Are you considering moving to Fort Myers and wondering what fun and exciting things you can do? As a large waterfront city with a population of nearly 100,000 , Fort Myers offers an abundance of artsy, cultural, and other recreational activities. Check out this comprehensive guide to find out everything you should be doing in your first year living in Fort Myers.
1. Visit Manatee Park
When the weather starts experiencing a cold front, you might want to check out the ever-popular Manatee Park. Here, you can stroll down a long concrete path with plenty of lookout points where you can glimpse a group of manatees. There are canoe and kayak options for a closer look at these fascinating sea creatures. However, if you are heading down to Manatee Park in the summer months, then there are other recreational options, such as visiting the butterfly garden and exploring the different habitats of the area.
2. Watch a show at the Florida Repertory Theater
Tucked in the thriving River District of Fort Myers is the Florida Repertory Theater, which is often recognized as one of the best repertory theaters in the nation. You can catch various performances, from comedies to musicals, at this much-acclaimed theater.
3. Check out the Fort Myers River District
Whether you have just moved or have been living in Fort Myers for a few months, there is no better place to get to know this culturally vibrant city than a visit to the downtown area. Also known as the Fort Myers River District, it is here that locals can meet and enjoy all that the city has to offer. From celebrated art and music walks to quaint local shops, there is much to do.
4. Explore the Edison and Ford Winter Estates
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates were named as one of the highest-rated things to do in Florida, and for a good reason. Initially established in 1885 as famous inventor Thomas Edison’s luxurious vacation property, it has since been converted into a museum where you can transport yourself back to where Edison lived and worked. There is also a twenty-acre botanical garden that hosts more than 400 species of plants from nearly every corner of the world.
5. Hike the Slough Preserve
The Slough Preserve consists of more than 3,500 acres of a wetland ecosystem that is home to a variety of wildlife and plants. You can walk down the 1.2-mile boardwalk, which features an interpretative guide, and enjoy the area's scenic beauty. You might even catch glimpses of native wildlife like alligators, turtles, wading birds, and otters. Whether you need to escape the bustling city life in favor of the scenic beauty of nature or you wish to learn more about the native animals in the region, the Slough Preserve is the perfect spot for those aspirations.
6. Watch a baseball game at the Lee County Sports Complex or the JetBlue Park
The Lee County Sports Complex is home to Hammond Stadium, which features many state-of-the-art playing fields for baseball and softball games. JetBlue Park is home to the Red Sox spring training as well as the full season of games. Check back to see what games are playing soon so that you can cheer your team on!
7. Play at the Plantation Golf & Country Club
At the Plantation Golf & Country Club, you can find an award-winning 18-hole golf course that contains many dips and rolls to present a challenging game. You can enjoy the natural scenic beauty of the rich landscape. In addition, this country club is often frequently the site for many weddings and other events.
8. Relax at the White Orchid Spa
After a busy few months of getting acquainted in Fort Myers, consider relaxing at the White Orchid Spa. This holistic spa offers the perfect oasis for relaxing and rejuvenating the body and mind. The White Orchid Spa's services include a Himalayan Spa room, an infrared sauna, and massages.
9. Collect seashells at Bunche Beach
One of the best beaches in the Fort Myers area that you must check out is Bunche Beach. This beach is particularly notable for the many conch shells. Other things you can do at Bunche Beach include birdwatching, swimming, sunbathing, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
10. Visit the Mound House
Fort Myers is home to its very own Calusa Indian Shell Mound, which is approximately 2,000 years old. On top of this archaeological mound, you can learn more about this ancient tribe’s culture through guided walking tours and engaging in hands-on activities. Furthermore, Mound House has kayak tours that can allow you to truly immerse yourself in Estero Bay's beautiful surrounding natural environment.
11. Experience culture at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center
The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center hosts art exhibitions featuring local and renowned artists and brings them to the southwest Florida community. There are numerous more art and music events held. Locals also love visiting the Sculpture Garden on the rooftop.
12. View interactive exhibits at the IMAG History & Science Center
For families with kids, the IMAG History & Science Center features many things, from interactive exhibits and immersive STEM labs to a 3D theater. Furthermore, you can learn about the history of southwest Florida and view more than thirty species of reptiles, amphibians, and fish. No matter your age, you will be enthralled by the world-class exhibits at the IMAG History and Science Center.
13. Have a romantic dinner at The Veranda
Considered by locals and visitors as a Fort Myers tradition, The Veranda offers world-class southern cuisine in a charming setting. Whether dining inside in a warm ambiance or outside in the immaculate courtyard, you will enjoy everything from the decor and plants to the extensive wine selection.
Interested in Fort Myers waterfront homes for sale?
Schedule a consultation with the experts at the premiere Waterfront Lifestyle Group, who can guide you on everything from effective negotiation strategies to living your best waterfront lifestyle. This excellent group of realtors can help you find your dream Fort Myers waterfront home that aligns with all your must-haves!
