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Browsing Ft. Myers
Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum
Anyone who has ever brought back 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 shells. It houses more than two million specimens and is constantly growing. You can have your own shells identified before learning about the history and formation of shells. Visit displays of fossils, shells in art, jewelry, and architecture and sailor's valentines. Kids can participate in the Children's Learning Lab while adults browse the gift shop. Admission is USD7 for adults aged 17 and up, USD4 for children ages 5-16, children 4 and younger are free.
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Beachview Golf and Tennis Club
Beachview Golf and Tennis Club, on lovely Sanibel Island, is a 18-hole, Par 71 championship golf course. Following the curves and scenic beauty of the Sanibel River, Beachview offers an challenging and rewarding golf experience for players of all skill levels.
As a member of Audubon International's Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, Beachview takes great pride in preserving the beautiful, natural Florida landscape that makes Beachview the most desirable course on Sanibel Island. More »
Big "M" Casino Cruise (The)
If you're in the mood for some Las Vegas-style roulette, blackjack, or slot machines, try The Big "M" Casino Cruises, departing twice daily from Moss Marine on Fort Myers Beach. Each cruise lasts five and a half hours, and offers a lunch buffet for $7.95 and a dinner buffet for $11.95. Parking is free. The ship does not have elevators, so those in wheelchairs are restricted to the first floor, which is where the gambling is. The second floor is the dining room and the third has entertainment.
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Boca Grande
Located at the mouth of the Charlotte Harbor on Gasparilla Island and popularly known as the "Tarpon Fishing Capital of the World," Boca Grande is not just a town for fishing aficionados. Although seasonally inundated with tarpon fishers, Boca Grande maintains a "quaint village" feeling and provides a look into a Florida from a bygone era. The town has no traffic lights nor modern high rises, and charms visitors with a great downtown historic shopping district, a 100-year-old lighthouse, high-end restaurants, boat rental stores, charter tours, and galleries that feature art inspired by the beautiful surroundings.
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Bowditch Point Regional Park
On the northern tip of Estero Island sits the pristine Bowditch Point Regional Park, comprised of 17 acres of beach, forest, estuary, and, of course, great vistas. As you explore the area, make special note of the variety of plants and animals that live in each of this unique park's three different terrains. With restrooms and restaurants nearby, and a trolley running from the Main Street Park and Ride to the beach every 15 minutes, there is no excuse to miss this site.
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Bowman's Beach
Well-known for its shelling, the enchanting and isolated Bowman's Beach is arguably Sanibel Island's best beach. It's truly nature at its best: miles of beautifully open beachfront filled with shells. There are picnic tables, restrooms, showers, and bike racks, so pack a picnic and make a day of it! Don't let the five-minute walk from the parking area detour you; this is a beach not to be missed.
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Burroughs Home
This gorgeous 100-year old Georgian Revial home sits on the Caloosahatchee River in Historic Downtown Fort Myers. Some historians attribute the home's classy style and suburb workmanship with transforming the standards of wealth and success in turn-of-the-century Fort Myers. For those interested in learning more about the architectural style of the house and day-to-day living in Fort Myers over 100 years ago, the Burrough's Home offers informative tours guided by historically-costumed docents. Luncheons and personal events at the house are also available.
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Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium
Nature lovers will get a fun and educational look at southwest Florida's natural history and more at the Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium. Calusa offers nature trails through forest and wetlands, a replica of a Seminole village, and an aviary for permanently injured native birds-of-prey. In the nature center visitors can watch live animals -- tarantulas, snakes, and alligators, to name a few -- and learn about their native habitats. Additionally, the center has a planetarium with a special exhibit on the Hubble telescope and frequent laser light shows. Call ahead to find out the times of the excellent educational walks and animal lectures.
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Cape Coral Historical Society Museum
Cape Coral only became a city in 1957, but they still have a historical museum. The Cape Coral Historical Museum traces the history of the area, as well as its incorporation to the fastest growing city in Lee County. Exhibits and video explain early Cape Coral (and old Waltzing Waters), and include photos, artifacts from the Cape Coral Rose Garden, a collection of WWII lead soldiers, and a replica of a "cracker" house. The museum is open three days a week. Admission is $1 for adults, children free.
