10 reasons we’re thankful this holiday season.
The Gifts of Gratitude
Just looking around our islands filled with sunshine, blissful beaches and dynamic downtowns, we’re filled with gratitude no matter what time of year it is. This season, we’re singling out 10 amazing things that we’re grateful for in Fort Myers.
1. It’s all about the people.
This holiday season, we’re feeling especially appreciative of the locals, longtime travelers and first-time visitors who make Fort Myers such a special place. As we extend our deepest empathy to the places that have been impacted by Hurricane Helene and Milton, we remember the power of community and the incredible sense of resilience that emerged — thanks to the people who stood up and helped us through it all.
2. Life’s simple pleasures
Look forward to that sensation when you first feel the sun on your face. Enjoy the delight of dipping your spoon into a scoop of homemade ice cream, and make sunset walks on the beach part of your daily routine.
3. Our food is pretty spectacular, too.
From fresh seafood overlooking the waterfront to coastal cuisine in the heart of downtown, every day is a chance to discover a new local delicacy. Whether you’re in the mood for succulent “pink gold” shrimp, easy-to-crack stone crabs, fried fish tacos, perfectly cooked steak, or simply the best doughnuts to start your day, we’ve got it all right here.
4. Don’t skip the drinks.
You can pair any meal with a great beverage. Our independent coffee shops serve freshly roasted beans. Small-batch breweries are known for their award-winning craft beer and cider, and a trip to the distillery is always a fun time.
5. We love a cultural night out.
Performing arts and cultural attractions are a hot ticket around here. Find acclaimed theater, art exhibits, live music, and more any night of the week. See what’s coming from Broadway and beyond this season.
6. City vibes or nature time?
We have the best of all worlds when it comes to how you like to spend your time. You can escape to secluded islands watching dolphins and collecting seashells, spend a playful day on the beach followed by a waterfront meal, or roam around the historic downtown areas.
7. Fridays are a vibe.
On the first Friday of every month, Art Walk livens up the streets of downtown Fort Myers. The third Friday of the month is Music Walk. Get your fill of local and regional artists showing off their best as you admire murals, listen to live music, and pop into galleries, restaurants and cafés along the way.
8. We’re all about wildlife.
Massive manatees, shy sea turtles, well-traveled migratory birds — we have so much wildlife in the water, on land and up in the skies that binoculars should be an essential part of your packing list.
9. It’s easy to connect with nature.
Nature gets to show off its very best in Fort Myers. In a single journey you can go from beaches to coastal islands, from fertile wetlands to pine flatwoods and cypress swamps. Discover some of the very best wildlife walks and nature hikes.
10. You can enjoy us from home.
Even if you can’t be here right now, we want to share our gratitude with you. Take a look at our live webcams for a real-time glimpse at the gentle giants in Manatee Park, at the heart of downtown’s Times Square, at the butterfly exhibit in Cape Coral, and much more.
