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Fort Worth Travel Guide

An in-depth guide to making your Fort Worth trip memorable & fun!

Here is a Fort Worth travel guide to help you journey through the city and find fun things to do in downtown Fort Worth.

Fort Worth, located in North Texas, is the 5th largest city in Texas, just short of 1 million in population, and one of the fastest-growing cities in the Lone Star State. Fort Worth is also known for its history, art, culture …and cowboys (the real ones)!

Today, the city has become known for its eclectic mix of restaurants and live music venues but has never veered from its cowboy culture, rich history, and good vibes – a great mix in my book!

The Dallas-Fort Worth area is full and wide with towns in between and shares some of the same glory – DFW Airport and the Dallas Cowboys! Here is Texas Travel Talk’s Fort Worth Travel Guide.

John Wayne Museum at the Fort Worth Stockyards

1. City of Fort Worth

The Ultimate Fort Worth Travel Guide

The city of Fort Worth is home to Texas Christian  University (TCU), Pacific Railway, Fort Worth Convention Center, American Airlines, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Texas Wesleyan University (TWU), many tourist attractions, entertainment venues, and the oldest zoo in Texas.

2. Must-sees in Fort Worth

15 Things you can’t leave Fort Worth without seeing.

• A longhorn – they are beautiful creatures.
• Longhorn cattle drive (every day at 11:30 am and 4 pm.)
• Billy Bob’s Texas – kids can go in during the day.
• A gunfight (it’s fake)
• A real cowboy – (see a cattle drive – cowboys lead the herd)
• Trinity River (Paradise Island is a good place)
• The beautiful Fort Worth Courthouse
• John Wayne Museum in the Stockyards
• A rodeo at the Cowtown Coliseum
• Stockyard Station
• Buc-ee’s (I-35 & Hwy 114)
• Sundance Square during the holidays
• The General Store (Stockyards): A Texas souvenir store.
• Fort Worth Water Gardens – free and beautiful
• Joe T. Garcia’s (a Fort Worth restaurant icon) – cash only – no credit cards

Barbara Case from Pixabay

3. Fort Worth’s Neighborhoods

Explore Fort Worth’s Best Neighborhoods

Top attractions in fort worth.

• Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District.
• Fort Worth Zoo.
• Kimbell Art Museum

Fort Worth Botanic Garden

• Fort Worth Water Gardens
• Amon Carter Museum of American Art
• Sundance Square

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

1. downtown fort worth.

There are many great things to do in downtown Fort Worth. Panther Island on the Trinity River can be accessed downtown. Rent a kayak or another water sport, and listen to live music on the weekends. Eat good food and have fun. Downtown is entirely walkable, with many restaurants, hotels, bars, and shops.

• Sundance Square

Sundance Square is a 35-block commercial, residential, entertainment, and retail district in downtown Fort Worth, Texas. It is a walkable part of downtown and a hip place for the whole family to spend the day and night. It sets itself apart from the downtown area. Parking is plentiful; some sites are free to park if you get there early. Otherwise, there are parking garages that may or may not be free to park. They used to be free.

This area also includes many restaurants with patio seating overlooking Sundance Square Plaza (an excellent place for people-watching), many on the square, and all walkable.

• Sid Richardson Museum

A museum located in historic Sundance Square that features paintings by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell and other late 19th and early 20th-century artists who worked in the American West.

• Bass Performance Hall

Catch a play or see The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra.

• Fort Worth Water Gardens

Next to the Fort Worth Convention Center, you’ll find beautiful water gardens that are free to walk around.

More places worth noting downtown:

The Bookstore Bar and Cafe T&P Tavern The Attic Bar & Bistro – Fort Worth Wild Salsa The Bearded Lady Texas Jamm Band BBQ

2. Stockyards National Historic District

The Fort Worth Stockyards is a historic Fort Worth district established in 1849. It’s home to the Fort Worth Cattle Herd – a cattle drive that takes place twice daily, except Sunday, right on E. Exchange St. The drive begins at 11 am and 4:30 p.m. each day and lasts about 30 minutes. The street is blocked off from cars, and visitors can watch from the sidewalk alongside the herd as it passes through the street.

The Stockyards National Historic District is a significant part of Fort Worth and my favorite area to take friends to when they visit. The Stockyards is home to rodeos, museums, the twice-daily cattle drive, the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, and Billy Bob’s, among others.

You’ll also find plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars all up and down Exchange St. and Main Street.

3. Fort Worth Cultural District

The Cultural District is a collection of museums and theaters in Fort Worth. It is home to the Will Rogers Memorial Center * .

• National Cowgirl Museum Hall of Fame *
• Modern Art Museum Texas
• Omni Theater *
• Fort Worth Museum of Science & History *
• Fort Worth Botanical Gardens – one of the top 10 botanical gardens in Texas **
• Japanese Gardens **
• Lower Rose Gardens **

Casa Manana

* All four places are within walking distance from one another.

** The three gardens are right next to each other, and you can pay one price to see all three.

4. Near Southside Fort Worth

A historic, mixed-use district located just south of downtown Fort Worth.

Restaurants on Magnolia Avenue include many cuisines on our continent:

• Flying Carpet
• The Radler Biergarten
• Gus’s Fried Chicken
• Paco’s Mexican Cuisine
• Salsa Limon
• Yucatan Taco Stand
• Shinjuku Station
• Spice by Thai Select

This restaurant list came from Visit Fort Worth’s online newsletter for May 2023.

5. Historic Camp Bowie District

Red brick roads, businesses, restaurants, shops, and more.

6. West 7th

Dinner at Joe T. Garcia’s is a must. Cash only – no credit cards or checks. Yes, this is true. It’s been that way since day one of opening.

7. North Fort Worth

Tanger Outlet Mall – various outlet shops, boutiques, name-brand stores, and more. There is a farmers market every Saturday morning, many events, awards programs, and more.

Texas Motor Speedway – A busy place for race fans and many events throughout the year. Lots of restaurants near TMS .

Buc-ee’s on I-35 & Hwy 114 – Everyone’s Beaver is now in Fort Worth.

Alliance Shopping Center (both sides of I-35) – Lots of shops, Target, Costco, restaurants, Kroger, etc.

All attractions are located off I-35.

4. Seasonal Events in Fort Worth

There Is Always Something Happening In FTW

• Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (early February) – A legendary event since 1896.
• National Day of the American Cowboy – July
• Main Street Fort Worth Arts Festival
• Fort Worth Opera Festival
• Red Steagall Cowboy Gathering & Western Swing Fest
• Lone Star International Film Festival
• Mayfest – first weekend in May at Trinity Park

Fort Worth Botanic Gardens

5. Planning Toolkit for Fort Worth

Everything you need to know about visiting Fort Worth

• High season – Summer
• Weather – relatively warm to hot, but can get down to freezing, and sometimes below.
• Average flight price – $398 – January is the cheapest month to fly into DFW.
• Average hotel price – $212 per night
• Travel restrictions – none

• Getting to and from Fort Worth

There is no shortage of ways to take you to the city – by plane, train, automobile, and bus. Public transportation is available in the city. Fly into DFW Airport. It’s an easy drive from Dallas.

