45 Best Things to Do in Fort Myers
Explore the top activities in Fort Myers, FL! From stunning beaches to unique museums, find fun & unique things to do for families, couples & solo adventurers.
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Fort Myers is a popular destination for families, couples, and singles alike. The pristine white sand beaches are perfect for those who love the sun or go shell hunting along the water. The city is bustling with delicious restaurants, activities, and boutique shops for everyone to enjoy.
Often when we plan to go on a vacation we want to kick back and relax the entire trip. But then find ourselves a bit bored once we get there! Whether you are looking to build a full-itinerary or just have a few ideas in mind, this is for you. With free museums and solo adventures this list will give you a taste of what Fort Myers has to offer.
With descriptions of bars, museums, and cultural landmarks, you will have an idea of what to do on your Fort Myers vacation. There are plenty of activities to entertain any kind of visitor, so follow along to find your favorites before seeing the sunshine state!
Things To Do In Fort Myers for Free
If you want a activity to fill up the time, there are plenty of free spots around Fort Myers. With an abundance of historical sites and nature preserves, you can find several free activities to enjoy!
1. Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
Credit: Dennis Church, Flickr
Map It: 7791 Penzance Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33966
Phone: (239) 533-7557
Hours: Sunup to Sundown daily
Entrance: Free with $5.00 parking
The beautiful nature preserve covers about 3,500 acres of Florida’s wetland ecosystem. The Slough protects the natural drainage wetland system that purifies water and houses thousands of diverse animal and plant species.
The preserve has a boardwalk for visitors to use to enjoy this natural wonder without sloshing through the water! There is also an Interpretive Center to help visitors learn all about the wetlands. You can explore all the interesting functions of this unique ecosystem.
This preserve is the top-rated activity in Fort Myers, and the best part is that it’s free for the public to enjoy! This is thanks to several nonprofit organizations wanting to protect Florida’s natural landscape and promote an appreciation for nature.
Admission to all aspects of the park is free, but parking does cost $5.00 for the day. The boardwalk is open from sunrise to sunset and you can find guided walks at 9:30 am to learn about the area. The Interpretive center is open from 10 am to 4 pm and is closed on Mondays.
2. Lakes Regional Park
Map It: 7330 Gladiolus Drive. Fort Myers, FL 33908
Phone: (239) 533-7575
Hours: 7 am to dusk daily
Entrance: Free with $5.00 parking
Lakes Park is another incredibly popular nature hot spot in the Fort Myers area. This park boasts miles of paved and unpaved trails to walk as well as a boardwalk. In addition to the walking paths, it has great bird watching, picnicking, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
You can also reserve a tour of this park to get a more in-depth understanding of the wetland ecosystem and the unique history of the founding of this park. Some other special events you may run into are the Lakes Park Farmers Market, the Fall Festival with Scarecrows In The Park, and StoryTime in the Garden.
Admission to the park is free but parking is $5.00 a day. However, if you love the park and want to continue its preservation you can always donate! They are open seven days a week and are a great way to explore the natural beauty of Florida and get away from the city for a bit!
3. Bunche Beach
Credit: floridarambler.com
Map It: 18201 John Morris Road. Fort Myers, FL 33908
Phone: (239) 839-7062
Hours: Dawn to dusk daily
Entrance: Free with $2.00 per hour parking or $10 a day
If you are itching for some beach time but do not want to fight the crowds of the more popular beaches, Bunche Beach is a great option. This hidden and slightly unknown beach offers all the white sand and mild waves Florida is famous for.
You will have a great time exploring the wildlife in this preserved area. Crabs, sea snails, fish, and even stingrays can be spotted here. The preserve also extends into a mangrove area, you can have fun safely exploring the wildlife hiding in the roots!
Parking is about $2.00 but there is no cost to use the beach. Since this beach is not one of the main ones in Fort Myers you will not find large crowds or lots of traffic to get here! Bunche Beach is the best way to enjoy a natural Floridian beach in Fort Myers.
Related Read: 17 BEST Gulf Coast Florida Beaches for Families
4. Bob Rauschenberg Gallery
Credit: news-press.com
Map It: 8099 College Parkway SW, Ft. Myers Flordia 33919
Phone: (239) 489 9313
Hours: Monday to Friday: 10 am to 4 pm, Saturday: 11 am to 3 pm, Closed Sundays and holidays
Entrance: Free
If you are an art lover, the Bob Rauschenberg Gallery is a great place to look at fresh exhibits! The space is usually not crowded and has free admission. This flexible venue sometimes has interactive and modern displays, so each time you visit you will find something new.
They are usually open from 10 am to 4 pm and you won’t need more than one hour to see everything. Making it an easy excursion to get out of your hotel room and spend an hour appreciating some art.
