Day trips from Fort Myers, FL
From Fort Myers, Florida
8 Amazing Destinations
Perfect for day trips
Fort Myers, Florida, is a fantastic base for exploring the diverse landscapes and attractions of Southwest Florida. From the vibrant cultural scene of Miami to the natural wonders of the Everglades, there are countless day trip opportunities within driving distance. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, these destinations offer a variety of experiences that cater to different interests. Embark on a journey to discover historic towns, stunning beaches, and unique cultural sites, all within a comfortable driving distance from Fort Myers.
1. Miami
Miami is a vibrant city known for its diverse culture, stunning beaches, and world-class attractions. Start your day at South Beach, where you can soak up the sun, enjoy the art deco architecture, and indulge in delicious dining options. Explore the Wynwood Walls, an outdoor museum featuring vibrant street murals by global artists. For a taste of history, visit the Freedom Tower, a historic landmark symbolizing Cuban immigration and Miami's rich history. Don't miss the Perez Art Museum, which houses contemporary art in a striking modern building.
What to See & Do:
- ✓South Beach
- ✓Wynwood Walls
- ✓Freedom Tower
- ✓Perez Art Museum
2. Key Biscayne
Key Biscayne is an island paradise located just a short drive from Fort Myers. Spend the day exploring the beautiful beaches, nature trails, and family-friendly attractions. Visit Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, which offers stunning beaches and a historic lighthouse. For a unique experience, head to Hobie Beach, a dog-friendly beach known for windsurfing and skyline views. Don't miss the Miami Children's Museum, which features interactive exhibits designed for children to learn and explore.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
- ✓Hobie Beach
- ✓Miami Children's Museum
- ✓Crandon Park
3. Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park is a vast wetlands ecosystem home to alligators and subtropical wildlife. Spend the day exploring the park's diverse habitats, from sawgrass marshes to mangrove forests. Take a guided tour to learn about the park's unique ecosystem and spot wildlife such as alligators, birds, and manatees. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Anhinga Trail, a boardwalk that offers close-up views of the park's wildlife.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Anhinga Trail
- ✓Guided tours
- ✓Wildlife spotting
- ✓Scenic drives
4. Naples
Naples is a charming coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, upscale shopping, and fine dining. Spend the day exploring the city's stunning beaches, such as Naples Pier and Clam Pass Park. Visit the Naples Zoo, which features a variety of animal exhibits and interactive experiences. For a taste of history, explore the Naples Depot Museum, which showcases the city's rich history and heritage.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Naples Pier
- ✓Clam Pass Park
- ✓Naples Zoo
- ✓Naples Depot Museum
5. Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is a barrier island located off the coast of Fort Myers. Known for its beautiful beaches and shelling opportunities, Sanibel Island is a popular destination for nature lovers. Spend the day exploring the island's beaches, such as Bowditch Point and Captiva Island. Visit the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, which offers a variety of wildlife viewing opportunities, including birds, alligators, and manatees.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Bowditch Point
- ✓Captiva Island
- ✓J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge
- ✓Shelling
6. Coral Castle
Coral Castle is a mysterious sculpture garden located in Homestead, just a short drive from Fort Myers. Built from massive coral stones, the garden features a variety of sculptures, including a stone throne, a stone gate, and a stone moat. Spend the day exploring the garden's unique sculptures and learning about its fascinating history. Don't miss the opportunity to take a guided tour to learn more about the garden's creator, Edward Leedskalnin.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Stone sculptures
- ✓Guided tours
- ✓Historic site
- ✓Unique architecture
7. Coral Gables
Coral Gables is a charming city located just a short drive from Fort Myers. Known for its beautiful architecture and lush gardens, Coral Gables is a popular destination for history and culture enthusiasts. Visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, an elegant Italian-style villa with lush gardens and art collections. Explore the historic district, which features a variety of architectural styles, including Mediterranean Revival and Spanish Colonial Revival. Don't miss the Venetian Pool, a historic public swimming pool carved from coral rock.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
- ✓Historic district
- ✓Venetian Pool
- ✓Architectural tours
8. Key West
Key West is a tropical paradise located at the southernmost point of the continental United States. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historic sites, Key West is a popular destination for travelers of all ages. Spend the day exploring the island's beautiful beaches, such as Smathers Beach and Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. Visit the Southernmost Point Buoy, a popular landmark that marks the southernmost point of the continental United States. Don't miss the opportunity to take a sunset cruise to enjoy the island's stunning views.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Smathers Beach
- ✓Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
- ✓Southernmost Point Buoy
- ✓Sunset cruises
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