• Things to do Near Fort Worth Train Station

Taking the train to Fort Worth is an option, too. TEXRail goes to the city from the DFW Airport. Amtrac transports people to the train station in Fort Worth at 1001 Jones St. Look for the soaring clock tower the train station is known for.

Sundance Square and the Botanical and Water Gardens are near the train station.

• Fort Worth Bus Station

Greyhound Bus enters the town at the Fort Worth Central Station at 1001 Jones St.

• Find the perfect stay in Fort Worth.

From cozy, traditional BnBs in historical neighborhoods to mega-hotels featuring the latest modern amenities, Fort Worth has many accommodations to choose from.

6. Once you’re in Fort Worth

Getting Around Fort Worth

This trendy city has public transportation options to whisk you around – from taxis to Ubers.

Renting a car and driving around Fort Worth

Wheeling your way around in a rental allows you to explore the city on your own terms. You control your schedule from the comfort of a family van or a red-hot convertible—your choice—with many rental companies to choose from.

Driving in the city is excellent—no fast-paced drivers like in New York.

Diverse flavors from every corner of the city

Fort Worth tantalizes taste buds with mouth-watering street food, local treats, and sweets, and it’s a destination renowned for its world-class culinary connoisseurs who consistently dish up five-star fare. You’ll find American food, Mexican flare, and all international cuisine everywhere you go.

Fort Worth is very diversified.

7. Things to do

Fort Worth Travel – The Ultimate Family Destination

Fort Worth has plenty of child-centered activities, from live plays to animal encounters at the zoo, dedicated children’s museums, childminding services, and full-of-fun kids’ clubs. Here are some of the favorite places to visit among locals and tourists.

Casa Manana is a great venue for the family to enjoy live entertainment.

Omni Theater

A 3-D or 4-D theater that makes you feel like you’re actually in the movie. It features many films about science, art, history, and adventure.

Fort Worth Zoo

It is an amazing place to see hundreds of species worldwide and participate in lots of fun learning activities. The Fort Worth Zoo has been ranked as the #1 and #2 zoo in the nation by USA Today.

Dicky’s Arena Concert Hall

Dicky’s Arena concert hall is a great venue for seeing live music and other performances.

It offers over 2,500 species of native and tropical plants in its 21 specialty gardens.

Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame

Preserves and promotes the heritage of Texas—many stories of the old cowboys who used to roam the area.

Bass Performance Hall

Bass Performance Hall provides a variety of entertainment, including Broadway musicals, stars from the classical music world, popular music concerts, comedy shows, family events, and more.

Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge

It is dedicated to conservation through education, research, and advocacy and provides opportunities for recreation, environmental education programs, nature-based volunteer projects, and wildlife rehabilitation for injured or orphaned animals.

Fort Worth Museum of Science & History

This museum features hands-on experiments and activities that will teach you about science. Kids love it here. I would take my toddler here at least every other month when we had a museum pass. It’s worth the $75 or $100 bucks for a pass.

The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth is the largest in Fort Worth. It features over 20,000 pieces, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The museum has several different exhibits that change throughout the year.

Texas Motor Speedway

Texas Motor Speedway is a popular speedway. It boasts a reputation as one of the fastest circuits in the country and hosts two NASCAR races and a popular round of the IndyCar Series.

Trinity River

The Trinity River area is an excellent place to visit, no matter what time of year you’re in the city. It’s located just south of downtown and has plenty of green space for walking and biking, with lots of wildlife to spot along the way.

To get there from downtown, head south on Main Street (US 183) until it ends at Houston Avenue; turn right onto Houston Avenue, then left onto Berry Street, which leads straight into the park grounds.

Fun Things to Do in Downtown Fort Worth

So much love in the downtown area. From the Fort Worth Water Gardens to walking around Sundance Square to seeing a show at Bass Performance Hall and perusing Sid Richardson Museum, you’ll never tire of things to do. Also, there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance.

There are 12 TX Travel Information Centers Locations in Texas, with three closest to Fort Worth – Gainesville, Denison, or Wichita Falls coming from Oklahoma on I-35 North. There is also one in Amarillo coming from Colorado/New Mexico. If you’re coming from the south or Texas Hill Country area, stop at the one in Austin.

I hope you found this Fort Worth Travel Guide worth your while. Please let us know if you need to know anything to have a wonderful trip in Fort Worth.

If you’re in the area during the fall months – check out fall family activities in Fort Worth – most are in October & November when autumn hits us here in Texas! If you’re in Fort Worth for an extended period of time and looking for a getaway from the city, there are multiple things to do away from Fort Worth – you have to research, and you’ll find plenty.

Happy Fort Worth Travel!

About Kim Croisant

Kim Croisant is a freelance writer and owner/writer at Texas Travel Talk and a native Texan living north of Fort Worth. When not writing about travel destinations (not just in Texas), restaurants, and hotels, she is most likely juggling family life, caring for her mother, and raising her grandson. She loves red wine, chips & dip, and travel magazines. Follow her on Instagram @texastraveltalk.

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Fort Myers   Travel Guide

Courtesy of fotoguy22 | Getty Images

13 Best Things To Do in Fort Myers

Updated March 7, 2023

Surrounded by both salt and freshwater, Fort Myers' natural areas are the prime reason for visiting. Numerous preserves in the area will help you become one with nature, including the popular  J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge , which is

• All Things To Do

Fort Myers River District Fort Myers River District free

Considered Fort Myers' main downtown area, the River District is filled with things to do, see and – of course – eat. Take a stroll through the brick-paved streets to admire the early 1900s-era buildings, including the Sidney & Berne Davis Arts Center , which was constructed in 1933 using Florida Keys limestone. City hall, the county courthouse, several top attractions (like the Edison and Ford Winter Estates ) and boutiques are located in this neighborhood, and you'll also have a number of restaurants and bars to choose from. When hunger strikes, sit down for a bite to eat at Ford's Garage , a traveler favorite named after Henry Ford and known for its mouthwatering burgers and classic car-themed decor. Conveniently, popular hotels – like the Hotel Indigo Ft. Myers Downtown River District – are located in this neighborhood as well.

Recent travelers enjoyed exploring the Fort Myers River District, praising its plethora of eateries and nicely restored historic buildings. For an extra special evening, many recommend heading downtown on the first Friday of every month for Art Walk, where you will find vendors selling jewelry, clothes and paintings. Stores and museums in the River District typically stay open late on these nights. If you're more musically inclined, time your visit with Music Walk, which takes place every third Friday of the month. The Music Walk features performers who play live music for crowds in the streets, ranging from jazz to rock-and-roll.

Edison and Ford Winter Estates Edison and Ford Winter Estates

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates are a home base for history buffs who visit the area. The two American innovators – Thomas Edison, the inventor of the electric light bulb and the phonograph, and Henry Ford, the pioneer of the automobile – were good friends who built their winter homes next to each other about a mile south of downtown Fort Myers. Dating back to the early 1900s, the historic estates are now on display for visitors. Along with the grand homes, the grounds also include a botanical garden (with trees planted by Edison himself), a research laboratory and a museum with hundreds of artifacts and inventions from the entrepreneurs.

