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16 Best Things To Do in Southwest Florida You Shouldn’t Miss!

May 13, 2022 //  by  Florida Trippers

Are you looking for the best things to do in southwest Florida? Look no further, this is the perfect place for you!

Just like a parent isn’t supposed to have a favorite child, we try to avoid saying one area is completely superior to another in Florida, but southwest Florida is so darn happening that it’s hard not to!

Whether it’s Disneyland in Miami, gorgeous gardens and everglades in Naples, or magical antique mansions turned museums in Sarasota, a lot of the best things to do in Florida are already in the southwest area of the state.

It can be a little overwhelming when planning a trip, so we packed together all of our favorite stuff in one place to try and make it a little easier!

Make sure to check out our master post on the Best Time To Visit Florida including a breakdown by month, weather, events, and more!

Visit Sanibel and Captiva

Are you looking for a gorgeous beach that is absolutely lousy with shells, or are just a sea shell enthusiast in general?

Then Sanibel and Captiva is one of the best places in Southwest Florida for you!

The area is comprised of two medium sized keys, respectively named Sanibel and Captiva, and it is a shell lover’s absolute paradise, making it one of the best places to visit in southwest Florida!

The beaches have tons of shells that are completely free and legal to take because of Florida’s relaxed policies towards wildlife and that environment.

The shell themed fun doesn’t stop there though, there is even a shell themed MUSEUM!

For more gorgeous beaches where you can go shelling, check out our post on Best Beaches for Shelling in Florida , your shell collection will thank you!

For more ideas about how to spend your time in this gorgeous area, check out our post on the Best Things To Do in Sanibel and Captiva Islands !

Edison and Ford Winter Estates

Do you love the old money mansions that have been turned into museums? We sure do! If you’re like us, then one of the best things to do in southwest Florida for you!

The estates were both built near the end of the 19th century by the two innovators, Ford and Edison!

Edison found the affordable property in Fort Myers perfect for a relaxation haven away from his regular life, and then a few years later he convinced his friend Ford to follow in his footsteps.

Since both of these men were quite wealthy, you can see what the elite of the time liked in their living spaces in terms of decorations and aesthetics.

Through the generosity of Edison’s widow and some hand changing on the real estate market done by Ford’s property, both houses are now open to the public!

The estates’ property is on 20 acres of gorgeous land that’s packed with gardens, Edison’s botanical research laboratory, a museum, and of course the actual Edison and Ford residences.

Whether you’re coming for the history, the gardens, or the vintage aesthetic, there is no shortage of things to appreciate about this very special destination which is why it’s one of the best places to go in southwest Florida!

While you’re in the area, why not check out what’s around you, there is some really F un Stuff To Do in Fort Myers Florida !

Visit Everglades National Park

Are you excited about exploring a unique ecosystem that occurs nowhere else on earth while on vacation?

Then visiting the everglades is one of the best things to do in southwest Florida for you!

If you’re wondering if that’s really right, nowhere else on earth? Seriously, the everglades are a unique gem in the crown of this beautiful planet! Make sure to put this on your list when doing a Florida Keys Road Trip!

There are several modes of transport with which to enjoy the swampy uniqueness of the everglades, our favorites are boats

It’s not really recommended to just wander around in the everglades by yourself unless you have your own boat and a guide, so check out our post on the Best Everglades Tours to make sure everything goes without a hitch!

Visit the Ringling Museum

Continuing on in the vein of gorgeous old mansions with epic history that have been repurposed as museums for us the public to enjoy, we present: The Ringling!

If you’ve ever been to a circus in North America back when they were a huge sensation, there is an overwhelming likelihood that it was part of the absolutely massive circus conglomerate created by Mr. Ringling!

Originally starting from less than ideal means, Mr. John Ringling eventually created an empire in a field of business that he perfected and industrialized like no one before him: the traveling circus!

Even though he created a massive fortune over the years, it disappeared in what seemed like a blink of the eye. Mr. Ringling’s life and stability were plagued with euphoric highs and tragic lows.

We won’t spoil too much of the story for you other than promising that it has a happy ending!

Today the grounds of Mr Ringling’s estate have been transformed into a beautiful experience for the public to enjoy.

The grounds include a massive art museum, a circus museum, a perfectly preserved antique mansion with steps into the the literal ocean, and a stunning giant walking garden.

Spending a day at this historic site is one of the best things to do in southwest Florida!

If you’re lucky to be there while the rose garden is in bloom, the perfume of the flowers mixes with the peppers that are grown elsewhere in the garden creating a beautifully sweet and spicy aroma to enjoy while exploring the grounds!

We would argue Sarasota is one of the best destinations for fun things to do on the Gulf Coast!

Since there are some quirks to the property, we have a whole post on Tips and Tricks for the Ringling Museum to make sure to everything goes as smoothly as possible!

Sarasota is really a hidden gem of Florida, they have a great symphony and there are tons of Fun Things To Do in the area so check out our post for some great ideas!

10,000 islands

Do you absolutely love the everglades but want something that is a little more expansive and open-world feeling?

Fear not, this is sure to be your favorite of activities in southwest Florida!

10,000 islands State Park is going to be right up you alley, it is an absolutely massive state park that as, as the name suggests, a staggering amount of small islands!

The mangroves create a beautiful maze to explore, but even the website itself says it can be a bit confusing so make sure you have a compass, a map, and ideally a guide who knows the are.

Visiting this state park is another one of the best things to do in southwest Florida, but it’s also something that our post on Best Everglades Tours would be super helpful for!

Naples Botanical Garden

If after being in the unique swampy paradise that is the everglades you’re looking for a more manicured nature experience, then this is one of the best attractions in southwest Florida for you!

When we say this is the disneyland of botanical gardens, we aren’t joking! The botanical gardens occupy a staggering 170 acres, and has been honored with some of the most prestigious awards that a garden can earn! Don’t forget to check out the best things to do in Naples while you are here!

Ground was first broken in 1993 and due to the garden’s non-profit status and robust donor base, it has flourished since! The botanical gardens see upwards of 220,000 people a year, which is no doubt because it is one of the best things to do in southwest Florida!

The botanical gardens encompass several themed gardens, which include educational content about the cultures that the plants are from: these gardens include plants from Brazil, the Caribbean, Asia, native Florida plants, and even more!

The sunshine state is an absolute paradise when it comes to botanical gardens, there are so many good ones that we have a whole post on the Best Botanical Gardens in Florida !

Look for Manatees

These gentle cows of the sea are a beauty to behold, and if you’ve ever seen one in person it’s easy to understand how these critters were once believed to be mermaids!

Now thanks to conservation efforts, manatees are not currently considered endangered anymore which means there is an abundance of places to see them

We have two posts on where to find wild manatees , and where to kayak to find manatees in Florida aswell to make it easy!

Explore Marco Island

Do you like the 10,000 Islands area, but want something a little bigger and more centralized? This is your perfect choice of all the destinations in southwest Florida in that case!

Marco Island is actually the largest of the 10,00 islands, and some might argue that it’s also the best of all the Islands too, especially if you love shelling!

The island is regularly mentioned in all of the lists of best places to go shelling in the US, because it truly is one of the best places to visit in southwest Florida for shelling!

While you’re in the area, you should check out some of the Best Restaurants in Marco Island for some truly epic eats!

Find the Dome Houses

This unique landmark was once supposed to be an opulent beach home for a member of the upper crust – however today all that remains is the signature domed ceilings of the now eroded foundations.

