FORT MYERS

A RARE FIND

NESTLED ON THE BANKS OF THE Caloosahatche River, under the azure skies and the shade of palms, Fort Myers is the centered gem in Lee County’s crown.

            With a rich history, a lively downtown and strong tourist attractions, Fort Myers, known as the “City of Palms” Has ensured its spot as one Lee County’s top draws. 

            Originally built as protection for settlers in the area, Fort Myers was named in honor of Col. Abraham C. Myers, the son-in-law of the commander of Fort Brooke in Tampa.

            The fort was used in the Civil War and then disassembled.  The city was officially established in 1886.  In 1876, about 10 families lived in the area.

            By 1885, American inventor Thomas Alva Edison stopped by to visit the village; he fell in love and built a home on the Caloosahatche River, on what is now McGregor Blvd. - which is lined on both sides with towering, lush palms.

            Edison’s captivation with the area brought down the founder of the Ford Motor Co., none other than Henry Ford.

            Both Edison and Ford kept their winter homes in Fort Myers, and both homes are open as tourist attractions.

            By 1914 the first Ford dealership was opened in Fort Myers.

            Fort Myers and neighboring Cape Coral are one of the fastest growing areas in the county with a population in Fort Myers now exceeding 53,000 – and rising by the day.  The median age in Fort Myers is 32, the youngest in Lee County.

            Although the downtown area as only 540 acres, its architectural palette blends a mix of New World and Old World, Mediterranean and Colonial, Modern and Post-Modern for a peppery result that is all Florida.

            The downtown Area which draws all sets with its boutiques, bars, restaurants and cultural events – is a mixture of new development and careful preservation.  Shoppers will find a treasure trove of old and new, with charming antiques shops and vintage shops and high-end posh apparel points for the discerning consumer.

            Downtown Fort Myers features Centennial Park, site of concerts and events to draw community members of all ages, as well as a farmers market during the season.  The downtown area is also home to the Harborside Event Center, the venue for numerous functions, including conventions, trade shows and concerns.

CITY OF PALMS             FORT MYERS, FLORIDA

ATTRACTIONS

Edison and Ford Winter Estates

2350 McGregor Blvd.

Fort Myers, FL 33901

As the nations 9^th most visited historic home, the estate includes 20 acres of historic buildings and gardens.  Edison’s original rubber lab, a large museum, food and retail areas, and river cruises on a replica electric launch.  Call 239-334-7419 for tour specifics, rentals and group information.

Fort Myers Historical Museum

2300 Peck St.

Fort Myers, FL 33901

Located in the old Atlantic Coastline Railroad depot, the Fort Myers Historical Museum has exhibits covering the history of Southwest Florida.  Also, on display is a private Pullman car, the Esperanza, and a 1900’s Cracker House replica.  Call 239-332-5955 for information.

Imaginarium

2000 Cranford Ave.

Fort Myers, FL 33916

The Imaginarium Hands On Museum offers exciting interactive exhibits for all ages, including live animals, a hurricane simulator, wide screen movie theater, dino dig, and an early-childhood area.  Daily Hands-On Fun Shows and 3-D Presentations.  Museum store, food service, and convenient parking.  Group rates available with reservation.  239-337-3332

Fort Myers Country Club

3591 McGregor Blvd.

Fort Myers, FL 33901

Located on scenic McGregor Blvd. it  offers to the public a challenging par 71 round.  The course was built in 1916 by Architect Donald Ross and opened in 1917, and the Clubhouse has been rebuilt on its original site.  239-936-3126

Yacht Basin

1300 Lee St.

Fort Myers, FL 33901

Located at mile marker 135 on the Okeechobee Waterway, Fort Myers Yacht Basin is a well designed and protected marina.  It is owned and operated by the City of Fort Myers.  There are 10 feet of water in the channel and 8 feet of water at some docks.  The docks are in excellent condition and the staff is competent, professional, friendly and helpful.  239-334-8271

Harborside Event Center

1375 Monroe St.

Fort Myers, FL 33901

Located next to Centennial Park at the corner of Bay and Monroe Streets in beautiful downtown Fort Myers, this elegant structure provides a state of the art venue for both conventions and concerts.  Contact Ronda Skipper @ 239-332-7600 for rates and availability.

Burroughs Home

2505 First St.

Fort Myers, FL 33901

The Burroughs Home is a Georgian Revival Mansion built in 1901.  Located in downtown Fort Myers next to the Edison Bridge overlooking the Caloosahatchee River, considered a prestigious area at the turn of the century.  Call 239-332-6125 for information

Fort Myers Yacht Basin

Located at Mile Marker 135 on the Okeechobee Waterway, 15 miles inland from the Gulf of Mexico, Fort Myers Yacht Basin is a well designed and protected marina. It is owned and operated by the City of Fort Myers. There is 10 feet of water in the ICW and an average of 6 feet of water at the docks. The docks are in good condition and the staff is competent, professional, friendly and helpful.

The marina is located in historic downtown Fort Myers. Many restaurants and historical sites are nearby and worthy of a visit. Many festivals and other family oriented activities frequently are held at Centennial Park located next to the Marina. The marina has the distinction of being the friendliest on the waterway. You will find its prices for both fuel and dockage to be very competitive.

The Marina's water location is on the south side of the Caloosahatchee River between the Edison Bridges and the Caloosahatchee Bridge in downtown Fort Myers. There is little or no current in and around the marina.