The estates are open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Guided and self-guided tours are available; the cost of admission depends on the type of tour you sign up for. Self-guided tour prices range from $15 to $25, depending on age. Recent visitors found the price of admission a bit high, but they reported it was worth it for those who are interested in the history of either inventor. For more information on prices and tour times, visit the organization's website . 

Fort Myers Beach Fort Myers Beach free

Fort Myers Beach is big draw for travelers visiting the area. Located on Estero Island, it is the closest – and most popular – beach spot to downtown Fort Myers, though it is a roughly 20-mile drive south. In peak traffic, it can take as long as an hour to get there. Still, travelers who head to the shoreline can expect wide swaths of clean, white sand as fine as powdered sugar, which is well worth the journey for many.

Fort Myers Beach is an excellent spot for swimming and sunbathing, as well as water sports like kayaking and parasailing. Rental shops for water sports equipment are positioned along the beachfront, and travelers can also reserve equipment ahead of time online through a company like Holiday Water Sports. Fishing enthusiasts can reel in their catches on the Fort Myers Beach Pier, which has an on-site bait shack and plenty of space to take a stroll and enjoy the views. Adjacent to the beach and pier, you'll find Times Square, a shopping and dining hot spot where you can grab a drink or enjoy live music.

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Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve free

Set on 3,500 acres of wetlands, Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve is home to an array of plant and animal life. Here, visitors can spot turtles, birds, alligators, otters and more in the marsh habitat as they walk along the lush boardwalk trail. Before or after hiking, pop into the Interpretive Center to view interactive exhibits and learn more about the slough (pronounced "sloo"), or peruse souvenirs in the on-site gift shop.

Recent visitors said this quiet, peaceful oasis is worth a visit to reset the mind and body. Most reported seeing herons, alligators and other creatures at all times of year, but some say the best time to view the park's wildlife is during the wet season from June to September – especially in the early morning, when crowds are limited. Travelers also recommend bringing binoculars to spot animals at a distance from the trail, and others note that bug spray is a must in the summer months.

Manatee Park Manatee Park

It's best to stop by Manatee Park, a refuge for Florida manatees, during the winter season (between December and February). During the colder months, the animals flock to warm pockets of water to escape chilly temperatures. Since the park is directly on the warm water discharge canal of the Florida Power & Light company, it's a popular spot for these gentle creatures. There are a handful of observation decks to see the animals up close, but you can also hop into a kayak and paddle out to spot them. You probably won't see manatees if you visit in summer, but you can enjoy the park's 16 acres in kayaks or on guided tours. Recent visitors to the park say when it's cool out (and with a little patience) you can see upward of 50 manatees at the park. 

General admission to the park is free, but there is a small fee for parking ($5 per day). The park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset daily (including holidays), and kayak rentals are available through Manatee Kayaking Company . After catching a glimpse of the manatees, you can also explore the extensive on-site butterfly garden. Check the Manatee Park  website to learn more and see if manatees are present at the park on any given day.

Spring Training Spring Training

Although the nearest major league baseball teams are in Tampa and Miami, those visiting Fort Myers still see big league action in the form of spring training. Every March, the Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins escape the cold for the warm spring temperatures the city has to offer.

The Red Sox have been making their home at JetBlue Park since 2011, where diehard fans can see a replica of the Green Monster as well as an old school manual scoreboard. Fans who visited recently said the park has earned the nicknamed "Fenway South." The Minnesota Twins have been suiting up to prepare for the season in Fort Myers since 1990. Their stadium, located at CenturyLink Sports Complex, is about 5 miles west of JetBlue Park. When it's not spring training, the complex is also home to the two minor league affiliates of the Twins, the Fort Myers Miracle and the Gulf Coast League Twins, as well as facilities utilized by local collegiate and community teams. Recent visitors to the stadium said they found concessions easy to find and that every seat provides a great view of the action on the field.

Lakes Regional Park Lakes Regional Park free

If you're looking for a mix of fun and relaxation suitable for the whole family, head to Lakes Regional Park. Located about 10 miles south of Downtown Fort Myers, the almost 300-acre park offers a freshwater lake for fishing, multiple playgrounds, campsites, more than 2 miles of walking paths, a small splash pad water park, picnic areas, gardens and bike and boat rentals. Lakes Park also houses the Railroad Museum of Southwest Florida, which offers daily train rides for children.

Recent travelers said the park was a great place to spend a morning or afternoon, emphasizing that it is large, clean and well-maintained. Families with children were especially fond of the train rides and multiple fun spaces to explore. Some also noted spotting alligators and other wildlife, such as fish and rabbits, while there. The park hosts festivals and special events regularly, and there is a weekly farmers market on Wednesday mornings.

J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge

Named after a political cartoonist and conservationist, the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge occupies 8,000 acres of land on Sanibel Island , located southwest of Fort Myer's city center. The refuge, which takes up about half the entire island, was originally meant to conserve the island's significant mangrove forest. Today, it is still home to those mangroves, as well as animals like crocodiles, alligators and countless species of birds. In fact, for herons, cuckoos, ospreys and other birds, the refuge is an important stop along their migratory path. Recent visitors to the park said it's a unique way to see a variety of wildlife. 

You'll see the most wildlife if you visit between the months of November and April during low tide. If you visit in the summer be aware of the high humidity and increased amount of bugs – including mosquitos. You can explore the refuge in whatever way suits your tastes: on foot or bike via trails, in a canoe or by car. Parts of the park also allow boating and fishing. The park is open every day except Friday. It also offers a free visitor and education center that's open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. year-round. Park hours vary throughout the year, so check the  website before visiting. Admission is $10 per vehicle or $1 per pedestrian or bicycle. 

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IMAG History & Science Center IMAG History & Science Center

Future scientists and engineers (and their families) come to the IMAG History & Science Center to explore topics, such as earth and space science, Florida history, technology, marine animals and more through interactive exhibits. The center also offers live animal encounters with its touch tanks and aquarium.  

Recent visitors were pleased with the center and its hands-on exhibits, calling IMAG a great indoor activity when the weather won't cooperate. Others felt the admission price was too high given the center's small size. Some reviewers note this activity is best suited for children 12 and younger.

Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium

You'll see a wide range of animals native to Florida at the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, including bald eagles, alligators, hawks and owls. There are also daily shows and animal demonstrations, as well as touch tanks and fossils that kids will enjoy.

Allot one to two hours to enjoy tours of Calusa's artificial habitats, experience the wetlands or visit the butterfly house. If there's still time left over, take in the attraction's laser and space-related shows. Recent visitors say the planetarium is a highlight, but the rest of the nature center is fun for families with smaller children.

Mound House Mound House

Described by some recent travelers as a hidden gem in the town of Fort Myers Beach, the William H. Case house – also known as the Mound House – is the oldest standing structure on Estero Island. The attraction serves as an archeological dig site and a museum that teaches visitors about the Calusa tribe, the original settlers and inhabitants of Southwest Florida.

Nicknamed "The Shell Indians," the Calusa were known for carving tools and weapons out of seashells roughly 2,000 years ago. Once the tools were no longer usable, members of the tribe would discard them in what became a mound of shells. On top of that ancient shell mound, the Case family built the Mound House in 1906. It has been modernized over time and today reflects what the house might have looked like in the early 1920s, complete with antique furniture and other decor.   

Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center

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Keys to the city

After years of concern over mounting “overtourism”, 2020 was the year that honeypots such as Venice, Dubrovnik, Athens and Barcelona found themselves suddenly and unexpectedly deserted. In 2021, those visitors who do return could find they have the run of the piazzas, parks and promenades, unencumbered by tourist hordes — as well as finding hoteliers and restaurateurs eager to welcome them back. And, given that many national coronavirus vaccination programs are prioritising older people first, it seems possible that a lucky group of elderly travellers could find themselves in the vanguard, with a unique opportunity in 2021.

“We have definitely seen an uptick in interest from our more ‘experienced’ clientele, who show a real ambition to visit their favourite cities without the madding crowd, as soon as they are able to have the vaccination,” says Ted Wake, joint managing director of Kirker Holidays . He reports receiving a letter from an octogenarian client who visited Venice in August and found it “more sublime than I can ever remember . . . it reminded me of my first visit in the mid-1950s”. She is now planning to return, post-vaccination, in March.

Adventure at home

As borders closed in 2020, many countries experienced a boom in domestic travel. This led to a summer crush at popular beaches and resorts, but it also created demand for more upmarket and adventurous domestic trips — itineraries that would provide both an escape from the crowds and a proxy for the excitement of a far-flung jaunt. Wildnis ( wildnis.co.uk ), for example, was set up in October and will be launched fully to guests this spring, offering luxury guided expeditions in the Scottish Highlands. Founded by former members of the British army, it uses a mobile base camp where chefs prepare dinners on open fires and barbecues, and a fleet of Land Rover Defenders to take guests between activities including pack-rafting, scrambling and sea kayaking. Prices start at £3,000 per person for a four-night trip.

American operator Under Canvas ( undercanvas.com ), which operates safari-style camps in seven wilderness locations across the US, reported a surge in demand in 2020 and already has “strong” advanced bookings for 2021. Its tents come complete with king-size beds, wood-burning stoves and daily housekeeping and some have en-suite bathrooms; there’s also a range of adventurous experiences on offer in the national parks and monuments close to the camps. This spring it will launch two new locations: the first, in April, on a plateau overlooking a canyon on the edge of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah, to be followed in May by a camp on the coast of Maine, ideal for exploring Acadia National Park. Two more are also planned for Yosemite and Joshua Tree national parks, though opening dates have yet to be announced.   

Epic experiences

While the majority are likely to return to international travel with baby steps, tour operators report growing numbers of inquiries for full-on “once-in-a-lifetime” adventures. Partly, it seems to be the result of pent-up demand; partly, a sense of needing to take life by the horns before it’s too late. “I’ve just got off the phone with someone who wants to organise a 50th birthday party, which was meant to take place last year, but now they want to do it with twice as many guests and do it in Africa,” says Geordie Mackay-Lewis, co-founder of Pelorus . “There was already a move towards increasingly adventurous trips, but the pandemic seems to have really accelerated that trend.”

Partly as a result of pent-up demand, tour operators report growing numbers of inquiries for ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ adventures

One key destination for 2021 is Antarctica, where a complete solar eclipse on December 4 is providing another spur to book. Already availability on yachts capable of sailing the region during the austral summer is becoming scarce. “Normally not that many yachts go down but next season lots are going and they are all getting booked up,” says Mackay-Lewis. Another option is to fly to Union Glacier, the remote camp in the Ellsworth Mountains from where most polar athletes set out. Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions ( antarctic-logistics.com ), which runs the camp, says it has had to increase capacity for its eclipse trips, after vaccine approvals “calmed nerves” of prospective travellers. A 12-day trip to see the eclipse at Union Glacier costs $39,800 — or there is also the option of watching it from a field camp at the Gould Bay emperor penguin colony on the coast of the Weddell Sea, from $58,500 per person.

Island hideaways

For obvious reasons, retreating to the seclusion of an island has seemed increasingly attractive in recent months. “Currently the Maldives and the Caribbean are the main areas where we are seeing a significant rise in demand,” says Sarah-Leigh Shenton, director of marketing at tour operator Red Savannah .

Hot hotel openings for 2021

From a sleepy surf oasis in Baja California to a contemporary ryokan on the Japanese island of Ikuchijima, we round up the most exciting launches for the year ahead

The Maldives, in particular, has made great efforts to restart tourism, on which two-thirds of its GDP depends. A branding campaign has positioned it as “a safe haven for travellers”, and despite the second wave of the pandemic in the US and Europe, the Maldives continues to welcome visitors from all nations with no quarantine requirements . Tourists must have a negative PCR test taken within the 96 hours preceeding their arrival and some resorts have introduced their own testing regimes — Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani, for example, give visitors a second PCR test on arrival, confining them to their rooms until a negative result is received (usually within 24 hours), while also testing staff every five days. The inherently isolated nature of the Maldives island resorts also lends itself to a controlled, Covid-safe environment.

Islands in the Mediterranean are in demand too, and especially for holidays staying in private villas. Red Savannah says the numbers of people looking for trips to Menorca and Ibiza on its website are up 14 per cent and 77 per cent respectively from the same period a year ago, with the Greek Islands up 52 per cent. The Thinking Traveller , which rents villas in Sicily, Corsica, Mallorca and the Greek Islands, says availability in its most sought-after properties is already limited for the summer 2021. 

Remote retreats

A post-lockdown yearning for open space, along with anxiety about crowded places, has brought remote, empty destinations to the top of many wishlists for 2021. Namibia, the world’s third-most sparsely populated country after Greenland and Mongolia, is tipped by tour operators including Steppes Travel , Black Tomato and Original Travel . “Physical distancing has been a way of life in Namibia for millennia, and the wide-open spaces of the Namib Rand and Etosha [national parks] are the perfect antidote to the current situation,” says Jarrod Kyte, product and sales director at Steppes Travel. Even Namibia has tourist hotspots, though, so he recommends a self-drive trip staying at the newly opened Natural Selection camp at Kwessi Dunes, which offers an authentic desert experience away from the celebrated dunes of Sossusvlei, and then Safarihoek Lodge , on a private reserve beside Etosha National Park. A 12-day trip with Steppes would cost from £3,495 per person.

Botswana is also likely to be popular, both as the 11th-least densely populated country, and thanks to a rash of new safari camps, including the reimagined Jack’s Camp , the no-expense-spared Xigera and Little DumaTau .

A survey for Original Travel found that 48 per cent of its clients wanted their first post-lockdown trip to be “somewhere outdoorsy to enjoy some wide-open spaces”. As well as Namibia, and for something very different, it tips Nova Scotia and the Atlantic provinces of eastern Canada for their “intriguing maritime past, time-stood-still fishing villages and staggeringly beautiful and untouched landscapes that are begging to be hiked”. It offers an 11-day self-drive tour , including time on Cape Breton and Fogo islands, from £4,300 per person.

Slow travel

An industry buzzword for years, “slow travel” could finally gain mainstream traction in 2021. The idea is simply that you take fewer but longer holidays, thereby reducing carbon emissions relative to your contribution to the local economy, while also giving yourself time to properly immerse in a different culture.

