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Fort Myers

Fort Myers, Florida, United States

Escape to Fort Myers: Where History Meets Sunshine on Florida's Gulf Coast Fort Myers, nestled on the sun-drenched shores of Southwest Florida, is more than just a beach destination - it's a charming blend of history, na…

#Fort Myers#Florida#United States#beach destination#tourist hotspot

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Fort Myers.

Top Hotels in Fort Myers

Top Flights to Fort Myers

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Fort Myers.

Tours

Explore the Edison and Ford Winter Estates

Discover the historical winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, showcasing their inventions and botanical gardens.

Discover Historic Downtown Fort Myers

Stroll through the charming streets filled with shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks.

Shopping

Shop at Miromar Outlets

Find great deals on brand-name clothing, accessories, and more at this large outlet mall.

Outdoor

Visit Lovers Key State Park

Enjoy pristine beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing in a natural setting.

Kayak Tour at Manatee Park

Paddle through the calm waters and spot manatees in their natural habitat.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Fort Myers.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

94,000

Languages

English, Spanish

Average weather

Fort Myers

Jan

23°11°

Feb

24°12°

Mar

26°14°

Apr

28°17°

May

31°20°

Jun

32°23°

Jul

33°24°

Aug

33°24°

Sep

32°23°

Oct

30°20°

Nov

27°16°

Dec

24°12°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Fort Myers.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Fort Myers, Florida:

Beautiful Beaches: Fort Myers is known for its stunning beaches with soft white sand and clear blue waters. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities such as swimming, sunbathing, shelling, and even dolphin watching.
Outdoor Activities: Fort Myers offers a wide range of outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore nearby state parks, go hiking, biking, kayaking, or fishing in the surrounding areas.
Cultural Attractions: Fort Myers has a rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, the Burroughs Home & Gardens, and the Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium.
Shopping and Dining: Fort Myers has a variety of shopping and dining options to suit every taste and budget. Visitors can explore local boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants in the downtown area or visit popular shopping centers like the Bell Tower Shops.
Weather: Fort Myers enjoys a warm and sunny climate year-round, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the cold winter weather or enjoy outdoor activities.

Overall, Fort Myers offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and a pleasant climate, making it a great destination for travelers looking for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation experience.

What to know

There are a few potential cons to consider when traveling to Fort Myers, Florida:

Weather: Fort Myers can experience very hot and humid weather, especially during the summer months. This can make outdoor activities uncomfortable for some visitors.
Crowds: Fort Myers is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons such as winter and spring break. This can lead to crowded beaches, restaurants, and attractions.
Traffic: Like many other cities in Florida, traffic congestion can be an issue in Fort Myers, particularly on major roads and highways. This can lead to delays and frustration for travelers.
Limited public transportation: Fort Myers does not have an extensive public transportation system, so getting around the city may require a rental car or rideshare services.
Hurricanes: Fort Myers is located in a region that is susceptible to hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season (June to November). Travelers should be aware of the potential for severe weather and plan accordingly.

Overall, while Fort Myers has many attractions and amenities to offer visitors, it's important to consider these potential drawbacks when planning a trip to the area.

Fort Myers, Florida, has a rich and varied history that begins long before it became a modern city. Originally inhabited by the Calusa people, the area saw its first European visitors in the early 16th century when Spanish explorers arrived.

Founding and Early History:

1830s: During the Seminole Wars, Fort Myers was established as a military fort to protect settlers from the Seminole Indians. It was named after Colonel Abraham C. Myers, the son-in-law of the fort's commander, General David E. Twiggs.
1850s: The fort was abandoned after the Seminole Wars but was reactivated during the American Civil War to house Union troops. After the war, it was once again abandoned.

Reestablishment and Growth:

Post-Civil War: By 1866, settlers began to move back into the area, and it developed into a small town. The fort's materials were repurposed for constructing homes and businesses.
1880s: The arrival of the cattle industry and the construction of the Florida Southern Railway in 1884 spurred growth. The town was formally incorporated in 1885.

Significant Historical Figures and Events:

Thomas Edison: The famous inventor visited Fort Myers in 1885 and bought land to build a winter home, known as "Seminole Lodge." Edison’s presence greatly influenced the town's development. He introduced electric lighting to Fort Myers and contributed to its growth as a tourist destination.
Henry Ford: A close friend and collaborator of Edison, Ford purchased the property next to Edison's in 1916. The Edison and Ford Winter Estates are now a major historic site and tourist attraction.
World War II: During the war, Buckingham Army Airfield and Page Field were important military training bases, significantly boosting the local economy and population.

Modern Development:

Post-World War II: Fort Myers experienced rapid growth in the latter half of the 20th century, transitioning from a small town into a major urban center. The construction of the Tamiami Trail (U.S. Route 41) and the opening of the Caloosahatchee Bridge in 1924 facilitated this growth.

Important Landmarks:

Edison and Ford Winter Estates: This historical site includes the winter homes of Edison and Ford, a museum, and botanical gardens. It is a significant cultural and tourist destination.
Historic Downtown Fort Myers: Known for its charming streets and historic buildings, the downtown area has undergone revitalization efforts and is home to many shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.
Fort Myers Beach: Located on Estero Island, it is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere.
Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium: This facility offers educational programs about the local environment and astronomy.

Fort Myers has evolved from a military fort into a bustling city with a diverse economy, driven by tourism, agriculture, and real estate. Its rich history and connection to notable historical figures have left a lasting legacy that continues to attract visitors from around the world.