5. Visit a Fleamarket
Credit: George Mitchell, Flickr
(Fleamasters) Map It: 4135 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Fort Myers FL 33916
Phone: (239) 334-7001
Hours: Friday: 9 am-3 pm, Saturday & Sunday: 8 am-4 pm
Entrance: Free
Walking around a flea market can be a great way to interact with locals and get a sample of what the area has to offer! You can easily spend a few hours window shopping the affordable products and sampling artisanal goods.
The Fleamasters flea market is the most popular in town. This huge venue is full of antiques, boutique clothing, and delicious snacks. It is a great place to walk around for a few hours and enjoy the busy atmosphere.
Another option is the Ortiz Avenue Flea market. This is a very local market, not with too many second-hand options but lots of space to cover. With fresh produce and handcrafted items, you can peruse the market and get a taste of the local experience!
6. Tour a Local Brewery
Credit: Coastal Dayz Brewing
(Coastal Dayz Brewing Co) Map It: 2161 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers, FL 33901
Phone: (239) 204-9665
Hours: Monday-Thursday 3 pm-9 pm, Friday-Saturday 1 pm-10 pm, Sunday 1 pm-7 pm
Entrance: Free
There are a handful of great local breweries that offer free tours in Fort Myers. With COVID-19 precautions, some of the tours have changed from past years. So be sure to check in with the brewery before anticipating a free tour!
The Coastal Dayz Brewing Co is nearby the Edison Ford Estates and can be a great extra activity afterward. They have 16 beers on tap that you can taste and learn about their beer-making process.
Fort Myers Brewing Co is a town favorite and a great way to enjoy a good beer after a long day. They regularly host events, food trucks, and live music, so you can enjoy some entertainment with their wide selection of craft beers!
Related Read: 40 BEST Things To Do in Naples, FL
7. Butterfly Estates
Credit: Simon (celery) Marshall. Flickr
Map It:1815 Fowler St, Fort Myers, FL 33901
Phone: 239-690-2359
Hours: Closed Mondays, Tuesday to Sunday 10 am - 3 pm
Entrance: Free
There are lots of activities to enjoy at the Butterfly Estates. The complex has a botanical garden, shopping, and a butterfly dome making it great for singles, couples, and families alike. You can freely walk around the area and take in the sights.
Admission to this area is free, but if you are interested in learning about the butterflies flitting around the dome you can pay just $10 for a tour with an expert. The Flordia native Butterfly society will tell you the history of the location, butterfly species, and why they are working to preserve these beautiful creatures.
You can also enjoy the beautiful estate with charming gardens and even a koi pond. This space is not as boggy as the other nature preserves on this list. It is a great opportunity to integrate into your Fort Myers itinerary as a cute and affordable excursion!
8. Search For Seashells
Credit: David Tonnessen, Flickr
Fort Myers is very well known for its amazing sea shells. Seniors to young children love to walk around the beach looking for the best or biggest shell they can. It is a great activity to get lost in as you enjoy the warm Floridian atmosphere, and there is no greater place than here!
Whether you are a lifelong shell collector or looking for a free activity to take up your time, shell hunting is a great option! You can take as much time as you want in this almost meditative practice of scouring the shoreline for your little treasure with your family or even by yourself.
There are plenty of spots to shell hunt with so many different beaches to visit in Fort Myers. Lovers Key State Park and Bunche Beach are just a few low-key beaches to stop by on your shell hunt. It is a great free activity that lets you explore the area, interact with nature, and get some gifts to bring home!
Related Read: The 17 Best All-Inclusive Florida Keys Resorts for Families
9. Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve
Credit: floridahikes.com
Map It: 2220 SE 21st Avenue, Cape Coral FL
Phone: 239-549-4606
Hours: 8 am to dusk daily
Entrance: Free
If you are looking for a two-for-one history and nature experience, this is it! The preserve is just a short bridge away from Fort Myers. The Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve is a great place to enjoy flat boardwalks with information about Florida’s natural ecosystems.
The preserve also contains a Veterans Memorial Park right next door. With lots of replicas, flags, and dedications, you can easily combine these locations for more learning experiences! Enjoying both these spaces is free to enter and a great way for families to enjoy multiple experiences.
10. Downtown Fort Myers River District
Credit: Brian Moore. Flickr
Map It: 2180 W First St #510, Fort Myers, FL 33901
Email: hello@explorefortmyers.com
Hours: All day
Entrance: Free
If you are not looking to go out of your way to find some free entertainment, you can always peruse the Fort Myers River District. This historical area was established in the mid-1800s and has long served as the heart of the town.
You can enjoy walking down the street, admiring the industrial brick buildings, and window shopping through the multitude of unique shops. You will find quaint antique shops, art galleries, and boutique stores to show you the variety Fort Myers has to offer.
The Downtown District is a great space to enjoy dinner and nightlife. With rooftop bars and great food from a smokey southern barbeque to fresh seafood, you will be able to peruse the area and enjoy all things delicious!