If you want to see the domes up close, make sure you book a tour or have a way of accessing a boat because now they’re mostly underwater now.

The eroded home now is a lovely place for the local flora and fauna to take over, and it’s also one of the benefits of seeing it in person!

Marco Island in general is a super fun area, with tons of Fun Stuff to Do , check out our post for some top tier suggestions that will surely be a highlight of your vacation!

Myakka River State Park

Are you looking for a gorgeous nature experience that is super close to what the conquistadors and indigenous people of the US would have seen back in the old days?

This is the state park for you then!

Myakka River State Park one of the best places to go in Southwest Florida, it’s also one of the oldest and biggest state parks in the entire state of Florida!

There is ample exploring to do just about anyway that you can think of, there are almost 40 miles of hiking trails and 14 miles of bike trails!

That’s not all though, there is lots of exploring to be done in the water!

Check out the state park’s website for more info!

Florida is a complete treasure trove of gorgeous State Parks, and we did the hard work of find the best ones for you in this post on the Best State Parks in Florida !

Try Some Handmade Local Rum Punta Gorda

Rated as the number one thing to do in Punta Gorda, Alligator Bay Distillery is one of the best places to visit in southwest Florida!

The newer distillery is making a big name for themselves, and it’s not hard to see why!

The focus of this distillery is to create rum that is made from 100% ingredients in Florida, making for a small batch artisanal rum experience that is sure to leave you wanting more!

The cane used for the rum is sourced from less than 80 miles away, truly making good on a claim being a local gem.

The Distillery offers free tours with FREE (yes seriously) rum tastings, how could you say no to that!

Making a visit to this truly exceptional breweries is one of the best things you can do in southwest Florida! Especially if you aren’t tethered to any tiny humans while on vacations.

Book a tour for yourself to see why it’s one of the best free things to do in southwest Florida!

Punta Gorda has some amazing restaurants, we made a list of the most delicious ones in our experience so take a look at our post of the Best Restaurants in Punta Gorda !

Asolo Repertory Theatre

Are looking for a great place to see local theatre in Sarasota? This is your spot!

Seeing a show at the Asolo theatre is one of the best things to do in southwest Florida!

Asolo is one of the biggest theaters in Florida, and also one of the biggest repertory theaters in the nation, which guarantees that you’ll have a top tier entertainment experience!

The name comes from a village that inspired the founding director back in the 60’s in Italy, and what an inspiring place it must be!

The theatre is still going strong after more than 60 years, and it’s because its one of the best places to go in southwest Florida to see a live theatre show by a long shot!

For before the show, why not do some perusing of our list of the Best Restaurants in Sarasota !

Naples Train Museum

Do you have a little person coming along with you on your Florida trip? Then visiting the Naples Train Museum is one of the best things to do in southwest Florida with kids by far!

The museum features a dizzying array of different model trains, and also has a ton of model train landscapes set up.

The museum also features an outdoor train that you get unlimited rides on, which is perfect for those little people in your life who like trains.

The train museum also features a brick walkway that you can put a brick with your name into! This is by far one of the best things to do in southwest Florida with kids!

Naples is a foodie haven, so take a look at our list of the Best Restaurants in Naples !

Enjoy Siesta Key

Are you looking for a place that has amazing shopping, great restaurants, and one of the most gorgeous beaches in Sarasota?

Look no further, we have all of that in one spot at Siesta Key, which is one of the best places to go in southwest Florida!

When it comes to beach towns that have it all, visiting Siesta Key is always at the top of the lists of the best things to do in southwest Florida!

Siesta Key has so many offerings when it comes to fun things to do, we made a whole list of the Best Fun Things to Do in Siesta Key !

Watch the Sunset OR Sunrise at Naples Pier

Naples is of course an ocean-side town, and with that usually comes having at least one or two piers!

Rated as the number one place to live on the beach, Naples pulls people from all over the world both to live and to visit!

The town itself can be a bit pricey, but not to worry, this is one of the best free things to do in Naples!

The naples pier extends very far out into the sea, and if you go all the way to the end, it almost gives the illusion of being in the middle of the ocean!

This illusion makes for a truly one of a kind sunrise or sunset experience that you won’t soon forget!

Visit Third Street South

Located in the Historic Naples area, walking around and soaking up the cool vibes of third street south is one of the best things to do in southwest Florida!

Picture south beach miami, but with a more highbrow golf aesthetic, with tons of amazing restaurants, stores, and even live entertainment.

During the holidays all the trees are covered in bright lights, which makes the bustling area even more cheerful.

Third street south is unbeatable when it comes to a pre-dinner walk and cozy vacation atmosphere, making it one of the best free things to do in southwest Florida!

Naples is one of the best places in the entire country to go on a boat tour, so take a look at our post on the Best Boat Tours in Naples !!

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19 Awesome Things to do in Southwest Florida (Fort Myers, Naples & Sanibel Island)

Despite being born in Miami, I never had the chance to explore the Gulf of Mexico side of my state much, so it was an easy ‘yes’ when I was recently presented the opportunity to experience all the best things to do in Southwest Florida—specifically the areas of Fort Myers , Sanibel Island and Naples .

Thousands of people flock to the picture-perfect white-sand beaches of Florida’s Southwest coast each winter to escape the cold and now I totally understand why. The weather is perfect this time of year—sunny in the 60s and 70s, without the oppressive sweat-inducing humidity that summer brings.

Plus, there’s a more chilled-out, nature-centric vibe to this side of Florida that’s an ideal antidote to the fast-paced party life that’s become synonymous with Miami culture.

What’s even more exciting for my fellow Californians is that Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) recently announced new non-stop flight options from LAX and SFO, and it’s now easier than ever to do a quick getaway to the Southwest Coast of Florida.

If you’re looking to plan your own escape that includes beautiful beaches, stunning coastal scenery and unique wildlife tucked between the mangrove forests, Southwest Florida is your spot. But beyond the idyllic natural setting, don’t worry—you still have access here to incredible fine-dining restaurants, high-end shopping, 5-star hotels and more. I’m here to share about it all.

Keep reading to find out all the best things to do in Southwest Florida on your next trip!

Why You Should Visit Southwest Florida

• Southwest Florida has on average 271 sunny days per year, so you can bet on the weather being beautiful during your stay.
• It’s known for having some of the best seashell hunting in the world, a unique ecosystem surrounding the Everglades, and some of the softest white sand beaches in the US. In short…this part of Florida is a nature-lover’s paradise.
• It’s now easier than ever to visit Southwest Florida from the West Coast! United just launched direct flight routes from LAX and SFO to RSW (Southwest Florida International Airport) so that visitors can travel from coast to coast in under 6 hours.
• If you’ve visited popular places on the east coast of Florida like Miami or West Palm Beach, you’re in for a totally different vibe in Southwest Florida. Think the epitome of “island time.” Quaint, charming island vibes, silky smooth white sand beaches and calmer waters along the Gulf of Mexico.

How to Get to Southwest Florida

If you’re looking for the most efficient way to experience Southwest Florida, then you’ll want to book a flight into RSW (Southwest Florida International Airport) located in Fort Myers.

You can already fly non-stop to Fort Myers from US cities like New York, Boston, Chicago and Dallas, but the Lee County Port Authority recently announced new exciting non-stop routes between Fort Myers and San Francisco and Los Angeles, making travel to and from the west coast easier than ever.

The Best Things to do in Southwest Florida

From food and culture to making the most of the state’s natural surroundings, there’s quite a variety of things to do in Southwest Florida. Below, I’m breaking it down between Naples and Sanibel Island where we focused most of our time during this trip.

