LEE COUNTY

Blossom & Brie

FUN: Blossom & Brie is a working farm, complete with pigs, heritage chickens, ducks, majestic longhorn cattle and outgoing miniature donkeys. Most are eager to greet visitors from within their fenced pastures and pens, especially visitors who stopped first at the restaurant cashier to pick up a $5 bunch of carrots.

Blossom & Brie also grows vegetables in elevated beds and a Freight Farm — a hydroponic farm built within a shipping container — allowing for a controlled environment year-round.

This working farm with its farm-to-table restaurant is worth the trip simply for the food — whether it’s brunch (Saturdays and Sundays), lunch (Wednesday through Friday) or dinner (Wednesday through Saturday).

Seafood gumbo, house-made bread and cinnamon rolls (worth the calories), smoked Red Wattle pulled pork sandwiches, jerk chicken, mushroom risotto and smashburgers are among the many well-executed dishes crafted with food raised or grown on the 86-acre farm.

Go during the day, at least the first time — as the property is tucked into a rural area of North Fort Myers — when the farm animals are awake. What the donkeys lack in stature, they more than make up for with their vocalizations.

Blossom, the matriarch donkey, and her offspring, Humphrey and Margaret, serve as guardians for the livestock, sounding a noisy alarm at the presence of predators. They are especially receptive to carrots.

Children are welcome; pets are not, for obvious reasons. It’s always wise to make a reservation. Check the website for special events, farm market days and wine dinners.

8250 Nalle Grade Road, North Fort Myers 239-385-0415 | blossomandbrie.com

Edison and Ford Winter Estates/ The Banyan Café

FUN: The men to whom these two historic homes belonged need little introduction. Suffice it to say that prodigious inventor Thomas Edison built his Seminole Lodge between McGregor Boulevard and the Caloosahatchee. His botanical garden and museum, along with the home of his next-door neighbor and friend, automaker and industrialist Henry Ford, occupy 21 choice acres on both sides of palm-lined McGregor Boulevard, just blocks from downtown. Lovers of history, architecture, botany and chemistry — as well as the just-plain-curious — flock to this site, which Mr. Edison occupied every winter from 1886 until his death in 1931. Ford purchased the adjoining property, known as The Mangoes, in 1916.

Guides provide comprehensive information on both homes as well as the Edison Ford Museum, botanical laboratory and the botanical gardens, which include more than 1,750 plants from around the world.

FOOD: Feeling hungry after a tour? The Banyan Café is on the grounds (admission fee not required). It operates out of a vintage teardrop camper under the sprawling banyan trees, serving serious coffee and treats. Open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, from October through April.

2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 239-334-7419 | edisonfordwinterestates.org

COLLIER COUNTY

Naples Botanical Garden/Fogg Café

FUN: Whether it’s a simple stroll, a guided tour or an in-depth workshop that seems appealing, visitors to the Naples Botanical Garden will find lush, tropical gardens to enjoy. There are special activities for birders, the family-friendly W.O.N.D.E.R. programs with fun lessons and activities, a guided one-mile walk with some light stretches and a lesson on how Florida’s natural ecosystems contribute to the planet’s health. Through April, the garden is open late (from 5 to 8 p.m.) on Wednesdays so visitors can enjoy the sunset.

FOOD: Like the botanical gardens, the Fogg Café is intentionally designed. Open daily (November through May), it has indoor and outdoor seating, both of which offer expansive views of the garden. The fast-casual café offers breakfast and lunch with a menu of fresh, contemporary fare. Breakfast features include avocado smash toast, banana bread, Belgian waffles and fresh fruit cups, along with a variety of coffees. For lunch, choose from fresh salads, including mango chicken salad and Fuji apple walnut salad, Caribbean shrimp tacos, burgers, brats, hand-cut fries and sweets for dessert.

4820 Bayshore Drive 239-643-7275 | naplesgarden.org

CHARLOTTE COUNTY

Babcock Ranch Eco Tours/Gator Shack Restaurant

FUN: Amid all the development taking place in southeastern Punta Gorda and northeastern Lee County – most notably the solar community of Babcock Ranch – a 14,000-acre working cattle ranch gives visitors a first-hand look at this region’s history and wildlife.

Take a 90-minute swamp buggy eco-tour of the Crescent B Ranch. The swamp buggy travels through multiple Florida ecosystems that are home to spotted owls, wild turkeys, wild boars, alligators and other native flora and fauna. A knowledgeable guide provides the narrative. There are walking trails to explore on your own, a photography tour at 7:30 a.m. on the first Saturday of the month and a night tour at 5:30 p.m. on the last Saturday of the month.

FOOD: The Gator Shack Restaurant offers a rotating selection of hearty Southern-style fare and barbecue. Its signature dish is gator bites served with homemade sauce. Other dishes include cheeseburgers, fried shrimp, chili, quesadillas, pulled pork and cornbread. The restaurant is open 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily.

8502 State Road 31, Punta Gorda 800-500-5583 | babcockranchecotours.com

WORTH THE TRIP

Solomon’s Castle/Boat in the Moat

FUN: The Castle Doctrine declares that “A man’s house is his castle.” New York transplant Howard Solomon – sculptor, painter, author and dreamer – took that literally, building an actual castle on a swampy 40-acre property in Ona, population 199, between Wauchula and Arcadia. Starting in the early ‘70s, King Howard built his 12,000-square-foot structure without formal blueprints or plans, incorporating a lot of found objects.

Solomon’s Castle’s shiny exterior comes from discarded aluminum offset printing plates he bought from a local newspaper. A lion sculpture starts with a discarded oil drum. Everything – from the soaring three-story building to the 90 stained-glass windows to the two sentries (Knight Day and Knight Night) at the castle entrance, hundreds of artworks inside and the (landlocked) Boat in the Moat outside – was hand done by Mr. Solomon. He died a decade ago at 81, but his castle remains, as do the punny scripts still used by guides. His daughter, Alane, manages castle operations.

FOOD: Boat in the Moat is a 60-foot replica of a 16th-century Portuguese galleon situated in the manmade moat. It’s the castle’s restaurant, built after years of requests by busloads of hungry tourists. Malteds and milkshakes, sandwiches, homemade chicken pot pie, meatloaf, salads and desserts (chocolate cherry cake, apple crisp) can be found on the menu.

4533 Solomon Road, Ona 863-494-6077 | solomonscastle.com

Down by the Riverside

If you’ve ever needed an excuse to abandon the bustle of Tamiami Trail, Riverside Park in Bonita Springs has your alibi. The Imperial River runs straight to the heart of old downtown Bonita and its ongoing redevelopment, trickling into the past at the historic riverside Liles Hotel. Dating back to 1926, the old hotel is now the centerpiece of a historic plaza.

Later in its life, the hotel became the Imperial River Court tourist camp, and the six restored circa-1945 fishing shacks next to it survive from that era. (They made a cameo appearance in Sean Connery’s 1990 “Just Cause.”) They are home to art galleries and a paddlecraft rental operation.

The park’s imposing bandstand makes this a popular spot for community events such as music and art festivals. It’s the perfect place to bring a picnic lunch, walk shaded trails, explore the park’s sculptures or take a leisurely paddle into the past.

Riverside Park makes an excellent jumping-off point for downtown’s burgeoning entertainment scene. Stroll to the neighboring shops, Rooftop at Riverside food truck park, Chartreuse Craft Cocktail Lounge, Sugarshack Downtown music venue, Downtown Coffee & Wine Company and Ceremony Brewing.

Shop ’til you dine

North Naples has been making a name for itself as a youthful, trendy neighborhood where it’s easy to spend an entire day on retail therapy sustained by endless dining and clubbing options.

From Mercato entertainment center on the district’s north end and south to Waterside Shops, Tamiami Trail takes you on a trip along such dining hotspots as Bar Tulia, Joe’s Diner and Bicyclette Cookshop. Interspersed are luxury name boutiques like Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Pottery Barn at Waterside Shops and art galleries, Whole Foods and Sur La Table outlets at Mercato.

Off Tamiami, Pine Ridge Road leads eastward to the Naples Art District, home to studios of local artists, which offers a shopping experience that is purely Naples. For the family, North Naples holds two side-by-side destinations in North Collier Regional Park: Children’s Museum of Naples (CMON) and Sun-N-Fun Lagoon waterpark.

To the west, you’re bound to end up at the beach. Vanderbilt Beach scores with those who love a long stroll with a lunch stop at the Turtle Club or the Ritz-Carlton Naples’ Gumbo Limbo beach bar. Nature-lovers will gravitate to Delnor-Wiggins State Park for an escape from city vibes.

Fishy and old Florida

At the opposite end of Collier County from Naples — physically and fundamentally — Everglades City originally served as the county seat, back in the days when the Tamiami Trail was inching across the wetland wilderness to Miami circa 1923. You can learn more about that formidable feat at the Museum of the Everglades, where developer Barron Collier housed the laundry operation for his roadbuilding camp. Another remnant of the era, the Rod & Gun Club, once Collier’s grand home, today serves fried frog legs, alligator tail, stone crab and other ‘glades fare.

One of Florida’s few remaining working waterfronts, the Barron River is home to a vibrant fishing fleet and a handful of seafood houses like City Seafood, where the fish is same-day fresh. The river also serves as a throughway for airboat tours buzzing like giant mosquitoes into the Everglades’ River of Grass for a zippy ride of a lifetime.

As a gateway to the western entrance of Everglades National Park, Everglades City offers the opportunity to spy myriad birds, dolphins, alligators and other rare creatures in their natural habitats. Park tours depart from the visitor center docks. It is also the launch of the 99-mile Wilderness Waterway paddling trail, which runs across the state. You can also set up a shorter adventure to get close to the region’s secluded, wildlife-rich Ten Thousand Islands.

Way-back wayfaring

Pine Island is something of a local secret in these parts — known mostly to fishing types — and dates back 2,000 years. That’s when the Calusa tribe settled in what is known today as Pineland. The 0.7-mile Calusa Heritage Trail envisions the tribe’s social structure, daily life and spirituality. Vivid signage interprets points of interest along the way: the 30-foot-high Brown’s Mound visitors climb to reach “the top of the world,” with a scenic overlook, the Calusa Canals and the Smith Mound, where the Calusa entombed their departed.

Pineland is one of Pine Island’s four communities, and it’s the least discovered. Across the road from the Calusa Heritage Trail, another historic complex remembers another bygone era of fisherfolk. In the 1920s, visitors came to sip, sup and sleep at the Tarpon Lodge following a day in Pine Island Sound pulling in tarpon and other trophy fish. The tradition continues in the historic lodge with its acclaimed restaurant and water-view rooms that take you decidedly away from it all.