Related Read: 20 BEST Airboat Tours in the Everglades
Things To Do In Fort Myers for Couples
Everyone loves a romantic beach getaway, but mass amounts of activity options can be a bit overwhelming. Here are a few options to make your romantic getaway memorable!
1. Alliance For The Arts
Credit: Alliance for the Arts
Map It: 10091 Mcgregor Blvd. Fort Myers
Phone: (239) 939-2787
Hours: Tuesday-Friday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Saturday: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Entrance: Free
A laid-back and casual activity you can do with your partner is to visit the Alliance For The Arts in Fort Myers. This art complex holds multiple galleries, live performances, and activities throughout the week. You can peruse the campus and explore local artists if you have some time to spare.
This location is closed on Mondays and is usually open from 9 am to 5 pm. It is a great way to explore the arts with your lover and spend some quality time together. It is best to check out the Alliance For The Arts website to see what exhibits they will have open for your stay in Fort Myers.
2. Adventures in Paradise
Credit: Adventures in Paradise
Map It: 645 Old San Carlos Blvd, Fort Myers Beach
Phone: (239) 472-8443
Hours: Check site for times
Prices: Adults $31, Children $21 (3 & Under Free)
For adventure-driven couples who love to explore, a water tour is a great activity to do together. Adventures in Paradise offers over 8 different cruises. You can pick one built for your liking, and enjoy one with others or a private romantic tour!
If you and your partner love fishing, you can also take a trip with this company to find the best fishing spots in the area. Or if you are dolphin lovers, you can enjoy the water as these creatures break through the water right next to you!
This top-rated company is sure to fill up your romantic getaway with fun and whimsy. The Adventures in Paradise website has all the information you need to pick out your water tour and plan your romantic water excursion!
3. Visit Sun Splash Waterpark
Credit: news-press.com
Map It: 400 W Lake Kennedy Dr., Cape Coral, FL 33991
Phone: (239) 574-0558
Hours: Vary depending on the time of year
Entrance: $23 for those under 48", $30 for those above 48" |
If you are looking for some fun in the sun with your sweetie, you may consider visiting the waterpark nearby Fort Myers! Sun Splash Waterpark has lots of exhilarating and relaxing rides for everyone.
There is nothing like cooling from the Florida heat in a fun-filled waterpark, and this one is great for romantic getaways and families alike. The park is open at different hours depending on the time of year. You can visit the Sun Splash Waterpark website to reserve tickets or a private cabana in advance.
4. Str8 Up Aviation
Credit: Groupon
Map It: 605 Danley Drive, Ft Myers, FL, 33907
Phone: 1-855- 978 7887
Hours: Based on booking
Prices: Dependent on Trip
Couples often look for new and exciting date ideas to keep each other entertained, and a helicopter tour is a new date idea! Str8 Up Aviation offers helicopter tours around the Fort Myers area as a fun excursion you and your partner will not soon forget.
With a variety of flight options, you can pick the package you and your partner love most. The flights often include looking for marine wildlife on the shores and mangroves of the Floridian coast. You can also create a custom trip to make the adventure all yours!
This company is open between 10 am and 5 pm, but flights do rely on good weather. An hour-long flight for two people will cost about $650, but you can also do a 30-minute flight if you are on a budget. You can visit Str8 Up Aviation’s website to book your tour.
5. Lovers Key State Park
Credit: Bob Peterson, Flickr
Map It: 8700 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach FL 33931
Phone: 239-463-4588
Hours: 8 am to sundown
Entrance: $8 parking per vehicle
For those visiting Fort Myers for a romantic beach trip, it is great to find a nice clean beach to inspire the mood. And what better place than a park named for its romantic history!
This park is a collection of barrier islands that used to only be accessible by boat. Lovers would paddle to it as a quick getaway from the bustling city. With great nature walks, clean beaches, and easy access it is a quiet beach to enjoy with your partner.
The beach is 2 miles of white sand and is perfect for looking for sea shells. The park is open from 8 am to sunset and accessible by a tram, boardwalk, or a traditional kayak trip! Water sports and concessions are also available at Lovers Key State Park.
6. Norman Love Confections Chocolate Class
Credit: bakingmag.com
Map It: 13261 McGregor Blvd #105, Fort Myers, FL 33919
Phone: 239-990-8650
Hours: Monday to Saturday 8 am to 6 pm
Price: Dependent on class
Is there anything more romantic than crafting your chocolate on a date? Sometimes a romantic vacation is a perfect opportunity to try a new experience, and one that ends in a handmade treat will be one to remember!
Norman Love Confections in Fort Myers offers bi-weekly classes on making various chocolate confections. You and your partner can learn to make truffles, chocolate decor, and any other creations the master chefs can come up with.
The class is three hours long and will leave you with a learning experience, a bonding moment with your sweetie, and a delicious treat to take home! These classes are not offered every day so you should check their website and plan. You can also take a private class for an even more intimate event.
