Romantic Things to Do in Fort Myers, Florida: Perfect for Couples
Fort Myers, located in beautiful Southwest Florida, is a charming city that offers a wide array of romantic activities for couples. From stunning beaches to cultural experiences and exquisite dining, Fort Myers is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway. Here are 20 of the best romantic date ideas in Fort Myers, Florida.
Top 20 Romantic Date Ideas in Fort Myers:
Enjoy a Sunset Cruise on the Caloosahatchee River
Stroll Through the Edison and Ford Winter Estates
Dine at The Veranda Restaurant
Visit the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center
Relax on Fort Myers Beach
Explore the River District
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Watch a Show at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall
Visit the IMAG History & Science Center
Enjoy a Picnic at Lakes Regional Park
Take a Couples’ Cooking Class at The Good Life
Pamper Yourselves at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Spa
Visit the Burroughs Home and Gardens
Go Wine Tasting at Naples Winery
Take a Scenic Helicopter Tour over Fort Myers
Experience a Horseback Ride at Babcock Ranch
Kayak Through the Mangroves
Visit the Fort Myers Farmers Market
Attend a Sunset Celebration at Times Square
Explore the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
Fort Myers Pier
1. Enjoy a Sunset Cruise on the Caloosahatchee River
One of the best things to do in Fort Myers is to take a sunset cruise on the Caloosahatchee River. These cruises offer breathtaking views of the sunset over the water, providing a perfect setting for a romantic evening.
Insider Tips:
Book in Advance: Sunset cruises can fill up quickly, so it’s best to book your tickets in advance.
Bring a Camera: Capture the beautiful sunset and the serene surroundings.
Recommendations:
Bring Refreshments: Some cruises allow you to bring your own wine and snacks.
Comfortable Seating: Choose a cruise with comfortable seating for the best experience.
Why Visit: A sunset cruise offers tranquility and beautiful views, making it one of the best romantic things to do in Fort Myers.
Link: Fort Myers Sunset Cruises
2. Stroll Through the Edison and Ford Winter Estates
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates offer a lush tropical garden that provides a serene and romantic setting for couples. The estate features a variety of exotic plants, water features, and winding pathways perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Insider Tips:
Visit During Special Events: Check the estate’s schedule for special events like evening lantern walks or flower shows.
Bring a Picnic: Enjoy a picnic in the designated areas for a truly romantic experience.
Recommendations:
Guided Tours: Take a guided tour to learn more about the plants and history of the estates.
Photography: Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the gardens.
Why Visit: The Edison and Ford Winter Estates offer a peaceful escape into nature, providing a perfect setting for romance and relaxation.
Link: Edison and Ford Winter Estates
3. Dine at The Veranda Restaurant
The Veranda is one of Fort Myers’ most renowned fine dining establishments, known for its exquisite cuisine and elegant atmosphere. It’s the perfect place for a romantic dinner.
Insider Tips:
Reservations Recommended: This popular restaurant often books up, so make reservations in advance.
Special Occasions: Let the staff know if you’re celebrating a special occasion for personalized service.
Recommendations:
Wine Pairing: Ask for wine pairing recommendations to complement your meal.
Outdoor Seating: Request a table on the patio for a more intimate dining experience.
Why Visit: The Veranda offers an exceptional dining experience with a romantic ambiance, making it one of the best places to visit for a special night out in Fort Myers.
Link: The Veranda Restaurant
4. Visit the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center
The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center offers a sophisticated and cultural experience for couples. The center features a variety of art exhibits, sculpture gardens, and educational programs.
Insider Tips:
Check Exhibit Schedule: Visit the center’s website to see current and upcoming exhibits.
Museum Café: Enjoy a coffee or light snack at the center’s café.
Recommendations:
Docent Tours: Join a docent-led tour for in-depth information about the exhibits.
Special Programs: Check for special programs or evening events for a unique art experience.
Why Visit: The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center provides a cultural and intellectual experience, perfect for couples who appreciate art and creativity.
Link: Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center
5. Relax on Fort Myers Beach
Fort Myers Beach is one of the city’s most beautiful and serene beaches, offering soft sands and clear waters. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic beach day.
Insider Tips:
Sunset Beach Walks: Visit in the late afternoon for a romantic walk along the beach as the sun sets.
Pack a Picnic: Bring a picnic basket and enjoy a meal by the ocean.
Recommendations:
Beach Chairs and Umbrella: Bring beach chairs and an umbrella for comfort.
Water Activities: Try paddleboarding or kayaking for a fun and active beach day.
Why Visit: Fort Myers Beach offers a tranquil and scenic setting for a romantic beach outing, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of Southwest Florida.
Link: Fort Myers Beach
6. Explore the River District
The River District, Fort Myers’ historic downtown area, is perfect for a leisurely stroll with your loved one. Explore unique boutiques, art galleries, and enjoy a meal at one of the many excellent restaurants.