Riveting river vibes

Don’t let its compact size fool you. Downtown Punta Gorda is a vibrant cultural destination. On the Peace River, on its historic streets, on its walls — roughly half of the city’s 30-plus murals pop up around the heart of downtown’s main streets of Tamiami Trail, Marion Avenue and Olympia Avenue. They tell the stories behind the historic buildings, some of which now house highly acclaimed restaurants such as The Perfect Caper, River City Grill and Leroy’s Southern Kitchen.

Boutique shops intersperse with the restaurants, selling books, art and fashion finery. The best dining and drinking with river views is at the Wyvern Hotel and Four Points by Sheraton. Head up to the rooftop at the Wyvern for tapas and cocktails at Perch 360. TT’s Tiki Bar fronts the Four Points along the 2.5-mile Harborwalk. Go for a relaxed lunch and local craft beer, followed by a scenic stroll.

Stop for ice cream at Harborwalk Scoops and Bites, part of the marina, restaurant, interactive fountains, pathways and green space of Laishley Park.

Since the 1950s, Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South have been the center of Naples’ identity — a blend of seaside elegance and small-town charm. Early visitors arrived by boat at the Naples Pier, trading with the Seminole long before boutique storefronts and fine restaurants lined the sidewalks. The district’s architecture preserves that legacy of understated luxury, where history meets high style.

In recent years, the city’s cultural core has expanded to include the Naples Design District. This creative corridor, known for its artisan studios, galleries and modern dining spots, captures Naples’ evolution from a quiet fishing village to one of the Gulf Coast’s most sophisticated destinations.

Downtown Bonita Springs

Old 41 Road has been the center of Bonita Springs for years and has never been afraid of transformation. In the 1930s, visitors flocked to the Everglades Wonder Gardens, where flamingos and alligators basked in lush greenery. Almost a century later, the reimagined Wonder Gardens remains a centerpiece of the town — honoring the past while serving as a modern botanical and wildlife attraction.

Nearby, the historic Shangri-La Hotel still evokes Bonita’s early reputation for health and hospitality. Around it, a new era of vitality thrives in the preserved buildings, which have been transformed into niche restaurants, breweries and cocktail lounges. Riverside Park is home to concerts, festivals and community groups, while new ventures, such as Sugarshack Downtown, feature live music, craft beer and a welcoming, hometown vibe.

Everglades City

Known as the “Gateway to the Ten Thousand Islands,” Everglades City remains a historic fishing village surrounded by mangroves and unspoiled wilderness. Once the Collier County seat, it retains its Old Florida flavor with airboat tours, stone crab shacks and stilted cottages along the Barron River. The town proudly hosts the annual Everglades Seafood Festival each February, celebrating local heritage and the start of stone crab season. With nearby access to Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve, it remains a rare link between Florida’s past and its wild, natural heart.

Fort Myers Historic River District

Fort Myers’ Historic River District reflects a rare success story — a downtown saved from decline through preservation and pride. Once overshadowed by suburban growth, its century-old buildings have become home to restaurants, galleries and festivals.

The Edison & Ford Winter Estates helped spark that revival — the 1915 vaudeville house transformed into The Florida Repertory Theatre, the old federal building became an art center, and restaurants like The Veranda tell a story of endurance and reinvention. Today, the River District features rooftop lounges, outdoor markets and places like Bay Street Yard.

Downtown Punta Gorda

Founded in the 1800s, Punta Gorda preserves its harbor-town roots with colorful murals depicting settlers, fishermen and the lives of early residents. Marion Avenue’s lineup of eclectic shops and restaurants — including longtime favorites like The Perfect Caper and Celtic Ray Public House — echoes both history and evolution.

Across the river, Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor draws new energy to the waterfront while honoring the town’s maritime legacy. Rooftop lounges at the Wyvern Hotel and the lively TT’s Tiki Bar at Four Points by Sheraton embrace life on the water. At the same time, Laishley Park and the surrounding trails provide opportunities to enjoy nature.

Boca Grande

Boca Grande began as the home of tarpon fishing, grand hotels and railroad tycoons escaping northern winters. The Gasparilla Inn, built in 1913, still conveys refined sophistication, and the old rail line now doubles as a scenic bike and golf cart path.

Today, the downtown area features shops, pastel architecture and canopy-lined streets. The Johann Fust Library, century-old churches and the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum reflect the rich history of Boca Grande. Today, visitors enjoy a timeless mix of elegance and unhurried charm.

PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL 

Atlanta Braves

CoolToday Park, 18800 South West Villages Parkway, Venice
941-413-5000 | braves.com

Boston Red Sox

JetBlue Park, 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers
877-733-7699 | redsox.com

Minnesota Twins

Hammond Stadium, 14100 Six Mile Cypress Parkway, Fort Myers
612-659-3400 | twinsbaseball.com

Tampa Bay Rays

Charlotte Sports Park, 2300 El Jobean Road, Port Charlotte
888-FAN-RAYS | raysbaseball.com

MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL

Fort Myers Mighty Mussels

Hammond Stadium, 14100 Six Mile Cypress Parkway, Fort Myers
239-768-4210 | mightymussels.com

HOCKEY

Florida Everblades

Hertz Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero
239-948-7825 | everblades.com

COLLEGE SPORTS

Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU)

Southwest Florida’s only Division 1 athletics program offers cross-country, golf, tennis, soccer, volleyball, beach volleyball, baseball, softball, basketball and swimming and diving.

10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Fort Myers
239-590-7145 | fgcu.edu

Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW)

FSW is the region’s only junior college athletics program with national titles and rankings in sports such as volleyball, softball and baseball.

8099 College Parkway, Fort Myers
239-489-9300 | fswbucs.com

Ave Maria University

Southwest Florida’s only NAIA program with 23 varsity sports and six club teams.

4810 Kelleher St., Ave Maria
239-280-2500 | avemariagyrenes.com

SOCCER

FC Naples

FC Naples recently concluded its inaugural season in the United Soccer League One with a 13-9-8 record.

Paradise Coast Sports Complex, 3940 City Gate Blvd. N., Naples
239-427-1854 | fcnaples.com

“The best way to experience nature is on foot.” – John Muir

One foot in front of another. One step at a time. That’s the ticket to good health and enjoying the serenity of nature. Southwest Florida offers bustling cities and charming towns, beaches and golf courses and vibrant theater and art. And one of the best ways to explore this sub-tropical paradise is to venture on foot into nature.

“Walking is the most perfect form of motion for a person who wants to discover the true life.” – Henry David Thoreau

There are no mountains in Florida. In fact, the highest elevation in Florida is likely barely high enough to qualify as a hill. The state’s highest elevation is Britton Hill, located in the Panhandle near the Alabama state line, which rises a mere 345 feet above sea level — making it the lowest high point of any state.

But high points of a different, lower-elevation kind can be found far from the Panhandle or any mountains.

“Look deep into nature, and you will understand everything better.” – Albert Einstein

This sampling of Southwest Florida’s natural hiking marvels will steer visitors to the roads less traveled — seemingly miles away from the theme parks, shopping centers and golf courses, yet close enough for a short drive.

Black Island Trail at Lovers Key State Park

What could be better than a walk on the beach at Lovers Key? Try Black Island Trail for a completely different experience and habitat. Lovers Key State Park is a series of small barrier islands on the Lee County coast. Park visitors may see bald eagles or alligators. Hikes along Black Island Trail provide views of estuaries teeming with wildlife. The main loop is five miles, but shortcuts can trim it to 1.2, 1.8, or 2.2 miles.

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

This Southwest Florida treasure boasts the world’s largest collection of virgin bald cypress trees. Some of the trees are 600 years old. The swamp is a sanctuary for Florida wildlife and a gateway site for the Great Florida Birding Trail. The sanctuary features a 1.9-mile boardwalk.

Highlands Hammock State Park

Highlands Hammock State Park opened in 1931 when Herbert Hoover was president and Florida’s population was 1,680,000, or so, according to the 1930 U.S Census. The state’s population is now around 24 million. The 9,000-acre park is in Highlands County, about four miles west of Sebring.

Myakka River State Park

Thousands of motorists a day roar up and down I-75 through Sarasota County and likely have no clue that nine miles to the east is this gem of the Florida State Parks system. The park includes hiking trails and a boardwalk, far from the mad roar of I-75.

Jonathan Dickinson State Park

Florida’s largest state park is in Martin County, a short drive across the peninsula from Fort Myers, Naples and Punta Gorda. It’s just north of the Palm Beach County line and about nine miles north of Jupiter. The park is named after a Quaker merchant from Jamaica who was shipwrecked on the coast in 1696. During World War II, the U.S. Army built Camp Murphy in the park to serve as a top-secret radar school. The land became a state park in 1950.

Rotary Park Environmental Center

Burrowing owls, butterflies and wading birds are three good reasons to hike the often rugged, sometimes soggy trails at Cape Coral’s Rotary Park. Part of the Great Florida Birding & Wildlife Trail, it earns its reputation as a spectacular place to see animals in their natural habitat.

Besides the iconic, pint-sized owl, look for gopher tortoises, alligators and wetland creatures. For wheelchair access and easier, dry hiking, the Glover Bight Trail has a boardwalk surface. Both trails lead to observation towers for the best wildlife-viewing vantage. The Glover Bight Trail is three-tenths of a mile and is wheelchair accessible, although running, biking and dogs are not permitted.

Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (CREW)

If you’re looking to hike for miles and immerse yourself in nature, CREW, in south Lee County, offers trails for hikers and equestrians. In the Flint Pen Strand, a handful of different trails travel a total of more than 15 miles into wetland and pinewoods habitats, where birds of many feathers flock together.

Mindfulness Trail at Ding Darling

Specifically designed for holistic wellness, the Mindfulness Trail at Bailey Tract is part of the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island. The short trail winds around the pond and uplands of Bailey Tract with five stations where hikers can scan QR codes to listen to podcasts that guide their mindfulness practices. Wellness Week features guided walks along the trail, plus a calendar of ranger-led bike tours, sunrise yoga on the beach and expert speakers and presenters.

As Thoreau said, “An early morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.”

Sicilian favorites featuring pastas and nightly specials.
321 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda
941-621-4091 | carmelosristorante.com

Celtic Ray Public House

Authentic Irish pub that serves fish and chips and features live music most nights.
145 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda
941-916-9115 | celticray.net

Donato’s Italian Restaurant

Generous portions of familiar classics provide a sense of old-school charm.
1900 Tamiami Trail, Suite 17, Port Charlotte
941-764-1600 | donatosportcharlotte.com

FM Don’s

Elegant dining that includes steaks, seafood and seasonal specials.
201 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda
941-639-3720 | fmdons.com

Hometown Grill

No-frills breakfasts and lunches, good service, hot coffee and healthy portions.
1931 Tamiami Trail, Suite 10, Port Charlotte
941-629-5898 | thehometowngrill.com

The Grill at 1951

Serves steaks and seafood with white-tablecloth service and live jazz music.
1951 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte
941-255-0994 | thegrillat1951.com

The Icehouse Pub

English-style pub with a rotating beer selection and hearty pub fare.
408 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 111, Punta Gorda
941-575-0866 | theicehousepub.com

Laishley Crab House

Serves seafood towers, sushi and seasonal stone crab as diners watch boats slipping through the calm waters.
150 Laishley Court, Punta Gorda
941-205-5566 | laishleycrabhouse.com

Oak & Iron Raw Bar & Grill

Refined, relaxed dining with options to please every palate.

