Nestled on the mighty Caloosahatchee, within shouting distance of a marvelous Gulf coastal complex of estuaries, bays, keys and barrier islands, Fort Myers serves as the proud gateway to Southwest Florida. This “City of Palms,” home to the Southwest Florida International Airport, is often used as a launch pad for Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel-Captiva Island and other nearby destinations, but it’s also full of fun attractions, including Major League Baseball spring training and the nightlife-amped River District.
In the following Fort Myers travel guide, we’ll clue you into everything from the best things to do and see to our top recommendations for accommodations and dining.
How to Get Around Fort Myers
Let’s start with one of the fundamentals: What’s the best way to get around Fort Myers?
By Car
A set of four wheels is handy to have on a City of Palms getaway. That’s especially true if you want to venture beyond the city proper to Lee County beaches, barrier islands and other regional attractions. You have plenty of options for renting a car, including at the Southwest Florida International Airport and in downtown Fort Myers. Make sure to check out AAA for the best rates and deals on rental cars as a AAA member.
By Bus/Trolley
Lee County’s public transportation system, Lee County Transit (LeeTran), maintains both bus and trolley routes that offer a convenient way to get around. Trolleys in the downtown Fort Myers River District operate seasonally, while those in Fort Myers Beach run year-round.
By Bike
The region offers extensive cycling options, particularly in the nearby Bicycle Friendly Communities℠ of Cape Coral and Sanibel Island, as designated by the League of American Bicyclists. The “Tour de Parks” bike route links several Fort Myers-area attractions, such as the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve and the two spring-training baseball stadiums (Hammond Stadium and JetBlue Park).
By Boat
If you have your own boat or plan to rent one, there’s a whole lot to explore by water given all the public-access marinas and boat-accessible beaches, parks and preserves found in the Fort Myers vicinity.
By Foot
The historic River District of downtown Fort Myers is wonderfully walkable, and hiking trails and long stretches of inviting beach are abundant in the broader region.
Best Time to Visit Fort Myers
As for Florida in general, it’s the climate of Fort Myers that’s the overarching, main attraction for tourism. The City of Palms lies at a sort of climatic crossroads in peninsular Florida, where the state’s most widespread climate zone, Humid Subtropical, begins to merge with the tropical realm of the far southern tip. Generally, the Fort Myers/Charlotte Harbor area lies a little bit north of that part of Southwest Florida often classified as a Tropical Savanna climate, but shows elements of that so-called “Wet and Dry Tropics” pattern. While Fort Myers isn’t directly on the seacoast, it’s certainly heavily influenced by all the water in its vicinity, especially the nearby Gulf of America and Charlotte Harbor/San Carlos Bay/Estero Bay estuary systems as well as the Caloosahatchee River itself.
The subtropical/near-tropical climate of Fort Myers makes for warm temperatures year-round. January averages the coldest month, but we’re talking an average high of 75 degrees F and an average low of about 55 degrees. The cold fronts that periodically bring chilly temperatures to the Panhandle and the northern part of the Florida peninsula invade this far south less frequently. Average summer highs climb into the low 90s, but days over 100 degrees are rare compared to much of the eastern U.S. That said, Florida’s infamously high humidity (mainly a product of all the water on and around the peninsula) cranks up the heat index during the height of summer and can make for uncomfortable conditions.
The rainy season in Fort Myers runs roughly from mid-May to mid-October, while the “winter” dry season prevails the rest of the year. The heat and humidity of the summer rainy season fuel up lots of thunderstorms — a regular afternoon soundtrack — and something to be aware of if you’re planning a day of boating or beachgoing, given the risk of lightning.
It’s worth noting that hurricane season for Southwest Florida extends from midsummer into late fall, generally peaking August through October. Fort Myers has been significantly impacted by some major hurricanes in recent years, including Hurricane Ian in 2022 and Hurricane Milton in 2024, so storm season is certainly something to be aware of when trip planning.