Insider Tips:
Visit During Events: Check the event calendar for special events, festivals, and live music.
Window Shopping: Take your time exploring the shops and galleries.
Recommendations:
Dining: Try one of the local seafood restaurants for a delicious and romantic dinner.
Dessert: Stop by one of the local bakeries or ice cream shops for a sweet treat.
Why Visit: The River District offers a charming and vibrant atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a romantic day out.
Link: Fort Myers River District
7. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
For a truly unique and romantic experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the Fort Myers area. Enjoy breathtaking aerial views and the thrill of floating in the sky.
Insider Tips:
Best Time to Fly: Early morning flights provide the most stunning views.
Booking: Reserve your flight in advance to ensure availability.
Recommendations:
Photography: Bring a camera to capture the stunning aerial views.
Special Occasions: Consider booking a flight for special occasions like anniversaries or proposals.
Why Visit: A hot air balloon ride offers a unique and breathtaking perspective of Fort Myers, making it an unforgettable romantic experience.
Link: Hot Air Balloon Rides
8. Watch a Show at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall
The Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall offers a variety of live performances, including plays, musicals, and concerts. It’s a great way to enjoy a night out with your partner, experiencing the vibrant arts scene in Fort Myers.
Insider Tips:
Check the Schedule: Visit the hall’s website to see the current and upcoming performances.
Pre-Show Dining: Enjoy a meal at one of the nearby restaurants before the show.
Recommendations:
Season Tickets: Consider purchasing season tickets for regular theatre-goers.
Special Events: Look for special events and concerts for a unique theatre experience.
Why Visit: The Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall offers high-quality performances in an intimate setting, making it a perfect choice for a romantic night out.
Link: Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall
9. Visit the IMAG History & Science Center
The IMAG History & Science Center offers an educational and interactive experience for couples. Explore the diverse exhibits and enjoy special events and programs.
Insider Tips:
Check Event Schedule: Look for special events like interactive exhibits or science shows.
Behind-the-Scenes Tours: Consider a behind-the-scenes tour for a more in-depth experience.
Recommendations:
Café: Enjoy a coffee or snack at the center’s café.
Photography: Bring a camera to capture the fascinating exhibits.
Why Visit: The IMAG History & Science Center provides an engaging and fun experience, perfect for couples who love science and adventure.
Link: IMAG History & Science Center
10. Enjoy a Picnic at Lakes Regional Park
Lakes Regional Park is a beautiful nature park with walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic picnic.
Insider Tips:
Wildlife Watching: Bring binoculars for bird watching and spotting other wildlife.
Kayaking: Rent a kayak and explore the waterways.
Recommendations:
Picnic Essentials: Pack a picnic basket with your favorite foods and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Photography: Capture the natural beauty of the park with your camera.
Why Visit: Lakes Regional Park offers a peaceful and scenic setting for a romantic outing, providing a perfect escape from the city.
Link: Lakes Regional Park
11. Take a Couples’ Cooking Class at The Good Life
Several culinary schools and cooking studios in Fort Myers offer hands-on cooking classes that are perfect for couples. Learn new recipes and cooking techniques from professional chefs in a fun and interactive environment.
Insider Tips:
Book Early: Classes fill up quickly, so book your spot in advance.
BYOB: Some classes are BYOB, allowing you to bring your favorite wine to enjoy during the class.
Recommendations:
Themed Classes: Look for themed classes that match your culinary interests.
Private Classes: Consider booking a private class for a more personalized experience.
Why Visit: A couples’ cooking class is a fun and interactive way to spend time together, learning new skills and enjoying delicious food.
Link: The Good Life
12. Pamper Yourselves at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Spa
Sanibel Harbour Marriott Spa offers luxurious spa treatments and packages for couples. Relax and rejuvenate with massages, facials, and other pampering services.
Insider Tips:
Spa Packages: Book a couples’ massage or a spa package for a truly relaxing experience.
Reservations: Make reservations in advance to ensure availability.
Recommendations:
Spa Day: Plan a full day of pampering with multiple treatments.
Dining: Enjoy a meal at the nearby restaurant after your spa session.
Why Visit: Sanibel Harbour Marriott Spa offers a luxurious and romantic escape, perfect for pampering yourselves and enjoying each other’s company.
Link: Sanibel Harbour Marriott Spa
13. Visit the Burroughs Home and Gardens
The Burroughs Home and Gardens, located in the historic River District, offers a glimpse into Fort Myers’ rich history and beautiful gardens. Explore the beautifully preserved rooms and exhibits.
Insider Tips:
Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the home and gardens.
Special Exhibits: Check for special exhibits and events.
Recommendations:
Photography: Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and gardens.
Gift Shop: Visit the museum gift shop for unique souvenirs.
Why Visit: The Burroughs Home and Gardens offers a fascinating and romantic journey through Fort Myers’ history, making it one of the best things to do for history lovers.