42070 Cypress Parkway, Babcock Ranch | oarandiron.com

8550 Founders Square Drive, Naples
239-427-3335 | oarandiron.com

8485 Dani Drive, Fort Myers
239-396-4351 | oarandiron.com

Peace River Seafood

Serves buckets of fresh seafood including blue crab, local shrimp and oysters.
5337 Duncan Road, Punta Gorda
941-505-8440 | peaceriverseafood.com

Perfect Caper

Offers a natioally ranked fine dining experience that combines global technique with local ingredients.
121 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda
941-505-9009 | theperfectcaper.com

Prime Serious Steak

Generous servings and bold flavors pair with upscale service.
10361 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda
941-347-8156 | primeserioussteak.com

Riviera Bar & Grill

Features laid-back vibes, freshly made dishes, a waterfront location with boat access, tiki-side cocktails and live music.
5500 Deltona Drive, Punta Gorda
941-639-2633 | rivierabarandgrillpuntagorda.com

TT’s Tiki Bar

Features standard bar fare with waterfront live music, cold drinks and an authentic island vibe.
33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda
941-637-6770 | ttspg.com

The Twisted Fork

Roadhouse vibes, Southern specialties and a busy stage with live entertainment.
2208 El Jobean Road, Port Charlotte
941-235-3675 | twistedfork.net

Combines waterfront dining and breathtaking views. The menu includes seafood and southern-inspired favorites.
799 Walkerbilt Road, Naples
239-591-3837 | bayhousenaples.com

Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro

Persian cuisine layered with spices and flavor that match the chic décor.
865 5th Ave. S., Naples
239-594-5557 | bhabhapersianbistro.com

Bicyclette Cookshop

Creative seasonal menu that draws inspiration from global cuisine and local ingredients.
819 12th Ave. S., Naples
239-316-2424 | bicyclettecookshop.com

Campiello Ristorante & Bar

Features wood-fired pizzas and modern Italian dishes served in the busy courtyard or indoor dining room.
1177 Third St. S., Naples
239-435-1166 | campiello.damico.com

Celebration Park

Waterfront food truck park offering a wide array of options including tacos, barbecue, seafood and global street fare. 
2880 Becca Ave., Naples
239-249-2922 | celebrationparknaples.com

The Dock at Crayton Cove

Features Caribbean-inspired meals, cocktails and sunset views.
845 12th Ave. S., Naples
239-263-9940 | dockcraytoncove.com

Doreen’s Cup of Joe

Serves pancakes, fresh coffee and a full breakfast menu.
267 N. Collier Blvd., Marco Island
239-394-2600 | doreenscupofjoe.com

Everglades City Seafood Depot

Serves fried seafood, oyster platters and seasonal stone crab with rustic charm.
102 Copeland Ave. N., Everglades City | 239-695-0071

Everglades Rod & Gun Club

Rustic lodging and dining, featuring fried seafood, hushpuppies and stone crab, in season.
200 W. Broadway, Everglades City
239-695-2101 | rodandguneverglades.com

Harold’s Place

Serves burgers, shrimp baskets, and cold beer and features poolside live music.
2555 Tamiami Trail N., Naples
239-263-7254 | haroldsnaples.com

Havana Cafe of the Everglades

Known for breakfast, Cuban sandwiches and café con leche.
191 Smallwood Drive, Chokoloskee
239-695-2214 | thehavanacafe.com

Jane’s Cafe on 3rd

Features fresh breakfast and brunch items in the quiet atmosphere of Old Naples.
1209 3rd St. S., Naples
239-261-2253 | janesnaples.com

Jimmy P’s Charred

Upscale steakhouse that serves premium wagyu, prime beef, classic sides and craft cocktails.

1833 Tamiami Trail N., Naples
239-643-2427 | jimmypscharred.com

25301 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 2, Bonita Springs
239-390-0301 | jimmypscharred.com

Lee Be Fish

Humble fish market where the fresh catch of the day goes directly from the boat to the plate.
350 Royal Palm Drive, Marco Island
239-389-0580 | leebefish.com

The Little Bar

Features live bands and a seafood shack that serves up seafood baskets.
205 Harbor Place N., Goodland
239-394-5663 | littlebarrestaurant.com

Oasis The Kitchen Lounge

Offers delicious food, good vibes and an inviting atmosphere that fuses natural and modern design.
5072 Annunciation Circle, Suite 103, Ave Maria
239-658-5938 | oasisavemaria.com

Osteria Tulia

Rustic Italy meets Naples’ sophistication with handmade pastas, wood-roasted meats and craft cocktails.
466 5th Ave. S., Naples
239-213-2073 | osteriatulia.com

The Oyster House

Seafood platters and live music draw patrons to this waterfront relic of Old Florida.
606 Palm Point Drive, Goodland | 239-394-2123

The Oyster Society

Features Art Deco decor, excellent service, seafood, sushi and cocktails.
599 S Collier Blvd., Marco Island
239-394-3474 | theoystersociety.com

Panevino Ristorante Naples

Known for impeccable service and thoughtfully crafted Italian fare in a welcoming environment.
8853 Tamiami Trail N., Naples
239-514-8655 | panevinonaples.com

PJK Neighborhood Chinese Restaurant

A modern Chinese kitchen with a fresh, coastal twist, emphasizing scratch-made sauces, hand-folded dumplings and locally sourced seafood.
835 4th Ave. S., Naples
239-367-0300 | pjkchinese.com

The Real Macaw

Featuring a menu of Caribbean classics and creative cocktails that celebrate tropical living.
3275 Bayshore Drive, Naples
239-732-1188 | realmacawnaples.com

Ridgeway Bar & Grill

Chef-owned, family-oriented restaurant that delivers locally influenced cuisine from scratch and an award-winning wine list.
1300 3rd St. S., Suite 101, Naples
239-262-5500 | ridgewaybarandgrill.com

Stan’s Idle Hour

An unpretentious place where live music on the outdoor stage, water views and libations turn days into big parties.
221 Goodland Drive W., Goodland
239-394-3041 | stansidlehour.net

T-Michaels: Steak & Lobster House

Polished service featuring steak and seafood, offering patrons prime cuts, cold martinis and sunset views.
4050 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples
239-261-0622 | t-michaels.com

Casual food truck park that features live music, a variety of food vendors and an array of craft cocktails.
2136 Bay St., Fort Myers
239-940-8744 | baystreetyard.com

Blossom & Brie

Farm-to-table experience with memorable dishes straight from the fields.
8250 Nalle Grade Road, Fort Myers
239-385-0415 | blossomandbrie.com

The Bohemian

Small-plate concept with craft cocktails and seasonal menu items.
27975 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs
239-451-9619 | bohemian.restaurant

The Bubble Room

Whimsical restaurant known for kitschy décor, oversized servings and nostalgic atmosphere.
15001 Captiva Drive, Captiva
239-472-5558 | bubbleroomcaptiva.com

Bruno’s of Brooklyn

Family-run spot serving old-world Italian flavors with a modern twist.
2149 First St., Fort Myers
239-278-0211 | brunosofbrooklyn.com

Canary Club Pizza & Cocktails

Features a wood-fired oven, creative sourdough pizzas. Outdoor seating, and an inventive menu.
10610 Founders Way, Suite 140, Bonita Springs
239-776-8065 | canaryclubbonita.com

Cielo

Features a piano bar, polished service and fresh, seasonal menu.
1244 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
239-472-5555 | cielo-sanibel.com

Deep Lagoon Seafood & Oyster House

*Additional locations in Naples

Offers a variety of fresh local seafood dishes inside or on the patio.
14040 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers
239-689-5474 | deeplagoon.com

Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grill

(Multiple Locations)

Features Caribbean-inspired seafood in a casual atmosphere.

708 Fisherman’s Wharf, Fort Myers Beach
239-765-9660 | docfords.com

2500 Island Inn Road, Sanibel
239-472-8311 | docfords.com

Fancy’s Southern Café

(Multiple Locations)

Exudes warm hospitality and southern flavors in an upscale atmosphere.

8890 Salrose Lane, Suite 101, Fort Myers
239-561-2988 | fancyssoutherncafe.com

2214 Bay St., Fort Myers
239-208-2564 | fancyssoutherncafe.com

The Firestone Grill Room

Features a two-story dining room serving top-quality prime steaks, fresh seafood and locally sourced produce.
2224 Bay St., Fort Myers, FL 33901
239-334-3473 | firestonefl.com

The Fish House

Specializes in fresh grouper, fried baskets and local seafood.
7225 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach
239-765-6766 | fishhousefortmyersbeach.com

Gramma Dot’s Seaside Saloon

Serves simple and delicious seafood dishes.
634 N. Yachtsman Drive, Sanibel
239-472-8138 | sanibelmarina.com/dining

The Green Flash

Offers wide views to accompany its seafood platters.
15183 Captiva Drive, Captiva
239-472-3337 | greenflashcaptiva.com

Hana Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Lounge

Known for sizzling hibachi, fresh sushi and friendly service.
10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero
239-495-9916 | hanasteakhouse.com

Harold’s

Features a seasonal menu sourced from local ingredients for an intimate dining experience.
15250 S Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers
239-849-0622 | haroldsfl.com

Keylime Bistro

Offers simple seafood dishes, key lime pie and live music.
11509 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva
239-472-2121 | keylimebistrocaptiva.com

Lobster Lady Seafood Market & Bistro

Features a market and restaurant, specializing in seafood.
1715 Cape Coral Parkway W., Cape Coral
239-471-0136 | lobsterladyseafood.com

McGregor Café

Known for filling breakfasts, fresh salads and neighborhood charm.
4329 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers
239-936-1771 | mcgregorcafe.com

The Mucky Duck

Draws crowds for its sunset views and pub-style dishes.
11546 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva
239-472-3434 | muckyduck.com

MudBugs Cajun Kitchen

Cajun flavors and nightly music with a lighthearted atmosphere.
1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
239-472-2221 | mudbugssanibel.com

Nice Guys Pizza

Edgy and playful pizzeria featuring craft pies and cocktails.
1404 Cape Coral Parkway E., Cape Coral
239-549-7542 | niceguyspizza.com