Things to do in Naples

Naples, Florida has long been known for attracting an older crowd of snowbirds who flock to the area for sunshine and golf post-retirement. But I have to say that since I was last in Naples, the scene has been looking a lot younger and there’s plenty to do for those of all ages.

We had a ton of fun here doing everything from an electric moped tour, sunset sessions at the beach to enjoying the local brewery scene.

Book a Naples Princess Dinner Cruise

For a relaxing and fun night out on the water, a ride aboard the Naples Princess is where you’ll get a different perspective of Naples from the vantage points of Naples Bay, Port Royal and the Gulf of Mexico. Naples has some of the most high-end real estate in the country and the best way to get a closer peek into the homes of the uber-rich is via boat.

The Naples Princess has multiple options for cruises, including lunchtime cruises, sightseeing cruises and sunset excursions as well. We booked the dinner cruise, which served a surf and turf style dinner of steak and shrimp as we made our way through Naples’ calm waters past some of the area’s most expensive real estate out to the Gulf coast.

Stay at the Inn on Fifth

Located in the heart of downtown Naples on 5th ave, the newly renovated Inn on Fifth is a must-stay if you’re seeking the luxurious side of Southwest Florida. While the rooms are beautiful and we had an epic balcony overlooking 5th Ave, I have to say that what impressed me most was the quality of service.

From the moment we stepped on the property, the hospitality here was some of the best I’ve experienced staying at a hotel anywhere in the world—and you better believe I’ve stayed at my fair share of hotels. We were also in walking distance to most of the activities we wanted to do in Naples which was super convenient.

Pro tip: If you want the ultimate experience, make sure to book a Club Level Suite which comes with its own exclusive amenities including a private rooftop jacuzzi, evening hors d’oeuvres and a self service bar.

See the Sites of Naples via Electric Moped

Out of all the things we did in Naples, this one was definitely the most fun! I was a little skeptical at first because I’m not even that confident on a regular bike. However, these electric mopeds were way easier to learn to ride than I expected and once we got the hang of things we were speeding all over town.

Our guide from Trike Tours USA led us via e-moped to some of the most popular spots around town like the Naples Pier, Port Royal (one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in America) and down several of the most popular shopping strips. Pack comfy close-toed shoes because you’re not going to want to miss this one, promise!

Visit Tin City

To snag more of your quirky, classic Florida souvenirs and giftables, a stroll through local shopping spot Tin City is the place to go. Plus, it’s located right on the waterfront and has a totally different vibe than most of the luxury shopping that you’ll find on 5th Ave. The building is fun, colorful and rustic—definitely a quaint pit stop during your visit and fun for photos as well.

If you’re in the mood for more high-end shopping instead, pop over to Mercado, Third Street South, Waterside Shops or 5th Avenue South.

Enjoy a Night of Fine Dining at Sails Restaurant

One of the better restaurants I’ve eaten at in a while, Sails was definitely pricey but worth every penny in my opinion. No need to picture some stuffy, fine dining eatery though—here there’s a fun social vibe, featuring live music and great people watching.

We opted to sit at the bar and ordered a selection of dishes to share (the tagliatelle and tomato salad were my favorites), and then finished off dinner with a divine soufflé that can’t be missed. If you want to eat here, definitely make a reservation ahead of time.

Have Lunch on the Sand at the Turtle Club

For an awesome daytime dining option, head straight to the Turtle Club in the Vanderbilt Beach Resort, where you can enjoy al fresco dining literally with your toes in the sand. Afternoon or sunset would be the best times to go here, but be prepared to wait a bit for a table. If you come here with some friends for a mid-day hang, the ambiance is perfect and you can walk in, however reservations are recommended for the evening tables.

Check out the Naples Brewery Scene

The craft beer scene is relatively new in Naples, but that seems to be changing with more breweries popping up locally over the last five years. I love trying out new craft brews when I travel, so we decided to check out one spot while we were in town called Riptide Brewing , which was started by three friends originally brewing beer out of an old office warehouse in Naples. The current location has a great little back patio for some mid-day relaxation.

If you’re keen on more of a brewery tour of Naples, some other spots worth checking out are Bone Hook Brewing , Momentum Brewhouse and the Naples Beach Brewery , which is the only microbrewery in Naples.

Visit the Naples Botanical Garden

Strolling through the Naples Botanical Garden was one of my favorite activities we experienced while in Naples. It’s not too far outside of downtown, but feels like it’s own peaceful oasis, situated on over 170 acres of land. I recommend grabbing a morning coffee at Fogg Cafe inside the garden and strolling through as soon as it opens to avoid the crowds. Don’t miss the Brazilian gardens and any special exhibits on display.

Catch Sunset at the Naples Pier

You can’t go to Naples without a visit to the Naples Pier, period. Whether at sunrise, sunset or on a mid-day stroll, this 1,000 ft pier is a hotspot for surfers, local fisherman and tourists alike. However touristy it may be, it’s that way for a reason.

Sunrises here are calming, with locals coming to stroll the beach as the perfect reset for a new day. During golden hours, larger crowds flock to the silky white sand beach here for an idyllic setting to catch a perfect Naples sunset. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the elusive Green Flash!

Lunch at Celebration Park

If you’re looking to mix it up from the restaurant scene, head to Celebration Park, an area of Naples perched on the waterfront that’s become a go-to for food truck dining with a sports bar attached. Make sure to keep updated with their calendar of events as they regularly host fun theme nights, charity events and holiday gatherings.

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Things to do in Sanibel Island and Captiva Island

Sanibel Island is one of those places that feels a bit cut off from the rest of the world—and in the best way possible. There’s not even a main downtown here…just 12 miles of beaches, loads of bike trails and a much slower pace of life. It’s a little stuck in time, but that’s all part of the charm and repeat visitors here wouldn’t have it any other way.

Sanibel is the kind of place where you want to head to bed early each evening so you don’t miss a single gorgeous sunrise. And if you plan it right, you can literally witness it each morning from the sand just steps away from your hotel bed. Sounds idyllic, right?

Experiencing island life here is one of the best things to do in Southwest Florida and luckily Sanibel is just a short drive from Fort Myers. If you’re looking for a true reset from the rest of the world, this little island should definitely be on your Florida bucket list.

Check in to the Island Inn

There are tons of accommodation options on Sanibel Island, from hotels and small inns to condo rentals, but Island Inn has been consistently ranked #1 on Sanibel & Captiva islands and is the oldest hotel on Sanibel since 1895.

Staying here is true island living. We booked one of the beachfront cottages that literally opened out to the sand and it took us just seconds each morning to step out from our patio to take in the beautiful beachfront sunrise. I also have to give major props to their on-site restaurant Traditions on the Beach which was one of the best meals we had on the island.

Take a Day Cruise out to Cayo Costa State Park

If Sanibel Island is known for anything, it’s the abundance of beautiful seashells that cover the beaches here. If you’re on the hunt for some epic shells to bring home as mementos from your trip, make sure to head out to Cayo Costa State Park for a day.

You can book a half day or full day excursion with Captiva Cruises who share history and fun facts about the area as you head out on the water towards Cayo Costa. Once docked, you’ll basically feel like you’ve been dropped on a deserted island where seashells abound. We even found a handful of perfect sand dollars here. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Southwest Florida.

Try the Area’s Famous Keylime Pie

Did you know that key lime pie is the official pie of the state of Florida? If you dine out anywhere here, especially in Southwest Florida, you’ll pick up on this quickly—it’s practically on every menu! Sanibel and Captiva Islands of course are no exception.