Travel disruption continues

The outlook for travelling remains uncertain, with entry and quarantine rules as well as local lockdown restrictions changing rapidly. Those planning international trips should check with the destination country’s website and their local embassy, while also ensuring any bookings are refundable

Less time in airports and more time to relax, unwind and explore seem obvious goals post-pandemic. Wild Frontiers Travel says that from September to November its biggest-selling trip was a 48-day odyssey along the Silk Road , taking in six countries and 15 world heritage sites (£11,395 per person). Also in demand is a 21-day trip through the Karakorum from Kashgar in China to Kashmir. “These trips are particularly popular with semi-retired or recently retired people looking for that true trip of a lifetime, and Covid has given them the time to plan for it,” says Jonny Bealby, the company’s founder.

Data from eDreams Odigeo , Europe’s largest online travel group, seems to confirm the trend. In the summers of 2020 and 2019, the most common trip duration was seven to 13 days. Its forward bookings for 2021 show trips of that duration (32 per cent) are now outstripped by those of 14 days or longer (35 per cent).

The “slow travel” idea also relates to the style of trip, and walking holidays — perhaps the best way to become absorbed in a destination — also seem poised for greater popularity. Wild Frontiers has developed a range of new guided European walking tours in response to demand, often with a focus on local produce and wine, and including less-visited destinations such as Albania, Macedonia, Slovenia and Poland. Its “walking and wine” trip in the Italian Apennines, for example, explores the hills around the historic towns of Urbino and Gubbio, including a night in the tiny hamlet of Bacciardi, perched on a ridge and surrounded by forested slopes (eight days from £1,995).

For those who prefer to walk alone rather than in a group, Inntravel has a range of self-guided trips, including new itinerary in Slovenia’s Logar Valley , “one of Europe’s most beautiful”, according to the company. Guests stay at the family-run Hotel Plesnik , the only hotel in this protected area, and make daily walks through the mountains (a week costs from £885). Slovenia’s cuisine will also be in the spotlight this year — the country has been named European Region of Gastronomy for 2021.

Working holidays

The explosion in remote working has led many to realise they could just as easily dial-in from a beachside villa or ski chalet as from their spare bedroom workstation. Accommodation providers say this is driving a trend for longer rentals and hotels are trying to extend their seasons by attracting remote workers. For example, the Quinta do Lago resort in Portugal’s Algarve is offering “ work and stay” packages , from £2,135 per month, where guests stay in wooden cottages with two bedrooms, one of which has been converted into an office — or a more luxurious “Reserva” apartment, complete with private pool, from £8,000 per month.

Some countries are making a targeted bid to attract digital nomads in 2021, offering the chance to stay for longer than a tourist could and also waiving any need to pay income tax locally. Barbados has already attracted more than 3,000 applicants for its “ Welcome Stamp ”, which allows visitors to stay for up to a year, and a new residence permit for remote workers in Croatia is expected to come into law this month.  

It seems increasingly likely that widespread vaccination, rather than simply testing, will be required to kickstart demand for big cruise ships — but, conversely, holidays on small private boats are already proving more popular than ever. The Adriatic seems to be especially in demand: Red Savannah says the best gulets along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast are showing very strong bookings for summer; the Allure , for example, which sleeps up to 14 and costs from £15,173 per week, has only two weeks left available (at the time of writing) in July and August.

Sail Dalmatia reports that 80 per cent of their new clients in 2020 were chartering a yacht for the first time. “The safe and secure environment of a yacht clearly appealed to many clients,” says Dora Vulic, the company founder. An uptick in 2021 inquiries suggests that trend might continue.

Meanwhile in July, Sunsail will launch “flotilla” holidays on the Croatian island of Brac. Guests sail their own yacht by day (either taking the helm themselves, or with a skipper) then rendezvous with others in the evening for drinks and other activities. There are daily briefings, a tailored itinerary and a lead boat with mechanic, skipper and host on board for support. A week costs from £1,052 per person, based on a group of four.

Regenerative travel

Aside from the pandemic, the salient trend in travel has been growing concern about the environment and the effect of tourism on the destinations visited. An annual survey by Abta, a trade association for UK travel agents and tour operators, found that in 2020 half of consumers deemed sustainability to be an important or essential consideration when choosing a holiday — up from only a fifth in 2011. Trips that don’t involve flying are similarly on the rise: Inntravel says it has had to triple the number of rail specialists it employs to keep up with demand, while Byway , a new British operator offering only no-fly holidays, was launched in defiance of the pandemic in November.

The latest mantra is “regenerative travel”, meaning trips that actively help rather than simply mitigating their negative impacts, often involving some charitable work or making contributions to fund positive projects. Steppes Travel, for example, has formed a partnership with the European Nature Trust to offer a range of trips in which guests accompany wildlife researchers and with donations to support their work included in the cost of the holiday. A week in Spain tracking the endangered Iberian lynx costs from £2,995.  

Taking to the skies

While much of the aviation industry has spent the past nine months struggling for survival, two new start-up airlines are hoping to buck the trend and begin their first flights in 2021.

In November, Flypop announced it had received “significant investment” from the UK government’s Future Fund, which is designed to support “innovative and high-growth” British businesses. Flypop plans to launch low-cost longhaul flights between the UK and Indian cities such as Amritsar and Ahmedabad in the second half of 2021, using Airbus A330 aircraft, although it has yet to obtain the necessary Air Operator Certificate.

In the US, David Neeleman, the entrepreneur who founded WestJet and JetBlue, is currently recruiting for a new airline called Breeze, headquartered in Salt Lake City. It plans to start operations this year, serving second tier US cities that do not have air links and using Embraer E195 and Airbus A220 aircraft. As well as offering low-cost direct flights, Neeleman says the focus will be on customer service and that Breeze will be “the world’s nicest airline”.

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2 Days in Fort Myers: Itinerary & Guide to a Fun Florida Weekend

Last Updated: August 4, 2022 //  by  Ashley Smith Leave a Comment

When you want to escape the big crowds and big traffic jams of Florida’s big cities, a relaxing 2 days in Fort Myers is just what the travel agent ordered. This little getaway has all the quintessential Florida adventures, beaches, delicious seafood, and sexy sunsets as the rest of the state, but in a much more manageable capacity. We’ll call it “fun size!”

Where to stay for 2 days in Fort Myers

Instead of choosing hotels based on budgets like I do in my other Florida guides , this time I’ve chosen my favorites in three of Fort Myers’s most popular areas. Check out these great options for where to stay in Fort Myers .

Where to stay in Fort Myers Beach: Pointe Estero Beach Resort

The Pointe Estero Beach Resort scores well from reviewers and everyone’s favorite part is, no shock here, the beach! This resort is right on the white sands of Fort Myers Beach making it the perfect location. 

Choose from one or two-bedroom condos that come with a kitchen, access to the large outdoor pool and barbecue grills, and personal patios. Check out Pointe Estero Beach Resort here .