Oise Ristorante

Inventive blend of Italian tradition and Japanese artistry celebrating bold flavors, seasonal ingredients and shareable plates.
2262 First St., Fort Myers
239-445-0080 | oiseristorante.com

Point 57 Kitchen & Cocktails

Specializes in craft cocktails and polished comfort food.
3522 Del Prado Blvd. S., Cape Coral
239-471-7785 | point57.com

Prawnbroker Restaurant & Fish Market

Known for quality seafood and steady service.
13451 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers
239-489-2226 | prawnbroker.com

Seed & Bean Market

Features premium cannabis-infused delights, coffee, unique beers and delicious food.
1520 Broadway, Fort Myers
4720 S.E. 9th Place, Suite 300, Cape Coral
116 W. Venice Ave., Venice
239-342-1300 | seedandbeanmarket.com

Slipaway Food Truck Park & Marina

Food trucks serve tacos, burgers and seafood as boats slip through the water at the adjacent marina.
1811 Cape Coral Parkway. E., Cape Coral
239-360-8883 | slipawaycapecoral.com

Sunflower Café

Serves classic American comfort food with Greek-inspired touches for breakfast, brunch and lunch in a welcoming casual environment.
11410 Summerlin Square Drive, Fort Myers Beach
239-415-4262 | sunflowercafefl.com

Survey Café

Blends Southern staples with small-town charm. Offers a French dinner menu on Friday and Saturday evenings.
10530 Wilson St., Bonita Springs
239-992-2233 | surveycafe.com

Tarpon Lodge Restaurant

Features fresh seafood, waterview and welcoming vibe.
13771 Waterfront Drive, Bokeelia
239-283-3999 | tarponlodge.com

Traders Restaurant

Island-inspired plates and a bustling bar great for a family meal or a night out.
1551 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
239-472-7242 | traderssanibel.com

The Veranda

Exemplifies Southern grace and refined dining with an elegant courtyard garden and careful service.
2122 Second St., Fort Myers
239-332-2065 | verandarestaurant.com

Woody’s Waterside Island Bar & Grill

Offers seafood baskets, outdoor seating and live music most nights of the week.
3051 Stringfellow Road, St. James City
239-283-5555 | https://www.woodyswaterfront.com/

LEE COUNTY

Estero River

The Estero River is a six-and-a-half-mile waterway that is both tidal and spring-fed, creating freshwater conditions at its headwaters and flowing into Estero Bay. Fishermen can rent a kayak to fish the river starting at $17.50 for the first two hours from Estero River Outfitters.

While navigating the river, experts sug-gest casting towards the mangroves on the banks where fish seek shelter. Live shrimp for the saltwater side of the river, or live shiners for the freshwater side, make the best bait. Anglers can find a wide variety of fish, from peacock and largemouth bass, snook, redfish, snapper and even barracu-da, that have been caught on the river.

Lakes Park

Lakes Park is a 279-acre park featuring a sprawling man-made lake. The park offers fantastic fishing opportunities for those looking to scratch the freshwater itch in Lee County. Because the lake was carved from a quarry operation, there are spots that are exceptionally deep, which provide fish with pockets of cool water during the hot Florida summers. Anglers can expect to catch largemouth bass, snook, and even

the occasional tarpon. The park has mul-tiple ramps throughout the premises to launch small paddle craft. Parking is $1 per hour with a max of $5 for the whole day.

Matlatcha

While most anglers approach Matlatcha by watercraft, it’s not impossible to fish from solid ground. Matlatcha Outfitters offers kayak rentals and bait-and-tackle services. For those looking to fish Matlat-cha shoreside, the Matlatcha draw bridge is a good place to start.

COLLIER COUNTY

Golden Gate Community Park

Golden Gate Community Park is an access point to Collier County’s freshwa-ter canal system. The park features a boat ramp for launching both paddle craft and boats. In the canals, anglers can look forward to encountering peacock and largemouth bass. Locals suggest using live bait, such as shiners. Parking at Golden Gate Community Park is free.

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is an inlet in North Collier County where strong currents bring food for predatory fish in and out of the Gulf. There is ample beach room for anglers to target the species of their choice. Delnor-Wiggins hosts a wide variety of fish, including snook, redfish, jack crevalle and sharks. Parking is $6 per vehicle.

Picayune Strand State Forest

Right on the edge of the Everglades, Picayune Strand State Forest offers anglers a glimpse into the wild side of Collier County. The park offers a boat ramp to launch watercraft to explore and fish the canals. For those without watercraft, fishing is available along roadside canals. Anglers can expect to find largemouth bass, snook and bluegill. Parking costs $2 per person.

CHARLOTTE COUNTY

Cocoplum Waterway

The Cocoplum waterway is a seven-mile-long canal in Port Charlotte. Local experts recommend that anglers find spillways and culverts where fish stack up and wait to ambush prey.

Ponce De Leon Park

Ponce De Leon Park in Punta Gorda features a small fishing pier where a canal system meets Charlotte Harbor. The Pier overlooks where the Peace River, Charlotte Harbor and the canal meet, which supports a wide variety of fish species, including black drum. Anglers should revive the black drum before release, a process in which an angler holds the fish after it is placed back in the water to give it time to regain the stamina it lost in the fight. Parking and pier access are free.

Englewood Beach

For fishermen wanting to enjoy a day in the sand with the family and get some fishing in, too, need look no further than Englewood Beach. The Gulf water temperatures are cooler and more consistent than the intercoastal waterways, attracting many species of fish. Anglers can find snook, snapper and seatrout at Englewood Beach. Parking is 75 cents per hour.

But if you delve deeper, lots of treasures will reveal themselves. Knowing what you are looking at makes the experience more rewarding. That’s why local tour guides are invaluable in sharing the area’s history, abundant flora, fauna and traditions that contribute to the region’s quirky charm. On occasion, that may require heading indoors, at least temporarily. Here are some of the museums in the area that can help you see beyond the beaches. 

Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium 

What is it? This museum and aquarium offer a scientific approach to shells with exhibits devoted to everything associated with shells, mollusks and their ecosystems. 

What’s there? In addition to exhibits within the museum and the aquarium, there are lectures, classes (including one that helps you obtain Shell Ambassador certification), field education and monthly after-hours aquarium experiences, including a tour, light snacks and beverages. 

Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day 

Admission: $12 for 18 and older; $10 for veterans and those 65 and older; $5 for children 5-11; free for members, those under 5 and active military. 

Etc.: 3075 Sanibel Captiva Road, Sanibel; 239-395-2233; shellmuseum.org. 

The Baker Museum 

What’s there? Three stories of American modern and contemporary, and ancient Chinese art, a glass-dome conservatory and an extensive outdoor sculpture garden. Tours are available to visit the sculpture garden and the museum. 

2025 highlights: Don’t miss the mind-bending glass sculptures of the Dale Chihuly Collection. The museum is home to four of his dynamic, large-scale works, including “Blue Icicle Chandelier,” “Red Chandelier,” “Red Reeds” and “Persian Seaform Ceiling.” Through June 15: “Rafael Lozano-Hemmer” showcases the works of the Mexican Canadian artist who integrates art, science, architecture and technology in his creations. “Obra Sonora” is Spanish for “sound work.” March 8-Sept. 21: “Entangled in the Mangroves” focuses on 10 Florida-based artists who explore aspects of the Everglades with a focus on climate change. The exhibition aims to heighten awareness of the critical situation we find ourselves in. It also aims to foster connections among artists, activists, Indigenous communities, scientists and scholars to develop solutions that benefit all. 

Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. 

Admission: $10 for adults; $5 for full-time students and active military (with ID); $1 for those receiving SNAP EBT benefits; free for children 17 and younger and Friends of Artis-Naples. 

Etc.: 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples; 239-597-1111; artisnaples.org/baker-museum. 

Bob Rauschenberg Gallery at Florida SouthWestern State College 

That Bob Rauschenberg? Yes, the world-renowned artist Robert Rauschenberg lived and worked in Southwest Florida. His complex on Captiva Island was a mecca for fellow artists and aspiring ones. The college operated The Gallery of Fine Art, which opened in 1979. Over 25 years, the artist built a relationship with the Florida SouthWestern gallery, resulting in 15 Rauschenberg exhibits there. The gallery was renamed in his honor in 2004.

What’s there? Modern and contemporary artists and their works. The “David BRADSHAW & William S. BURROUGHS: Propagation” exhibit continues through April 12. Propagation means the act or process of spreading, although it’s often taken to mean the spread of damaging messages and dangerous ideologies, viruses and other negative acts. Beyond the propagation of self, form or concepts are challenging societal norms and confronting personal demons. The works in this show illustrate how the artists used unconventional tools (including dynamite, firearms and a bowling ball canon) and chance-based operations to bring about new artistic forms. 

Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. The gallery is closed on Sundays, federal holidays and when there is no exhibit. 

Admission: Free 

Etc.: 8099 College Pkwy., Fort Myers; 239-489-9313; rauschenberggallery.com. 

CMON Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples 

What is it? An experiential space where children take an active role in whatever exhibit they visit. That means the ubiquitous phones and tablets get stored. Help kids prepare for kindergarten and participate in an art workshop.

2025 highlights: Through May 11: Italy comes to Naples (Florida) in “Ciao Bambini!” an immersive educational experience designed to transport children and their families to Italian life, history, culture and art. Young chefs can learn to cook in a ristorante, learn about pasta making in a charming Italian home, toss a coin into the wishing fountain, learn basic Italian phrases and more. 

Hours: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday through Tuesday; closed Wednesday. 

Admission: $25 for general; $18 for Florida residents; $13 for military and first responders; $3 for EBT, SNAP and WIC cardholders. Children younger than 1 year and teachers admitted without charge. 

Etc.: 15080 Livingston Road, Naples; 239-514-0084; cmon.org. 

— Fort Myers’ children’s museum is the IMAG History & Science Center at 2000 Cranford Ave. just east of downtown off Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard; theimag.org. 

Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center

What is it? A chronological journey through the nightmare of the Holocaust, illustrating Jewish life between the two world wars, the rise of the Nazi party and the ethnic cleansing using concentration and slave labor camps. The trial leads to liberation by the Allies and the aftermath of the Nuremberg trials. The museum houses more than 1,000 photographs and artifacts related to World War II and the Holocaust. 

2025 highlight: Through June 1: “Convincing the Masses: Propaganda at Home and Abroad” explores the use of Nazi propaganda during World War II and how to recognize what may be biased information by checking on the information source. 

Hours: 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday 

Admission: $13 online; $15 at the door. 

Etc.: 975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd., Naples; 239-263-9200; hmcec.org. 

Wonder Gardens 

What is it? Colorful kitsch and a glimpse into Old Florida, as well as seeing the rescued non-releasable birds and reptiles for whom it serves as a refuge. 