7. Spa day at Sanibel Harbor Marriott
Map It: 17260 Harbour Pointe Dr, Fort Myers , FL, 33908
Phone: 239-466-2156
Hours: Everyday 8 am to 6 pm (appointment required)
Price: Dependent on package
Nothing is better than a relaxing spa day with your partner. Even if you are staying at a different hotel you can spend a romantic day at the Sanibel Harbor Marriott. They have some top-notch spa treatments and other romantic endeavors.
You can enjoy a couples massage, steam room, facial treatments, and much more at this Marriott. After your treatments, you can walk around the large grounds and enjoy the Floridian mangroves and native plant life.
After your spa treatments, you can enjoy a sunset dinner and an evening boardwalk on the grounds. The spa is usually open from 8 am to 8 pm and prices for the spa treatments vary. This is the perfect place to relax and feel pampered with your partner on the calm beaches of Fort Myers.
8. Eco River and Manatee Adventure Tours
Map It: 16991 FL-31, Fort Myers, FL 33905
Phone: 239-693-1434
Hours: Tours start at 9 am
Price: Adults $30 Seniors $25
It is not the canals of Venice, but you and your partner can have an amazing time on a river tour exploring Flordia’s unique ecosystem and wildlife! Manatee and Eco River Tours offer three different water tours to show you an interesting and intimate time.
If you want to see manatees it is best to do so between December and February, when the cool temperatures make the manatees more active. If your vacation is at a different time, you may still enjoy their eco or sunset tours, which are perfect for enjoying the natural sights with your loving partner.
The tours are available from 8 am to 3 pm on the weekends and till 1 pm on weekdays. You can book a tour and pick your favorite on the Manatee and Eco River Tours official website.
9. Kayak to a Secluded Island
Credit: Kayak Excursions
Map It: 17950 John Morris Rd, Fort Myers, FL 33908
Phone: 239-788-0173
Hours: Tours usually start at 9 am
Price: $60
For those couples who like to experience the quiet side of Florida’s coast, you may be interested in this private tour to a secret island! With much of the Fort Myers coast being full of other beach lovers an invigorating guided kayak tour will show you the area like you’ve never seen.
The rent of the kayak and tour guide is roughly $60 per person. You can pick the best time for your tour to take place and enjoy the warm waters in a clear kayak. Visitors can often see manatees swimming right beneath them! It is surely an experience you and your partner will not forget.
10. Escape Room Date
Map It: 12995 S Cleveland Ave Suite 217 Fort Myers, Florida 33907
Phone: 239-689-6979
Hours: 10 am to 10 am daily
Price: $35 per person
Who does not like a good puzzle to solve? Escape rooms are a great date night idea to bring your minds together and solve a unique problem. Escape Room Adventures in Fort Myers is a top-rated location and great for an entertaining date night!
They currently have 4 different escape rooms to try out, all with different levels of difficulty. With Area 51 and pirate-themed rooms, you are sure to have a great time working together in a particularly unique way.
The game costs about $35 per person and the facility is open from 10 am to 10 pm. Check out the Escape Room Adventures website to book your adventure and see what room you want to solve.
Things To Do In Fort Myers for Singles
Fort Myers is a great place for singles to visit and live. There is plenty of nightlife and tourists around, so you can easily make connections and enjoy your time! Here are a few activities to do on your own and some locations other singles love to visit.
1. Visit Cayo Costa State Park
Credit: James St. John, Flickr
Map It: 4 Nautical Miles West of Pine Island (26.685789, -82.245381)
Cayo Costa FL 33922
Phone: 941-964-0375
Hours: 8 am to sundown
Entrance: $2 per person
You do not need a buddy to explore the wonderful nature of Flordia’s beaches! The Cayo Costa State Park is a pristine island with 9 miles of coastline undistributed by human development. It is a great place to take some time to yourself and explore the water, sand, and wildlife of the Florida coast.
You can easily access this park by ferry or even kayak your way there! There is a $2 honor-based fee to visit the island as a way to keep it protected. The island also has overnight camping spots for outdoorsy visitors.
Whether you want to spend an overnight trip to this island or simply visit for a few hours, it is a great way to explore the area on your own. Getting away from the busy streets of Fort Myers can be a therapeutic experience and a relatively free one as well!
2. Indigo Room
Credit: 239area.com
Map It: 2219 Main St Fort Myers, FL 33901
Phone: (239) 332-0014
Hours: 11 am to 2 am Monday through Friday, 6 pm to 2 am Saturday and Sunday
Entrance: Dependent on the time
If you are exploring Fort Myers Historical Downtown and looking for a nightclub to have some fun at, you should stop in the Indigo Room. This 1920’s themed bar is the oldest in the downtown area and a staple of Fort Myers nightlife.
