Fort Myers Visitor’s Guide: Attractions, Dining, and More

Updated November 6, 2024

The 2024 Fort Myers Boat Show is set for November 14-17 at Centennial Park along the beautiful Caloosahatchee River. This major event showcases one of the largest boat line-ups on Florida’s west coast, with vendors featuring new and brokerage boats, fishing gear, services, and boating info.

For those visiting from out of town, our Fort Myers guide covers the area’s stunning scenery, family-friendly attractions, top dining spots, and rich history. Explore our tips below for must-see places while you’re in town for the show.

Places to Stay | Fort Myers Visitor’s Guide

: The Hibiscus House Bed and Breakfast

: Courtyard by Marriott Fort Myers Cape Coral

: Hotel Indigo Ft Myers Dtwn River District

If you are from out of the area and plan to attend the show, don’t rush your visit. Turn this event into a mini-vacation and explore everything Fort Myers has to offer. Our Fort Myers visitor’s guide displays the highest-rated hotels in the area for you to choose from. The best part of all, they are all within five miles of the boat show location.

3-Star: The Hibiscus House Bed and Breakfast (0.5 miles)

Nestled between the Edison-Ford Winter Estate and the Old Fort Myers Downtown area. Walking distance to the Caloosahatchee River, Centennial Park, and many restaurants. The Inn has off-street parking and central air conditioning. The Hibiscus House bed and breakfast welcomes well-supervised children 5 years and older, and is a non-smoking facility.

4- Star: Courtyard by Marriott Fort Myers Cape Coral (4.1 miles)

Featuring modern rooms offering free WiFi and flat-screen TVs with premium cable channels. Plus, balconies, desks, minifridges, and coffeemakers. Some rooms come with pull-out sofas, as do suites, which also offer living areas and microwaves.

3-Star: Home2 Suites by Hilton Fort Myers Colonial Blvd (4.4 miles)

Relax in comfort in these vibrant down-to-earth rooms only 4 miles from the River District, close to I-75, and near plenty of casual restaurants. Amenities include a heated outdoor pool and a fitness center, a patio with fire pits and BBQ grills, and more. The hotel offers free Wi-FI and welcomes pets as well.

3-Star: Best Western Fort Myers Waterfront (3.1 miles)

Set on the shores of the Caloosahatchee River, this relaxed hotel is 2 miles from the Edison and Ford Winter Estates museum, and 3 miles from the IMAG History & Science Center. Warmly decorated rooms offer free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, minifridges, and microwaves, plus tea and coffeemakers. Some have balconies with river views.

Top-Rated Activities & Attractions | Fort Myers Visitor’s Guide

: Edison & Ford Winter Estates

: IMAG History & Science Center

: Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve

Turn your boat show visit into a Southwest Florida experience by visiting top-rated attractions and activities in the Fort Myers area. Our Fort Myers Visitor’s Guide displays the area’s raved-about hot spots you don’t want to miss.

Edison & Ford Winter Estates (0.8 Miles)

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates are one of the most visited attractions in the Fort Myers area. These estates were home to the Edison and Ford families back in the early 1900s. Explore and tour 21 acres of botanical gardens, historical buildings, research labs, and the estate of two families who help put Fort Myers on the map.

IMAG History & Science Center (1.2 Miles)

This science center is a family favorite with engaging things to do with kids. The IMAG science center is a hands-on aquarium where you can interact with all kinds of marine life, view exhibits of dinosaur fossils, enjoy over 60 interactive STEM exhibits, and view daily live shows that kids won’t be able to get enough of. If you are traveling to the Fort Myers area with children, this is a must for your bucket list.

Edison Mall (3.1 Miles)

Spend a day shopping in the Fort Myers/Naples areas only enclosed and climate-controlled shopping center. The Edison Mall is home to over 160 national and local retail, dining and entertainment options.

Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve (8.2 Miles)

For the adventure seekers, this 3,500 arce park of wetland habitat is a local favorite; featuring a butterfly garden, boardwalk trails, and plenty of wildlife sightings. The park is open daily from 8 am to sunset daily and free guided walks are offered.

Top Dining Hot Spots | Fort Myers Visitor’s Guide

: King’s Kitchen

: Bruno’s of Brooklyn – Italian Eatery|

: Capone’s Coal Fired Pizza

Fort Myers has many great dining options, but don’t just settle for ordinary. Our Fort Myers Visitor’s Guide displays restaurants rated 4.3 stars and higher. Visit these restaurants that prove to be Fort Myer’s best in dining.

4.4 Star Rated | Pinchers Restaurant | (0.9 miles)

Local seafood joint that serves up the best crab dishes, fried fish, and other seafood favorites.

4.7 Star Rated | Downtown House of Pizza | (0.4 miles)

A neighborhood pizzeria and craft beer spot in Downtown Fort Myers, serving hand-tossed New York-style pizza, calzones, subs, and more. Enjoy local craft beers on tap or sit by the window to soak in the lively downtown vibe.

4.5 Star Rated | Bruno’s of Brooklyn – Italian Eatery | (0.4 miles)

Casual, family-owned eatery focusing on Sicilian-inspired recipes

4.5 Star Rated | Capone’s Coal Fired Pizz a | (0.3 miles)

This jazz-age-inspired joint serves up some of the best coal-fired pizza in the area. Plus, if you’re not in the mood for pizza, they have Italian favorites that will not disappoint.

4.6 Star Rated | Farmers Market Restaurant| (1.8 miles)

If you’re in the mood for southern comfort food, the Farmers Market Restaurant delivers southern staples made with fresh local ingredients.

Fort Myers Boat Show Information

Fort Myers Directions

Boat Show Map

Boat Show Tickets

Enjoy VIP Treatment at the Fort Myers Boat Show

With your list of must-do activities ready, elevate your Fort Myers Boat Show experience by connecting with our experts. Book an appointment, and we’ll pair you with a knowledgeable sales professional who can guide you through any brokerage yacht at the show, including our exclusive line-up. Experience the Fort Myers Boat Show in VIP style, courtesy of a Galati yacht broker.
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