When are most folks traveling to Fort Myers? In terms of visitation, the area sees multiple “high seasons,” including in the winter, when snowbirds and vacationers from up north take refuge; in the early and mid-springtime, when Major League Baseball spring training and college spring breaks draw crowds; and in summer, when school vacations translate to a lot of visiting beachgoers. There are perks for coming to the City of Palms during those windows, without question, but expect more crowds, more competition for accommodations and higher rates. And, of course, if you’re coming in summer, expect to spend a lot of time enjoying the air-conditioned indoors or (obviously!) cooling off at the beach.
Generally, “off-seasons” in Fort Myers might be regarded as late spring/early summer (before school is out) and the fall. These are usually great times to come to Southwest Florida — arguably the best overall — given they avoid the peak heat and rainfall of summer. Again, fall visitors need to pay close attention to hurricane forecasts and plan accordingly.
The Fort Myers calendar is marked by festivals and events throughout the year that could be their own specific enticements. Besides spring training (more on that soon), these fun options include May’s Taste of the Beach culinary extravaganza; the Island Hopper Songwriter Festival in September; October’s Roar Offshore powerboat races; the Edison & Ford Winter Estates Fall Festival; and the Caloosahatchee Celtic Festival and Edison Festival of Light in winter.
Top Things to Do in Fort Myers
From sand-and-surf pilgrimages to some of the Sunshine State’s most notable archaeological and historical sites, your Fort Myers to-do list certainly covers a lot of territory!
Beachgoing and Sunset Cruising
Technically inland though it may be, Fort Myers puts you a mere 15 miles or so from some fabulous Southwest Florida beachfront. Nearby barrier islands, such as Estero Island (host to the community of Fort Myers Beach) and Big Hickory Island, include such seductive shorelines as Bonita Beach, Dog Beach and Lovers Key State Park. And Sanibel Island’s extensive beaches are famed for their shelling opportunities. From swimming and sunbathing to beach volleyball and sunset-timed picnics, quality time on Lee County beaches is a top priority for most Fort Myers visitors. If you are looking for a magical evening with a beautiful sunset, be sure to book a Fort Myers Sunset Excursion to capture one of the most exciting things to do in Fort Myers.
The Edison & Ford Winter Estates
Two of the most famous innovators in American history are intimately associated with Fort Myers, and their venerable winter estates here are a major attraction. Thomas Edison — inventor of the light bulb and much more — first came to the area in 1885 and, and enamored by the climate, spent his final three decades wintering here at Seminole Lodge. In 1914, at Edison’s invitation, industrialist and automobile pioneer Henry Ford and his family visited Fort Myers, and within a couple of years had established their own seasonal estate, The Mangoes, adjoining Seminole Lodge.
The Edison & Ford Winter Estates is situated in the tourist hotspot of the Fort Myers River District, and includes historic buildings and furnishings, the 15,000-square-foot Edison Ford Museum, the Edison Botanic Research Laboratory and some 20 acres of gardens.
Spring Training
Two Major League teams in the “Grapefruit League” call Fort Myers their spring-training home base — the Minnesota Twins (since 1991) and the Boston Red Sox (since 1993); attending open-to-the-public practices and games is yet another of the City of Palms’ top-tier annual draws. The Twins play at Hammond Stadium in the Lee County Sports Complex, while the Red Sox take to the field at JetBlue Park at Fenway South.
Mound House
Fort Myers’ human history runs vastly deeper than Thomas Edison’s and Henry Ford’s winter homes, let alone the earliest days of Euro-American settlement in the mid-19th century. For thousands of years, indigenous people including the Calusa — for whom the Caloosahatchee River is named — have called this great mangrove coast home. The archeological attraction of Mound House on Estero Island is anchored by a roughly 2,000-year-old Calusa shell mound. Tour the historical William H. Case House to study exhibits about the Calusa as well as the area’s later settlers, and ponder its cultural heritage while soaking up a rich estuarine ecosystem on the Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail.