While I didn’t have a chance to try every key lime pie on the island, we did enjoy a very, very good one at Keylime Bistro (I mean, key lime is in the name, so it’s gotta be good right)?! This spot is conveniently located across the street from the Captiva Cruises dock, so we went straight here after departing from our Cayo Costa cruise excursion.

If you’re truly on the hunt for the best of the best, some other key lime pies of note according to the internet can be found at Cip’s, The Sanibel Grill, Paper Fig and Grandma Dot’s.

Take Advantage of 25 Miles of Bike Trails

As someone who has a mild fear of biking, I greatly appreciated Sanibel’s commitment to being bike friendly. The island has been designated a Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists and has over 25 miles of bike trails.

We rented our bikes at our hotel, Island Inn, and then set off for three hours, biking all the way out to the Lighthouse park and back, getting a great intro to the island (and workout!) in the process.

Breakfast at the Island Cow

If you’re looking for a hearty meal with a plethora of options for everyone in your travel party, look no further. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a more extensive menu in my entire life. Think heavy hitters like coconut french toast and hash brown benedict for breakfast to everything from seafood to sliders for dinner.

We came here for breakfast, but I feel like this would be a really fun spot for daytime drinks or later dinner as well, as they feature live music and have outdoor games on offer.

Watch Sunset at Sanibel Lighthouse Beach Park

For sunset on Sanibel, head to the Lighthouse Beach Park on the southern tip of the island, where you can enjoy a long stretch of sand with the backdrop of the island’s historic lighthouse built in 1884. If the conditions are right, you might also get a show of kite surfers to boot. It costs $5/hour to park here, or you can bike like we did and park for free.

Book Dinner Reservations at the Mad Hatter

Probably one of the top two meals we had during our entire Southwest Florida trip was at the Mad Hatter. This fine dining restaurant has incredible service and a fun Alice in Wonderland theme (but don’t worry, it’s not overkill). Every single thing we ate here was delicious, from the goat cheese pillows and roasted garlic plate appetizer to the scallops.

Kayak Through the Mangroves in J.N. “Ding” Darling

This national wildlife refuge is home to a massive undeveloped mangrove ecosystem that a wide variety of birds and wildlife call home. To experience the refuge in the most peaceful way possible, renting kayaks or taking a kayak tour is ideal.

We opted for a kayak trail tour with Tarpon Bay Explorers who offer a wide selection of guided nature tours in the area. Our guide was super knowledgeable, but I did feel like the tour was a bit overpacked and we couldn’t hear everything the guide was sharing. If you book with them you might want to inquire about the least busy days/times to see if you can get into a smaller group. Otherwise, I’d rent private kayaks to head through the trail at your own pace.

The Seashell Museum

As far as museums go, I have to say, this one was really cool. I spent many days in my childhood admiring beautiful seashells without giving much thought to how they were formed, where they came from, and the abundance of variety in them. Shells are literally nature’s artwork and this museum proves it!

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum allows you to get up close and personal with some live sea life (they have a designated touching station), and includes some really fascinating information about mollusks and their homes. This is a great activity to bring kids to as well, but every adult would enjoy this just as much.

Did this post inspire you to plan a trip to Southwest Florida? Let me know in the comments below!

***This post was sponsored by Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods , and The Paradise Coast, but as always, all of my opinions are my own and I would never promote anything I don’t freaking love.***

Planning a trip right now? Don’t miss my go-to websites for booking everything from flights and tours, to accommodation and more:

• Booking.com for the best hotel deals
• World Nomads for flexible travel insurance
• VRBO for awesome rentals
• Skyscanner for finding the best flight deals
• Hostelworld for budget accommodation
• Rentalcars.com for easy car rentals

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Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

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Naples Botanical Gardens

This outstanding botanical garden styles itself as ‘a place of bliss, a region of supreme delight.’ And after spending some time wandering its 2½-mile…

Baker Museum

The pride of Naples, this engaging, sophisticated art museum is part of the Artis–Naples campus, which includes the fabulous Philharmonic Center next door…

Florida Aquarium

Tampa's excellent aquarium is among the state's best. Cleverly designed, the re-created swamp lets you walk among herons and ibis as they prowl the…

Anna Maria Island

The perfect antidote to party-loving Siesta Key, Anna Maria Island appears beached in a 1950s time warp, with sun-faded clapboard houses, teenagers…

Weedon Island Preserve

Like a patchwork quilt of variegated greens tossed out over Tampa Bay, this 3700-acre preserve protects a diverse aquatic and wetland ecosystem. At the…

Pass-a-Grille Beach

The epic sliver of sand that is Pass-a-Grille Beach is the most idyllic barrier-island beach, backed only by beach houses and a long stretch of metered…

Busch Gardens

This theme park has 10 loosely named African zones, which flow together without much fuss. The entire park is walkable. Admission includes three types of…

Hillsborough River State Park

When Tampa residents need a woodsy escape, they head to this fantastic 3400-acre state park, just 20 miles (30 minutes) northeast of Tampa. For visiting…

Myakka River State Park

Florida's oldest resident – the 200-million-year-old American alligator – is the star of this 39,000-acre wildlife preserve. Between 500 and 1000…

Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge

Nature Coast

The winter home of nearly 20% of Florida's West Indian manatee population, this wildlife refuge protects almost the whole of Kings Bay. Up to 800 of these…

Wat Mongkolratanaram

Why is there a Buddhist Thai temple in the middle of Tampa? Who cares, the noodle soup is amazing. On Sundays hundreds of people show up for the food and…

Adventure Island

This 30-acre water park has everything a modern, top-flight water park requires: a long lazy river, a huge wave pool, bucket-dumping splash zones, a…

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park

Since 1947 tourists have been lured by the siren song of Weeki Wachee Springs, one of Florida's original roadside attractions. Esther Williams, Danny…

At 8 miles long, Siesta Key is the area's most popular beach hangout, with a family-friendly village and a public beach of pure quartz sand so fine it's…

Egmont Key State Park

Union troops were stationed on uninhabited Egmont Key during the Civil War, and you can visit Egmont’s ruined Fort Dade by ferry from Fort DeSoto Park…

Island Park

Sarasota's marina is notable for Island Park, an attractive green space poking into the harbor: it has a great playground and play fountain, restrooms,…

Honeymoon Island State Park

This park, so named in the 1940s when marketeers pitched the island as the perfect getaway for newlyweds, is graced with the Gulf Coast's legendary white…

Historic Spanish Point

Explore layers of history at this environmental and archaeological site, which covers a 30-acre peninsula jutting out into Little Sarasota Bay. Covered in…

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park

This lovely state park and beach extends for a mile from the mouth of the Cocohatchee River. It boasts gorgeous white sands, which are protected during…

Lee County Manatee Park

December through March, manatees flock up the Orange River to this warm-water discharge canal from the nearby power plant. The waterway is now a protected…

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

If you visit just one botanical garden in Florida, choose Selby, which has the world's largest scientific collection of orchids and bromeliads – more than…

JN 'Ding' Darling National Wildlife Refuge

Named for cartoonist Jay Norwood 'Ding' Darling, an environmentalist who helped establish more than 300 sanctuaries across the USA, this 6300-acre refuge…

Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve

With more than 3500 acres of wetlands, this park is a great place to experience southwest Florida's flora and fauna. A 1.2-mile boardwalk trail is staffed…