Highlights: This almost 90-year-old roadside attraction in Bonita Springs began as The Reptile Gardens, later changing to the Everglades Wonder Gardens but the Everglades part was dropped since it’s near the Everglades but not in them. Now operated by a not-for-profit board, the focus is on caring for rescued, rehabilitated animals that cannot survive in the wild. That includes roughly 300 residents, including flamingos, macaws, Florida alligators, turtles and tortoises. There are educational programs and field trips. Then, the lush gardens, towering banyans and other flora make a stroll on the grounds seem wonderful. 

Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily 

Admission: $15 for those 13-64; $10 for children 3-12; $10 for ages 65 and older; free for children younger than 3. 

Etc.: 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs; 239-992-2591; wondergardens.org. 

— Naples Botanical Garden also celebrates and protects Southwest Florida’s native flora (and other subtropical and tropical flora around the world), as does the Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens in Punta Gorda. Find out more at naplesgarden.org and peacerivergardens.org. 

The women’s volleyball team recently won its third consecutive National Junior College Athletic Association title. Not surprisingly, volleyball coach Thais Baziquetto-Allen was named national coach of the year for the third consecutive year. The parade of the national championship began in 2021, only five years after FSW President Jeffrey Albritten revived athletics at the school formerly known as Edison State College and Edison Junior College. 

FSW has made a name for itself in recent years, but Southwest Florida has a rich history of both pro and amateur sports. Southwest Florida is not home to the National Football League, National Basketball Association or National Hockey League franchises, but it offers a vibrant variety of sports. 

Four Major League Baseball teams hold spring training in the area: the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins in Fort Myers, the Tampa Bay Rays in Port Charlotte, and the Atlanta Braves in North Port. The region’s connection to spring training dates back to 1925 when the Philadelphia A’s began training in Fort Myers. 

While the FSW Buccaneers have done well in junior college athletics, a short drive away at Florida Gulf Coast University, the Division 1 Eagles have a flourishing program that offers more than the five sports at FSW. 

The most successful FGCU program is women’s basketball, which has won seven consecutive Atlantic Sun Conference titles. The volleyball team recently won its fourth consecutive ASUN title. 

Basketball coach Karl Smesko started and built the women’s program and the rousing success attracted the attention of the Women’s National Basketball Association. He is now the head coach of the Atlanta Dream. 

The Florida Everblades have won three consecutive Kelly Cup titles, the championship of the ECHL, a minor-league hockey league. A new addition to the sports landscape this year is a pro soccer games at the Paradise Coast Sports Complex. This will be its inaugural season. 

The Fort Myers Might Mussels baseball team, under one name or another, has been around a lot longer than FC Naples. The Mussels are affiliated with the Minnesota Twins and play their home games at Hammond Stadium in the Lee Health Sports Complex. The Mussels were previously known as the Miracle and began playing at Hammond Stadium 1992, a year after it opened. 

At FSW 

Back at the campus of champions, FSW Athletic Director George Sanders works in his third-floor office of the Suncoast Credit Union Arena. This impressive 75,000-square-foot facility, with a seating capacity of 3,500, serves as the home for the school’s volleyball and basketball teams. It stands as the crown jewel among the campus’s athletic facilities, which also feature baseball and softball fields. 

This sports journey began when Albritten brought athletics back beginning 2016. 

“He wanted to do it right, and this building is the first testament to that and the work that he’s done in the community and continues to do to try to support the program and the college,” Sanders said. “This building is the benchmark, for lack of a better word, in the success of what he wanted to build and what he expected from the programs.” 

The arena plays a crucial role in recruiting athletes. “It’s an easy sell,” Sanders said. “The whole community is an easy sell. We have a great campus. We have an arena on campus, which is a little different than a lot of the junior colleges. We have the best arena in the country, and we have the beaches.” 

FSW actively recruits individuals from across the U.S. and beyond. The rosters feature athletes from various countries, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, the Czech Republic, Finland, Honduras, Italy, Latvia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Peru, Poland and Slovakia. 

Finding the right coaches is also critical for Sanders. “I like people who understand us,” Sanders said. By “us” he means junior college athletics. “It’s a different world,” Sanders said. “You have constant turnover.” 

At four-year universities, students tend to stay longer. “We have to continue to realize that we’re a stepping stone institution,” Sanders said. By that, he means FSW is a gateway to four-year universities for many student-athletes. It’s also a gateway to professional sports for some. There are now more than 20 former FSW baseball players in professional baseball. 

 Finding the right people means people such as volleyball coach Thais Baziquetto-Allen, a native of Brazil. It also might mean softball coach Robert Iamurri, who coached Naples High School softball from 1986 to 2014 before starting up the FSW program. 

The first year for softball was 2016, when the Bucs were 53-16. Iamurri said administrative support and facilities have been key. Before on-campus fields were built for the FSW baseball and softball teams, they played at City of Palms Park in downtown Fort Myers. 

Another key to recruiting, according to Iamurri, is a dormitory. “So you had real nice dorms with 24/7 security,” Iamurri said. 

Players are just steps away from where they practice and play, and having a location in Florida is also beneficial. “Palm trees, white beaches,” Iamurri said. Those can be particularly appealing to players from Canada or Wisconsin. 

So is success. Iamurri could see players from the beginning were on-board with what he was trying to build. “They bought in,” Iamurri said. “They were not dominant, but there was a right mix to be competitive the first year.” 

Then came national titles in 2021 and 2022. Although the Bucs didn’t win the national championship in either 2023 or 2024 they still compiled a 111-15 record in those years. 

Everybody wins 

Volleyball is obviously the most important sport to volleyball coach Thais Baziquetto-Allen.

But she likes that all the sports do well at FSW and they help fuel each other. 

“It’s the culture,” Baziquetto-Allen said. “I remember right before I took the job, and I was in a place that was successful in volleyball… and there was maybe one other sport that was successful. But when I looked at FSW, everybody was successful, which means you have the support.” 

That means support from the administration and community. Recruiting in any sport is essential to success. 

 “We’re able to recruit players from all over the world,” Baziquetto-Allen said. She instills a certain approach in her athletes. “I think the players really buy in on the culture that we put together of working hard and knowing that even if we’re No. 1, people are going to come after us and try to beat us,” Baziquetto-Allen said. “So we have to be able to be very diligent in our training every day.” 

How does a volleyball coach in Fort Myers recruit players from other continents? “It’s just a network,” she said. There’s a network of volleyball people around the world. 

“So that you end up getting a lot of emails and then you create connections, create networks, and they end up knowing you and knowing your program and knowing the level of players you have,” Baziquetto-Allen said. 

With an international cast, she makes sure language is not an issue. “There is an English requirement to get admitted to FSW,” Baziquetto-Allen said. “And that’s very strict. Everybody has to pass English.” 

When she came to the U.S. as an 18-year-old to play at St. Petersburg College, the future FSW coach did not speak English. Now, she is fluent and makes sure English is her program’s lingua franca. 

“That’s one of the things that unites us,” Baziquetto-Allen said. 

“We’re all gonna speak the same language. You know, we have players from Argentina, Peru, and it would be easier for them just to start to speak Spanish, but they have to be very intentional about English and increasing your vocabulary.” 

The on-campus arena helps in recruiting. “That is one of the first things that we share with our athletes if we do a video call and then show it to them,” she said. “Whether we send them the pictures, whether our first video call is with the gym background. But that is a top-class facility, and it’s a big selling point of that place that we get to call home.” 

It’s a home of champions. 

Have a craving for Indian? Thai or Vietnamese? French, Italian, Lebanese, Cuban or Peruvian? Farm-to-table, vegetarian or organic? Seafood, Florida or New England style? Artisanal bakeries, independent pizza joints, upscale steakhouses and serious barbecue? All are present and accounted for. 

Like the population, the number of restaurants is growing. It’s a challenge to keep up with all the new spots, of which there have been many in the past year. Here is a taste of what’s new and delicious. 

LEE COUNTY 

Bellini’s 

13451 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 
239-270-5005 
bellinisfortmyers.com 

It’s always nice to reunite with an old friend, and that’s what Bellini’s is to those who have lived here for a couple of decades or more. The restaurant was a favorite on Captiva until closing 20 years ago. Now it’s back, this time on the mainland in the Cypress Square location that was previously home to Stillwater Grill. The menu includes raw oysters, branzino, seafood fideuà (think paella with pasta instead of rice), lobster ravioli carbonara, rack of lamb and sweets like Bellini’s tiramisu, Basque cheesecake, Nonna’s limoncello and ricotta bread pudding. Sunday brunch features avocado, lobster toast, filet mignon with potato hash, lump crab Hollandaise and chocolate crepes. 

Blossom & Brie 

8250 Nalle Grade Road, North Fort Myers 
239-385-0415 
blossomandbrie.com 

First opened as Rosy Tomorrows Heritage Farm a decade ago, this 86-acre property in North Fort Myers affords a rare chance to dine on a working farm, where many of the resident cows, sheep, chickens, ducks, donkeys and pigs will amble over to the fence to check out visitors. Lunch, dinner and weekend brunch are served in the spacious venue by a professional staff. Executive Chef Wesley Robbins and his team produce imaginative and beautifully presented dishes using proteins and vegetables raised at the farm. 

Bruno’s of Brooklyn 

2149 First St., Fort Myers 
239-278-0211 
brunosofbrooklyn.com 

The restaurant isn’t new but the space in which Bruno’s of Brooklyn now operates seems worlds away from the modest space it occupied for a decade just a half mile from the new spot on First Street. Chef and owner Cal Bruno and his wife, Genevieve, have taken Bruno family recipes that made their previous restaurant such a favorite and now offer it in a more spacious and visible spot at First and Dean streets in downtown Fort Myers. Spicy lobster capellini, cavatelli sausage and broccoli rabe over house made pasta, 18 types of antipasti and veal chop Parmigiano are among the dishes that await diners here. 

Guru Indian Bistro 

Prado at Spring Creek, 25151 Chamber of Commerce Drive, Bonita Springs 
239-427-0924 
guruindianbistro.com 

This new Bonita Springs restaurant offers a heady mix of aromatic Indian dishes, including multiple options for vegetarians and seafood lovers. Besides the ubiquitous chicken tandoori and tikka, there is tandoori shrimp or salmon as well, dal makhani (Punjabi-style black lentils and kidney beans), biryani, vindaloo and, for dessert, house-made mango pistachio kulfi. 

PJK Neighborhood Chinese 

Coconut Point, 23151 Village Shops Way, Estero 
239-421-9867 
pjkchinese.com 

From the company that brought us PF Chang’s and Fleming’s Steakhouse comes PJK Neighborhood Chinese, a casual, upscale concept combining traditional Chinese flavors with modern interpretations and focusing on local seafood. The first location, which is in Naples, has been successful and now Coconut Point has the second location of the Naples-based Paul Fleming Restaurant Group fresh concept. Starters on the menu include grouper bao buns, duck confit tacos and eggrolls. Braised short ribs, Peking duck, teriyaki steak, Mongolian chicken (or other protein), and a variety of dim sum (small) plates, including dumplings, duck potstickers and chili wontons. 