Link: Burroughs Home and Gardens
14. Go Wine Tasting at Naples Winery
Naples Winery, located just a short drive from Fort Myers, offers guided wine tasting tours to local wineries and wine bars. Enjoy sampling a variety of wines and learning about the winemaking process.
Insider Tips:
Tour Packages: Choose from different tour packages based on your preferences.
Reservations: Book your tour in advance to ensure availability.
Recommendations:
Wine Flights: Try a wine flight to sample a variety of their best wines.
Picnicking: Bring a picnic to enjoy at the winery.
Why Visit: Wine tasting at Naples Winery offers a relaxing and enjoyable experience, perfect for a romantic outing.
Link: Naples Winery
15. Take a Scenic Helicopter Tour over Fort Myers
For a truly unique and romantic experience, consider taking a scenic helicopter tour over Fort Myers. Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the city, the coastline, and the surrounding area.
Insider Tips:
Best Time to Fly: Sunset flights provide the most stunning views.
Booking: Reserve your flight in advance to ensure availability.
Recommendations:
Photography: Bring a camera to capture the stunning aerial views.
Special Occasions: Consider booking a flight for special occasions like anniversaries or proposals.
Why Visit: A scenic helicopter tour offers a unique and breathtaking perspective of Fort Myers, making it an unforgettable romantic experience.
Link: Helicopter Tours
16. Experience a Horseback Ride at Babcock Ranch
Babcock Ranch offers guided horseback riding tours through beautiful trails and natural landscapes. It’s a perfect activity for couples who love the outdoors and adventure.
Insider Tips:
Best Time to Ride: Early morning or late afternoon rides provide the most comfortable temperatures.
Reservations: Book your ride in advance to ensure availability.
Recommendations:
Photography: Bring a camera to capture the scenic trails and wildlife.
Riding Gear: Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes.
Why Visit: A horseback ride at Babcock Ranch offers a unique and adventurous experience, perfect for a romantic outing.
Link: Babcock Ranch
17. Kayak Through the Mangroves
Kayaking through the mangroves in Fort Myers offers a serene and adventurous experience. Paddle through winding waterways and enjoy the natural beauty of Southwest Florida.
Insider Tips:
Guided Tours: Consider booking a guided tour for the best experience.
Best Time to Kayak: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and wildlife sightings.
Recommendations:
Bring Water: Stay hydrated during your kayaking adventure.
Photography: Bring a waterproof camera to capture the scenic views.
Why Visit: Kayaking through the mangroves offers a peaceful and scenic setting for a romantic adventure, providing a perfect escape from the city.
Link: Kayak Tours
18. Visit the Fort Myers Farmers Market
The Fort Myers Farmers Market offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll with your loved one. Explore fresh produce, artisanal goods, and enjoy delicious food from local vendors.
Insider Tips:
Visit Early: Arrive early for the best selection of fresh produce and goods.
Bring Cash: Some vendors may not accept credit cards.
Recommendations:
Sample Local Foods: Try some of the local delicacies and treats.
Take Home Souvenirs: Purchase unique artisanal goods as souvenirs.
Why Visit: The Fort Myers Farmers Market offers a charming and vibrant atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a romantic morning outing.
Link: Fort Myers Farmers Market
19. Attend a Sunset Celebration at Times Square
Times Square on Fort Myers Beach offers a lively and festive atmosphere, especially during the sunset celebration. Enjoy live music, street performers, and beautiful sunset views.
Insider Tips:
Arrive Early: Get there early to find a good spot for the sunset.
Stay for Dinner: Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants in Times Square.
Recommendations:
Street Performers: Take some time to enjoy the local street performers and musicians.
Photography: Capture the beautiful sunset and lively atmosphere.
Why Visit: The Sunset Celebration at Times Square offers a festive and romantic setting, perfect for enjoying a beautiful evening with your loved one.
Link: Times Square
20. Explore the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
The Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve offers a beautiful and tranquil setting for a romantic nature walk. Explore the boardwalk trails and enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of Southwest Florida.
Insider Tips:
Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the flora and fauna.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and wildlife activity.
Recommendations:
Photography: Bring a camera to capture the scenic views and wildlife.
Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable walking shoes for the boardwalk trails.
Why Visit: The Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve offers a peaceful and scenic setting for a romantic nature walk, making it one of the best things to do in Fort Myers.
Link: Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
Conclusion
Fort Myers is an ideal destination for couples looking to enjoy a romantic getaway. From sunset cruises and botanical gardens to fine dining and serene beaches, there are plenty of romantic things to do in Fort Myers. Use this guide to plan your next romantic adventure and create unforgettable memories with your loved one. Whether you’re pampering yourselves at a luxurious spa, exploring the vibrant arts scene, or enjoying a scenic flight, Fort Myers offers countless opportunities for romance and connection in beautiful Southwest Florida.