Ecotourism/Outdoor Recreation
Speaking of paddling and other outdoor recreation, Fort Myers is a superlative springboard for that sort of activity. Boating, sportfishing, birdwatching, hiking — there are many more ways to appreciate the region’s natural splendor beyond sun-worshipping on the beach. Head for Lee County’s Manatee Park in winter to spot Florida (West Indian) manatees keeping warm in canal waters, which yield excellent opportunities for close-up observation of these Sunshine State icons — whether by renting a kayak or joining a guided paddling tour. (Remember, it’s important to admire manatees from a respectful distance and avoid interfering with their natural behavior or environment.) There are ecological attractions ashore, too, including a butterfly garden.
More than 3,500 acres of forested wetland, pinewoods, hardwood hammocks and other native habitats await your exploration at Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, which maintains a wonderful boardwalk trail that often yields sightings of alligators, river otters, anhingas and other wildlife.
Your Fort Myers home base also puts you within easy striking distance of the very first aquatic preserve designated in Florida — the 11,381-acre Estero Bay Preserve State Park, which helps protect the hugely productive estuary of Estery Bay and can be explored by hiking trail and personal watercraft. The preserve encompasses Mound Key State Archaeological Site, a mangrove-ringed islet of shell middens that many specialists believe was the site of the Calusa capital when the Spanish first explored this coast centuries ago. It’s accessible by boats launched from Lovers Key or Koreshan state parks.
And then, less than an hour away, there’s J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island, among the most famed birdwatching destinations in the country, rewarding to visit by drive-tripping or hiking or paddling trails.
Where to Stay in Fort Myers
You’ve got many different options for places to stay in and around Fort Myers. The following are some of our top recommendations!
Luminary Hotel & Co., Autograph Collection
- Address: 2200 Edwards Dr, Fort Myers, FL 33901
- AAA Diamond-designation: Four Diamond
- Best For: Views, location, dining
Set right along the Caloosahatchee in Fort Myers’ happening River District, Luminary Hotel & Co. offers fine views over downtown and the riverscape, especially from Beacon Social Drinkery, the hotel’s rooftop bar. That’s only one of the multiple watering holes and restaurants here, another standout being the Silver King Ocean Brasserie. This Marriott Autograph Collection hotel includes 243 guest rooms and suites, complete with amenities such as flat-screen TVs and high-end bath products; some include balconies.
The Banyan Hotel Fort Myers, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
- Address: 1520 Broadway Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33901
- AAA Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Best For: Views, location
Also in the River District, The Banyan Hotel Fort Myers gives you boutique accommodations right in the heart of things. Encompassing close to 70 units and recently renovated, the hotel includes a rooftop complete with a bar, pool and fitness center, while casual bistro dining is available at The Filament.
Comfort Inn & Suites Fort Myers Airport
- Address: 10081 Intercom Dr, Fort Myers 33913
- AAA Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Best For: Location/convenience
A mere 10 minutes from the Southwest Florida International Airport and offering a free airport shuttle, Comfort Inn & Suites Fort Myers Airport also puts its guests only two minutes from JetBlue Park at Fenway South, the spring-training home of the Boston Red Sox. This clean, comfortable, modern 90-unit hotel includes an indoor heated swimming pool and free continental breakfast.
Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa
- Address: 17320 Harbour Pointe Dr, Fort Myers, FL 33908
- AAA Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Best For: Views, luxury amenities
Set on 85 acres along San Carlos Bay with sightlines out to Sanibel and Captiva islands, Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa pampers its guests within the exclusive Punta Rassa community of Fort Myers. From its high-end spa and multiple restaurants and swimming pools to dinner cruises enjoyed on its 100-foot Sanibel Harbour Princess Yacht, you’ll savor the best in waterfront luxury at this Three Diamond resort hotel.
