Vacationing to Fort Myers in Southwest Florida is a popular option for travelers because the city offers the best of both worlds: A vibrant and walkable downtown paired with nearby serene beaches along the Gulf Coast.
Stay in a cozy bungalow along the beach, luxury estate, or high-rise with the best views and take in the beaches and natural beauty by day and then enjoy unique restaurants, a rooftop bar that overlooks the Caloosahatchee River, and other downtown Fort Myers attractions by night.
Whether you’ve been to downtown Fort Myers before or this is your first time, this guide will tell you everything you need to know about visiting downtown Fort Myers, from hidden gems, the best place for a slice of pizza, local events, to some cool tidbits on the area’s history and some of the famous faces who helped nurture it into the thriving hub of culture we know it as today.
Is Downtown Fort Myers Walkable?
One of the most desirable things about visiting downtown Fort Myers is its walkability. If you will have a car during your stay, there are two parking garages from which to choose, with ample space available. If you are visiting during an event like Art Walk or Music Walk, it’s best to arrive early and ensure that you have enough time to find parking.
Downtown Fort Myers is part of the historic River District. Exploring the city on foot is one of the best ways to get around since there is a large concentration of historic buildings and beautiful architecture to admire. Walking tours are available if you’d like to immerse yourself and learn more about the area’s history.
If you visit during the fall and want to experience some spooky local history, True Tours offers Stories of the Stones Cemetery Tours to learn about Fort Myers’ most famous and infamous pioneers. Founded in the late 1800s, you never know what you’ll find in Fort Myers.
What Are The Best Downtown Fort Myers Restaurants?
Along the way, you’ll walk by some restaurants that are hard to resist. Some are great for a midday lunch after a morning of shopping or boating; others are perfect for a date night or a stylish night out with the family.
If you’re looking for unique hidden gems, The 86 Room is one you must put on your list. Located at 22 Patio De Leon and only open in the evenings, it has strong prohibition-era vibes down to the decor, drinks available, and clothing worn by the bartenders.
Bruno’s of Brooklyn is another local favorite. If you enjoy home-cooked Italian food in a fine dining setting, get over to 2149 First St. as fast as possible when visiting downtown Fort Myers. Open for lunch and dinner, it can be a fabulous date night spot, a place for celebrations, and a great place to gather with friends and loved ones.
If you’re in the mood for late-night pizza, Downtown House of Pizza Fort Myers, known affectionately as DHOP, is where you must go. It is located at 1520 Hendry St., right in the heart of downtown Fort Myers, and is open late. It also has lots of seating available, making it an excellent spot for a quick, delicious bite any time of day.
What is the Fort Myers River District?
The brick-paved streets of the downtown historic district in Fort Myers, FL, are home to the most historic buildings in Southwest Florida. The River District is in and encompasses most of downtown Fort Myers, and many of its buildings are from the early 1900s when the area became more popular and built up. When you’re walking around and enjoying the atmosphere visiting downtown Fort Myers, it’s easy to feel like you’ve been transported back to the 1920s while you take in the buildings, paved streets, and the city’s architecture.
Henry Ford and Thomas Edison even used to vacation in Fort Myers, and their homes are still standing minutes from downtown Fort Myers, with tours available throughout the day. The palm trees you see lining McGregor Boulevard leading into downtown Fort Myers are also supposed to be planted by Edison.
The Ford’s Garage restaurant at 2207 First St. is a must when visiting downtown Fort Myers. It is known for its tribute to Ford by its décor and fun atmosphere for every occasion.
Another beautiful old building that’s just as nice on the inside as on the outside is the Sidney & Berne Davis Arts Center, known for all types of art exhibits and events throughout the year. Made of limestone from the Florida Keys, the building opened in 1933. Look closely at the walls, and you’ll see coral formations and seashells.
Downtown Fort Myers Events for Your Next Southwest Florida Vacation
Downtown Fort Myers hosts various events year-round that showcase the local community.
Monthly events include Art Walk on the first Friday and Music Walk on the third Friday of the month, from 6-10 p.m. Free access to galleries, exhibitions, and live performances is a great way to end the week with those you love the most.
Special events locals and visitors look forward to each year include the Edison Festival of Lights in February, which holds the title of the largest night parade in the Southeast. Local businesses and organizations go all out each year decorating floats, and regional marching bands put on a stellar performances through downtown Fort Myers.
The first weekend of February is also home to ArtFest, which highlights over 200 artists.
If you’re a foodie, you’ll want to check out the Taste of Lee in November. The family-friendly gathering shows off Lee County’s local restaurants. There is also music and a kid’s area.
While not technically an event, downtown Fort Myers shopping, with its many unique shops, can be fun and interesting, like an event all its own.
Ask us for more information when you book your stay, and we’ll see what’s happening while you’re here so you don’t miss out on any fun.
Finding the Perfect Vacation Rental in Downtown Fort Myers
Downtown Fort Myers has been a hub for creating unique, lasting memories and experiencing all that Southwest Florida has offered for many years. It is one of the most unique parts of Fort Myers and a truly treasured part of our community. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do.
Whether you’re staying in Fort Myers and plan on visiting downtown Fort Myers often during your stay, or you’re staying nearby in Cape Coral or Fort Myers Beach and want to spend a day or two exploring downtown Fort Myers and the surrounding area, this guide will make sure you don’t miss anything the River District has to offer.
Let us know what type of vacation rental you’re looking for and how close you’d like to be to downtown Fort Myers, and we’ll find something that checks all the boxes. Your vacation rental sets the tone for your trip. We can accommodate large groups, beach views, and easy beach access, something cozy for two, or those wanting to stay in a luxury high-rise with some of the best coastal views you can find.
Browse our fabulous Fort Myers rentals to get started. We can’t wait to help you find your dream rental and hear what you love the most about visiting downtown Fort Myers.