Golisano Children's Museum of Naples

Designed by kids (and child psychologists) for kids, this interactive children's museum is devoted to learning through play. A trolley takes kids to…

IMAG History and Science Center

Exciting changes are afoot at this already fascinating science center, which will soon add interactive exhibits and even virtual reality, weaving in…

Mote Marine Laboratory

The Mote bills itself as a research facility and aquarium, and has a large department dedicated to the study of sharks. Exhibits include a preserved giant…

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

The home of Winter the dolphin, this nonprofit aquarium rescues and rehabilitates injured sea animals, such as dolphins, sea otters, fish, rays, and…

Chihuly Collection

Dale Chihuly's glass works are displayed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London and the Louvre in…

Just a hop, skip and jump across from St Armands Circle, Lido Key is barely 15-minutes' drive from downtown Sarasota. Lido Beach is an excellent, wide…

Bowditch Point Park

At the island's northernmost tip, Bowditch is a favorite with families and picnickers. The small parking lot ($2 per hour) fills up fast, so come early…

Bowman's Beach

Bowman's Beach is the quintessential Sanibel beach, a bright dollop of coast with soft white sand, supplied with a playground and excellent facilities. It…

Palm Cottage

The oldest home in Naples and last remaining tabby-mortar cottage in Collier County, this quaint abode was built in 1895 for Henry Watterson, the editor…

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Discover Charlotte County's unforgettable landscapes: A must-visit destination for International Travelers

Charlotte County, Florida, invites international travelers to experience the unparalleled beauty and captivating landscapes of this hidden gem in the Sunshine State. Offering a diverse array of natural wonders, the county boasts a collection of breathtaking landmarks that will leave visitors with a lifetime of memories. From the pristine sandy beaches of Gasparilla Island State Park to the sprawling wilderness of the Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park, adventure awaits at every turn. Whether exploring the wildlife through the Babcock Ranch Preserve or hiking through the vibrant ...

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Legendary Ballet Dancer Carlos Acosta to perform in Sarasota in April 2024

Fort Myers Camera Club resumes bi-monthly meetings

Seminole Casino Hotel to welcomes GRAMMY Winner Ashanti live in concert March 2

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Introduction to sw florida.

Welcome to beautiful Southwest Florida!

9 florida beaches voted among america’s 100 top secret beaches, beaches at a glance.

Shell Factory survives, thrives

She’s a keeper: shell factory nature park director responsible for close to 400 animals, wonder gardens offers enhanced experiences for guests, koreshan state historic site.

On the Water: Fishing during the hot month of August

What a catch captain dave’s fishing report.

New Shellcast episode visits Manatee Park

Cape coral parks, punta gorda parks, theatre, galleries & museums.

Port Boca Grande Lighthouse

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City of fort myers.

Fort Myers , on the coast of Southwest Florida, has a little bit of everything: pristine nature preserves, wild waterways, beaches, arts and culture, and plenty of retail and dining options.

Play on the sand and dive into the water at Bowditch Point Park and Bunche Beach Preserve , launch a kayak on the Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail , and fish the Gulf of Mexico.

Shop the massive Gulf Coast Town Center and Edison Mall , check out the spring training homes of the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins, and visit the area’s museums.

Its proximity to a host of Gulf Islands including Sanibel and Captiva make Fort Myers an ideal location for an island-hopping, nature-filled vacation that still provides the shopping, entertainment, and cultural opportunities of a bigger city.

Plan your stay at Visit Fort Myers .

Popular for fishing and paddling, the Caloosahatchee River runs through downtown Fort Myers .

• Caloosahatchee River

Visit the islands to fully appreciate the coast and waterways of Fort Myers.

• More islands

Swim, kayak, fish, and birdwatch on the beaches along the Fort Myers coast.

• Bowditch Point Park
• Bunche Beach Preserve
• More beaches

See wild manatees and check out interactive exhibits at the history and science center.

• Edison and Ford Winter Estates
• Manatee Park
• IMAG History & Science Center

MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

See concerts, visit museums, and tour the art galleries of Fort Myers.

• Gulf Coast Symphony
• Caloosa Sound Amphitheater
• Art galleries
• More arts and entertainment

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Paddle the scenic waterways, hike, fish, parasail, paddleboard, and kayak.

• Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail
• Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail
• Wild Turkey Strand Preserve
• County parks
• Parasailing
• Water sports
• More outdoor recreation

PET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES

Fort Myers is home to pet-friendly accommodations, restaurants, and parks.

• Woof-A-Hatchee Dog Park
• Crazy Dingo Brewing Co.
• John Yarbrough Linear Park

ACCESSIBILITY

Countless accessible attractions and parks can be found in Fort Myers, including Wild Turkey Strand Preserve, which offers a paved section of trail.

• Accessible arts and entertainment
• Accessible outdoors and sports
• Accessible attractions

Waterfront views and fresh seafood are on the menu in Fort Myers.

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Shop the Gulf Coast Town Center, which has more than 100 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

• Gulf Coast Town Center
• Edison Mall
• More places to shop

INCLUSIVITY

Find LGBTQ+ organizations and events in Fort Myers.

• Visuality SWFL

See where the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins go for spring training.

• JetBlue Park
• Lee County Sports Complex
• Hammond Stadium
• Alico Arena
• Golf and other sports

PLACES TO STAY

From waterfront resorts to campgrounds under the sun, there are plenty of ways to stay in Fort Myers.

• Vacation rentals

60 Seconds in Fort Myers, Sanibel, and Captiva

Fort myers weather, quick facts.

Average water temp at the beach is 77 degrees.

Nearest Airport

• Southwest Florida International Airport
• Charlotte County Airport

Fort Myers Events

Plan a trip to fort myers, fort myers business listings, nearby cities, charlotte harbor, boca grande, related content, five ways to live it up in fort myers.

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If you're looking for luxury in southwest Florida, don't fret. Start with Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa and the rest of your luxury...

Coolest Block in Fort Myers: River District, Where History Mingles with Funky

• 8 minute read

By Janet K. Keeler A short walk through the gentrified River District of Fort Myers and you’ll wish it was okay to gobble down more than three...

Guide to African-American Heritage Landmarks and Historic Sites in Florida

• 102 minute read

Florida boasts a rich, diverse history, with African American landmarks and legacies throughout the state. Here’s a guide to historical sites...

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Vacation Guide to Southwest Florida

WELLCOME TO

South west florida.

No matter what your interest, here you will find information and links to assist in your vacation planning. Check out specific topics including: attractions, hotels, resorts/condos, maps, tours, events, shopping, beaches, tourism, dining, golf courses, nightlife, fishing and other area subjects of interest. We also offer maps to help you find area hotels, resorts, attractions and other area points of interest.

Fort Myers Tickets

Estero tickets, naples ticket, tampa tickets.

Your Guide to Fort Myers Florida: History, Culture and Heritage

Fort Myers which is also known as The City of Palms is in Southwestern Florida by the Caloosahatchee River. People visit Fort Myers Florida for

Yoder’s Restaurant in Sarasota: A Tasty Tradition

In the middle of Sarasota you will find Yoder’s Restaurant a special place that has been around since 1975. It started small but now it

Wooten’s Everglades Airboat Rides

Wooten’s Everglades Airboat Rides is one of the top guides for tours of the Everglades! Whether you choose to explore via airboat or swamp buggy,

What to Do on the Water in Fort Myers

When you’re planning out your vacation to Southwest Florida, you’re likely trying to incorporate some activities out on the water. After all, it’s not every

Waterfront Dining in Cape Coral and Fort Myers

When you want to enjoy fantastic food with beautiful views of the water. Then Cape Coral Restaurants on the Water is best for you. They

Venice Florida’s Farmers Market 2022

If you are looking for things to do this weekend in Venice, we have good news!  Venice, Fl. is always busy with fun activities for

New to the terrain of Southwest Florida? Browse our map offerings to help you find your way around to attractions, art festivals, craft fairs, farmers markets, hotels , golf courses and more.