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Captiva Beach
Captiva Island is great for those more interested in water sports or shell collecting than tourist attractions, and beautiful Captiva Beach will entice any visitor looking for a little privacy. Since Captiva Island is more residential than nearby Sanibel Island, the sandy, clear-water beaches are yours to enjoy without a large crowd. There are no restroom facilities and limited parking, but the place is perfect for relaxing, shell collecting, swimming, or catching a great view of the sunset.
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Causeway Beaches
Located on both sides of the elevated highway (the causeway) to Sanibel Island, these beaches are easily accessible from the road and lure visitors looking to swim, windsurf, or just relax and have a picnic. Also somewhat renowned for fishing, it's best to just watch local anglers trying their luck on these beaches in the early mornings or at dusk. Amenities on the beach include free parking, showers, restrooms, and picnic tables.
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Cayo Costa State Park
Cayo Costa State Park is one of Florida's best-kept secrets. The barrier island is only accessible by boat. Activities include hiking, swimming, fishing and shelling. If you go swimming, there are no lifeguards, but there is a shark named Old Henry. You can camp in tents or rent cabins for USD20 per night. There is no electricity on the island, and all supplies must be brought with you. There are bathrooms and showers. Watch for wildlife, like raccoons and wild hogs. Cabins must be reserved 11 months in advance.
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City Of Palms Park
City Of Palms Park is one of the premier venues for spring training baseball. Numerous palm trees dot the outfield, hence the name of the park. The Park isn't used during summer. The concourse has numerous concession stands as well a nice gift shop. It's the perfect place to take in a sprint training game.
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CROW (Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife)
CROW (Clinic for Rehabilitation of Wildlife) is a 10-acre wildlife sanctuary, with a complete wildlife hospital. The group rescues native wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and mammals, from all over Florida, and nurtures them back to health. Their transition back to nature occurs in outdoor natural enclosures. Tours of the facility are available Monday-Friday at 11am. During winter, there are Sunday tours at 1 pm (call to confirm). A $3 per person donation is requested. The facility is only open to the public at tour times.
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Eden Vineyards and Winery
In 1985, after much trial and tribulation, the Kiser family finally produced a Florida wine. Today, the Eden Vineyards and Winery is the southernmost bonded winery in the United States. There are six homegrown wines, including Alva Rouge and Alva White. Prices range from USD8.95 to USD10.95 for 750 ml bottles. The winery is open to visitors for tasting and sales, and is located in Alva, 10 miles east of Fort Myers. The entrance is 400 feet down Little Lane; watch for the green sign with the arrow.
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Edison & Ford Winter Estates
Probably the most famous tourist attraction in Fort Myers is the Edison Ford Winter Estates. Inventor Thomas Edison began wintering along the Caloosahatchee River in 1886. In 1916, Edison's friend Henry Ford built his winter home, Mangoes, next door. Both are open to the public and include Edison's botanical gardens and laboratory (just as Edison left it), the largest banyan tree in Florida and a museum. Guided tours are required. Admission is USD12 for adults, USD5.50 for children. The historic electrical boat river tour costs an additional USD4.
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Everglades Day Safari
The Everglades Day Safari is Florida's premier Everglades eco-tour, providing daily excursions to the Everglades since 1992. Everglades Day Safari offers tours from the east coast (Ft. Lauderdale area) as well as the west coast (Sanibel/Ft. Myers/Naples area) of Florida. Travelers with Everglades Day Safari adventure into the four major Everglades ecosystems during their day-long exploration, including the sawgrass prairie, mangrove estuary, cypress swamp, and the savannah. Exploration is on foot, by airboat, by pontoon boat, and in air-conditioned vehicles. Hungry explorers are offered delicious alligator appetizers as well as an assortment of lunch choices during your stop in Everglades City.