Where to stay on Sanibel Island: Island Inn

Sanibel Island’s Island Inn is another reviewer favorite. Unlike many of the other options in Fort Myers, the Island Inn comes with free WiFi, free parking, self-serve laundry, and daily housekeeping. These rooms are nice and the property is located on its own private beach. 

They’ve got a library, a fireplace in the lobby (you never know, you might need that), and they even come in cottages! Check out Island Inn here .

How to get to Fort Myers

Fort Myers, like most of the popular vacation destinations in Florida, is pretty damn easy to get to. You can access it by major highways and airports and it’s easy to get around in as well.

2 days in Fort Myers: Arriving by air

So what airport do you fly into if you’re visiting Fort Myers? You’ll want to look out for Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)—the closest major airport to Fort Myers.

RSW is served by the following airlines:

• American Airlines
• Spirit < Do yourself a favor and never fly Spirit Airlines
• Sun Country

However, since Fort Myers is just one hour away from Sarasota, you could always fly into SRQ as well if you find a great deal. That being said, Tampa International Airport (TPA) is just another hour past Sarasota. So if you’ve got more than one Florida destination on your itinerary your airport options just opened WIDE up! Check out all your flight options here.

Exploring Fort Myers by land

Getting to and from Fort Myers from other Florida destinations is a super easy and smooth (though visually boring) ride. As mentioned, Fort Myers is just a two-hour drive south of Tampa and an hour south of Sarasota. Besides those two, a weekend in Fort Myers also makes a great trip from:

• Miami: 2.5 hours
• Ft. Lauderdale: 2 hours
• Naples: 45 – 60 minutes
• West Palm Beach : 2.5 hours
• Orlando : 3 hours
• You get my drift. It’s accessible.

If you’ve got more time to spend on the Gulf Coast, check out my guide to spending 3 days in Sarasota , just an hour north with tons to do!

Getting around within Fort Myers, you’ll definitely want a vehicle of your own. The things to do in Fort Myers that I’ve listed in this post are pretty spread out , as is much of the area in general. This isn’t the best place to rely on public transportation and/or ride shares.

The Fort Myers airport is served by all the major rental car brands so you shouldn’t have a problem snagging a car for the weekend.

• And Thrifty

Check out the best deals on rental cars in Ft. Myers here. And if your Florida travels take you to Orlando, be sure to pick up a free Visitor Toll Pass (all the details in that link).

What is there to do in Fort Myers?

Fort Myers, though seemingly isolated while you’re driving there, is actually a popular Florida travel destination. There’s a lot to do here in terms of historical sites, natural areas and wildlife sightings, adventure activities, and especially beach life.

Discover how to spend a few days in Fort Myers with this 2-day Fort Myers itinerary.

Weekend in Fort Myers: day 1

Your first day in Fort Myers will cover diverse ground: wildlife, history, nature, beer, citrus, and delicious food. That about sums up Florida in a day, I’d say.

Manatee Park

For your first day in Fort Myers, start off at the Manatee Park for some awesome wildlife sightseeing. Like the Manatee Viewing Center in Tampa , the Manatee Park in Fort Myers is a natural(ish) phenomenon.

Here, local manatees flock to the warm discharge waters from the nearby power plants during the “winter” months. “Winter” in Florida being November to April.

Visiting the Manatee Park is totally free and you can see manatees in their natural environment, free of human interaction. There’s a gift shop on site, a learning center, free activities for kids (and geeky, animal-loving adults), and free parking.

Edison & Ford Winter Estate

Next up is the most popular of all the Fort Myers attractions: the Edison & Ford Winter Estates . Being pretty much what you must think it is, the Edison & Ford Winter Estates are indeed the winter estates of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.

Turns out, the two were best buds back in the day—so much so that they set up two awesome winter estates right next to each other on some of the most gorgeous Florida property.

Here, you can tour their estates, yes, but the real gems are the museum detailing the lives and work of both men, the car collection, rooms upon rooms of their inventions, and, my personal favorite, Thomas Edison’s labs.

The property itself is beautiful and situated right on the water. It serves as an unofficial botanical garden of sorts and touring the grounds on a sunny day is a Fort Myers must.

The street you’ll cross between the museum/lab and the estates is historic McGregor Boulevard. Look down the street as you cross at the estimated 1800 palm trees lining the street. This impressive display was made possible by Thomas Edison’s own donations in the late 1800s. She’s a looker!

Lunch at Shrimp Shack

After manatee viewing and history overload at the Edison and Ford Estates, you should be ready for lunch. Head over to the Shrimp Shack for a seriously simple, seriously good seafood lunch.

Everything our group ate was delicious and the prices are great. If you don’t have gray hair, then you’re sure to be the only one of your kind in there. Don’t let the average age of the clientele do all the talking—this place is fantastic.

Sun Harvest Citrus

Next up is a quintessentially Florida experience: fresh citrus. Florida is known as the home of oranges, but citrus fruits of all types are grown here. All around Florida you can find citrus factories and here in Fort Myers is Sun Harvest .

At Sun Harvest you can purchase fresh fruit, fresh fruit juices, ice cream, all kinds of gifts and souvenirs, and much more. You can even squeeze in a look inside the production facility. But my favorite part is all the free samples .

Stop by Sun Harvest and taste some of their delicious fresh citrus fruits and amazing fresh juices. Pro tip: the strawberry orange juice is the hands-down winner.

Six Mile Slough Preserve

After Sun Harvest, it’s time to walk off your shrimp burgers and orange soft serve at the Six Mile Slough Preserve . The Six Mile Slough Preserve is a protected 3,500-acre park that’s great for wildlife viewing (yes, even alligators!). There are boardwalk trails through the wetlands, a butterfly garden, and even a colony of feral pigs I kept hearing about but did not see.

The park is endlessly interesting and you’re bound to see a ton of cool flora and fauna. The area also offers restrooms, an interpretive center, and guided nature walks. (Or you could just spend the entire time searching for ‘gators like I did.) The Six Mile Slough Preserve is a great place to see and learn about local, native wildlife during your 2 days in Fort Myers.

Apparently ‘slough’ is pronounced sloo . Who knew?

Fort Myers Brewing Company

Grab some dinner then end your first of 2 days in Fort Myers at the Fort Myers Brewing Company . You’ll find great local beers here at a fun indoor/outdoor brewery with games and activities and all the usual craft brewery things.

Fort Myers Brewing Company has a wide range of flagship beers from golden lagers to IPAs to Porters and more, as well as some rotating seasonals.

2 days in Fort Myers: day 2

Your second day in Fort Myers is gonna be all about that #beachlife. As you may know, the Gulf Coast of Florida is world famous for its amazing beaches and the Fort Myers area is no exception.

The beaches of Sanibel Island and Fort Myers are considered to have the best shelling in the country . Fort Myers is neighbors to more than 100 barrier and coastal islands that help provide the area with over 400 species of seashells from the everyday to the exotic.

Take a Captiva Cruise

The beaches around Fort Myers are great… by why not take a boat out to:

• A state park on a barrier island only accessible by boat that boasts the best shelling in the world?
• The island and restaurant believed to be the inspiration for Jimmy Buffet’s song “Cheeseburger in Paradise?” (You can eat a cheeseburger there! In paradise!)
• An exclusive private island with white cottages and lush vegetation?

