Lakes Park is one of the most popular recreational areas in-and-around Fort Myers. The 279-acre (112 hectare) park has several fresh water lakes perfect for swimming, fishing or hopping aboard a boat. Officially, swim season starts from Memorial Day to Labor Day, but throughout the year you'll see people wading in and out of the water. You don't have to go in the water however, because there is still a 2.5-mile (four kilometer) paved path used for running, rollerblading or riding your bike. Additionally, the Fragrance Garden offers a unique sensory experience and other picnic areas, concession stands, a miniature train ride, boat rental and showers, further delight visitors.
The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located in the heart of downtown Fort Myers. The center is not just a vibrant forum to hosts art talks, art walks, functional exhibits and much more, but it's also a catalyst and benefactor to the entire art scene in Southwest Florida. Another highlight is the stunning neoclassical design of the building, with its impressive coral and limestone Ionic pillars. The Sidney & Berne Davis should be a definite stop for anyone interested in the local movements and happenings in the Fort Myers art community.
As its name implies, Manatee Park highlights this mammal from the order Sirenia, a popular emblem of Southern Florida. The park sits alongside the Orange River and its a great place to launch a canoe; you can bring your own or rent one from CalusaBlueway Outfitters. Additionally, the park has a butterfly garden, an amphitheater, pavilions for rent, picnic areas and plenty of places to toss a hook and line. The best time to catch the manatees is during the winter months (typically December through March), when the temperature in the river reaches the appropriate number, around 68ºF.
The downtown historic district runs along the Caloosahatchee River at Edwards Drive and is bordered by Monroe and Lee Streets to the north and south. Fort Myers was first established as a bulwark during the Seminole Wars which finally ended after three different campaigns in 1858. Thereafter, the city became incorporated in 1885. Although there are very few remnants of this era in the area, there is still plenty to see-and-do. From attractions like the historic Burroughs Home and Gardens or the First United Methodist Church to a plethora of bars and restaurants, there is something for all ages. Throughout the year, special events like art walks, musical acts and other happenings occur in this pedestrian-friendly district.
Anyone who has ever returned home with a pretty seashell from the beach will find something of interest at Sanibel's Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum. The Shell Museum is the only one in the United States devoted to amateur and professional conchologists. It houses more than two-million specimens and is constantly growing with new, unidentified species every day. Usually, there is a professional that can help you identify the shell as well as learn about the history and how they form. In the gift shop, adults can buy fossils, shells-in-art, jewelry while the kids have fun in the Children's Learning Lab.
Also known as the Murphy-Burroughs House, cattle rancher John Murphy constructed this Georgian Revival Mansion in 1901, sixteen years after the establishment of Fort Myers. The property has amazing views of the Caloosahatchee River and its location in the River District is close to many downtown attractions. The nearly three-acre estate allows visitors to walk the grounds and see plenty of lush, green foliage as well as a grotto fed by an Artesian well. The Burroughs family purchased the estate in 1918 and retained many of the antique furnishings and historical details. One of the last family members bequeathed the home to the city of Fort Myers in 1978 and it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. Today it is run under the auspices of the Uncommon Friends Foundation and they provide guided tours twice a week.
Founded in 1984, Sanibel Historical Museum and Village exists with a mission to preserve and educate people about the history of Sanibel dating back to the Calusa and Spanish Era and the 1800s, narrating stories of farmers, fishermen, adventurers and warriors. This venue sees multiple historic buildings which were moved from their original location to this village, with an average of 10,000 visitors a year. Here you shall find historical structures such as Caretaker's Cottage built in 1925, the Shore Haven of 1924, Sanibel School House for White Children from 1896, Rutland House from 1913, Sanibel Packing House from 1900, and the Burnap Cottage from 1898.
The marina at the City of Fort Myers Yacht Basin has a well-marked entrance and is located on the south side of the Caloosahatchee River, between the Edison and Caloosahatchee Bridges. It offers fuel, an overnight dock, convenience store, ramp, showers, shore power, and free pump-out. The 246 slips fill up during events like the Edison Festival of Lights, so reservations are recommended. There is 10 feet of water in the channel and eight feet at some docks, with little or no current. Restaurants and hotels are nearby.
This community park is a hidden gem, offering a variety of amenities such as a boat ramp, pier, picnic pavilions, playgrounds, and a large manicured green lawn. This public park is a waterfront spot and comes across as a respite. Ideal for relaxing, visitors enjoy a lovely day out with family. Pavilions are available for rental and can be utilized for private events. Community programs like summer camps are hosted here.
Also known as the Murphy-Burroughs House, cattle rancher John Murphy constructed this Georgian Revival Mansion in 1901, sixteen years after the establishment of Fort Myers. The property has amazing views of the Caloosahatchee River and its location in the River District is close to many downtown attractions. The nearly three-acre estate allows visitors to walk the grounds and see plenty of lush, green foliage as well as a grotto fed by an Artesian well. The Burroughs family purchased the estate in 1918 and retained many of the antique furnishings and historical details. One of the last family members bequeathed the home to the city of Fort Myers in 1978 and it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. Today it is run under the auspices of the Uncommon Friends Foundation and they provide guided tours twice a week.
Lakes Park is one of the most popular recreational areas in-and-around Fort Myers. The 279-acre (112 hectare) park has several fresh water lakes perfect for swimming, fishing or hopping aboard a boat. Officially, swim season starts from Memorial Day to Labor Day, but throughout the year you'll see people wading in and out of the water. You don't have to go in the water however, because there is still a 2.5-mile (four kilometer) paved path used for running, rollerblading or riding your bike. Additionally, the Fragrance Garden offers a unique sensory experience and other picnic areas, concession stands, a miniature train ride, boat rental and showers, further delight visitors.