Staff Picks

For the best off an on the island events, attractions and in-the-know ideas on how to maximize your time on Fort Myers Beach, check out our monthly Staff Picks for our favorite local finds.

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Allow Yourself to Get Lost in Botanical Gardens

Catch a glimpse of the past at the Everglades Wonder Gardens. Just a short drive from our grounds, this historic spot is a timely getaway into a serene botanical jungle. Established in 1936 with a mission to preserve what once was, the non-profit that protects the property lets the land do all the talking—and this natural beauty has a lot to say.

Everything from the Natural History Museum to the gardens themselves tells a story of simpler times and aims to educate visitors on the importance of conservation. While on your visit, spot birds, mammals, and “Big Joe,” the 14.5-foot crocodile. As you weave through the garden’s native plants and trees, you’ll get lost in the simple pleasures of being one with nature—even if it’s just for an afternoon.

Ticket Information

Adults 13+: $12

Seniors 65+: $10

Children 3-12: $7

Under 3: Free

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Enjoy an Evening at the Fort Myers Times Square

During your time with us here at Fort Myers, your trip just won’t be complete without stopping by our very own Times Square. With tons of restaurants, shops, and activities, you and your loved ones will find a fun adventure around every corner.

During your time with us here at Fort Myers, your trip just won’t be complete without stopping by our very own Times Square. The heart of Estero Island is free of all the chaos and bright lights you normally think of when Times Square comes to mind, but don’t think this gathering point is some sleepy stop. With tons of restaurants, shops, and activities, you and your loved ones will find a fun adventure around every corner. Be sure to take a picture next to one of the iconic sky blue clock towers, and stop by for a quick shop or a relaxed evening over good drinks and food. Want to make it a truly special evening? Save a trip for Friday or Saturday evening where you can join in on the Sunset Celebration: live music, a fun atmosphere, and a breathtaking sunset view—we’ll see you there!

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a-fun-family-day-awaits-at-the-sun-n-fun-lagoon
A Fun Family Day Awaits at the Sun N Fun Lagoon

Cruise down speedy water slides, hang in dive pools, and lounge in an inner tube while moseying down the lazy river at the Sun N Fun Lagoon.

Make the most of your vacation with a visit to the Sun N Fun Lagoon water park. Cruise down speedy water slides like the popular Sea Lion Slide, hang in dive pools, and lounge in an inner tube while moseying down the lazy river. This family-friendly Naples park has snack shops, showers, and locker rooms to make this an easy all-day outing. Plus, what sets Sun N Fun Lagoon apart from the rest is how warm the water is. The park implements a state-of-the-art climate control system that makes the water as comfortable and inviting as the Gulf of Mexico. See you on the slides!

Hours:
President’s Day Weekend – May: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays
Memorial Day – through September: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. every day.

Pricing (tax not included):
Ages 0-3 get in free
Customers under 48” $6
Customers 48” or taller $13
Seniors $9

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live-like-a-local-in-the-river-district
Live like a Local in the River District

Fort Myer’s Downtown River District is a busy and bustling coming together of all that our amazing city has to offer. The district is filled with art galleries, unique boutiques, antique shops, restaurants, live theater, and more.

Looking to live like a local? Fort Myer’s Downtown River District is a busy and bustling coming together of all that our amazing city has to offer. Find charming brick-lined streets and small businesses along our Caloosahatchee river waterfront. During the day, walking tours are available to give insight into the history of Fort Myers. Plus, the district is filled with art galleries, unique boutiques, antique shops, and even visitor attractions like Imaginarium Hands-On Aquarium for a full family affair. More of a night owl? Come back in the evening to join in among the lively scene of restaurants, bar, live music venues, and theaters. Our beaches get people talking—and for good reason!—but the River District is a special place that gives visitors a chance to walk in the shoes of a local, spending a day in the heart of our beautiful, historic beach town.

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Step Back in Time at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates

Enjoy Fort Myers the historical way with a stop to the Edison & Ford Winter Estates. Thomas Edison and Henry Ford’s lasting friendship went so far as to having neighboring vacation homes, and the remaining properties offer so many sights to see!

Enjoy Fort Myers the historical way with a stop to the Edison & Ford Winter Estates. Thomas Edison and Henry Ford’s lasting friendship went so far as to having neighboring vacation homes, and the remaining properties offer so many sights to see! Tour Edison’s Seminole Lodge for a timeless getaway with stunning furnishings and architecture of the early 20th century. And the Mangoes, Henry Ford’s estate, features a classic porch with an unbeatable view of the Caloosahatchee river. Once you’ve explored the interiors, wander through over 20 acres of botanical gardens including more than 1700 plants from six continents—and spot a few trees that were planted during Edison’s time. Plus, historic buildings such as the Botanic Research Lab and the Edison Ford museum are also on the property and have inventions, artifacts, and special exhibits on display for you to check out. The beauty of these estates, and their surrounding views, makes it clear why Edison and Ford would stay so often.

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Staff Picks

Allow Yourself to Get Lost in Botanical Gardens

Enjoy an Evening at the Fort Myers Times Square

A Fun Family Day Awaits at the Sun N Fun Lagoon

Live like a Local in the River District

Step Back in Time at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates