Fort Myers, Florida Travel Guide

Discover Fort Myers, Florida: a blend of stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant downtown life, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

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Fort Myers is a vibrant city on the southwestern coast of Florida, known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and bustling downtown area. As the gateway to nearby islands like Sanibel and Captiva, Fort Myers offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Nature lovers will enjoy the area's beautiful parks and wildlife preserves. The Edison and Ford Winter Estates are a must-see, showcasing the winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford amidst lush gardens and a museum. For a more adventurous experience, visit the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, where you can walk through a serene wetland ecosystem. Downtown Fort Myers, also known as the River District, is a hub of activity with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The historic buildings and lively atmosphere make it a great place to explore on foot. Don’t miss the vibrant art scene, with galleries and public art installations adding color to the streets. Whether you’re looking to bask in the sun, delve into history, or enjoy fine dining and shopping, Fort Myers has something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Fort Myers.

Visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Consider renting a bike to explore the downtown River District and nearby scenic trails.
Check the local calendar for events and festivals, as Fort Myers hosts many throughout the year.
For the best shelling experience, head to Sanibel Island early in the morning.
If you're visiting in the summer, be prepared for afternoon showers and pack accordingly.

Neighbourhoods in Fort Myers

Fort Myers Beach

Sanibel Island

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Fort Myers

Explore Fort Myers: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Fort Myers

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Fishermen's Village

Explore Fishermen's Village in Punta Gorda, FL - a vibrant resort and marina with shopping, dining, and stunning waterfront views.

4.6

Lovers Key State Park

Experience the serene beauty and diverse wildlife of Lovers Key State Park in Fort Myers Beach, a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

4.7

Lovers Key State Park

Discover Lovers Key State Park, a pristine natural paradise in Florida filled with beautiful beaches, lush trails, and abundant wildlife for every nature enthusiast.

4.7

Edison & Ford Winter Estates

Discover the Edison & Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, a historic site blending innovation, rich history, and beautiful botanical gardens.

4.7

Best landmarks in Fort Myers

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Edison & Ford Winter Estates

Experience the legacy of innovation at Edison & Ford Winter Estates, where history and nature intertwine in scenic Fort Myers, Florida.

4.7

The Shell Factory and Nature Park

Explore the unique blend of shopping, rides, and nature at The Shell Factory and Nature Park in North Fort Myers, an unforgettable experience for all ages.

4.2

Lakes Park

Explore the natural beauty of Lakes Park in Fort Myers, a perfect blend of recreation, relaxation, and scenic views in the heart of Florida.

4.8

Manatee Park

Experience the tranquil beauty of Manatee Park, where you can observe manatees in their natural habitat while enjoying Florida's stunning landscapes.

4.5

Best restaurants in Fort Myers

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Ford's Garage Ft. Myers

Discover Ford's Garage in Fort Myers - where classic American cuisine meets an unforgettable automotive-themed atmosphere.

4.5

Downtown House of Pizza

Discover mouth-watering hand-tossed pizzas at Downtown House of Pizza in Fort Myers—where every slice is a taste of local flavor.

4.7

Miller's Ale House

Discover the best American cuisine at Miller's Ale House in Fort Myers—where great food meets vibrant sports bar energy.

4.3

Pinchers

Experience fresh seafood delights at Pinchers in Fort Myers – where flavor meets coastal charm in every bite.

4.4

Best bars in Fort Myers

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Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille - Ft. Myers Beach

Savor the vibrant Caribbean flavors and fresh seafood at Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille, the ultimate dining experience on Fort Myers Beach.

4.6

The Lodge

Discover The Lodge in Fort Myers: A perfect blend of barbecue delight and sports excitement in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.4

The Firestone Skybar & Martini Bar

Discover an exquisite dining and nightlife experience at The Firestone Skybar & Martini Bar in Fort Myers, where every evening is unforgettable.

4.3

10 Twenty Five

Experience the best of American cuisine and craft beers at Fort Myers' 10 Twenty Five, where great taste meets a lively atmosphere.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Fort Myers

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Space39 Art Bar & Martini Lounge

Discover the lively fusion of art, music, and mixology at Space39 Art Bar & Martini Lounge, the heart of Fort Myers nightlife.

4.6

Miscue Lounge

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Miscue Lounge in Fort Myers, where pool, drinks, and fun come together for an unforgettable night out.

4.3

Viva Le Mirage

Discover the electrifying nightlife and exquisite dining at Viva Le Mirage in Fort Myers, a must-visit for an unforgettable experience.

4.0

Celsius Night Club

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Celsius Night Club in Fort Myers, offering a vibrant atmosphere for dancing and socializing.

4.1

Best shops in Fort Myers

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Edison Mall

Discover Edison Mall in Fort Myers: your ultimate shopping, dining, and entertainment destination with over 150 stores and delightful eateries.

