Downtown Fort Myers Travel Guide
Most people picture beaches when they think of Fort Myers, but I discovered that the historic downtown showcases a completely different side of this beautiful corner of Southwest Florida. Get ready to be impressed by Fort Myers’ River District, where palm-tree-lined streets, brick roads, and historic buildings are now home to lively shops, restaurants, and bars. Here are seven stops to make the most of your visit.
#1: Start the Day at Ella Mae’s Diner
Begin your morning with a classic Southern breakfast at Ella Mae’s Diner inside Luminary Hotel. This retro diner honors Dr. Ella Mae Piper, a Fort Myers visionary and philanthropist who owned the community’s first beauty shop and a local bottling company. It’s a fun, meaningful stop with great comfort food to match.
#2: Wander the River District
Spend some time wandering the River District’s charming streets, popping into shops and stopping for a drink or snack along the way. If you want to cover more ground, take advantage of the free River District Trolley, which runs from November through April and makes several convenient stops throughout downtown.
#3: Visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates
A visit to the winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford is a must. I recommend spending a little extra for a guided tour with an experienced docent at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. I learned so much about both men and their connection to Fort Myers. After the tour, you can explore the grounds, museum, plant shop, and laboratory at your own pace.
#4: Grab a Burger at Ford’s Garage
The original Ford’s Garage is located right in downtown Fort Myers. The restaurant is filled with vintage details inspired by a 1920s-era service station, and their burgers are iconic. The Ford logo is even stamped on the bun! I highly recommend the Estate Burger with smoked gouda and white truffle bacon aioli.
#5: Shop Local in the River District
There are plenty of unique boutiques and local shops throughout downtown. One standout is The Franklin Shops, a one-of-a-kind co-op featuring more than 100 local artists, designers, and small businesses. It’s a great place to find something truly unique.
#6: Take a Haunted History Tour with True Tours
End your day with a Haunted History Tour through downtown Fort Myers with True Tours. The 90-minute walking tour takes place after dark and explores the spooky stories and lesser-known history of the area, guided by locals who know the city inside and out.
#7: Stay in the Heart of Downtown at The Banyan Hotel
If you want to stay right in the center of it all, The Banyan Hotel is a perfect home base in Fort Myers’ River District. Part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton, the hotel is named after the iconic banyan trees and puts you just steps from the shops, restaurants, museums, parks, and galleries that give downtown its lively, historic feel.
Throughout the hotel’s eight floors, you’ll find thoughtful nods to Fort Myers’ past, including inside the more than 70 guest rooms. Spaces like the King Studio Suite feel especially inviting, with extra room to spread out and enlarged, framed postcards that highlight the area’s history.
One of the standout features of The Banyan Hotel is the rooftop on the eighth floor. With a bar, pool, and gym, it’s one of the best places to take in the River District. From up here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of downtown Fort Myers and the Caloosahatchee River, making it the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring.
This trip was sponsored by the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau. Discover more ways to explore Southwest Florida at VisitFortMyers.com.