With old-fashioned drinks elevated with a modern twist and era-appropriate films played on the silver screens, you can walk back in time at this spot. With pool tables and great music, you can easily have a delightful evening meeting new people.
Depending on when you visit, you may have to pay a cover charge between $5 and $10. However, tourists have reported that the drinks are not watered down and are still affordable. The bar is usually open between 11 am and 2 am on weekdays and 7 pm to 2 am on weekends.
3. Rent a Kayak
Credit: Florida Fish and Wildlife
A self-guided tour exploring the Floridian coast is a great activity for anyone visiting the area, but can easily be done solo! With mild waters, you will not have much trouble getting in and out of the surf. With lots of ocean to explore you can paddle where your heart takes you.
There will be many online and beachside companies to rent a kayak from, so it may take a bit of searching to find a good deal. But you will likely be able to rent by the hour and take a trip to a nearby barrier island or a secluded mangrove cove nearby.
There is some general safety to keep in mind if you choose to do this activity, but it is a largely accessible activity. You can take a trip on your own or bring some friends you have met along the way, but a simple kayak trip is a great opportunity to take advantage of.
4. Take a Haunted Walking Tour
Credit truetours.net
Map It: Franklin Shops, 2200 First St, Fort Myers, FL 33901
Phone: 239-945-0405
Hours: Wednesdays and Saturdays at 8 pm
Price: $20
For those not excited about loud nightclubs or being alone in a kayak in the ocean, this Haunted History Walking Tour might be great for you! You will likely join the public tour and experience the trip with others like yourself.
The tour is about an hour and a half long and costs $20, making it a quick and inexpensive way to explore the town and its spooky history. The tours are held Wednesdays through Saturdays and begin at 8 pm!
5. Join a Cycling Party Boat
Credit: Lagerhead Cycleboats
Map It: Dock B1 2500 Main Street, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Phone: (239) 312-3137
Hours: 10 am to 7 pm daily
Entrance: $45
Nothing says solo beach trip like joining a party boat in Florida! A unique party boat opportunity comes from the Lagerhead Cycleboat tours where you peddle your party barge through the river. The public trip will pair you up with other partiers and is the best way to experience nature and new friendships in the area.
The tours last about 2 hours and are $45 per person, and you can take a midday or sunset trip. They are also BYOB (bring your booze) so be prepared before you get on the boat! The boat does make one stop, so you are not out of luck if you forget.
6. Tricos Seafood Market
Credit: Mapquest
Map It: 1300 Main Street, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Phone: (239)765-1828
Hours: Monday-Saturday 9 am-6 pm Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Entrance: Free
Fishing and seafood lovers alike will enjoy this spot. Tricos Seafood Market is a family-owned seafood business that has 13 shrimping boats and other charter boats catching the best quality product every day.
You can go to this market and pick out the freshest seafood in the area to flash freeze and bring back home. Although this is not a restaurant, you can order some quickly steamed shrimp right after it comes off the boats.
If you would like to try your hand at the practice they let you fish on their docks as well! They are open Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm, and are a unique place that you can check out on your own.
7. Magic Wind Adventure Sailing
Credit: Magic Wind Adventure Sailing
Map It: 2500 Main St, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Phone: 800-975-5824
Website
Hours: 8:30 am to 7 pm daily
Price: $85
A great water activity you can enjoy alone or with soon-to-be friends is to take a sailboat tour. Magic Wind Aventure Sailing offers great tours and prices on beautiful sailboats you can enjoy for a reasonable price.
This group is one of the top-rated sailboat tour groups in the area, so you are sure to enjoy your time on the water. As long as you do not spill red wine on the pristine white boats, you will have a friendly crew and plenty of space to enjoy the tour.
If you’d like to meet some new people, a 2-and-a-half-hour tour is only $85 on a small boat with only 5 other people. Or if you want something a bit more exclusive, you can rent the boat privately and learn local facts from your crew for $800.
8. Rent a Jetski
Credit: Sandalfoot Conds
If you are a single visiting the Fort Myers area and looking to attract new companions to simply treat yourself to a great trip, renting a jet ski might be for you! The Flordia waves are gentle, calm, and perfect for exploring on a jet ski.
It is relatively easy to rent a jet ski and freely roam along the coastline. The activity is exhilarating and a great way to enjoy the sun. It is also a great way to make some new friends who might want a ride!
Sites such as this one will give you a good idea of what your jetski trip will look like! Unfortunately, this is one of the most expensive items on this list and is not budget-friendly. Renting a jet ski for half the day will cost you about $300, and for a full day about $400.
9. The Dive
Credit: Yelp
Map It: 4810 Vincennes St, Cape Coral, FL 33904
Phone: (239) 980-7630
Hours: 11 am - 2 am daily
Entrance: Free
The Dive is one of the most highly recommended singles bars in the Fort Myers area. So if your solo trip is needing a little social time, this is an affordable place for people looking for a good time. With daily happy hours and delicious bar food, this is a great place for singles to make some new friends!