The trips are guided by a renowned team of naturalists, from doctors of ornithology to herpetologists who expertly escort explorers into one of the most beautiful and unique places on earth--the Everglades. All wildlife is truly wild and therefore every excursion is different and exciting. At various times throughout the year, travelers will see manatee, bald eagles, swallow-tailed kites and roseate spoonbills among many other species of wildlife. Bottle-nosed dolphins and American alligators are seen regularly and all in their natural habitat. More »
Fish Tale Marina
Fish Tale Marina is a full service marina off Fort Myers Beach. It offers bait, tackle, fuel, storage, charters, service, parts, and sales. You can rent powerboats from 16 to 22 feet, as well as rods, reels, bait buckets, and nets by the day, half-day, or week. Rental rates range from $110 to $190. The marina is located at Big Carlos Pass, which can be tricky if you don't know the area. Matanzas Pass is easier. Fish Tale is open every day except Christmas.
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Gasparilla Island State Park
Gasparilla Island State Park's 135 acres is comprised of three lovely beaches: Sand Spur Beach, Sea Grape Beach, and Lighthouse Beach. Although swimming is advised against at Lighthouse Beach, it's fun to watch local fishermen go after one of Florida's most celebrated fish, the tarpon, a saltwater game fish also known as the "silver king". The Gasparilla Island State Park beaches are great for visitors looking for a fun day at the beach and have grills, picnic tables, restrooms and showers available to the public.
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Germain Arena
This arena boasts of playing host to a diverse range of events - corporate receptions, graduation ceremonies, cooking and trade shows and more. All this is possible with the help of sub-venues, such as The Big Cypress Club, The Olde Florida Room and the Bud Terrace. For food and drinks, The Blades American Grill serves an all American menu of steaks, salads and desserts like Frozen Chocolate Cheese Cake. That should be reason enough to visit this place with your friends.
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Great Calusa Blueway
See the backwaters, bays, rivers, and shorelines of Southwest Florida on this kayaking trail. The Great Calusa Blueway trail has two 50-miles portions; one leading south that starts at the San Carlos Bay Preserve and continues through Estero Bay to Mound Key Archaeological State Park and the Imperial Trail. The second segment of the trail goes north through Fort Myer's Bunche Beach to Boca Grande. Kayakers will marvel at the natural splendor along the trial: tiny mangrove islands, dolphins, manatees, pelicans, ospreys, herons, and bald eagles, just to name a few. Visitors will need a kayak or canoe, which can be rented off-site.
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Gulfside City Park
Sanibel Island beaches are believed to be among the most family-friendly in Florida, and Gulfside City Park beach is no exception. The beach's central location protects it from stronger ocean currents that are sometimes present on beaches at the tips of the island, and the sandbar makes for almost swimming pool-like conditions. Once done with swimming, take a short hike off the beach on the bike path, it leads to a historic pioneer cemetery that is inaccessible by car. The beach also has picnic tables shaded by large pine trees and a reputation of being a good shelling site.
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Hammond Stadium
Home to the Fort Myers Miracle, Hammond Stadium is one of Florida's baseball spring training parks. Its imposing exterior is set-off by a beautifully sculpted landscape and palm trees that lead all the way to the stadium entrance. The interior is cramped, especially when large crowds show up. The stadium has a nice variety of concession stands that are reasonably priced. However, Hammond Stadium isn't one of Fort Myers' premier venues.
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Imaginarium
Look for the yellow and green dinosaur next to the water tower and you know you have found Imaginarium, a hands-on science museum for kids of all ages. Try your hand at being a weatherman, excavate a T-Rex in the "dig pit" or chart a course on a boat. The simple explanations make learning fun and easy to understand. There is even a living coral reef and alligator lagoon. Admission is USD6 for adults, USD5.50 for seniors and USD3 for children under 12. Parking is free.
