From Fort Myers’ charming, historic downtown to its lovely green spaces and parks, you’ll find many places and perspectives to explore and enjoy. Start your “go-back-in-time” travels at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, one of Florida’s most iconic historical attractions. As you explore the museum, you’ll see many of Thomas A. Edison’s 1,093 inventions, and get a fascinating glimpse at his laboratory, too. Take your time while strolling through the beautiful gardens surrounding Edison’s and Henry Ford’s preserved winter homes – all year ‘round, they’re abloom with lush, tropical vegetation from around the world. Stop to admire the enormous banyan tree on the property that’s more than 95 years old.

Downtown, the historic Fort Myers River District is a time capsule of early 20th-century architecture. Here, you’ll find historic buildings housing shops, galleries and landmark restaurants such as The Veranda. The neighborhood is also home to the IMAG History & Science Center, Williams Academy Black History Museum, Florida Repertory Theatre and Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. Check out monthly art and music street festivals, rooftop bars, craft breweries and a riverside amphitheater.

Beyond its historic center, Fort Myers is home to beautiful parks where wildlife thrives. These are wonderful places to escape from everyday cares as you hike, pedal or paddle along trails and waterways. See birds of every feather at Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve and San Carlos Bay Bunche Beach Preserve. Visit Manatee Park to see the giant-but-gentle sea mammals beloved by residents and visitors alike. Meet rescued animals and birds and learn about natural history at Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium. Head to Lakes Park for kidsized train rides as well as trails, gardens, playgrounds, bike and boat rentals. If you’re a sports fan, you won’t want to miss MLB Spring Training in Fort Myers, where the Minnesota Twins play at Lee Health Sports Complex and the Boston Red Sox play at JetBlue Park at Fenway South. You’ll find many opportunities to get outside to enjoy golf, pickleball and other activities.