Fort Myers is a city in Southwest Florida that offers a lot of fun and interesting things to do for visitors. Whether you are interested in nature, history, culture or entertainment, you will find something to suit your taste. But if you are looking for some more unusual and offbeat experiences, you will also be pleasantly surprised by what Fort Myers has to offer. Here are 10 under-the-radar experiences you can’t miss in Fort Myers.
Learn about the natural history and wildlife of Southwest Florida at the Calusa nature center and planetarium
The Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium is a wonderful place to discover the natural beauty and diversity of Southwest Florida. You can wander through the 105-acre site that features a true Florida swamp, a butterfly house, a museum, and a planetarium that shows daily programs. You can also meet injured native wildlife that are being cared for, such as owls, eagles, alligators and snakes.
See the winter homes of two famous inventors at the Edison & Ford winter estates
One of the most popular attractions in Fort Myers is the Edison & Ford Winter Estates, where you can see the winter homes of two famous inventors: Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. You can tour their historic houses, gardens, laboratories, and museums and learn about their lives and achievements. You can also enjoy special events and exhibits throughout the year, such as holiday nights, antique car shows and garden festivals.
Spot wildlife on a boardwalk trail at the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
For a relaxing and scenic walk in nature, head to the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, a wetland ecosystem that is home to a variety of plants and animals. You can follow the boardwalk trail that winds through the slough, and spot wildlife such as turtles, otters, herons, egrets and woodpeckers. You can also visit the interpretive center to learn more about the slough’s ecology and history.
Sample fresh citrus juices and fruits at Sun harvest citrus
If you love fresh citrus fruits and juices, you will love Sun Harvest Citrus, a family-owned business that has been growing and selling citrus products since 1940. You can sample their delicious juices, such as orange, grapefruit, lemonade and tangerine. You can also buy fresh fruits, candies, jams, sauces and gifts. You can even take a tour of their packing house and see how they process their citrus.
Sample beer at Fort Myers Brewing Company
For a taste of local craft beer, head to Fort Myers Brewing Company, the first microbrewery in Fort Myers. You can sample their award-winning beers, such as the Gateway Gold, the High 5 IPA, the Chocolate Stout and more. You can also enjoy food trucks, live music and trivia nights at their taproom.
See a performance to remember at the Florida Repertory Theatre
If you’re a fan of live theater, you won’t want to miss a show at the Florida Repertory Theatre, one of the most acclaimed regional theaters in the country. You can watch a variety of plays and musicals performed by professional actors in an intimate setting. The theater also offers educational programs and outreach activities for the community.
Kayak with mermaids in Manatee Park
One of the most magical things to do in Fort Myers is to kayak with manatees, also known as sea cows or mermaids. You can join a guided tour with Manatee and Eco River Tours, where you can paddle along the Orange River and see these gentle creatures up close. You can also learn about their habits, behaviors and conservation.
Choose or race a hermit crab at Hermit’s Haven on Sanibel island
Sanibel Island is known for its beautiful beaches and abundant shells, but it also has a quirky attraction that will make you smile: Hermit’s Haven. This is a shop that sells hermit crabs and accessories for them, such as shells, cages, food, and toys. You can choose your own crab from hundreds of different ones, or watch them race on a track. You can also buy souvenirs and gifts related to hermit crabs.
Visit the remains of a utopian community at Koreshan state park
If you are interested in history and mystery, you should visit Koreshan State Park, where you can see the remains of a utopian community that was founded by a religious leader named Cyrus Teed in the late 1800s. He claimed to be the Messiah and taught that the earth was hollow and that people lived inside it. You can tour the historic buildings that were once part of his settlement, such as a bakery, a store, a school, and a church. You can also enjoy hiking, fishing, camping and kayaking in the park.
Watch some spring training baseball games
If you are a baseball fan, you will love to see some spring training games in Fort Myers, where two major league teams have their camps: the Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins. You can watch them practice and play at their respective stadiums every spring.
