Your family’s idea of fun is following curiosity wherever it leads, from scenic trails and sparkling waterways to historic sites and hands-on learning experiences. For you, the best vacations are filled with discovery, wonder and those “wow, I didn’t know that” moments.
Here’s your list of curiosity-filled family fun.
Tour Edison and Ford Winter Estates, stroll through lush historic gardens and step inside Edison’s remarkable laboratory complex. You’ll get a deeper look at the inventions, friendships and curiosity that helped transform the modern world.
Delve into vintage artifacts that reveal Pine Island’s unique history at Museum of the Islands. Extend the experience with one of the museum’s plein air painting outings in a scenic coastal setting.
Each September, this one-of-a-kind festival features 60+ free performances from the nation’s best BMI songwriters. It’s the perfect time to visit on a budget - the majority of the performances are free and you can also take advantage of special deals on hotels, dining and attractions.
Learn about the colorful founders and architectural details of the charming Fort Myers River District on a guided walking tour with True Tours. Afterward, browse the eclectic treasures at The Franklin Shops, a multi-level collection of unique clothing, jewelry and artwork.
Participate in collaborative cooking classes featuring hands-on demonstrations at The Workshop at Luminary Hotel & Co. You’ll not only learn something new, you’ll also get to taste the delicious creations.
Visit the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum to learn about the island’s fascinating history. They also offer the chance to climb to the top of the lighthouse – check their website for dates and times. Enjoy the beach and have lunch at Key Lime Bistro & Loose Caboose Ice Cream Shop.
Discover working studios, waterfront galleries and painted telephone polls throughout the area that reflect the creative spirit of this historic fishing village. Live like a local with lunch at the Blue Dog Cafe, a favorite for fresh seafood and local craft beer.
Explore the unconventional ideas and preserved grounds of a 19th-century utopian settlement at Koreshan State Park. Then fast forward to the future with an amazing virtual reality experience at Sandbox VR.
See a show at one of the area’s top performing arts venues. Famous comedians, Broadway hits, big-name musicians and more provide unforgettable entertainment.
Explore the Calusa Heritage Trail, a nearly one-mile interpretive walkway located at the Randell Research Center on Pine Island. See the remains of a powerful Calusa Indian village, including enormous shell mounds and ancient canals filled with wading birds, fish and other coastal wildlife.
Paddle the winding Estero River with Estero River Outfitters, where mangrove tunnels and tidal creeks reveal Southwest Florida’s rich coastal ecosystems. Watch for herons, turtles and fish darting below your kayak.
Explore the undeveloped dunes and coastal waters at Lovers Key State Park. Watch for dolphins offshore and shorebirds along the tide line then head to Flippers on the Bay for waterfront dining that extends the coastal experience into sunset.
Join an adult coastal program with Sanibel Sea School and explore tidal ecosystems, marine life and shell science through a hands-on field experience designed for curious minds. You’ll examine the delicate balance of barrier island habitats while learning directly from marine educators.
Stay at South Seas on Captiva Island to experience golf with a coastal twist. The resort is home to The Clutch, a redesigned nine-hole short course by Chip Powell ranked among the top five short courses in the world. And you’ll enjoy majestic Gulf views from every hole.
At DNA Pickleball in Fort Myers, three indoor courts await for open play, skill-level events, academies and clinics. Whether you’re dropping in for a casual match or signing up for a lesson to sharpen your technique, the indoor setting makes it easy to play year-round.
Head offshore with Sea Trek Fishing Charters for a deep-sea fishing adventure. With guidance from seasoned captains, your family can try your luck catching snapper, grouper and other Gulf species.
Bike the quiet coastal stretch of Bonita Beach, where Gulf breezes and mangrove estuaries reveal Southwest Florida’s natural balance of land and sea. Pause to spot shorebirds and wander down a beach access for a sunset stroll.
Rent a boat from Port Sanibel Marina to explore Cayo Costa, a remote island accessible only by boat. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy pristine beaches perfect for collecting seashells, snorkeling, wandering on nature trails and spotting wildlife.
Climb aboard the sailing vessel Orion’s Child with Magic Wind Adventure Sailing for an unforgettable experience on the water. With space for up to six guests, this private charter offers an intimate setting where your family can fully relax, connect and share the magic of sailing together.
Rent a kayak from Tarpon Bay Explorers inside J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel to explore protected mangrove waterways. You’ll see a wealth of wildlife, from wading birds and fish to occasional dolphins.
Rent a paddleboard from Bonita Jet Ski & Parasail and explore the calm back-bay waters near Big Hickory Pass, where dolphins, manatees and coastal birds are often spotted.
Plan a group outing to the Mound House, built atop a 2,000-year-old Calusa shell mound. Guided tours and kayak experiences reveal the archaeological and ecological significance of this remarkable coastal site. It’s a fascinating outing for all ages.
Enjoy a one-of-kind tour at ECHO Global Farm to learn about sustainable farming practices and how they’re making a positive impact in countries around the world.
Treat your fur baby to the best dog beach on the planet: Dog Beach Park. At this secluded tropical oasis in Bonita Springs, dogs run leash-free and play in the shallow waters. Then head to Doc’s Beach House and dine with your toes - and paws - in the sand and stunning views of the Gulf.
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