You can see any of these on a Captiva Cruise. Captiva Cruises offers half or full day excursions to these gorgeous islands. Spend the day relaxing on a secluded beach or checking out Old Florida on a picturesque island. And all for way less than you’d expect.

Captiva Cruises also offers eco-friendly dolphin and wildlife cruises, sunset cruises, sailing adventures, and more. Plus, you could totally fit one of these into a day and still have time for more activities–their tours end at 3 and 4 PM. 

Sanibel Island

When you visit Fort Myers, you gotta check out Sanibel Island too—they’re kind of a package deal. Sanibel Island is just 45 minutes from downtown Fort Myers but offers a completely different environment. Here, the focus is on sea, sand, shells, and sexy sunsets. A visit here is a must when spending a weekend in Fort Myers.

Sanibel Island Lighthouse

While on Sanibel Island you can check out the Sanibel Island Lighthouse . There’s parking and beach areas around it though you can’t climb to the top like you can the one in St. Augustine . However, you can read about its history and check it out up close.

Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum

Here in the country’s shelling capital, you can visit the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum —the only museum in the U.S. dedicated to seashells and mollusks.

The Shell Museum is the leading authority on shells from Sanibel and the surrounding islands and it’s run by marine biologists, volunteers, and a world-renowned malacologist (mollusk scientist). You’ll see shells from the area, different shells from around the world, record-breaking shells including some of the world’s largest, and how shells have been used in art and architecture throughout history.

The museum also offers:

• Guided beach walks with shell experts
• Touch pools
• Shell arts and crafts projects

Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW)

Just down the street from the Shell Museum is the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife , a teaching hospital and visitor education center dedicated to wildlife rescue and conservation.

Each year, CROW cares for around 3,500 sick and injured wildlife patients from the area. On a visit you’ll get to explore the Visitor Education Center, attend a “Wonders of Wildlife” presentation and get to meet some adorable animal ambassadors, and take part in a guided “wildlife walk” through the hospital.

Dinner at Island Cow

For dinner on Sanibel Island, head over to Island Cow —a piece of Old Florida atmosphere and the most-awarded restaurant in Fort Myers.

Having a meal at Island Cow is considered a must-do when visiting Sanibel Island. Here you’ll find delicious seafood in a fun, casual environment. Maybe they take the cow theme a little too far? Well, at least they sell booze.

Island Cow has live music, dining specials, games, outside dining, and is pet friendly.

Sunset on Sanibel Island

After dinner (or maybe before, depending on the time of year), head back over to the beach for an epic sunset viewing. The Florida Gulf Coast nails its sunsets and Fort Myers definitely plays its part in that.

However, a big however, you may encounter the notorious “no-see-ums”—a kind of almost invisible biting fly that loves beach skin. If you plan on visiting the beaches at night, make sure to pack some good insect repellent .  

Seasonal things to do in Fort Myers

Depending on what time of year you’ll be visiting Fort Myers, you may be able to sub one of the above activities for some good ol’ American baseball.

Spring training

Between late February and late March Major League Baseball’s spring training takes place in Fort Myers. Games typically take place at either 1:05 or 6:05 in the afternoon, depending on the day. Both the Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins have spring training facilities in the area.

Boston Red Sox

The Boston Red Sox spring training takes place at JetBlue Park over in the area of the Fort Myers airport and Fort Myers Brewing Company.

Minnesota Twins

The Minnesota Twins play their spring training games at the CenturyLink Sports Complex (Hammond Stadium) and have since 1991. You’ll find their park halfway between the Shrimp Shack and Sun Harvest Citrus.

Optional Tours For Your 2 Days in Fort Myers

In addition to the cruise excursions mentioned earlier, there are a number of fun and interesting tours you can take in the Fort Myers area . Here are a couple more:

Guided Kayak Tour- Manatee and Dolphin sightings

Kayaking is one of my favorite Florida activities and reviewers of this tour have nothing but great things to say.

This guided, 2.5-hour kayaking tour takes you through mangrove estuaries and introduces you to local wildlife. You get to stop at a state park, do some shelling, and take advantage of the many photo ops along the way.

Historic Walking Tour of Fort Myers

This super affordable, 1.5-hour walking tour is lead by a local guide and will teach you all about the founding and history of Fort Myers.

It's a great introduction to first time visitors and has excellent reviews!

Day Sailing Excursion

This 2-hour sailing tour sails along the waterways of Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Island. You'll get to see many of the landmarks mentioned in this post and possibly a lot of wildlife too!

Also available in a sunset version !

Is Fort Myers worth visiting?

So with only a weekend to spend, is Fort Myers worth visiting? I would say absolutely! With equal parts history, beach, major league sports, and natural riches, 2 days in Fort Myers is a great way to check off some quintessential Florida experiences.

Fort Myers and the surrounding beaches are beautiful, friendly, and simply delicious.

More info for your 2 days in Fort Myers

• Heading to Fort Myers? Find great places to stay here .
• Don’t forget a Florida guidebook for the rest of your Florida sightseeing!
• What else have I covered in the area? Check out  these posts .
• Like this post? Have questions? Hit me up on Instagram

What will you do with your 2 days in Fort Myers? Let me know below!

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About Ashley Smith

Ashley is a historian and Oktoberfest expert & tour guide. She has traveled to 33 countries and specializes in quick trips throughout Europe and the Americas that prioritize hiking adventures, museums of all kinds, cultural experiences, and jam-packed itineraries. She hails from Memphis, TN and currently lives in Boston with her husband and two feline sidekicks.

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WNBA expansion to 16 teams possible by 2028, will pay for playoffs and back-to-back flights

There are more back-to-back sets this season with the wnba taking a long break for the olympics in late july and early august., by doug feinberg | the associated press • published april 16, 2024 • updated on april 16, 2024 at 12:11 am.

The WNBA will once again pay for charter flights for the entire playoffs as well as for back-to-back games during the upcoming season that require air travel, Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said Monday.

There are more back-to-back sets this season with the WNBA taking a long break for the Olympics in late July and early August. The league spent $4 million on charters in 2023 and will do the same this year.

“No one wants (charters) more than I do for these players. We need to be in the right financial position,” Engelbert said before the WNBA draft Monday night. “Just a few years ago we were surviving, now we're going from survive to thrive. We want to do it at the appropriate time.”

Engelbert also said she hopes to have 16 teams in the league by 2028, up from the current 12. The WNBA is adding a team next year, when a Golden State franchise in San Francisco will join the league. Other cities or metropolitan areas that Engelbert said are in the running include Philadelphia; Toronto; Portland, Oregon; Denver; Nashville; and South Florida.

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“Our plan and goal is to get to 16 teams in the next few years,” she said.

Engelbert said she got calls last week from two other cities the league hadn't been talking to.

Golden State will get a chance to built its roster through an expansion draft.

“It will happen before the college draft and we'll share more details when we get closer to that,” Engelbert said. “Talking to general managers and coaches and teams and owners, there will be an expansion draft this year and it will probably be in December.”