Sunqu Delights of Peru 

529 Pondella Road, North Fort Myers 
239-360-7906 
sunquperu.com 

This little gem has a modest exterior, but the doors that once led to a convenience store now open onto a charming bastion of well-executed Peruvian food served by a charming team. Chef and co-owner Oscar Ludena ably manages the kitchen while co-owner Nicholas Byrnes works in the front of the house, making guests feel like family. He’s also equipped with an iPad containing photos of all of the dishes on the menu and he will graciously review them with anyone uncertain about what to order. Servings are generous. One of their ceviche platters and a paella entree are plenty for two. Can’t decide? Consider ordering a boat that resembles the type used for sushi, but this one contains portions of 10 Peruvian dishes. Whatever you choose, save room for dessert: The Seven Leches Cake made by the chef is worth every single calorie. 

Wickies Lighthouse Restaurant 

362 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel 
239-472-0011 
wickieslighthouserestaurant.com 

Brought to you by the owners of The Island Cow on Sanibel (destroyed by fire in August 2022) and Mad Hatter (washed away by Hurricane Ian a month later). The owners of the two establishments partnered in Wickies Lighthouse. The result is a restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, plus weekend brunch. Diners will find a wide-ranging menu with plenty of comfort fare – think omelets, pancakes, fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits – and some surprises – like blueberry jalapeno flatbread, a burger with fig and bourbon compote, candied bacon and pepperjack cheese, and the signature Mad Hatter crustless cheesecake. 

COLLIER COUNTY 

Bakery at Grappino 

80 Ninth St. N., Naples 
239-331-4325 
aielligroup.com 

The culinary team that brought us Sea Salt, Barbatella, Dorona and Grappino have added to their repertoire with the opening of Bakery at Grappino, a venture that involved sending the executive chef to Europe for an intensive immersion in baking Old World style. The bakery serves breakfast and lunch with a bounty of freshly baked breads and pastry. Whether it’s focaccia, brioche, ciabatta or cannoli, it’s made in-house. Coffees, smoothies, fresh juices and ginger shots are also available. You can buy jars of some sauces used in the restaurants along with the pastries and bread. 

Soluna 

403 Bayfront Place, Naples 
239-384-9436 
solunanples.net 

Chef William Andraca is known to many who dine in area country clubs. His last stop was the Bay Colony Golf Club. Now, he has opened Soluna in Bayfront at Naples, where Stoney’s Steakhouse used to be. Contemporary fare is the concept, featuring dishes such as calabaza risotto, heritage pork chop and black grouper. Brunch might consist of smoked salmon Napoleon, French toast with key lime cream or a grilled black grouper sandwich with umami aioli. 

Tap 42 Craft Kitchen & Bar 

Mercato, 9118 Strada Place, Naples 
239-399-3313 
tap42.com 

This Florida mini chain opened its first Southwest Florida location in Naples’ Mercato last year and is working to open one in Fort Myers this year. Occupying the space that previously held AZN Azian Cuizine, Tap 42 blends contemporary American fare with craft beers and handcrafted cocktails in a casually stylish setting. The beer list includes 42 Hazy Daze, a collaboration between Tap 42 and Funky Buddha Brewery. Choose from a variety of appetizers – Truffle Street Corn avocado toast, guacamole, spicy tuna tartare, chicken lettuce wraps – plus salads, burgers and sandwiches and plated entrees like prime chimichurri skirt steak, jumbo barbecued baby back ribs, beer battered fish and chips and chocolate chunk bread pudding. 

Unidos, A Latin Kitchen & Bar 

1 Ninth St. S., Naples 
239-331-3668 
unidosrestaurant.com 

Nuevo-Latin style adds another dimension to the Latin foods we already like. That’s what Unidos serves – dishes we might be familiar with but that are prepared in a way that delivers some surprises. Wood-roasted pork shank tacos come with both green and guajillo sauces, plus charro beans. A grilled cauliflower steak comes with passion fruit coconut sauce and yuca fries. Other possibilities include wood-grilled branzino tacos, caramelized plantains and street churros with ice cream, strawberries and mint. 

CHARLOTTE COUNTY 

Jay’s Smokin’ BBQ 

10175 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda 
941-646-8589 
jayssmokinbbqfl.com 

Texas-style barbecue is this newcomer’s specialty. (Actually, the business isn’t new, but it used to arrive on a food truck.) With a brick-and-mortar building – the space previously occupied by Stingray’s Diner at the defunct Muscle Car City Museum. The menu is extensive, with favorites such as brisket burnt ends, Wisconsin cheese curds, hot honey fried chicken, smoked brisket, Italian sausage and pulled pork. For a serious indulgence, consider the Smashed Potato Skillet (baked, smashed and buttered russet potato with pulled pork or chopped brisket piled on top, smothered in melted beer cheese, then a drizzle of Jay’s Signature BBQ Sauce, topped with sour cream and fresh chopped scallions). 

Mayon Asian American Restaurant 

4300 Kings Hwy, Port Charlotte 
941-291-0055 
mayoneats.com 

Mayon Asian American Restaurant brings Filipino style to this casual new eatery at Schoolhouse Square. The menu includes standards such as lumpia, adobo, currywurst, Mongolian beef, sinangag (garlic fried rice), spareribs and halo halo, plus still more lunch and dinner offerings and a full bar. 

Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor 

5500 Sunseeker Way, Charlotte Harbor 
833-914-7300 
sunseekerresorts.com 

The new Allegiant Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor opened with 20 – yes, 20 – food and beverage options. The resort features seven standalone restaurants, 11 bars and lounges, two poolside options and the 25,000-square-foot Food Hall, in which 11 concepts co-exist, resulting in some 200 dishes from which to choose. There’s Arezzo Craft Pizza Kitchen, Kinderhook Raw Bar & Crab Co., Copper Cask Backyard Beer Garden, Sweet Shine patisserie and dessert bar; Charlotte Parlor gelato and creperie; Copper Cask Backyard Beer Garden – you get the idea. Thorough exploration will likely require multiple meals. 

U-Yee Sushi & Grill 

42031 Cypress Pkwy, Babcock Ranch 
239-567-1388 
uyeesushi.com 

Both sushi and hibachi lovers can find something on the voluminous menu at this Crescent B Commons restaurant. There are plenty of sushi and sashimi variations along with cooked items from the kitchen, such as gyoza, fried soft-shell crab, tempuras and hibachis.  

Boca Grande

The railroad, tarpon fishing and Gasparilla Inn first brought captains of industry to tiny Gasparilla Island and its town of Boca Grande at the turn of the century. The railroad has transformed into a path for bicycles and golf carts, while the historic depot holds boutiques, an ice cream shop and Keylime Bistro.

Within its three-block-long area, downtown Boca Grande holds historic gems well beyond the circa-1913 Gasparilla Inn. You can easily stroll or bike around its beautiful churches, pink-hued Johann Fust Library and handsome Community House, then along canopied Banyan Street and to the beach. The Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum encapsulates local history, overlooking tarpon-rich Gasparilla Pass.

Downtown Bonita Springs

Old 41 Road has seen heydays come and go ever since its youthful tourism era. Today, its magnetism has returned, built on the very foundation of historic hotels and the nature attraction that brought the Everglades wilds to its main street in the 1930s - now undergoing a rejuvenation as Wonder Gardens.

Today, Shangri-La Hotel stands as a symbol of Bonita Springs’ healthful reputation and alluring 1920s hospitality. Around it, historic buildings have turned into fine restaurants, craft breweries, cocktail lounges and a new food truck park that overlooks the town’s lifeblood, the Imperial River. Discover Bonita Springs’ deep roots at Riverside Park, devoted to olden days and new waves of festivity and vigor.

Looking to the future, the town continues to build a party reputation as Sugarshack Downtown – a combo live music stage, craft brewery and restaurant – prepares to open any minute now.

Downtown Naples

Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South have held the heart of historic Naples since the 1920s when distinguished visitors and winter residents arrived by boat to the Naples Pier and traded with Seminole natives. Today, instead, you’ll find glamour shops in historic buildings selling jewelry, fashions, home accessories and other wares.

The neighborhoods are known, too, for their fashionable sidewalk restaurants and cultural venues. Famed downtown Naples, including the Naples Design District, has spread in recent years. Like nearby Fifth Avenue South, it blends vintage vibes with modern trends and is famed for its galleries, home craftsmanship and contemporary spots to eat, socialize and spend the night in modern luxury.

Downtown Punta Gorda

The wide and placid Peace River separates old from new in Charlotte County, where Punta Gorda dates to the 19th century and tells its story through a series of vibrant murals. Marion Avenue, the pretty and picturesque main street, lines up eclectic shops and eateries like The Perfect Caper and Celtic Ray Public House, each with its unique charm. It overlooks the river and the county’s newest attraction on the opposite shore – Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor, a vital entertainment center for everyone.

Along the riverfront in Punta Gorda, Wyvern Hotel’s rooftop bar and Four Points by Sheraton with TT’s Tiki Bar maintain the lively atmosphere. Laishley Park and its crab house cater to sea enthusiasts and families, complementing the extensive bike trails along the river.

Fort Myers Historic River District

Like many downtowns of a certain age, there came a time when Fort Myers’ urban sprawl left its core looking a little abandoned. Wiser heads prevailed, however, to save the Historic River District, with all its vintage gems, from falling victim to trends and “out with the old” attitudes.

Thanks largely to the endurance of the Edison & Ford Winter Estates at its fringe, the historic downtown was renewed. An old, handsome federal building became an art center; a vaudeville house circa 1915 evolved into a live theater. Stores and restaurants moved into buildings dating back to the late 18th century, as was the case with The Veranda, a gracious restaurant that lives in two pioneer homes.

Bars and lounges today draw a young crowd to frenzied hangouts such as the Sky Bar and Downtown Social. The new Bay Street Yard takes the party outside, and Luminary Hotel & Co. serves as a hub for social activity with restaurants, a rooftop bar and a sports pub with virtual gaming.

The Historic River District continues to take full advantage of its waterfront beauty and bygone intrigue as more hotels move in and people of all ages come out for its monthly street parties and annual festivals. 

Arcadia Municipal Golf Course 

Not far away in DeSoto County is the Arcadia Municipal Golf Course. It’s a short drive from coastal Southwest Florida counties. 

Babcock National Golf Club is 35 miles away, and Aileron Golf Club, also in Charlotte County, is a mere 22 miles away. Arcadia Municipal opened in 1923, long after the town was founded in 1886. 