●   Southwest Florida Malls Map ●   Map of Collier County Art Galleries ●   Map of Lee County Art Galleries ●   Map of Attractions & Tours ●   Map of Farmers Markets ●   Maps of Local Bars & Pubs ●   Maps of SWFL Hotels ●   Map of Local Golf Courses ●   Other SW Florida Maps

Anything You Need

State Parks Near Fort Myers Florida – Nature’s Treasures

6 Best Amusement Parks in Fort Myers: Get Ready for Fun

3 Best Water Parks Near Fort Myers Florida: Beat the Heat

Davinci’s Restaurant on Marco Island: Taste Italy

RV Parks Fort Myers Florida – Home on the Road

Beachfront Restaurants on Marco Island: Dine by the Waves

Best Marco Island Restaurants on the Water for Tasty Meal

Best Marriott Marco Island Restaurants in Florida

10 Best Marco Island FL Restaurants You Can’t Miss

Best Marco Island Waterfront Restaurants in Florida for a Tasty Meal

Tasty Seafood Restaurants on Marco Island: Seafood Delights Await

Southwest Florida Attractions

Our most popular attraction in southwest florida has to be our miles of white sandy beaches, where you can relax in the sun, parasail, jet ski, windsurf, or play a game of volleyball. but aside from getting a tan, there are a wide assortment of parks, tropical gardens, zoos, historic southwest florida homes and an ever expanding family waterpark., whether you plan stay in southwest florida or do a tour around historic downtown fort myers, naples or port charlotte, or visiting thomas edisons’ southwest florida winter home, there is a wide variety of places to go and see in southwest florida., along with all of our local attractions, southwest florida is just a short distance away from tampa, which is the home of busch gardens, or orlando where disneyworld is located. you’ll soon find lots of things to do in southwest florida., southwest florida attraction search.

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27 BEST SOUTHWEST FLORIDA TOWNS & CITIES

By   Mike Miller  August 21, 2023

These 27 Southwest Florida towns are in the region of the state that includes Fort Myers, Naples, and much of the Florida Everglades.  

Some of these towns are along the Gulf Coast or close to it.  There are others towards the east that perch on the edge of the Everglades.

The Southwest Florida counties are Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, and Lee.

Clicking through to the individual town pages will give you information about the town's history, what it's like today, real estate, things to do, local government, lodging and restaurants.

Alva is a historic town with a strong agricultural heritage. Its proximity to the Caloosahatchee River offers scenic beauty and outdoor activities, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful lifestyle away from the bustle.

Ave Maria is defined by its connection to Ave Maria University. This planned community blends education, spirituality, and modern living, providing a distinct atmosphere with picturesque streets, a town center, and a focus on fostering knowledge and faith.

Babcock Ranch

Babcock Ranch is a new planned community built on a working cattle ranch.  The new city is almost entirely solar powered and is one of the most energy sustainable cities in the state.

Boca Grande

Boca Grande is a luxurious barrier island paradise. Known for its upscale ambiance, beautiful beaches, and renowned fishing opportunities, it offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with historic charm, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and refined recreation.

Bokeelia, on Pine Island, is a peaceful fishing village. Embracing its waterfront setting, the town provides access to boating, angling, and a laid-back atmosphere. With its unspoiled surroundings, it's an idyllic destination for those who appreciate simplicity and natural beauty.

Bonita Springs

Bonita Springs boasts a blend of beachside allure and urban amenities. Its Gulf Coast location ensures stunning sunsets and recreational opportunities. The town's vibrant arts scene, local parks, and easy access to nearby Naples make it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike.

Cabbage Key

Cabbage Key is a secluded gem accessible only by boat. With its historic inn, lush landscapes, and lack of cars, the island offers a unique escape. Visitors can savor seafood, explore nature trails, and revel in a tranquil atmosphere far from the mainland's hustle.

Cape Coral is renowned for its extensive canal system and waterfront living. The city embraces a boating culture and offers an array of recreational opportunities. With a network of parks, golf courses, and a laid-back vibe, it's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Captiva Island entices with its pristine beaches and upscale ambiance. Part of the Sanibel-Captiva barrier island duo, it's a place to unwind, enjoy water sports, and admire stunning sunsets. The town's charming village atmosphere complements its natural beauty.

Chokoloskee

Chokoloskee is an unincorporated community within Everglades National Park. Known for its rich history, it's a gateway to the Ten Thousand Islands. Fishing, birdwatching, and exploring the untamed wilderness define its unique appeal.

Clewiston is the "America's Sweetest Town," as it's home to sugarcane fields and a sugar mill. Nestled near Lake Okeechobee, it offers outdoor recreation, fishing, and a glimpse into Florida's agricultural heart.

Englewood boasts beautiful beaches and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Its Old Florida charm is evident in its artist community, quaint downtown, and proximity to natural attractions like Stump Pass Beach State Park.

Everglades City

Everglades City is the western gateway to the Everglades and Ten Thousand Islands. A haven for ecotourism, it's known for airboat tours, fishing, and a deep connection to the surrounding wilderness.

Fort Myers blends historical significance with modern amenities. The winter estates of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, along with a lively downtown River District, contribute to its cultural and recreational appeal.

LaBelle is a charming town along the Caloosahatchee River. Known for its agricultural heritage, it offers a small-town atmosphere, local events, and a glimpse into Florida's rural lifestyle.

Marco Island

Marco Island presents a luxurious Gulf Coast retreat. Unspoiled beaches, upscale resorts, and a range of water activities define its allure, while its laid-back ambiance invites relaxation and rejuvenation.

Matlacha, on Pine Island, is an artsy and vibrant community on Matlacha Pass. Its colorful buildings, art galleries, and fishing culture create a unique atmosphere that appeals to both artists and outdoor enthusiasts.

Moore Haven

Moore Haven is nestled along the Caloosahatchee River and Lake Okeechobee. Known for its fishing and recreational opportunities, it provides a peaceful escape with access to Florida's freshwater treasures.

Naples epitomizes upscale living on the Gulf Coast. Its unspoiled beaches, high-end shopping, cultural attractions, and renowned golf courses make it a destination for those seeking refinement and leisure.

Old Naples is the historic section of Naples.  It is characterized by upscale living, dining, and shopping experiences.

Palmdale reflects the rural lifestyle of Florida's heartland. Surrounded by agricultural lands and a strong sense of community, it offers a serene atmosphere far from the city's hustle.

Pine Island

Pine Island captures the essence of Old Florida with its fishing villages, natural beauty, and bohemian spirit. It's a haven for artists, anglers, and those who appreciate the unspoiled charm of island living.

Pineland is a historic and tranquil community on Pine Island. Home to the Calusa Heritage Trail, it offers insights into Native American history and provides access to boating, fishing, and nature exploration.

Punta Gorda

Punta Gorda combines historic charm with a thriving waterfront downtown. With a strong arts scene, parks, and a focus on sustainability, it offers a blend of cultural experiences and outdoor recreation.

Sanibel Island is renowned for its shell-strewn beaches and conservation efforts. The J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, coupled with its laid-back island atmosphere, makes it a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts.

