Hidden along Florida’s Gulf Coast is one of the fastest-growing cities in Lee County, Fort Myers, Florida.
There’s more to this beach town than white sand and waterfront views. Spend the day exploring local restaurants, historic sites or one of the city’s Spring Training ballparks.
See for yourself what makes Fort Myers more than a beach town and one of the best places to retire.
Where is Fort Myers, Florida?
Fort Myers sits along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Closer to major cities like Cape Coral and Naples.
While not directly on the coast, Fort Myers is less than an hour from beaches like Sanibel Island, Estero Island, and Lovers Key State Park.
Guests can fly directly into Fort Myers, FL, through the Southwest Florida Regional Airport. This Fort Myers airport is about 30 minutes from the heart of downtown Fort Myers.
What’s the Temperature in Fort Myers, Florida?
One of the biggest draws to Fort Myers is the weather.
Summer temperatures typically reach the low to mid-90s from June through August. The warmer months draw the locals to nearby Fort Myers beaches. Indoor attractions like the IMAG History & Science Center are also good, family-friendly options to avoid the Florida heat.
Winter is peak season in Fort Myers, FL. Sunny skies and comfortable temperatures make it easy to enjoy the season outdoors as Florida snowbirds return. Highs around 77 and lows around 54 are cool enough for winter traditions without keeping you stuck inside.
3 Things To Do in Fort Myers for Snowbirds
Looking for things to do in Fort Myers? Beyond the beaches, visitors will find historic attractions, nature preserves, and unique experiences throughout the city.
Here are three local spots every traveler should visit while they’re in town.
1. Edison and Ford Winter Estates
What began as a way to escape colder weather has become one of the most visited historic homes in North America.
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates were seasonal homes to some of America’s most famous inventors, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.
Guests can tour the grounds and take in the preserved history. Be sure to walk through the research gardens. Home to the largest banyan tree in the United States. A gift to Edison from Harvey Firestone.
Then step back in time with a visit to Edison’s laboratory and Ford’s garage. Visitors can see relics found nowhere else.
Fun Fact: Thomas Edison played a major role in helping Fort Myers earn its nickname “City of Palms.” Years ago, he planted a series of Royal Palms lining what is now known as McGregor Boulevard.
2. Major League Baseball Spring Training Game
Fort Myers is lucky enough to have not one, but two Spring Training venues.
The Lee Health Sport Complex is home to the Minnesota Twins and the JetBlue Park hosts the Boston Red Sox.
Both stadiums pay homage to their hometown roots in their own unique way.
The JetBlue Park concourse has been described as feeling like an authentic Boston Farmer’s Market. Lee Health Sport’s complex celebrates the Twins’ Minnesota roots through its architecture and paper airplane fountain at the entrance.
Fan Favorite: Ten out of fifteen Florida Grapefruit League teams play along the Gulf Coast. Start in Fort Myers and work your way up to Dunedin for the ultimate Spring Training road trip.
3. Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
A visit to the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve offers a glimpse into what many would call “Old Florida.” Despite the name, the main attraction is a 1.2-mile boardwalk that is open year-round.
Visitors can take a guided walk or self-guided tour. However you choose to explore the slough, expect plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing. Alligators, otters, and birds are common sights.
Guests visiting between mid-August and late October can take part in a Wet Walk. These guided tours take visitors through the wetlands for an up-close look at all that the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve has to offer.
Local Tip: Drive 15 minutes up the road to Manatee Park. Every winter, dozens of manatees gather in the park’s warm-water canal. Plan your visit between late December and early March for the best chance to see them.
Fort Myers Restaurants Worth Checking Out
One of the hardest questions you’ll have to answer is, “Where do you want to eat?” Fort Myers’ culinary district is packed with unique restaurants and local flavors.
Open daily, Ella Mae’s Diner serves breakfast and brunch with a Southern twist. Menu favorites include Southern Peach French Toast and Fried Chicken Biscuit. The restaurant itself feels like an upscale 1950s diner.
A visit to a coastal town isn’t complete without seafood. For a more upscale experience, try The Silver King Coastal Kitchen. The restaurant specializes in Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Featuring dishes like Faroe Salmon and Spanish Octopus.
Restaurants like FK Your Diet are making a difference beyond the dining room. Every meal purchased helps support foster children and families in the Fort Myers area. The cause is personal for owner Doug Miller. Growing up in foster care, he now works to give back to families facing similar challenges. It’s also personal for regulars like the Florida snowbirds at nearby Blueway RV Park who raise money to support FK Your Diet’s cause.
Make Everyday Feel Like A Vacation
It’s hard not to fall in love with this City of Palms. Tropical climate. Outdoor activities. Unique restaurants.
It is easy to see why so many retirees decide to make the move. Communities like Jamaica Bay Village, which features manufactured homes for the 55+ crowd, and Blueway RV Park both offer the best of the Fort Myers lifestyle.
Not everyone wants to live in the middle of the action. Estero Bay Village offers the best of both worlds. This 55+ Florida retirement community overlooks the Estero River in a quieter setting outside of Fort Myers. Estero Bay Village residents can enjoy community amenities like a clubhouse, pool, and lounge area.
Tap photos for an inside look at Estero Bay Village
A snowbird escape. An everyday vacation. The choice is yours when you come to Fort Myers, Florida.