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J.C. Cruises
J.C. Cruises offers a variety of tours on the scenic Caloosahatchee River. The 600-passenger paddlewheel boat called Capt. J.P. offers lunch and dinner cruises. On Wednesday and Friday, a four-hour buffet cruise sails to the Gulf, leaving at 11am. After an all-you-can-eat lunch, enjoy dancing or sunbathing. There are also sightseeing cruises on an 80-passenger boat. Reservations are required for all cruises. Prices range from USD15 to USD75, depending on which cruise you choose. The boats sail from the Fort Myers Yacht Basin, at the foot of Hendry Street
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J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge
The expansive Ding National Wildlife Refuge's 6,354 acres encompass half of Sanibel Island and offers something for every outdoors and wildlife lover. Hiking trails, a driving route, tram, and canoe and kayak rentals make the Ding National Wildlife Refuge a perfect place for scenic outdoor activities, while the interpretative center and guided nature walks are available to visitors intent on learning about Florida's natural and diverse animals and ecosystems. Alligators, roseate spoonbills, ospreys, manatees, bobcats, and river otters are just a few of the 32 different types of mammals, 50 different kinds of reptiles, and an amazing 230 species of birds that make the refuge their home. Don't miss a climb up the observation tower to get an osprey's-eye view of this natural marvel.
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Koreshan State Historic Site
In 1894, Cyrus Teed founded a self-sufficient utopian religious community along the banks of the Estero River. The beliefs included equal rights for women and that the sun revolved inside the earth. Today the site is a park with well-preserved buildings, including the art hall and the founder's house. Most buildings are wheelchair accessible. You can also view the plants introduced to the area by the Koreshans and Mound Key, an island of shells by the Caloosa Indians. Admission is USD3.25 per vehicle. There is also a campground, picnic area, hiking and canoeing.
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Lakes Regional Park
Lakes Park is a popular recreational area in Fort Myers. The 279-acre park has 158 acres of fresh water lakes for swimming, fishing for bass and catfish, and canoeing. Swimming season with lifeguards is Memorial Day to Labor Day. A 2.5-mile paved path is available for running, roller blades and biking. The Fragrance Garden is a unique sensory experience. There are also picnic areas, concession stands, miniature train ride, boat rentals and showers. Parking is 75 cents per hour, maximum USD3. No alcohol or pets allowed.
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Lighthouse Beach and Fishing Pier
Constructed in 1884, the Sanibel Lighthouse is the most photographed landmark on the island, and is still functional after more than a hundred years. A boardwalk traverses the natural wetlands to the beach, which wraps around the eastern tip of the island and gives both Gulf side and bay side views. Don't forget to bring your fishing poles because the beach also has a classic T-dock fishing pier. To get to the beach and lighthouse, turn left on Periwinkle Way from Causeway Road.
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Lovers Key State Park
Lovers Key State Park covers 712-acres, and includes a beach and wildlife estuary. It is Florida's newest state park, and its picturesque landscape has already made it a favorite spot for weddings. A tram takes visitors across estuaries to the sandy beach, which was once only accessible by boat. Beach goers will find few people and many amenities: restrooms, outdoor showers, grills, picnic tables, a boat ramp, and canoe and kayak rentals. Wildlife lovers should make sure to plan a stop here as well, as the expansive park is home to manatees, bald eagles, dolphins, and more.
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Lynn Hall Memorial Park
One of Lynn Hall Memorial Park's best attractions is the 560-foot pier, nicknamed "Pelican Pier," that stretches into the Gulf of Mexico. From here, visitors can catch great vistas, go fishing, and watch as pelicans dive in and out of the water in search of food. The beach at the park is perfect for families, with showers, restrooms, concessions, covered picnic tables, a playground, and an nature kiosk with information about Florida's land formations, plants, and animals. The shops and restaurants nearby are further proof that Lynn Hall Memorial Park truly is a site that has it all!
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Manatee Park
Manatee Park is not your average nature park. Along with three manatee-viewing decks on the Orange River, the park has special polarized filters and a hydrophone that allows visitors to listen to the manatees "talking" to each other; a cow and her calf are said to be particularly verbose. The park also has educational exhibits, a canoe launch, an interpretive center, and also doubles as a manatee rescue and release facility, where formerly injured rehabilitated manatees are cared for before being returned to their homes in the ocean.