The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village
- Address: 5951 Silver King Blvd.,
- AAA Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Great For: Location, views, amenities
Occupying a grand perch along the Caloosahatchee River just above its mouth in San Carlos Bay — and handily adjacent to the Tarpon Point Marina — The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village provides Three Diamond accommodations in Cape Coral, Florida, just a hop, skip and a jump downstream from Fort Myers. The 300-plus units range from guest rooms to multi-bedroom suites, while on-site amenities include a fitness studio, the Esterra Spa & Salon and Marker 92 Waterfront Bar & Bistro. Another perk? Two-hour dolphin cruises are available here.
Where to Eat in Fort Myers
From fresh Gulf seafood to international cuisine, Fort Myers is foodie-friendly. Here are some go-to choices for a great meal in the City of Palms and nearby communities!
The Lighthouse Waterfront Restaurant at Port Sanibel
- Address: 14301 Port Comfort Rd, Fort Myers, FL 33908
- Diamond-designation: Diamond Approved
- Reservations: Recommended
- Cuisine: Seafood/Surf-and-Turf
A swoony coveside location with views out to Connie Mack Island makes The Lighthouse Waterfront Restaurant at Port Sanibel ideal for sunset-timed dinners, though the eatery also serves a satisfying lunch and a well-attended Sunday brunch. Fresh catch and other seafood are heavily represented on the menu, with specialty dishes including the Lighthouse Seafood Bowl, Triple Berry Snapper and Wagyu Surf-’n-Turf.
Angelina’s Ristorante
- Address: 24041 S. Tamiami Tr, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
- Diamond-designation: Four Diamond
- Reservations: Recommended
- Cuisine: Italian
Fine Italian cuisine awaits you at Angelina’s Ristorante, going strong since 2008. Traditional elegance — from the drive-through portico and the live piano music to the 30-foot wine tower complete with 4,000-plus bottles—defines the ambience. The menu, meanwhile, hits all the right notes: from toothsome antipasti (stuffed zucchini blossoms, fried calamari and halibut, etc.) to the housemade pastas, thin-crust flatbread pizzettes and entrées such as pork osso buco and veal Marsala.
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille
- Address: 708 Fisherman’s Wharf, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
- Diamond-designation: Diamond Approved
- Reservations: Recommended
- Cuisine: Seafood/Caribbean/Steak
At Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, you can tuck into an eclectic and creative pub-grub menu while watching shrimp boats — part of the biggest fleet in the U.S. — shuttle through Matanzas Pass. Culinary highlights at this bayside Fort Myers Beach location of author and ex-fishing guide Randy Wayne White’s restaurant franchise (named for the titular character of White’s Doc Ford novels) include the Doc Ford’s Original Lime Panko Crusted Fish Sandwich, the signature Yucatan shrimp and the roasted half-chicken with a Cuban chimichurri sauce.
Rumrunners
- Address: 5848 Cape Harbour Dr, Cape Coral, FL
- AAA Diamond-designation: Diamond Approved
- Reservations: Recommended
- Cuisine: Seafood/Steak
Legendary Rumrunners sits at the Cape Harbour Marina — meaning you can come here by boat, too — and provides the perfect atmosphere for a menu that draws heavily on the bounty of the brine. Highlights include appetizers such as Baja shrimp scampi, lump crab cakes and Littleneck white clams and such seafood entrées as the Catch of the Day and seafood mac & cheese, although you’ll also find steaks, flatbreads, burgers and the like on offer.
Fort Myers Photo Spots
From historical architecture to natural subtropical scenery and wildlife, Fort Myers boasts photo ops aplenty. Here are some prime choices for landing a calendar-caliber shot or blue-ribbon selfie on a trip to Fort Myers.
- Manatee Park (10901 SR 80, Fort Myers, FL): This aforementioned Lee County park gives you excellent odds — in wintertime, anyway, especially when the Gulf waters are cooler than 68 degrees Fahrenheit — of photographing Florida manatees in the wild.
