Fort Myers, Florida

Laid-back Fort Myers is a magnet for vacationers all year round, and it offers no shortage of fantastic attractions to keep everyone entertained. One of the essential Fort Myers experiences is to take to the water on a dolphin-watching cruise. Pods of these playful cetaceans live in the Gulf of Mexico, so there is a good chance of seeing them frolicking in the waves. Many dolphin-watching cruises also pass through low-hanging mangrove trees, meaning that you can also spot some of the many bird species living in the area.

Another popular activity near the water in Fort Myers is seashell picking. Big Hickory Island is famous for having beaches littered with colorful shells, which locals ad visitors alike love to collect. For something a bit more adrenaline-fuelled, you can take to the sky on a parasailing adventure. Fort Myers is one of the Gulf Coast’s premier destinations for this fun-filled activity. History buffs will find plenty to get excited about on a tour of the Edison and Ford Winter estates, while those who enjoy exploring the spookier side of life can partake in an after-dark paranormal tour of Fort Myers’ most haunted buildings.

Being such a popular vacation spot, Fort Myers has got some fantastic restaurants. Whether you have got a taste for local seafood or international cuisine, you’ll be able to find it. One of the most well-known spots in Fort Myers is Cape Cod Fish Company, which unsurprisingly specializes in fantastic local seafood. The food here is unfussy and straightforward, simple and delicious cod and chips, lobster rolls, and fish pie are all frequently on the menu. On the other end of the scale, fine French gastronomy is the theme at Harold’s, with a weekly changing menu of continental delights prepared and presented in the most exquisite fashion. If Italian is more your style, snag a table at Gusto Cucina Italiana, whose homemade pasta makes it one of the most popular restaurants in the area.