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Manatee World
Manatees are one of Florida's most interesting animals, and unfortunately endangered. Manatee World provides boat tours to see manatees in their natural environment. The boats are open and seat 44 people on benches. The narrated tours last an hour and a half, and depart at 10am, noon, 2pm, and 4pm Monday through Saturday during the summer. Reservations are recommended, and small coolers are allowed. There's no ramp for wheelchair access, but wheelchairs can be carried on to the boats. Cost is $15 for adults, $7 for children under 1
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Matlacha
West of Cape Coral, Pine Island is a laid-back throwback to an era of old Florida fishing communities. Its gateway town, Matlacha (pronounce Matt-la-SHAY), claims the "world's fishingest bridge", and it hosts a jumble of fish shacks turned into seafood markets, as well as numerous restaurants, bars, and artists' galleries.
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Mike Greenwell's Family Fun Park
In nearby Cape Coral, Mike Greenwell's Family Fun Park has a myriad of activities ensuring that kids will never want to leave: four go-cart tracks, eight batting cages, 19-hole miniature golf, an arcade, a maze, and a fish-feeding dock. And of course, what kids' park would be complete without paintball? Mike Greenwell's park has that too, as well as an extensive paintball store where you can stock up on all your supplies. The attractions may be for kids, but the reasonable prices are appealing for parents. There is also a snack bar and a free playground for kids under ten on the grounds.
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Mound Key Archaeological State Park
Mound Key is an undeveloped island that may have been a significant ancient Native American site. Archaeological digs are now underway in an attempt to discern the island's secret past, which is not an easy task as many artifacts are preserved in 30ft high shell mounds! The state park itself is actually a part of the Koreshan State Historic site, which preserves the location of a late 19th century religious sect's commune. Visitors to the island and the parks are encouraged to explore the grounds, but are asked not to take any artifacts from the island.
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Ostego Bay Marine Science Center
The Ostego Bay Foundation's mission is to promote understanding of marine life and the delicate balance of marine ecosystems through education and community involvement. At the Marine Science Center, exhibits, touch tanks and aquariums introduce visitors to marine life. There are also exhibits on fossils, shells and endangered species. The Science Center offers a walking tour that includes the Center, the Coast Guard station, the waterfront and shrimp boats, and explains how the industry works. Parking is free under the bridge.
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Punta Gorda
Despite almost being decimated by Hurricane Charley in 2004, Punta Gorda has recovered and is now a quaint and quiet historic community that should not be missed. Located across from Port Charlotte, some historians believe Punta Gorda to be the place where the legendary Ponce de Leon received his fatal arrow wound in 1521. Visit Punta Gorda's charming historic district with refurbished commercial buildings along streets adorned with old-fashioned street lamps, sculptures, and more than 20 murals. Punta Gorda also has great wildlife and wilderness areas with hiking, hunting, and even swamp tours, as well as water-based activities, tours, rentals, and lessons.
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Sanibel Historical Village & Museum
Historic buildings from all over the island have been uprooted and hauled in to form the model "Olde Sanibel" at the Sanibel Historical Village and Museum. This recreation allows visitors to see what the island was like at the turn of the century. Included in the mix are the pioneer Clarence Rutland's original home, a tea room restored to its nostalgic 1930s appearance, the Burnap Cottage (constructed in 1898), the town's original post office, a schoolhouse, general store and even an antique Model-T. The museum also has a wealth of old newspapers, articles, and photographs, as well as lighthouse artifacts and displays.
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Seminole Gulf Railway
The historic Seminole Gulf Railway offers Scenic Day Timers, 75- or 105-minute narrated roundtrips to the Caloosahatchee Trestle. The Riverview Special travels through visually disappointing industrial sections and residential areas, but The Bayshore Express offers more lush scenery. Dinner Train Theater presents an original mystery played out during a five-course meal, Wednesday through Saturday evenings. Request seats near the center, because the actors can't always be heard from further away. Reservations are required for all trips. Bring a jacket; the air-conditioned cars can be chilly. The train departs from Colonial Station. Rates vary depending on the tour; see Web site for details.