St. James City

St. James City exudes a relaxed fishing village vibe. Surrounded by waterways, it's a hub for boating, fishing, and waterfront dining, capturing the essence of waterfront living.

Useppa Island

Useppa Island is a private island paradise accessible only by boat. With a historic club, charming cottages, and a focus on preserving its natural beauty, it's a retreat for those seeking exclusivity and tranquility.

Southwest Florida Day Trips and Scenic Drives

Our Facebook page has more than 130,000  followers who love off the beaten path Florida: towns, tourist attractions, maps, lodging, food, festivals, scenic road trips, day trips, history, culture, nostalgia, and more.   We post articles every day.  Please check it out and if you like it, we would appreciate a "like" from you.

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Just south of the Tampa Bay area, the Southwest Region is most known for its white, sandy beaches and verdant tropical landscapes.

Comprised mostly of beaches and wetlands, the Southwest Region attracts vacationers year round who are looking for both rest and relaxation, and an opportunity to walk on the wild side. Located just north of the Everglades, this region also provides visitors an opportunity to discover one of the most well known natural landscapes in the country. Lake Okeechobee and the Naples Botanical Gardens are just a few of the region’s major ecotourism attractions.

Cites like Bradenton, Fort Myers and Sarasota help contribute to the region’s urban feel, but it’s balanced by much of the natural areas that are found throughout. Ecotourists can experience a diverse collection of attractions and points of interest the Southwest has to offer.

Further south, this region’s average temperatures during the summer months are a little higher than the rest of the state, hovering around 78°F, while winter temps are milder. The humidity can take a little getting used to if you’re not experienced with sub-tropical climates, but Gulf Coast winds help to cool things down when it starts getting too hot.

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FLORIDA VACATIONS

Looking for a getaway without going too far from home? Florida is a perfect choice!  Find some of the world’s best beaches, amusement parks, bustling nightlife, fishing, and all types of entertainment for the most memorable vacation ever! 

Looking for a beach vacation ?  Florida has over 1300 miles of coastline and some of the best beaches in the world.  Every Southwest Vacations® beach destination offers its own unique experience.  Wonderful destinations including Pensacola Beach , Daytona Beach , Miami Beach , Fort Lauderdale , Fort Meyers , Naples , South Walton / Destin , St. Petersburg , Key West , and Tampa offer white sand beaches, clear blue water, and the beach vacation opportunity of a lifetime.

Looking for more active, family fun?  Southwest Vacations® offers wonderful vacation destinations from Walt Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando to Busch Gardens in Tampa .  Find endless entertainment for kids young and old, and with vacations that offer something for everyone in the family.

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Top Florida destinations

Tampa bay/clearwater, things to do in florida, discovery cove - dolphin swim.

Immerse yourself for a day in this all-inclusive tropical retreat. Swim in sun-lit waters. Play one-on-one with beautiful dolphins. Snorkel with rays and exotic fish. Hand-feed tropical birds in a free-flight aviary. This spring, explore the colorful waters of the new Grand Reef.  Provided by Discovery Cove

Kennedy Space Center

Take a virtual flight to the moon and back at one of Florida's best attractions! On this full-day Kennedy Space Center tour from Orlando, you can tour the NASA facility and Apollo/Saturn V Center to see rockets and their launch pads and the Shuttle Launch Experience.

Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise

Did you know that Tampa Bay is home to over 600 Atlantic Bottle-nose dolphins? On this 1.5-hour cruise, your captain and guides will teach you have to spot dolphins making you an expert by the end.

Florida Everglades Night Airboat Tour

For the most thrilling airboat experience, take an airboat tour at night! Glide across the Florida Everglades in total darkness while listening for the calls and rustling of the Everglades’ nocturnal creatures.

† First and second checked bags. Weight and size limits apply. A golf bag can be substituted for one checked bag.

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Suspected burglar wanted for stealing TV from Fort Myers home

On his first trip, he attempted to open the backyard shed but left.

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The latest breaking updates, delivered straight to your email inbox.

Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers is searching for a suspect who is accused of stealing a 65-inch Samsung television from a vacation home in Fort Myers.

Detectives with the Fort Myers Police Department spotted the suspect on camera walking around a home on Oakley Avenue on April 8.

The suspect reportedly attempted to enter the shed in the backyard but was unsuccessful.

Officials say the suspect returned three days later and made entry into the home, removing the TV from the residence.

SWFL Crime Stoppers asks anyone with information to contact 1-800-780-TIPS or online here .

Officials say if your tip leads to his ID or arrest, they'll pay a cash reward.

DOWNLOAD the free NBC2 News app for your latest news and weather alerts.

Venice tests a 5-euro fee for day-trippers as the city grapples with overtourism

VENICE, Italy — Under the gaze of the world's media, the fragile lagoon city of Venice launched a pilot program Thursday to charge day-trippers a 5-euro (around $5.35) entry fee that authorities hope will discourage visitors from arriving on peak days and make the city more livable for its dwindling residents.

Visitors arriving at Venice's main train station were greeted with large signs listing the 29 dates through July of the plan's test phase that also designated separate entrances for tourists, and residents, students and workers.

"We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents,'' said Simone Venturini, the city's top tourism official. "We need to safeguard the spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days."

Not all residents, however, are persuaded of the efficacy of the new system in dissuading mass tourism , insisting that only a resurgence in the population will restore balance to a city where narrow alleyways and water buses are often clogged with tourists.

Hundreds of Venetians protested against the program, marching festively though the city's main bus terminal behind banners reading "No to Tickets, Yes to Services and Housing." Protesters scuffled briefly with police with riot gear who blocked them from entering the city, before changing course and entering over another bridge escorted by plainclothes police. The demonstration wrapped up peacefully in a piazza.

Tourists arriving at the main station encountered almost as many journalists as stewards on hand to politely guide anyone unaware of the new requirements through the process of downloading the QR code to pay the fee.

Arianna Cecilia, a tourist from Rome visiting Venice for the first time, said she thought it was "strange" to have to pay to enter a city in her native country, and be funneled through separate entrance ways for tourists. She and her boyfriend were staying in nearby Treviso, and so downloaded the QR code as required, but she was still caught off-guard while soaking in her first view ever of Venice's canals by the sight of the entrance signs and her boyfriend telling her to get out the ticket.

On the other side of the entrance ways, workers in yellow vests carried out random checks at the train station. Transgressors faces fines of 50 to 300 euros ($53 to $320), but officials said "common sense" was being applied for the launch.

The requirement applies only for people arriving between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Outside of those hours, access is free and unchecked.

Venice has long suffered under the pressure of overtourism, and officials hope that the pilot project can help provide more exact figures to better manage the phenomenon.

The city can track the number of hotel visitors, which last year numbered 4.6 million and is down 16% from pre-pandemic highs. But the number of day visitors, which make up the majority of the crowds in Venice, could only be estimated until recently.

A Smart Control Room set up during the pandemic has been tracking arrivals from cellphone data, roughly confirming pre-pandemic estimates of 25 million to 30 million arrivals a year, said Michele Zuin, the city's top economic official. That includes both day-trippers and overnight guests.

But Zuin said the data is incomplete.

"It's clear we will get more reliable data from the contribution" being paid by day-trippers, he said.

Venturini said the city is strained when the number of day-trippers reaches 30,000 to 40,000. On peak days, local police set up one-way traffic for pedestrians to keep the crowds moving.

