rich historical background. In the 1890s, the utopian Koreshan Unity community was established here, with their settlement now preserved as a state historic site.

Additionally, within Estero Bay to the west, one can find mounds created over centuries by the Native American Calusa people, who inhabited the region for over a millennium.

1. Koreshan State Historic Site

Source: William Silver / shutterstock

This historic site was once inhabited by the Koreshan religious group, known for their unconventional beliefs, including the concept of a concave hollow Earth. The community was established over 150 years ago in New York State.

Koreshan State Historic Site preserves their final colony, formed in the 1890s, featuring 11 restored historical structures.

The park boasts natural beauty, highlighted by tall oaks along the Estero River. Various wildlife can be observed here, including alligators, gopher tortoises, bobcats, and American river otters.

In addition to indigenous flora, numerous exotic species were introduced during the colony’s existence. A notable example is a substantial stand of bamboo, which was relocated from the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers.

2. Estero River Outfitters

The village developed alongside the banks of the Estero River in the 1880s, making a canoe trip along this spring-fed watercourse an evocative experience.

The river features a gentle current and flows beneath the arching branches of mature live oak trees, which transition to mangroves as one approaches Estero Bay. Diverse wildlife can be spotted, including manatees and dolphins, along with an abundance of alligators and turtles.

Located adjacent to Koreshan State Historic Site, Estero River Outfitters has operated since 1977, offering various outdoor equipment, from fishing supplies to paddling gear. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards can be rented for an unforgettable journey down the river.

3. Miromar Outlets

Source: BernieCB / Flickr

Renowned as one of the premier outlet malls in Southwest Florida, Miromar Outlets has garnered national recognition since its inception in the early 2000s.

This open-air mall is strategically designed with the Florida climate in mind. The architecture is compact, fostering ample shade, complemented by palms, shrubs, and numerous fountains featuring koi and turtles.

The complex hosts outlets for numerous brands, including Banana Republic, Calvin Klein, New Balance, Old Navy, Polo Ralph Lauren, Skechers, Levi’s, and Michael Kors, among others.

It is advisable to allocate time for lunch or dinner within the outlets, which offer a wide array of full-service dining options, including a branch of Ford’s Garage.

4. Hertz Arena

As a prominent venue for significant indoor events in Estero, Hertz Arena has undergone several name changes since its establishment in 1998.

Originally designed for the ECHL’s Florida Everblades, this arena remains their primary home. At the time of writing, the Everblades had recently won the playoffs and secured the Kelly Cup.

The arena accommodates nearly 7,200 spectators for hockey matches and is utilized for a variety of other events. It is one of Southwest Florida’s key destinations for concerts, hosting renowned performers such as Elton John, Cher, Bob Seger, and Willie Nelson over the past 25 years.

Additionally, the venue has featured notable comic and family-oriented performances, including WWE shows, Kevin Hart, Cirque du Soleil, Stars on Ice, and Jeff Dunham.

5. Coconut Point Mall

Source: EQRoy / shutterstock

With over 125 stores, Coconut Point Mall embodies an upscale lifestyle center reminiscent of a sophisticated downtown area.

The center is partially developed around a lake, featuring a boardwalk, palm-lined pathways, and charming European-style arcades.

What is particularly appealing about Coconut Point is its pedestrian-friendly layout, inviting exploration of stores and discovering ideal dining spots.

Among the many brands present are Dillard’s, Sephora, Barnes & Noble, Target, Michael Kors, Apple, Lovesac, J.Crew, and Francesca’s.

Dining options range from casual eateries such as Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse and The Cheesecake Factory to Five Guys and Panera Bread.

6. Koreshan State Park Farmers’ Market

Every Sunday morning, a modest yet commendable farmers’ market is hosted at Koreshan State Historic Site. This event takes place throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions, showcasing a healthy assortment of vendors.

Shoppers can find seasonal produce, flowers, freshly baked bread, oils, preserves, herbs, raw honey, salsas, and various locally produced crafts.

This is one of three farmers’ markets in Estero. A market operates at Miromar Outlets on Saturday mornings, and Coconut Point holds its market on Thursdays from October through April.

7. Mound Key Archaeological State Park

Source: Ron Alexander‎ / Facebook

Interestingly, this site is officially located in Estero but requires a paddling excursion to access. Visitors can embark from Koreshan State Park and navigate into Estero Bay.

Mound Key Archaeological State Park features an island with ceremonial mounds constructed by the Native American Calusa people.

This area served as a significant ceremonial site for this culture for approximately 2,000 years until the arrival of the first Spanish explorers in the 16th century.

The mounds reach heights of up to 30 feet and are surrounded by picturesque mangroves. Visitors are welcome to disembark and traverse an interpretive trail established by Koreshan State Park.

8. Estero Community Park

Source: The Traveling Picnic / Facebook

The central public park in Estero spans 60 acres and serves as a crucial community asset. The park hosts the Estero Recreation Center and the Estero Historical Society, which is discussed further below.