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Shell Factory and Nature Park
This unique attraction appeals to a variety of tourist interests: there are bumper boats, mini golf, pitching cages, and a video arcade to keep the kids entertained; a store filled with shells, shell-covered and shell-themed merchandise for the shopping aficionados; and for the shell lovers, the largest collection of rare shells and corals in the world. Outside there is a recently renovated nature park with a botanical garden, hiking trails, and a petting zoo with camels, donkeys, pot-bellied pigs, and more. Don't worry, there's also food available here to keep you nourished and energized as you peruse and partake in the Shell Factory and Nature Park's many attractions.
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Six Mile Cypress Slough
The Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve is a natural animal corridor between northern Lee County and Estero Bay. You can see alligators, wild pigs, otters, and more. During the dry season (October to June), birds like herons and egrets flock to the flag ponds. A 1.2-mile boardwalk winds through the 2,200-acre wetland, and includes a photo blind to get up-close photographs of the animals, and two observations towers. There are guided tours year-round, and self-guided tour brochures. Parking is $.75 per hour, maximum $3 (cash only). Bring food and drinks.
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Southwest Florida Museum of History
Housed in a restored railroad depot, this museum focuses on the history and progression of southwest Florida by highlighting the many different groups that have resided in the region. From the ancient Paleoindians, the Calusa people, and the Seminole tribes, to the Spanish explorers, early settlers, and farmers and fishers at the turn of the century, all are covered in this extensive museum. There are also exhibits, memorabilia, ancient artifacts, and photographs to help visitors understand the area's rich heritage. The museum houses some noteworthy curios, like a La France fire pumper from the 1920s, an 84-foot long Pullman rail car built in 1929, and a replica of a 19th century Cracker house. And for those interested in Fort Myer's architecture, the museum offers a 90-minute walking tour in the historic downtown area that focuses on the town's interesting structural designs.
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Sun Harvest Citrus
Florida is famous for oranges, but what about Honeybells? Sun Harvest Citrus sells a wide variety of fresh Indian River citrus, including Honeybell tangelos when they're in season, both by mail order and at its "Big Green Packinghouse" located at the intersection of Metro Parkway and Six Mile Cypress. You can try fresh-squeezed juice or soft serve cones. There's also a deli and playground. For a behind-the-scenes look at the citrus industry and to see fruit squeezed into juice, free tours are offered November-April, leaving on the hour from 11am-3pm
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Sun Splash Family Waterpark
At the Sun Splash Family Waterpark in Cape Coral, you can test your nerves on the Electric Slide, a Kelly green five-story twisting tube slide, or you can relax and catch some rays on the Lazy River. Other attractions include Cape Fear and cable drops. There are water playgrounds for kids, and volleyball and video games for non-swimmers. Have lunch at the Calypso Café. The park is open from mid-March to mid-October. Admission is $9.95 for adults, $7.95 for kids. Parking and lockers are extra.
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Tarpon Bay Beach
Beautiful and private, Tarpon Bay Beach on Sanibel Island has not been commercially developed and is perfect for beach-goers who want to get away from the crowds. Known for its great shelling, the beach is also noted for its sand quality, lots of open area, restrooms, and picnic tables. The beach is a bit of a walk from the parking lot, but its white sandy expanses and clear water make it well worth the trek.
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Tarpon Bay Explorers
The J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge has five miles of nature trails, but to get even closer to the wildlife, you can rent a canoe or take a tour of the refuge from Tarpon Bay Recreation. An open-air tram tour with a naturalist costs $8, or $4 for children. A small tour (limit four) in a canoe with a naturalist costs $35 and lasts for 2.5 hours. They also rent and sell canoes and kayaks for self-guided tours, bicycles, canoes with motors for fishing, and fishing rods and reels.
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Terra Verde Country Club
This par-3 course is fantastic for the beginning golfer and those experienced golfers who want to polish their short game. Water hazards come into play on many holes and sand bunkers dot the course. This course is well maintained.
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Turner Beach
Located alongside the Blind Pass Bridge that separates Captiva and Sanibel Islands, Turner Beach is a favorite among local fishermen and shell-collectors. There is a free parking lot on the Captiva Island side, but unfortunately, due to fairly strong currents, visitors are not advised to swim here. Come to westward-facing Turner Beach to catch stunning sunsets.
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