things to do in southwest florida

Southwest Florida is a beautiful region known for its stunning beaches, mangrove forests, and vibrant cities. Here are some things to do in Southwest Florida:

Nature and Outdoors

1. Everglades National Park: Explore the vast and unique ecosystem of the Everglades, including alligator sightings, birdwatching, and hiking.
2. Ten Thousand Islands: Visit this chain of islands and mangrove forests, perfect for kayaking, fishing, and shelling.
3. Fort Myers Beach: Enjoy the soft white sand and crystal-clear waters of this popular beach destination.
4. Sanibel Island: Famous for its shell-filled shores and wildlife refuges, including the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
5. Kayaking or paddleboarding: Explore the region’s many waterways and mangrove forests by kayak or paddleboard.

Cities and Culture

1. Naples: Visit the Naples Pier, shop and dine on 5th Avenue, and explore the Naples Botanical Garden.
2. Fort Myers: Explore the historic downtown area, visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, and enjoy the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene.
3. Cape Coral: Visit the Cape Coral Historical Museum, go shopping at the Cape Coral Mall, and enjoy waterfront dining.
4. Sarasota: Explore the Ringling, a museum complex with art, circus, and cultural exhibits, and visit the beautiful Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.
5. Bonita Springs: Visit the historic downtown area, explore the Bonita Springs Nature Sanctuary, and enjoy the annual festivals and events.

Food and Drink

1. Fresh seafood: Enjoy fresh catches at one of the many seafood restaurants in the region.
2. Key lime pie: Try this classic Floridian dessert at a local bakery or restaurant.
3. Florida breweries: Visit local breweries, such as Fort Myers Brewing Company or Naples Beach Brewery.
4. Farmers markets: Visit one of the many farmers markets in the region to sample local produce and artisanal goods.
5. Waterfront dining: Enjoy dining with a view at one of the many waterfront restaurants in the region.

Family-Friendly Activities

1. Zoomers Amusement Park: An amusement park in Cape Coral with go-karts, mini-golf, and other rides and attractions.
2. Imaginarium Science Center: A science museum in Fort Myers with interactive exhibits and a virtual reality experience.
3. Golisano Children’s Museum of Southwest Florida: A children’s museum in Naples with interactive exhibits and play areas.
4. Beach activities: Many beaches in the region offer activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
5. Ding Darling Children’s Education Center: A nature center on Sanibel Island with interactive exhibits and educational programs.

Other Attractions

1. Edison and Ford Winter Estates: A historic estate in Fort Myers with tours of the homes and gardens of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.
2. Burroughs Home and Gardens: A historic home in Fort Myers with tours and beautiful gardens.
3. Southwest Florida Museum of History: A museum in Fort Myers with exhibits on the region’s history and culture.
4. Coral Castle: A strange and fascinating attraction in Lehigh Acres, built by one man over 28 years.
5. Spring Training baseball: Catch a game by the Boston Red Sox or Minnesota Twins at their spring training facilities in Fort Myers.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Southwest Florida. Whether you’re interested in nature, culture, food, or family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.