As the name suggested, this is not a bar full of expensive drinks and fresh leather seats. This casual dining spot is welcome to tourists and loved by locals. You can often find bar games to sign up for on weekend nights and the places give off a communal hostel vibe.
This bar is usually open from 11 am to 2 am every day of the week, so it is always a great place to relax and meet some new people. This bar does not have fancy drinks, but the solid drinks and menu items are inexpensive.
10. Tour the Edison and Ford Estate
Credit: Kai Scheiber, Flickr
Map It: 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers
Phone: 239-334-7419
Hours: 9 am - 4:30 pm daily
Entrance: Adults $25, Teen $20 (ages 13-19)
History buffs will love this activity! Fort Myers is famous for its claim as the winter home of Thomas Edison and his friendship with Henry Ford. You can explore Edison’s home and learn about his role as the first Floridian snowbird!
Once you arrive you can download an audio recording of a guided tour for free as you walk onto the grounds and learn about this preserve home of American history. It is also possible to pay for a live guide to ask questions too, but it is not necessary to enjoy the estate.
On top of touring Edison’s home, you will also be able to see the cabin he had built for Ford on his property. It is a great space for families and history lovers to explore this unique location without a heft price tag.
Things To Do In Fort Myers at Night
Nightlife in Fort Myers is great for all demographics. There are great date spots, family activities, and bars to visit once the sun goes down. Here are a few of the top-rated locations to fill up your evening.
1. Visit the Flordia Repertory Theater
Credit: Florida Repertory Theater
Map It: 2268 Bay Street Fort Myers, FL 33901
Phone: (239) 332-4488
Box Office Hours: Monday-Friday: 10am-1pm
Price: $30- $40
Dinner and a show may be a classic evening lineup, be it is beloved for a reason! The Flordia Repertory Theater is a long-standing establishment known for its support of local actors and playwrights.
They have been named one of the best-performing arts groups in America, so seeing a show will surely not disappoint you even if you are not a theater enthusiast. After a long ‘intermission’ the theater is back to performing and full of new shows to enjoy.
You can look into the current shows on their website and book your tickets there! Great tourists give back to the place they are visiting and supporting the arts is a great way to help out and find some entertainment for yourself.
2. Join a Bar Crawl
Credit: John Rutherford, Flickr
This evening activity is definitely for adventurers who want to explore Fort Myers nightlife! Joining a bar crawl can be a great way to sample different bars across town while making friends with strangers you never would have spoken with otherwise.
You can find some crawls to sign up for on websites such as this one. You can find general bar crawls and even themed ones, where you search for the best tacos and tequila in the area! It can be a great way to meet new people and explore the town.
This is a great option for couples, groups of friends, and singles alike. Prices for joining bar crawls can vary, or maybe you are lucky and able to slip into the group! Either way, it is one of the fastest ways to ensure a memorable night.
3. Space 39 Art Bar and Martini Lounge
Credit 239area.com
Map It: 39 Patio de Leon, Ft Myers
Phone: 239-204-9949
Hours: Wednesday - Saturday 5:30 pm to 2 am
Entrance: Free
Everyone has a favorite bar, but this one is a local and tourist favorite in the Fort Myers area. The Space 39 Lounge has exhibitions of local artists, musicians, and bartenders who love their craft! With high-quality specialty martinis and a trendy atmosphere, it is a great stop if you are looking for some evening enjoyment.
You can try fruity martinis such as the Rasberry Lemon Drop, or sweet ones like the Chocolate Salted Carmel martini. Entertainment comes in many forms at this lounge, with the best Motown, Reggae, Funk, Soul, and Blues bands around on stage.
You can explore the Space 39 Art Bar and Martini Lounge website to see who will be playing when you visit. Tourists remark this is an incredible spot to enjoy some evening drinks, local art, and musical entertainment
4. Snappers Laugh Comedy Cafe
Map It: 8595 College Parkway #270, Fort Myers FL 33919
Phone: (239) 479-5233
Hours: Thursday to Saturday 5 pm to 11 pm
Price: $15-$25
Comedy clubs are some of the best evening experiences to have. A close intimate show with up-and-coming artists can give you a completely new experience, and you might just catch a comedian on their way to a Netflix comedy special!
The Snappers Laugh Comedy Cafe is the top-rated comedy club in Flordia. With remarkably hilarious performers, great drinks, and delicious snacks you are sure to have a great time here. They even have Drag performances on special days for those who love vivacious performances.
You can buy tickets at the Snappers Laugh Comedy Cafe website and see who is performing during your visit. They are only open Thursday through Saturday from 5 pm to about 11 pm, so if you would like to visit you can plan accordingly.