True to its name, the park is an exceptional resource for the community, featuring an excellent playground and a secure K-9 Corral Dog Park. It includes three sizable lakes, pavilions by the waterfront, and paved pathways linking the various facilities.

A standout feature is the well-maintained 18-hole disc golf course, renowned for its combination of wooded areas and open spaces, making it one of the finest in Southwest Florida.

9. Estero Historical Society

Two century-old structures located in the northeast corner of Estero Community Park vividly illustrate the village’s historical past.

The Estero Historical Society is housed in a charming antique cottage and a one-room schoolhouse dating back to 1904. These significant buildings were relocated from Highland Avenue approximately 20 years ago, saving them from demolition.

Both buildings feature period-appropriate furnishings and artifacts specific to Estero. During my visit, I observed historical clothing, quilts, household tools, and numerous photographs.

Additionally, I attended an enlightening presentation on the history of the Koreshan Unity Settlement. The gift shop, offering handmade jewelry, art, toys, decorative items, and even seasonal mango chutney, is also a delightful feature.

10. Congo River Golf

A short drive south on US 41 leads to a location of this Florida-based chain of adventure golf facilities.

Upon arrival, the ambiance at Congo River Golf evokes thoughts of Indiana Jones. The 18-hole course resembles a film set.

Featuring caves, rocky peaks, waterfalls, and tropical landscaping, the course provides a visually stimulating experience. Exceptional putting skills offer a considerable advantage, but there are also entertaining side challenges throughout the course.

To add an element of surprise, players can spin a wheel on various holes to receive specific challenges, such as using the handle of their putter, which certainly can affect their score.

Children are also kept engaged through a scavenger hunt and the opportunity to feed live alligators.

11. Estero River Scrub – Estero Bay Preserve State Park

Bordering the western side of the village is a 10,000-acre state park, encompassing the marshlands, islands, and open waters of Estero Bay.

Access to most of the state park is primarily by water. However, a flatwoods and tidal marsh area is accessible from a trailhead located at the western end of Broadway in Estero.

The main loop trail extends nearly five miles northward, but visitors can opt for a shorter route on the Blue Trail, which leads south toward the riverbank. My recommendation is to visit after a prolonged dry period, as this landscape is frequently subject to flooding.

At the time I compiled this list, the trails were temporarily closed due to damage from Hurricane Ian.

12. Stoneybrook Golf Club

Source: Stoneybrook Golf Club / Facebook

Measuring over 7,300 yards, Stoneybrook Golf Club is among the longest golf courses in Florida.

This par-72 course is celebrated for its tranquil natural setting and numerous lakes, having undergone various updates to its tees, fairways, and greens in the past decade.

Offering seven sets of tees, the course’s length can significantly reduce for those opting for the shortest tees.

Despite its extended layout, the spacious fairways and expansive greens provide a forgiving experience for players. This is likely one of the reasons it is rated as “beginner-friendly” by the National Golf Course Owners Association.

13. Old Corkscrew Golf Course

For those willing to invest more, Estero is home to one of the top golf courses in Southwest Florida.

Like Stoneybrook, Old Corkscrew Golf Course is notably lengthy, extending 7,400 yards from the back tees. However, this Jack Nicklaus-designed course presents greater challenges.

Characterized by tall pines and water hazards, the fairways are narrow from the tee and taper as players approach the small greens.

Reaching the green is only part of the challenge, as unexpected elevation changes can impact your score. The setting itself is stunning, further enhancing the experience.

This golf course is recognized as an Audubon International Silver Signature Sanctuary, attracting waterbirds such as anhingas, alongside numerous alligators residing in the lakes.

14. Coconut Point Art Festival

For nearly two decades, Coconut Point’s picturesque lakes and boardwalks have provided a venue for a significant art festival.

This event, which draws thousands of attendees, showcases the creations of over 200 exhibitors, offering a wonderful opportunity to acquire unique artwork.

Artistic displays include photography, sculpture, painting, ceramics, jewelry, prints, home decor, glasswork, and more. The booths are organized in two extended rows, with some exhibitors demonstrating their craft live.

In the year I compiled this list, the festival took place on the third weekend of February.

15. Ford’s Garage

Source: Ford’s Garage (10801 Corkscrew Road, Suite 519, Estero) / Facebook

As part of a Ford-themed national chain, this restaurant located in Miromar Outlets is styled to resemble a vintage automobile garage/service station.

Specializing in high-quality burgers and craft beers, Ford’s Garage exhibits a Prohibition-era ambiance. Housed in a Mediterranean Revival-styled building, it features a hammered copper bar, brick architecture, and dark wood furnishings.

The thematic elements are extensive; even the bathroom sinks are made from tires, and the faucets resemble fuel handles. A replica Model T is prominently displayed in the center of the restaurant as if in the process of being repaired.

Rest assured, the cleanliness level surpasses that of a typical garage. During my visit, I sampled the BBQ Brisket Burger, Blackened Salmon, and the Estate Burger topped with gouda and red onion marmalade.