5 winners, losers from the 2024 WNBA Draft

What is Caitlin Clark's WNBA salary? How much Fever star will make in first contract

Engelbert knows this year's draft has more household names like Caitlin Clark , who helped the NCAA reach its best viewership in history for women's basketball , with nearly 19 million fans watching the title game. Other well-known players being drafted include Angel Reese, Kamilla Cardoso and Cameron Brink.

The commissioner noted that the WNBA bought ads that ran during NCAA Tournament broadcasts, starting with the Sweet 16.

“I'm thrilled we have household names coming in,” Engelbert said. “We need to market around that.”

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Breeze Airways celebrating graduations with two-day discounted fares promotion

Breeze Airways announced today (April 17) it is offering discount on airfares tied to travel for high school and college graduations across the U.S.

Breeze is offering a two-day-only promotion with 40-percent off roundtrip base fares. Travelers can use the code ‘CONGRATS’ at checkout on Breeze App or flybreeze.com until 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time, April 18, for travel from April 29 to June 13 and August 26 to Sept. 30.

More: Retrieval of boats sunk by Hurricane Ian near Fort Myers Beach: messy and mind-boggling

The 40% base fare discount applies only to new reservations for round-trip flights with promo code CONGRATS. Supply is limited, and no advance purchase requirement applies.

Breeze has a significant presence at Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers .

Current destinations offered by Breeze Airways at RSW

Akron/Canton, OH; Charleston, SC; Columbus, OH; Hartford, CT; Las Vegas, NV; Louisville, KY; New Orleans, LA; Norfolk, VA; Pittsburgh, PA; Portland, ME; Providence, RI; Raleigh/Durham, NC; Richmond, VA; and Syracuse, NY nonstop.

Future destinations offered by Breeze Airways at RSW

Scheduled to start in October:

• Manchester, NH (Seasonal, Wed and Sat, starting October 2)
• Stewart/Newburgh, NY (Seasonal, Wed and Sat, starting October 2)
• Lansing, MI (Seasonal, Thurs and Sun, starting October 3)
• Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, PA (Seasonal, Thurs and Sun, starting October 3)
• Bangor, ME (Seasonal, Wed and Sat, starting October 5)

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Breeze Airways Announces Its Third Florida Hub

The low-cost airline will launch a Fort Myers base in October.

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Low-cost Breeze Airways has announced its latest crew base in Fort Myers, marking its third hub out of Florida.

“Breeze’s operations from Fort Myers have proven exceptionally popular,” said Breeze Airways president, Tom Doxey, in a statement . “It’s been one of our fastest growing airports, now reaching 19 destinations in less than two years, thanks in large part to our close partnership with the team at Southwest Florida International.”

The airline, which was created by JetBlue founder David Neeleman, connects smaller airports to popular destinations across the country. By establishing a base at Fort Myers in addition to Orlando and Tampa, Breeze can expand with even more flights servicing the rest of the Sunshine State.

Travelers will soon be able to reach Fort Myers, thanks to a handful of seasonal routes beginning just in time for snowbird season. This October, Breeze will launch twice-weekly service from Manchester, N.H.; Newburgh, N.Y.; Lansing, Mich.; Scranton, Pa.; and Bangor, Maine. The airline offers more than a dozen year-round flights to Southwest Florida International Airport:

• Akron/Canton, Ohio
• Charleston, South Carolina
• Columbus, Ohio
• Hartford, Connecticut
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Louisville, Kentucky
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Norfolk, Virginia
• Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
• Portland, Maine
• Providence, Rhode Island
• Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina
• Richmond, Virginia
• Syracuse, New York

The news comes as Breeze reported its first-ever month of profitability in March, reporting it had “increased unit revenues by more than 30% year-over-year.” Breeze is approaching three years of flying this May, fueling its growth by transitioning to all Airbus A220 fleet by the end of the year, along with its newly announced credit card for its most loyal fliers.

Travelers can book Breeze flights directly on its website , mobile app, or Priceline.com , the airline’s first-ever online travel booking partner. All three fare bundles, “Nice,” “Nicer,” and “Nicest,” can be booked depending on whether passengers need to bring a carry-on or checked bag and pick seats with extra legroom.

Traffic delays and other issues mark total solar eclipse day

Authorities on Monday reported traffic crashes and significant road delays across the country as thousands of people flocked to prime locations to gaze up at the rare solar eclipse – and then made their way home again.

Local roads and highways in states including Texas, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, Vermont and New Hampshire were impacted by the flood of drivers, many of whom were from out of state. The most intense bottlenecks appeared to be in the path of totality , a vast swath of the country – approximately 115 miles wide, crossing through 13 states – where people were able to view the total eclipse.

Traffic slowed on major highways in Indiana as the eclipse progressed Monday afternoon. State transportation officials posted video showing backups forming on Interstate 65 headed toward Indianapolis, the Indianapolis Star reported. The Courier & Press in Evansville reported delays after the eclipse ended.

Indiana State Police Sgt. John Perrine posted on X that traffic on state highways was flowing but rest stops along interstates in the path of totality are at or near capacity. 

Perrine said transportation officials planned to shut them down "once they are full and will not allow any more traffic in for the duration of the eclipse." One rest stop along I-74 near Veedersburg, northwest of Indianapolis, closed because it had reached maximum capacity from "eclipse viewing traffic." 

In Oklahoma, a crash around 7:30 a.m. local time narrowed eastbound lanes on I-40, a major transcontinental highway that runs from California to North Carolina. The crash occurred not far from several state parks that were hosting eclipse events, and was within driving distance of the full eclipse path, which included parts of southeastern Oklahoma and Arkansas.

"Crews estimate cleanup will take the majority of the day. Expect delays in the area and use extra caution. #trucking #eclipse," said a post on X by the Oklahoma Department of Transportation .

Multiple crashes were reported in Waco, Texas, a city in the path of totality, which hosted several festivities and eclipse viewing events. The crashes all occurred on I-35, which runs from southern Texas to Minnesota. The wrecks shut down multiple lanes.

"Expect major traffic delays in this area," the Texas Department of Transportation said in a statement around 9 a.m. local time.

Officials warn drivers of delays, dangers ahead of solar eclipse

In the weeks leading up to the celestial event, officials issued warnings about heavy traffic congestion and the danger of driving during the eclipse , including distracted pedestrians and the sudden change in light conditions. Eclipses have previously been tied with surges in traffic crashes, including fatal collisions.

In New York, extra troopers were staged throughout the entire state, especially in northern counties and cities, such as Buffalo, from which spectators can see a full eclipse, according to the New York State Police .

In Ohio, the state's Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission heavily staffed its toll booths, service plazas and maintenance buildings in anticipation of the eclipse, which it has designated as "a high-volume traffic event" like, for example, Thanksgiving.  The Ohio Emergency Management Agency estimates, for the solar eclipse, between 150,000 and 575,000 travelers will visit the state, which encompasses areas in the path of totality.

During the 2017 eclipse, congestion in some areas lasted for up to 13 hours after totality,  according to Transportation Research News , a National Research Council publication. An analysis of traffic patterns from that year suggests the worst of the traffic – on interstates and rural back roads alike – will kick off after the eclipse ends and everyone tries to leave all at once.

Contributing: Kayla Jimenez and Phaedra Trethan, USA TODAY ; The Indianapolis Star