Residents opposing the day-tripper tax insist that the solution to Venice's woes are to boost the resident population and the services they need, limiting short-term rentals to make available more housing and attract families back from the mainland.

Last year, Venice passed a telling milestone when the number of tourist beds exceeded for the first time the number of official residents, which is now below 50,000 in the historic center with its picturesque canals.

"Putting a ticket to enter a city will not decrease not even by one single unit the number of visitors that are coming,'' said Tommaso Cacciari, an activist who organized a protest Thursday against the measure.

"You pay a ticket to take the metro, to go to a museum, an amusement park. You don't pay a ticket to enter a city. This is the last symbolic step of a project of an idea of this municipal administration to kick residents out of Venice," he said.

Venice officials expected paid day-tripper arrivals Thursday to reach about 10,000. More than 70,000 others had downloaded a QR code denoting an exemption, including to work in Venice or as a resident of the Veneto region. Hotels in Venice, including in mainland districts like Marghera or Mestre, should provide a QR code attesting to their stay, which includes a hotel tax.

Venturini, the tourist official, said that interest in Venice's pilot program has been keen from other places suffering from mass tourism, including other Italian art cities, and municipalities abroad such as Barcelona, Spain, and Amsterdam.

But Marina Rodino, who has lived in Venice for 30 years, doesn't see the fee as the cure-all. Neighboring apartments in her residential building near the famed Rialto Bridge once inhabited by families are now short-term apartment rentals.

The corner butcher shop closed. Yet she noted that the new entrance fee requirement will still allow young people to flood the city in the evening for the traditional aperitivo, which can grow rowdy.

She was passing out mock European Union passports for "Venice, Open City," underlining the irony of the new system, and challenging its legal standing with citations from the Italian Constitution guaranteeing its citizens the right to "move or reside freely in any part of the national territory."

"This is not a natural oasis. This is not a museum. It is not Pompeii. It is a city, where we need to fight so the houses are inhabited by families, and stores reopen. That is what would counter this wild tourism,'' Rodino said.

Copyright 2024 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.

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Venice tests a 5-euro entry fee for day-trippers as the italian city grapples with overtourism.

Colleen Barry

Associated Press

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved

Stewards check tourists QR code access outside the main train station in Venice, Italy, Thursday, April 25, 2024. The fragile lagoon city of Venice begins a pilot program Thursday to charge daytrippers a 5 euro entry fee that authorities hope will discourage tourists from arriving on peak days. The daytripper tax is being tested on 29 days through July, mostly weekends and holidays starting with Italy's Liberation Day holiday Thursday. Officials expect some 10,000 people will pay the fee to access the city on the first day, downloading a QR code to prove their payment, while another 70,000 will receive exceptions, for example, because they work in Venice or live in the Veneto region. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

VENICE – Under the gaze of the world’s media, the fragile lagoon city of Venice launched a pilot program Thursday to charge day-trippers a 5-euro ($5.35) entry fee that authorities hope will discourage visitors from arriving on peak days and make the city more livable for its dwindling residents.

Visitors arriving at Venice's main train station were greeted with large signs listing the 29 dates through July of the plan's test phase that also designated separate entrances for tourists, and residents, students and workers.

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“We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents,’’ said Simone Venturini, the city’s top tourism official. “We need to safeguard the spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days.”

Not all residents, however, are persuaded of the efficacy of the new system in dissuading mass tourism , insisting that only a resurgence in the population will restore balance to a city where narrow alleyways and water buses are often clogged with tourists.

Hundreds of Venetians protested against the program, marching festively though the city's main bus terminal behind banners reading “No to Tickets, Yes to Services and Housing.” Protesters scuffled briefly with police with riot gear who blocked them from entering the city, before changing course and entering over another bridge escorted by plainclothes police officers. The demonstration wrapped up peacefully in a piazza.

Tourists arriving at the main station encountered almost as many journalists as stewards on hand to politely guide anyone unaware of the new requirements through the process of downloading the QR code to pay the fee.

Arianna Cecilia, a tourist from Rome visiting Venice for the first time, said she thought it was “strange” to have to pay to enter a city in her native country, and be funneled through separate entrance ways for tourists. She and her boyfriend were staying in nearby Treviso, and so downloaded the QR code as required. But she was still caught off-guard while soaking in her first view ever of Venice's canals by the sight of the entrance signs and her boyfriend telling her to get out the ticket.

On the other side of the entrance ways, workers in yellow vests carried out random checks at the train station. Transgressors face fines of 50 to 300 euros ($53 to $320), but officials said “common sense” was being applied for the launch.

The requirement applies only for people arriving between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Outside of those hours, access is free and unchecked.

Venice has long suffered under the pressure of overtourism, and officials hope that the pilot project can help provide more exact figures to better manage the phenomenon.

The city can track the number of hotel visitors, which last year numbered 4.6 million and is down 16% from pre-pandemic highs. But the number of day visitors, which make up the majority of the crowds in Venice, could only be estimated until recently.

A Smart Control Room set up during the pandemic has been tracking arrivals from cellphone data, roughly confirming pre-pandemic estimates of 25 million to 30 million arrivals a year, said Michele Zuin, the city’s top economic official. That includes both day-trippers and overnight guests.

But Zuin said the data is incomplete.

“It’s clear we will get more reliable data from the contribution” being paid by day-trippers, he said.

Venturini said the city is strained when the number of day-trippers reaches 30,000 to 40,000. On peak days, local police set up one-way traffic for pedestrians to keep the crowds moving.

Residents opposing the day-tripper tax insist that the solution to Venice's woes are to boost the resident population and the services they need, limiting short-term rentals to make available more housing and attract families back from the mainland.

Last year, Venice passed a telling milestone when the number of tourist beds exceeded for the first time the number of official residents, which is now below 50,000 in the historic center with its picturesque canals.

“Putting a ticket to enter a city will not decrease not even by one single unit the number of visitors that are coming,’’ said Tommaso Cacciari, an activist who organized a protest Thursday against the measure.

“You pay a ticket to take the metro, to go to a museum, an amusement park. You don’t pay a ticket to enter a city. This is the last symbolic step of a project of an idea of this municipal administration to kick residents out of Venice,” he said.

Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro declared the launch day, coinciding with an Italian holiday, a success, registering 15,700 paying visitors, 50% more than anticipated.

More than 97,000 others had downloaded a QR code denoting an exemption, including to work in Venice or as a resident of the Veneto region. Hotels in Venice, including in mainland districts like Marghera or Mestre, provided a QR code for visitors to attest to their stay, which includes a hotel tax — accounting for 40,000 of those.

Venturini, the tourist official, said that interest in Venice’s pilot program has been keen from other places suffering from mass tourism, including other Italian art cities, and municipalities abroad such as Barcelona, Spain, and Amsterdam.

But Marina Rodino, who has lived in Venice for 30 years, doesn't see the fee as the cure-all. Neighboring apartments in her residential building near the famed Rialto Bridge once inhabited by families are now short-term apartment rentals.

The corner butcher shop closed. Yet she noted that the new entrance fee requirement will still allow young people to flood the city in the evening for the traditional aperitivo, which can grow rowdy.

She was passing out mock European Union passports for “Venice, Open City,” underlining the irony of the new system, and challenging its legal standing with citations from the Italian Constitution guaranteeing its citizens the right to “move or reside freely in any part of the national territory."

“This is not a natural oasis. This is not a museum. It is not Pompeii. It is a city, where we need to fight so the houses are inhabited by families, and stores reopen. That is what would counter this wild tourism,’’ Rodino said.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.