Discover award-winning beaches, warm days, and endless blue skies along the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you’re looking for island hopping, paddling trails, fishing, nature, arts and culture, family adventures, or waterfront dining, Fort Myers has something for everyone. Plus, Spring Training kicks off this month, bringing baseball fans from all over.
Plan your winter escape with the brand-new 2025 Visitor Digital Guide and explore everything Fort Myers has to offer.
Celebrate Love This Valentine’s Day
February is all about love, and there are plenty of romantic ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day throughout Lee County. Here are some great options:
Valentine’s Day Sunset Dolphin Cruise
Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the coastline of Sanibel Island, with tropical music setting the mood. Experience birds flocking to their evening roost, dolphins playing in the wake, and narrated sightseeing by a knowledgeable captain. Complimentary soft drinks, bottled water, and a special treat are included.
Gulf Coast Symphony Candlelight Concert
Experience “A Tribute to Adele” by candlelight on February 12 at the Music & Arts Community Center in Fort Myers. These intimate concerts sell out quickly, so book your tickets in advance.
Valentine’s Day Cocktail Chemistry Class
Join the Edison & Ford Winter Estates on February 14 for a unique cocktail-making class on the Caloosahatchee River. Enjoy hands-on cocktail crafting, appetizers, chocolates, live music, and a breathtaking sunset view. Each participant will make two cocktails and receive a welcome drink, gourmet appetizers, and a box of Norman Love chocolates.
Upcoming Festivals & Events
Fort Myers is packed with exciting events this season. Mark your calendars for these must-attend festivals:
Edison Festival of Light Grand Parade – February 15
Downtown Fort Myers will be illuminated with vibrant floats and performances celebrating the legacy of Thomas Edison in this 87th annual event.
Burrowing Owl Festival – February 22
Head to Rotary Park in Cape Coral for a wildlife celebration featuring guided nature walks, educational exhibits, and family-friendly activities.
Southwest Florida Ag Expo – February 27 – March 9
The Lee County Civic Center hosts this family-friendly expo showcasing livestock exhibits, crafting displays, thrilling rides, delicious food vendors, and live music.
Spring Training in Fort Myers
Baseball fans, it’s time for Spring Training! Catch your favorite teams as they prepare for the season:
Boston Red Sox Spring Training – February 21 – March 23
Watch the Red Sox in action at JetBlue Park in Fort Myers.
Minnesota Twins Spring Training – February 22 – March 25
The Twins return to Hammond Stadium at Lee Health Sports Complex for another exciting season.
Plan Ahead – March Highlights
Looking ahead, March is packed with exciting festivals and events:
SWFL Reading Festival – March 1
Meet 25+ bestselling authors at the Fort Myers Regional Library for book signings, panels, and literary discussions.
Sanibel Shell Show – March 6 – 8
Explore stunning shell collections and exhibitions at this iconic Sanibel Island event.
Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival – March 8 – 9
Celebrate Southwest Florida’s seafood scene at this annual festival, featuring fresh shrimp, live music, and family-friendly entertainment.
Protect Local Wildlife While Visiting the Beaches
Fort Myers’ beaches are home to thousands of migratory shorebirds, including gulls, terns, and plovers. Some of these species are endangered or threatened, and conservation efforts are critical.
To help protect these birds:
- Respect posted nesting areas to avoid disturbing eggs and young chicks.
- Keep a safe distance to prevent birds from becoming alarmed and flying away.
- Leash your pets to prevent accidental harm to bird nests and wildlife.
For more details, visit SCCF’s shorebird conservation page.
New Accommodations in Fort Myers
Planning a visit? Check out these new hotel options:
- TownePlace Suites by Marriott Fort Myers Gulf Coast – A new 126-suite hotel near I-75 and Alico Road.
- Comfort Suites/Mainstay Extended Stay – A newly opened property off I-75 on Luckett Road.
- Sanibel Inn & Sundial Beach Resort – Now accepting reservations for winter stays.
Exciting Attractions & Experiences
Don’t miss these popular attractions:
Edison & Ford Winter Estates – February 20
Celebrate 100 years of Spring Training with a baseball history event, exhibits, and interactive games.
Gasparilla Island Lighthouse Climbs
Climb 134 steps to the top of this historic lighthouse for breathtaking views of the Gulf Coast.
Brightwater Lagoon
This five-acre water attraction in North Fort Myers features a floating obstacle course and tropical lagoon fun.
Explore Lee County’s Six Florida State Parks
Experience Florida’s natural beauty by visiting these state parks:
- Lovers Key State Park – Known for wildlife spotting, kayaking, and stunning beaches.
- Gasparilla Island State Park – Home to the historic Port Boca Grande Lighthouse.
- Cayo Costa State Park – An untouched paradise, only accessible by boat or kayak.
Join the Calusa Blueway Challenge
Paddlers can participate in the Calusa Blueway Challenge, a 200-mile paddling experience through Fort Myers’ back-bay estuaries and rivers. Check in at designated locations to earn points and win prizes like a Body Glove iSUP or a two-night stay at Tarpon Lodge.
Plan your perfect Fort Myers getaway and experience the best of Lee County. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, there’s always something exciting happening in Southwest Florida. Stay tuned for more updates on events, attractions, and hidden gems in the area.