5. The World Famous Cigar Bar
Credit: news-press.com
Map It: 1502 Hendry St. Fort Myers, FL 33901
Phone: 239-337-4662
Hours: Sunday to Thursday 10 am to 12 am, Friday & Saturday 10 am to 2 am
Entrance: Free
Take a walk back in time by visiting the World Famous Cigar Bar in Fort Myers. Enjoy the classic atmosphere with excellent drinks and world-class cigars from around the world. You can enjoy a simple evening with enticing luxuries and sophisticated company.
Cigar lovers from around the world visit this Southern Flordia establishment to peruse their fine selection in a state of the art humidity controlled space. This is to ensure the quality of the cigars is not lost to the weather in Flordia so you can take home the best quality product.
Even though you can take cigars home, this is a great location to enjoy one in an old-fashioned indoor bar. If you are looking for the classics during your visit to Fort Myers, you will not want to miss this stop.
6. Dinner Detective
Map It: 12600 University Dr, Fort Myers
Phone: (866) 496-0535
Hours: Weekends 6 pm to 9 pm
Price: $60
Mystery lovers will enjoy a unique problem-solving evening at the Dinner Murder Mystery Show in Fort Myers. Where you and your companions get to interact in a Clue-like story to find the murderer among your dinner mates.
You get to enjoy a delicious four-course meal with your selection of the entree, where they usually have options such as Alaskan Salmon or stuffed portabella mushrooms. As you eat you learn clues and ask questions to find your prime suspect!
The shows are hosted at the Hilton Inn from 6 pm to 9 pm on weekend nights. You can plan by booking tickets around 8 weeks before the dinner date. A ticket costs $60 and includes the meal, entertainment, and staff gratuity!
7. Viva Le Mirage
Credit: Restaurant Guru
Map It: 5990 Winkler Rd Fort Myers, FL 33919
Phone: (239) 226-0086
Hours: Thursday to Sunday: 9 am to 2 am
Entrance: $10
If you love to dance this is the nightclub for you! With two different dance rooms, you are sure to find your groove at the Viva le Mirage bar. There is often an entrance fee of $10, but you can go in and out of the building throughout the night with a wristband.
This spot has a hip-hop dance room where the music can be a bit varied but pulls from this popular genre. The second room is the Spanish room, where they play merengue and reggaeton music for lovers of Latin pop.
They are only open Thursday through Sunday and usually from 9 am to 2 am. Visitors have said that the drinks can be expensive for the amount they pour, but this lively club should be on your list if you love to dance all night long!
8. Play at Dave and Buster’s
Credit: news-press.com
Map It: 13499 S Cleveland Ave Ste 400, Fort Myers, FL 33907
Phone: 239-264-3000
Hours: 11 am to 12 am daily
Entrance: Free
For those who love the classics, you can spend a fun-filled evening at Fort Myers Dave and Busters. This staple chain can be a familiar call to home for tourists, offering arcade games, drinks, and sports all in one spot!
This location is in a central area of Fort Myers so you won’t have to go searching to find it. They also have a virtual reality room for some extra fun game time killing zombies in a future apocalypse!
The facility is usually open between 11 am and 12 am. With friendly staff and loads of activities to choose from it is a great way to spend one of your evenings in Fort Myers.
9. The Barrel Room
Map It: 2214 Bay St. Fort Myers, FL 33901
Phone: 239-333-2225
Hours: Wednesday through Friday: 4 pm to 2 am. Saturday and Sunday: 10 am to 2 am
Entrance: Free
For those not up for loud and crowded nightclubs, The Barrel Room offers a more laid-back and sophisticated evening for visitors. With live jazz musicians, over 40 rare bourbons, and plenty of delicious menu options to give you an enjoyable evening in Fort Myers.
The Barrel Room is right next door to the award-winning Twisted Vine Bistro, so you can enjoy this two-for-one venue for your evening out. It is the perfect place for those looking for an intimate night out in downtown Fort Myers.
They are closed Mondays and Tuesdays and are open from 4 pm to 2 am during the week. The weekends have special hours and they are open from 10 am to 2 am. Their wide range of aged alcohols means there is not a general price point for their drinks, but you will surely not be disappointed.
10. Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf
Credit: mustdo.com
Map It: 17450 San Carlos Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Phone: (239) 466-5855
Hours: 9 am to 11 pm daily
Entrance: Adults $17 Children $15
Sometimes an evening out needs something more than just drinks and food, and what better to fill the time than with some mini golf! Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf is a great spot for families and couples alike to spend the evening in Fort Myers.
A unique trait of this mini golf location is the alligator pen! On top of having several themed courses to pick from, you can enjoy your adventure with Florida’s famous reptiles.
They are open from 9 am to 11 pm all days of the week, and only have specific hours on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year. An adult ticket costs $17 and $15 for children under 12 years of age.
