Florida travel guide

Fort Myers

Historic estates, River District evenings and mainland-to-beach day trips.

Get to know Fort Myers

Things to do in Fort Myers, Florida

Fort Myers is a mainland city on the Caloosahatchee River, with historic attractions and a downtown dining district. It also works as a base for Southwest Florida day trips. Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach are different places: choose your home and daily routes based on whether you want city attractions, island outings or Gulf beach time.

Places to explore

Banyan tree and royal palms in a historic estate garden

Edison and Ford Winter Estates

Explore historic homes, gardens and exhibits associated with Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. Check the Estates’ current tour choices to decide how much of your day to reserve for the visit.

Visitor information

Brick-paved river district street at dusk

Downtown River District

Walk historic streets, browse shops and public art, then choose a downtown restaurant. Keep the River District as a city outing rather than expecting a Gulf beach at the end of the walk.

Visitor information

Children watching a colorful aquarium tank

IMAG History & Science Center

Hands-on science and history exhibits, aquariums and animal displays make IMAG a family-oriented stop. Check current programs for an outing that matches your children’s interests.

Visitor information

Lovers Key State Park day trip

A separate coastal outing for beach scenery and trails through maritime hammock. Consult the state park’s current notices for access, transport within the park and facility changes.

Visitor information

Beaches & outdoors

For Gulf beach time, plan a drive from the mainland to a beach destination rather than assuming a Fort Myers address is beachside. Lovers Key is one regional option with coastal trails and a beach. Read current park access notices and water-quality guidance before travelling, and use an indoor plan during lightning.

Families & rainy days

IMAG is an indoor option with interactive exhibits, aquariums and animal displays. The Edison and Ford Winter Estates combines history with outdoor gardens, so check the weather and available tours. A city-focused day can reduce the amount of driving compared with trying to add an island beach as well.

Plan your visit

Distinguish Fort Myers from Fort Myers Beach when checking your home’s address and planning beach travel.
Allow separate travel time for island trips and coastal parks. Check the day’s route and current access notices instead of relying on a fixed drive-time estimate.
Use current attraction details for tours and programs, and keep IMAG as an indoor alternative when beach weather is unsuitable.

One day in Fort Myers

A suggested day, with room to slow down. Check conditions and reservations before you go.

Morning
Visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, choosing a tour option that suits your group.
Afternoon
Explore the River District or visit IMAG for an indoor family outing.
Evening
Stay downtown for dinner and a relaxed city evening; save a Gulf beach trip for another day.