- Lakes Park Fragrance Garden (7330 Gladiolus Drive Fort Myers, FL): Much of Lakes Park is photo-worthy, but the 18-acre Fragrance Garden is especially so. It includes such subsections as a bromeliad garden, water garden, butterfly garden, heritage rose garden and a fine collection of succulents — all lovely and photogenic.
- Edison & Ford Winter Estates (2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL): The most famous historic homes in the City of Palms are must-see attractions, but the sprawling gardenscape, which includes the Moonlight Garden and one of America’s biggest banyan trees, makes the property a photographer’s playground.
- Six Mile Slough Cypress Preserve (7751 Penzance Blvd, Fort Myers, FL): From basking alligators to the old-grown bald cypress known as the Grandfather Tree, Six Mile Cypress Slough offers a glimpse of the region in its primordial splendor.
- Lighthouse Beach Park (One Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island, FL): The 1884-vintage lighthouse at the southeastern tip of Sanibel Island is a classic regional photo op, especially when bathed in a sunrise or sunset glow.
- McGregor Boulevard: This 15-mile Fort Myers thoroughfare comes shouldered by a magnificent lineup of 50- to 75-foot-tall royal palms: inspiration for the “City of Palms” nickname and a classic Sunshine State photo op.
Day Trips From Fort Myers
Fort Myers serves as a strategic springboard for Southwest Florida day-tripping.
- Fort Myers Beach: Just a stone’s throw from the City of Palms on Estero Island, Fort Myers Beach promises the closest sand-and-surf therapy. Some must-see annual events take place here, too, including the widely renowned Fort Myers Beach Pirate Festival and the biggest sand-sculpting contest in the U.S.
- Sanibel Island: Extensive beaches loaded with seashells (also serving up knockout sunsets) and the bird-brimming J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, a genuine national treasure, are reason enough to journey to this fabled nearby barrier island, edged between the Gulf, Pine Island Sound and San Carlos Bay.
- The Everglades/Big Cypress Swamp: Fort Myers is on the doorstep of the Greater Everglades Ecosystem, one of the world’s most unique wetland complexes, and many sorts of day trips and safaris are possible into that storied realm, namely Ten Thousand Islands (part of the mangrove coast of Everglades National Park), Corkscrew Swamp and Big Cypress National Preserve to the Glades country south of Lake Okeechobee.
Visiting Fort Myers on a Budget
Our guide to Fort Myers wouldn’t be complete without some tips on saving money while experiencing the City of Palms.
- Take Advantage of the Sun Saver Passport: The Sun Saver Passport is a mobile device savings pass delivering great deals in the city across the “Dine,” “Play,” “Shop,” and “Sip” categories.
- Visit During the Fall: The comparatively quiet fall, between summer vacation time and the high season of the holidays and winter, can yield good deals on accommodations, food places and tours — just be aware of hurricane season.
- Enjoy the Perks of Your AAA Membership: AAA members planning a Fort Myers vacation can nab great deals on everything from hotels and rental cars to attraction/tour tickets.
- Seek Out Free or Low-Cost Attractions & Activities: Stroll the River District (especially lively during the Art Walk on the first Friday of every month) or take advantage of a free hop-on, hop-off trolley ride to get around there. Cruise down to Fort Myers Beach on a Sunday evening for free live music via the Bayside Park Concert Series. Many Lee County parks, preserves and beaches only charge for parking; you can also park for free in Fort Myers Beach at Summerlin Square or Main Street Parking and ride the Beach Trolley for a small fee to beaches, thereby avoiding steep parking fees (and hassles).
- Choose High-Value Accommodations: Look for hotels that offer combo travel packages, free valet parking, deals for attractions and activities in the area and other pocketbook-friendly perks.
Plan Your Trip to Fort Myers With AAA
Join the over a million people who are AAA members and start planning your trip to Fort Myers today. Dream up the perfect trip with our Trip Canvas travel tool and use your membership to get the best discounts on hotels, rental cars and entertainment tickets.