“And no one was thinking about golf then, or even when they were rebuilding the downtown structures after the devastating 1905 fire,” Arcadia historian and author Carol Mahler said. She is working on a historical marker for the golf course. 

Mahler’s research indicates that a man named A.C. Polk, Sr. was the driving force behind bringing golf to Arcadia. Polk moved to Arcadia in 1916 and passed away in 1970 at the age of 90. 

There’s a link between the first golf courses in Arcadia, Fort Myers and Boca Grande. This connection is a man named Harry A. Cowie, who died in 1929 at the age of 38. He was a pro who played and taught all three courses. 

A significant figure in the development of the DeSoto County golf course is Albert W. Gilchrist, Charlotte County’s only governor, who leased 50 acres for its establishment. Cowie planned the nine-hole course, which was completed in 1923, though it took a while to expand to 18 holes. 

“Although the original Arcadia Golf Club planned an 18-hole course, the expansion was not completed until 2001 after the city purchased an additional 24 acres in 1999,” Mahler said. 

Fort Myers Country Club 

Legendary golf course architect Donald Ross designed the Fort Myers Golf Country Club. Construction of the course between U.S. 41 and McGregor Boulevard took place from late 1916 and into 1917. 

At the time, Collier County had not yet been formed; it was carved out of what was then a vast Lee County. There was no Tamiami Trail linking Tampa and Miami. World War I was in full swing, and not only was there no TV or the internet but there was also no commercial radio. Fort Myers had a population of around 3,500. Cape Coral and Lehigh Acres had yet to exist, nor did shopping malls, a bridge to Sanibel or the right for women to vote. 

The Fort Myers Country Club has been described as a jewel right in the heart of town. It’s one of many golf courses that have helped lure people to the Sunshine State for more than a century. In 1916, when construction began in Fort Myers, nine-hole courses were already operating on Useppa and Boca Grande. 

Fort Myers aimed to join in the excitement and attract tourists to Florida’s west coast. In a story from the Fort Myers Press dated Dec. 9, 1916, it was announced that the city would be opening a golf course that would be comparable to some of the best clubs in the nation. 

Powerful people were behind the project. Famed inventor and part-time Fort Myers resident Thomas Edison was listed as one of 15 directors of the new course taking shape. 

Fort Myers Country Club has hosted some of golf’s biggest names, enhancing the course’s reputation and the community. Notable players include Arnold Palmer, Gene Sarazen and LPGA founder Patty Berg, who was a local resident until her passing in 2006 at 88. 

Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club 

The Naples Beach & Golf Club opened in 1931, eight years after the establishment of Collier County, named after Barron Collier, and the Arcadia course’s nine-hole facility. 

The facility, which closed in 2021, is undergoing renovation and rebranding and is expected to reopen in late 2025 as the Naples Beach Club, a Four Seasons Resort. 

The original course was designed by T.E. Fredericks, who worked for Donald Ross, the man who designed the Fort Myers Country Club. 

Golf continues to be a vibrant attraction, drawing people from Naples to Fort Myers, Port Charlotte and even inland to Arcadia. This has been true since the 1920s, remains true in the 2020s, and is likely to persist far into the future, possibly even into the 2120s.  

All that and more await visitors to Southwest Florida, the coastal swath that comprises Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties. The region, home to roughly 1.5 million residents, has grown by 9.5% since 2020 and is anticipated to grow another 7.4% by 2030, according to U.S. Census figures. 

There are countless reasons people choose to visit or relocate to Southwest Florida. Here is a sampling of superlatives that highlight Southwest Florida’s many charms. 

LEE COUNTY 

Baseball central: The region is triply blessed when it comes to Major League Baseball. The Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins have home stadiums that come to Fort Myers with the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins and Port Charlotte with the Tampa Bay Rays. Games take place from late February through March. 

Commune with nature: J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel provides an intimate view of the unspoiled subtropical refuge, home to birds such as the roseate spoonbill, osprey and yellow-crowned night heron. There are plenty of gators, too. 

Catch the Sanibel Stoop: Sanibel beaches are considered among the world’s best shelling locations, making them logical places to contract this condition. While walking along the beach, your eyes turn from the beauty of the waters to the ground beneath your feet. The shells are everywhere. It’s not long before that downward glance becomes a bend to investigate more closely, ending in a full-out stoop. 

Stuff yourself with stone crab claws: Meaty and richly flavored, the claws are sustainably harvested from nearby Gulf waters and are in season from mid-October to May. While pink Gulf shrimp and grouper are better-known delicacies from area waters, stone crabs are in a class by themselves – and you won’t find them in most of the country. 

Soar with eagles: Visit the site of the SWFL Eagle Cam broadcast on Bayshore Road in North Fort Myers. From a distance, you can observe the nest of bald eagle M15 (male born in 2015) and his mate F23 (female born in 2023). Bald eagle pairs have nested here since 2006. Bring binoculars or a long-lens camera to watch the bonded, beautiful couple. Check out the eagle etiquette on the website before heading out. (dickpritchettrealestate.com/southwest-florida-eagle-cam). 

See turtles: We are talking about really big sea turtles, which return to beaches all along the Southwest Florida coast at night to make nests, bury their eggs and then return to sea. Two months later, the hatchlings emerge and crawl their way to the gulf. The best beaches for observing this vary, but Bonita Beach, Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel generally have nests monitored by local organizations that protect them. You can join in on their nighttime patrols. In Collier, Vanderbilt Beach, Naples, Marco and Keewaydin islands have had nests. In Charlotte, Englewood Beach is a sea turtle nesting territory. 

COLLIER COUNTY 

Retire in style: U.S. News & World Report rates Naples as the best place to live and to retire, citing its choice location between the Everglades and the Gulf of Mexico, its beaches and bounty of shopping, golf courses and restaurants. The publication also noted another plus: the extensive agricultural industry – tomatoes, vegetables and cattle – in Immokalee, east of Naples. 

Golf paradise: With 80-plus championship golf courses – and the most holes per capita of any place worldwide – Naples is an excellent choice for golfers, according to Golfpass, a golf membership service. Lee and Charlotte counties have their share of courses, too. 

Pickleball central: Organizers of the Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Championships (April 26-May 3) call it the largest event of its kind. Whether you go to watch the competition or to take to the courts yourself, the National Pickleball Center in East Naples Community Park contains 59 courts, including six championship courts. Because of the fervor and facilities for the sport there, Naples has been dubbed “the pickleball capital of the world.” 

Sling some mud: Or watch the pros do it. If your timing is right, you may be able to take in one of the periodic Swamp Buggy Races, in which the rugged buggies compete on the Mile ‘O’ Mud at Florida Sports Park. The races have taken place since the early 1900s. 

Airboat adventure: Explore the Big Cypress National Preserve in an airboat with a guide who will explain the many fascinating types of flora and fauna. 

Take a hike: Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park, situated in Big Cypress, is home to the rare ghost orchid, the endangered flower featured in Susan Orlean’s “The Orchid Thief.” Or stroll the 2 ¼-mile boardwalk through the Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary to get an up-close look at the various habitats, plus loads of birds, gators and possibly other critters, plus the world’s largest forest of old-growth bald cypress trees. 

Cultural riches: Naples offers an abundance of cultural activities, starting with Artis—Naples, with its world-class lineup of plays and performers. It’s also the home of the Naples Philharmonic. The Baker Museum, which emphasizes contemporary and modern art, is also nearby. Other cultural highlights include two opera companies, community theater troupes and dozens of art galleries throughout the city. 

CHARLOTTE COUNTY 

It’s good for you: Punta Gorda bats above its weight regarding appeal. Besides its historic downtown district, situated along Charlotte Harbor, it offers 18 miles of bike and walking paths, 55 miles of canal-front homes, plenty of golf and water sports, plus a thriving ecosystem boasting 600 bird species, assorted land critters and abundant marine wildlife. Punta Gorda was named among the top five “Best Healthy Place(s) to Retire” by U.S. News & World Report and was fifth among “Great Places to Retire in Florida” by the editors of Kiplinger’s Personal Finance. Countywide, there are 830 miles of shoreline, including that on the Peace and Myakka rivers, with more than 80% preserved to protect marine life and the overall environment. 

Paddle for miles: The Charlotte County Blueway Trails system offers nearly 200 miles of paddling trails for kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards in fresh and salt water. 

Visit the first solar-powered town: The rapidly developing Babcock Ranch community in southern Charlotte County is powered by its 870-acre solar farm. The community’s downtown, Founder’s Square, offers places to dine and shop. This young and growing community has been featured on “60 Minutes” and national newscasts for its sustainable development approach and resilience during hurricanes. 

Tackle a tarpon: Boca Grande Pass is among the best places in North America to catch tarpon, hard-fighting silver game fish. (April to October is prime time, but they can be caught year-round.)  

LEE COUNTY 

Two days: 

Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum – Get some in-depth information about local shelling and view a large variety of shells from our local beaches and around the world. Visit the Great Hall of Shells for displays highlighting some of the 550,000 shells in the museum’s collection. The Living Gallery of Aquariums displays more than 60 species of marine life. 

‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge – Stop by the free education center and learn more about the local environment. Take a ride on the four-mile Wildlife Drive or take a 90-minute tram tour.

While you are on the island, head to the beach. Lighthouse Beach Park features a historic lighthouse built in 1884. Blind Pass Beach connects Sanibel to Captiva, while Bowman’s Beach has the best parking. 

Edison & Ford Winter Estates – Thomas Edison and Henry Ford both had huge, large estates by the Caloosahatchee River that visitors could visit. Enjoy over 20 acres of historical buildings and gardens, including the 1928 Edison Botanical Research Laboratory. Most of the Edison main house and guest house furnishings were used by the Edison family, who enjoyed the place as a winter retreat for six decades. 

Three to five days:

Koreshan State Park – Along the Estero River, beside the majestic oaks, is a settlement once inhabited by pioneers who arrived here in 1893. The religious sect, led by Cyrus Teed, was committed to communal living and believed that the universe existed inside the Earth. There are 11 restored and nationally registered historic buildings to explore, as well as hiking trails along the river. 

Old US 41 – Twenty years ago, Old 41 was a place to avoid. The rundown area was lined with auto repair shops, a neglected park and even a hotel that prostitutes frequented. Now, it is nothing like that at all. The City of Bonita Springs beautified the area with brick pavers, roundabouts and landscaping. The garages and run-down shops have been replaced with restaurants, breweries, wine bars, a food truck area and more. The park is clean and the centerpiece of the area. Concerts and festivals are constantly held there. Walk through the park and visit the colorful artist cottages, explore the shops and restaurants, amble through the gardens at the Shangri-La, visit the historical society to learn about Bonita’s history and visit the Wonder Gardens, which has been there for almost 90 years. “It is a new destination,” said Trish Leonard, past president of the downtown alliance. “We have wonderful restaurants, entertainment and a hotel, and it is just a small-town charm with a big bright future.”