4.1

Fleamasters Fleamarket

Explore the eclectic treasures of Fleamasters Fleamarket in Fort Myers, Florida - a vibrant market filled with unique finds, savory bites, and live music.

4.3

Bell Tower

Discover the Bell Tower in Fort Myers: an enchanting shopping mall with boutiques, fine dining, and vibrant events for every visitor.

4.3

The Forum

Discover The Forum, Fort Myers' vibrant shopping mall with diverse stores, casual dining, and a lively atmosphere perfect for all visitors.

4.4

Explore Fort Myers on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Fort Myers, mapped for you.

Fort Myers Essentials

Fort Myers is accessible via Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), located approximately 16 miles southeast of downtown. The airport serves numerous domestic and international flights. Alternatively, you can drive to Fort Myers via Interstate 75, which runs north-south along Florida's west coast. Bus services like Greyhound and RedCoach also operate routes to the city.
In Fort Myers, you have various transportation options. LeeTran operates public buses that cover the city and surrounding areas. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available. Renting a car can be convenient for exploring the beaches and nearby attractions. For a more scenic option, consider renting a bike or taking a boat tour along the Caloosahatchee River.
The official currency in Fort Myers, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or tips. ATMs are plentiful, and most banks offer currency exchange services.
Fort Myers is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to exercise standard precautions. Areas like Dunbar have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially at night. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas. Stick to well-lit streets and avoid isolated spots after dark.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Fort Myers has several hospitals, including Lee Memorial Hospital and Gulf Coast Medical Center, which provide comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually; lightweight clothing is ideal for the warm climate. Avoid overly revealing attire in public spaces. Religion: Do respect diverse religious practices; Fort Myers is home to various religious communities. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer seats to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' Handshakes are common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local seafood and Southern cuisine. Don't forget to tip your servers, typically 15-20% of the bill.
To experience Fort Myers like a local, visit the River District downtown for its vibrant arts scene, shops, and restaurants. Attend a spring training game for the Boston Red Sox or Minnesota Twins. Explore the Edison and Ford Winter Estates for a glimpse into the area's rich history. For a unique experience, take a sunset cruise or visit the nearby Sanibel and Captiva islands for beachcombing and shelling.

When is the best time to visit Fort Myers?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Fort Myers

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Fort Myers. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see ya lay-ter]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNope
  [nope]
- Please/You're welcomePlease
  [pleez]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [par-dun me]
- How are you?How ya doin'?
  [how ya doin]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [good. yoo]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak ing-lish]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [i don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check the menu?
  [can eye chek the men-yoo]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [i don't eat meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [chek, pleez]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Scram!
  [scram]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [i'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [i'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [i wanna buy]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brow-zing]
- How much is it?How much?
  [how much]
- That's too expensiveToo pricey
  [too pry-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya do a deal?
  [can ya do a deal]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [half ten]
- MorningMorning
  [morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yester-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...
  [wheres the]
- What's the address?What's the addy?
  [whats the addy]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me?
  [can ya show me]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [whens the next bus]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to)]

History of Fort Myers

Long before European settlers arrived, the region now known as Fort Myers was inhabited by the Calusa people. Skilled in fishing and building complex canal systems, the Calusa were a powerful tribe that dominated Southwest Florida. They constructed large shell mounds, some of which still exist today, offering a glimpse into their advanced society.
In the early 16th century, Spanish explorers, including Juan Ponce de León, arrived in Florida, marking the beginning of European influence. The Spanish were drawn to the region by tales of treasure and fertile lands. However, their interactions with the Calusa were often hostile, and the Spanish never established a permanent settlement in the area.
During the early 19th century, the Seminole Wars brought significant conflict to the area. Fort Denaud, established in 1837, was one of several military outposts aimed at controlling the Seminole population. Although Fort Denaud was eventually abandoned, it set the stage for future military presence in the region.
In 1850, Fort Myers was established as a military fort during the Seminole Wars. Named after Colonel Abraham C. Myers, the fort served as a strategic point for U.S. troops. After the wars, the fort was abandoned but later reoccupied during the Civil War, serving as a Union outpost in Confederate territory.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Fort Myers saw an influx of winter residents, including famed inventor Thomas Edison. Edison built his winter estate in the city, and his friend Henry Ford later purchased a nearby property. Their presence brought national attention to Fort Myers and helped boost its development.
The early 20th century saw a real estate boom in Fort Myers, driven by the construction of the Tamiami Trail and the arrival of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad. The city's population surged, and new developments sprang up, transforming Fort Myers from a sleepy town into a bustling city.
During World War II, Fort Myers played a crucial role as a training ground for U.S. Army Air Forces. Page Field, established as a military airbase, trained thousands of pilots and aircrew members. The airfield's presence brought economic growth and further established Fort Myers as a key location in Southwest Florida.
In the post-war era, Fort Myers continued to grow rapidly. The city developed a vibrant cultural scene, with the establishment of institutions like the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall and the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Today, Fort Myers is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful natural surroundings.