Florida Fort Myers

Fort Myers, Florida, blends Gulf Coast sunshine with laid-back outdoor living and a welcoming, family-friendly community spirit. Locals love wandering the tropical paths of Lakes Park, kayaking the Calusa Blueway through mangrove tunnels, biking the John Yarbrough Linear Park Trail, or strolling the historic Downtown River District. Waterfront dining, local breweries, and seasonal events like ArtFest Fort Myers and Music Walk keep the social scene lively year-round.

Hiking, Biking & Trails

Fort Myers offers a wide network of scenic trails and waterways. The John Yarbrough Linear Park Trail provides several miles of paved biking and jogging paths lined with wildlife habitats, lakes, and lush greenery. Lakes Park’s shaded boardwalks and bike loops wind past gardens, waterways, and picnic areas. Nearby nature preserves like Six Mile Cypress Slough offer additional boardwalk hikes through cypress wetlands and bird-watching hotspots, connecting residents to Florida’s natural beauty.

Family-Friendly Activities

Families head to Lakes Park for its splash pads, miniature train rides, playgrounds, and paddleboat rentals. The IMAG History & Science Center offers hands-on exhibits, touch tanks, and STEM programs, while the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium features wildlife encounters, butterfly gardens, and astronomy shows. Seasonal farmers markets throughout the River District bring fresh produce, local goods, and kid-friendly entertainment each week.

Local Breweries & Dining

Fort Myers’ craft beer scene thrives at spots like Fort Myers Brewing Company and Millennial Brewing Company, both known for their spacious taprooms, rotating food trucks, and frequent live events. For food, locals enjoy waterfront staples like Ford’s Garage, casual seafood at The Lighthouse, and classic Southern comfort dishes around the historic downtown. Fresh Gulf seafood, outdoor patios, and lively evening events help define the city’s relaxed coastal dining culture.

Fort Myers is a paradise for active lifestyles and sports enthusiasts, fueled by sunny weather, strong school athletics, and endless outdoor recreation along the Caloosahatchee River, in Lakes Park, and throughout Lee County’s expansive trail systems.

While Fort Myers doesn’t host major league teams directly within city limits, pro sports are always within reach: catch MLB’s Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins during Spring Training, or head to nearby cities for NFL, NHL, and NBA action. Local excitement runs high with the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels minor league baseball team, plus thriving youth leagues, club sports, and high-energy high school athletics at schools like Fort Myers High School and Cypress Lake High School, known for competitive football, baseball, soccer, and swimming programs.

The city offers excellent recreation facilities and access to Florida’s natural landscapes. The YMCA of Southwest Florida features fitness centers, aquatics, training programs, youth sports, and courts for basketball and pickleball, while the City of Fort Myers Parks & Recreation Department offers community classes, athletic leagues, indoor sports, and waterfront park activities. Residents enjoy athletic fields for soccer, baseball, and softball at parks like Lakes Park and Sam Flemming Park, splash pads and playgrounds for summer fun, and scenic cycling and jogging routes along the John Yarbrough Linear Park Trail. Just beyond the city, spots such as Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve and J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge offer miles of trails for hiking, birdwatching, kayaking, and nature exploration.

With warm temperatures year-round and abundant sunshine, Fort Myers makes it effortless to stay active and enjoy outdoor adventure in every season.

Fort Myers, Florida, is an outdoor and cultural playground, set along the Caloosahatchee River and surrounded by Gulf Coast beaches, nature preserves, and vibrant historic districts. Bike or stroll the scenic John Yarbrough Linear Park Trail, paddle or kayak along the river and mangrove-lined estuaries, or explore the shady boardwalks and wildlife habitats of Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve. Adventure seekers enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, guided eco-tours, dolphin-watching cruises, and kayaking through quiet backwaters, while families love the playgrounds, splash pads, and biking paths at Lakes Park and the immersive learning experiences at the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium.

History and culture add depth to every outing. Step into the past at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates, explore local heritage and rotating exhibits at the Southwest Florida Museum of History, or wander the Downtown Fort Myers River District to admire restored Mediterranean-Revival architecture, colorful murals, galleries, and waterfront views.

Year-round festivals—such as the Edison Festival of Light, Fort Myers Art Walk, Caloosahatchee Celtic Festival, and holiday waterfront celebrations—keep the city lively and full of coastal charm. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure or cultural discovery, Fort Myers delivers unforgettable experiences for all ages.

Fort Myers embraces year-round celebrations that highlight its coastal charm, vibrant arts scene, and tight-knit community spirit.

Spring
As temperatures rise and flowers bloom, Fort Myers comes alive with outdoor markets and cultural kickoffs. Seasonal farmers markets in the Downtown River District offer fresh local produce, artisan goods, and live music, while events like ArtFest Fort Myers bring workshops, crafts, and performances to public spaces. Spring festivals showcase food, music, and family-friendly activities throughout historic neighborhoods.

Summer
Summertime in Fort Myers pulses with music, festivals, and waterfront leisure. Music Walk energizes the River District with live bands and local eats, while community events fill parks with games, artisan booths, and family fun. Independence Day celebrations dazzle with fireworks over the Caloosahatchee River, parades, and concerts, while nearby trails, Lakes Park, and local waterways offer boating, biking, swimming, and picnics amid lush scenery.

Fall
With cooler weather and gentle breezes, Fort Myers celebrates harvest vibes through craft fairs and cultural events. Autumn festivals such as the Edison Festival of Light highlight music, art, and food, while farmers markets and pet-friendly gatherings feature seasonal produce and entertainment. Parks like Lakes Park and Centennial Park provide scenic backdrops for hiking, biking, and cozy outdoor get-togethers.

Winter
Fort Myers sparkles with holiday markets, seasonal concerts, and festive community programs. Indoor venues and cultural centers offer crafts, seasonal treats, and entertainment, while local high school and college sports bring excitement to gyms and stadiums. Theater performances, gallery exhibitions, and music series create warmth and joy throughout the winter months.

Throughout the year, Fort Myers’ calendar overflows with farmers markets, music series, art walks, and neighborhood celebrations that reflect the city’s welcoming, lively character.