Things To Do In Fort Myers on a Rainy Day
Sometimes the weather is not in your favor and you are unable to kayak through Floridas mangroves without getting soaked. Here are a few ideas to fill your time if the weather does not agree with your plans.
1. Visit the IMAG History & Science Center
Credit: IMAG History and Science Center
Map It: 2000 Cranford Ave Fort Myers, FL 33916
Phone: 239-243-0043
Hours: Closed Tuesdays, Monday to Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm, Sundays: 12 pm to 5 pm
Entrance: Adult $17.50 Child $15
Who does not love a good interactive museum? The IMAG History & Science Center is full of 60 interactive exhibits (indoor and outdoor) to entertain everyone from young kids to curious adults. With many exhibits, it is a great place to explore the natural world when rainy weather interrupts your plans.
As the name would suggest you can find exhibits on history and current science. Some exhibits contain live animal shows to watch, and others are about space exploration. Although the outdoor exhibits will not be accessible to you, there will be plenty of information for everyone.
This museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm on weekdays and is closed on Tuesdays. If you stop by on a Sunday their hours start at noon. Making it a great place to spend a few hours and hope for the rain to pass so you can continue with your vacation!
2. Buckingham Blues Bar
Map It: 5641 Buckingham Rd, Fort Myers, FL 33905
Phone: 239-693-7111
Hours: Saturday - Sunday: 11 am to 12 am, Monday - Friday: 2 pm to 12 am
Entrance: Free
If you are looking to connect with Floridian culture but can not visit the beach due to the rain, the Buckingham Blues Bar is the unique experience you are looking for! This is a local favorite diver bar with southern blues music that gets everyone feeling good!
It is a bit off the beaten path of regular Fort Myers locations, but not one to disregard. The live bands held here are known to knock your socks off and get everyone in a great mood. You will find traditional bar food and drinks here, but the music is what everyone comes for.
Due to its popularity with locals and tourists, you will find this place gets quite busy on the weekends. On Saturday and Sunday, they are open from 11 am to 12 am, and on weekdays from 2 pm to 12 am.
3. Stevie Tomato's Sport Page
Map It: 4420 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33966
Phone: 239-939-7211
Hours: Friday & Saturday: 11 am to 11 pm, Sunday - Thursday: 11 am to 10 pm
Entrance: Free
Food and sports lovers will love Stevie Tomato's Sports Page if you end up stuck indoors. This sports bar is full of large beer and food selections with lots of TVs playing every sport you could imagine!
This bar also holds several extra entertainment events! With daily bands, comedians, and other entertainers coming in you may find a special treat if you visit around dinner time.
You can easily spend a few hours here as you wait out the rain, with lots of appetizers to sample and games to enjoy. The food is also quite affordable, with a rack of ribs only costing $11.00. With the various entertainment and large menu, you will not be bored spending a rainy day here.
4. Vino's Picasso
Map It: 15250 S. Tamiami Trail, #109 Fort Myers, FL 33908
Phone: 239-288-6953
Website
Hours: Tuesdays: Closed, Mon-Sat: 12:00PM – 9:00PM, Sun: 11:00AM – 3:00PM
Price: ~ $40 per person
Artistic expression is a great activity even for those who are not the most artistically inclined. With a little bit of paint, and maybe a few glasses of wine, you can enjoy an incredible painting experience at Vino's Picasso!
This establishment provides you with all the painting materials and wine you could need as you take a step-by-step class to create your masterpiece! You can sign up for a private group party or join a class filled with strangers as you all enjoy this unique experience perfect for a rainy day.
This place is one of the top-rated activities in Fort Myers! You can easily paint the day away and forget all about the rainy weather outside. What is even better is you get to walk away with a personal souvenir!
5. Visit the Casino at Dania Beach
Credit: Dania Beach Casino
Map It: 301 E Dania Beach Blvd, Dania Beach, FL 33004
Phone: 844-794-6344
Hours: 9 am to 3 am daily
Entrance: Free
For those who like to test their luck on a rainy day, the Dania Beach Casino is a great place to spend a few hours. This new casino is full of activities, entertainment, and great restaurants for adults to enjoy.
This casino opened in 2016 and brings a breath of fresh air to the casino vibe. With multiple levels, bars, and food areas you can meander around the building to find what suits you best. They have over 750 slot machines and a 21-table card room with plenty of games to fill up your time.
This casino is known for hosting great musicians and comedians as an extra way to entertain yourself. Several of the bars air sports games, so if you get tired of gambling you can have a few drinks and enjoy the game.
Tobi Miles is a University of Florida graduate turned globe-trotting culinary explorer and digital nomad expert. As the founder of "Bytes & Bites," he combines his passion for international cuisine with practical advice on remote work, inspiring others to experience the world through food and cultural immersion. With 32 countries under his belt and a knack for uncovering hidden culinary gems, Tobi is redefining the intersection of work, travel, and gastronomy for a new generation of adventurers.