Seven days:

Area beaches – Southwest Florida’s main attraction is the beaches, and there are plenty of them. Fort Myers Beach still has the scars of Hurricane Ian, but Times Square is back with its restaurants and shops by the beach. Further south, Bonita Beach Park is open and so is all the access except for number 10 on the island’s north end. The restrooms and barbecue grills at Bonita Beach Park were destroyed, but there are some port-a-potties there. 

Lovers Key State Park – Take a tram ride to the south beach or hike the trails along narrow canals and lagoons. In the early 1900s, the islands were accessible only by boat, and the legend was that only lovers made the effort to get there, so it was named Lovers Key. Legends also hint that a pirate named Black Augustus escaped capture and lived on the island. 

Manatee Park – If you are here during cold weather and want to see these gentle giants, head to Manatee Park. The manatees flock to the warmer water created there by the nearby power plant. There are walkways and viewing areas along the waterway. 

Ostego Bay Foundation Marine Science Center – This marine center has interactive exhibits, small aquariums, a touch tank and unique displays. However, the facility has been closed for repairs, so call 239-470-4993 first. 

Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery Tours – Guests are invited on free tours of the facility in Cape Coral to learn how they transform locally sourced Florida sugar into handcrafted small-batch rum. Visitors see the cooking, fermenting and distilling processes and then get to sample different types of rum. 

COLLIER COUNTY 

Two days: 

Pure Florida – Getting out on the water is one of the best ways to experience the nature of Southwest Florida. Pure Florida is one of the many companies that offer that opportunity. The three-hour eco and dolphin-watching tours take guests to Keewaydin Island. Shells are plentiful on islands like this that are not packed with crowds. Experts narrate everything from the mangroves and waterways to the many bird species seen along the way. Visitors can also end the day with a 1.5-hour sunset cruise that culminates with watching the sunset from the Gulf just beyond Gordon’s Pass. “Being on the water is such a huge part of our story, and that is what makes Pure Florida so unique is that we have multiple ways to experience being on the water,” said Merry Kaufmann, director of marketing and communications with Pure Florida. 

Sandy shores – A trip to the beach is a must if you have only a couple of days in town, so avoid some of the more crowded beaches and head to the Barefoot Beach Preserve. Many people see a gatehouse and stop before ever getting there. But if you travel 1.2 miles past the mansions in the Barefoot community, you will arrive at the 342 acres of beach and natural preserve. The first parking lot and education center are still closed due to damage from Hurricane Ian, but parking lots two and three are open. Visitors can walk south past the preserve all the way to Wiggins Pass. There is also a kayak launch and walking trails. 

Three to five days: 

The Conservancy of Southwest Florida – If you want an in-depth look at what Southwest Florida’s natural environment is like, this is the place to go, and since it is right next door to the zoo you can do both in one day. The 21-acre nature center has indoor and outdoor exhibits showcasing the area’s unique ecosystems. There is an electric boat ride through the mangroves and along the Gordon River, a discovery center packed with exhibits on invasive species and local history and there is a section with wildlife that was injured and can’t be returned to the wild. There is also a wildlife animal hospital on site with some viewing windows for the public to observe some of the creatures being cared for. 

“We love people to come to the Conservancy to learn what we do and the advocacy for our land and wildlife,” said Renee Stoll, director of communications and marketing. “We are happy that people get to understand fully what we do and enjoy things like going on our boat tours and understanding our habitats and how our ecosystems work.” 

Palm Cottage – If you want a look at life in Collier County in the days of the pioneers, head to Palm Cottage, the oldest house in Naples that was built in 1895 and constructed of tabby mortar. Learn historic facts and tales about some of the first settlers. 

Revs Institute – Auto Trader recently ranked this place as the fifth-best auto museum in the world. The collection of vehicles includes the 1896 French Panhard et Levassor Wagonette, the 1934 Chrysler Airflow Imperial CV‑8 Coupe, and the 1974 powder blue Jorgensen Eagle 7400 USAC that won the 1975 Indianapolis 500. 

Seven days: 

Airboat rides – If you want something really different, head to the Everglades and hop on an airboat through the waterways encircled by a river of grass. You will probably see alligators and many birds along the way while having an adventure on these unique vessels. There are many vendors in both the Everglades and on Lake Trafford in Immokalee. 

Collier County museums – Collier County has five free museums, though Naples Depot Museum is still closed due to hurricane damage. Each museum delves into the history of the area. The biggest is the Collier Museum at the Government Center. There are exhibits on prehistoric mastodons and colossal sharks. Visitors will see ancient tools and ceremonial masks and learn facts about the Calusa Indian civilization. You can learn about the Seminole people and the origins behind their traditional crafts. The exhibits also explore the daily lives and isolation of early settlers and their families. See how cattlemen, clam diggers, trailblazers, plume hunters, hermits, loggers, railroaders, rum runners, Crackers and Indian traders used to live. If you happen to be in Everglades City, the small Museum of the Everglades is packed with big information from the first settlers to the red-coat men who patrolled the roadways to the creatures that lived there. The Immokalee Pioneer Museum lets you walk among the buildings used by some of the area’s first settlers and the Marco Island Historical Museum takes you back through the history of the island and surrounding areas. “Collier County has just an incredible variety in its history,” said Elaina Gyure, curator of education. “You can immerse yourself in the very specific history of the locations. When you are visiting a place, there is no better way to learn about its history.” 

Smallest Post Office – Near Everglades City in Ochopee is the nation’s smallest post office. The 7x8 building used to be a tomato farm shed for irrigation pipes, but in 1953, it was transformed into the tiniest post office. 

CHARLOTTE COUNTY 

Two days: 

Babcock Ranch Eco Tours – Take a swamp buggy tour through a working cattle ranch to see a plethora of local wildlife. On the 90-minute tour, guests get a chance to see wild turkeys, turtles, osprey, sandhill cranes, fox squirrels and more. While the buggy tours have a fee, guests can opt to take a free self-guided walking tour through the ranch. 

Celtic Ray Public House – It is really hard to find good Irish food in Southwest Florida, but this place has it. The menu features a variety of traditional items from Cornish pasties and bangers and mash to Shepherd’s pie and fish and chips. Inside, the pub looks like it could be in Ireland. There is a patio out back, but even better are the swing seats and tables out front. 

Fisherman’s Village – End the day at this Punta Gorda icon that features boutiques, restaurants and water views. “We are known locally, regionally and nationally as an icon in Punta Gorda,” said Kathy Burnman, marketing and events manager. “We have such a beautiful setting in Southwest Florida.” 

Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens – Along the Peace River, the 30- acre sanctuary lets visitors explore five ecosystems: marshlands, wetlands, mangroves, uplands and tidal basins. The gardens showcase about 4,500 trees and bamboo varieties. Shaded pathways lead to the river and a bridge to an island offers a vista of the wetlands by Hunter’s Creek. 

Four to five days: 

Cruisin’ Tikis – Offering a unique way to see Charlotte Harbor, the six-person tiki boat cruises through the harbor at about five miles per hour for 90 minutes, giving guests lots of time to enjoy the wildlife and views. Guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on board. There are both day and sunset cruises. “We see dolphins quite often,” said owner Jake Weiland. 

Punta Gorda History Park & Artisan Village – The Punta Gorda Historical Society maintains a series of historic buildings and gardens. The park is free to explore. The buildings are open year-round on Sundays during the Sunday Market, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Searching for shark teeth – The guidebooks might direct you to Venice as the place to get shark teeth, but there are more to be found and fewer crowds at Stump Pass Beach State Park and Englewood Beach in Charlotte County. Grab a sifter and fill it with sand at the water’s edge and then spill out your goodies to search for shark teeth. 

Tippecanoe Environmental Park – The 380-acre preserve has diverse habitats, including oak scrub, scrubby flatwoods, coastal hammocks, floodplain forests, salt marshes and mangrove swamps. The park has one of the largest contiguous tracts of xeric oak scrub in Charlotte County. This scrub provides the ideal habitat for the Florida scrub-jay, along with other protected species like the gopher tortoise, eastern indigo snake and gopher frog. The salt marshes and mangrove swamps are places to look for wading birds, reptiles, amphibians, osprey and bald eagles. 

Seven days: 

Fossil tour - The Peace River is known for its fossils and there are several companies offering fossil tours along the rocky shoreline. About 50 million years ago, high sea levels submerged Florida. Fossils erode from the banks and bottom of the Peace River and collect in gravel areas. Visitors can also rent a kayak and paddle up the river, looking for a gravel spot to search. 

Mineral springs – While Florida boasts a plethora of cold springs, just north of Charlotte County in North Port is Warm Mineral Springs State Park, the only warm springs in the state. The water is 85 degrees year-round. This unique spring is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and is believed to be one of the highest mineral contents of any natural spring in the United States. There are chairs set all around the springs, some under a canopy of trees. The water is clear, so bring your mask or goggles. Hurricanes destroyed the main building, but spacious portable restrooms are there. 

Punta Gorda History Mural Society – Since 1994, local mural art has been preserved, resulting in more than 30 murals now displayed around town. This impressive collection has established Punta Gorda as one of the leading mural towns in the country. You can download a copy of the mural walking and cycling guide at puntagordamurals.org. 

Spring Training - The Tampa Bay Rays have their spring training at the Charlotte Sports Park. If you are in town during spring training, contact springtraining@raysbaseball.com to snag some tickets.  

Hurricanes are unpredictable. You never know when one will change its course at the last minute and come right at you just when you breathe a sigh of relief. Take, for example, Hurricane Michael, which took a last-minute turn from Southwest Florida heading north to literally flatten Mexico Beach and parts of Panama City in 2018.

It’s not a matter of if but when disaster will hit. Sadly, hurricanes aren’t our worst enemy; it’s our complacency and disregard for the inevitable that will probably harm us the most. In other words, if you’re not smart, not realistic and not prepared, you’ll have no one but yourself to blame if you’re not organized when disaster hits.

The following is the only hurricane checklist you’ll ever need. Yes, it’s long. And yes, some items might seem a bit eccentric, such as dry shampoo, but trust me, if you were here and experienced the physical devastation and mental distress brought on our beautiful community by the ravages of Hurricane Irma in September of 2017 and Hurricane Ian in September of 2022, you know firsthand that you can never be too organized or too prepared.

Standard essentials

Pet owners

Optional

• Generator and gas (store per manufacturer’s manual)
• Carbon monoxide detector
• Gas or battery-powered chainsaw and protective gear
• NOAA weather radio and two-way radios

As far in advance as possible

One week before the storm

Three days before the storm

24 hours before the storm

Day of the storm

After the storm

Explore the enchanting landscapes of Southwest Florida, a region brimming with diverse experiences and captivating moments waiting to be immortalized. From the adrenaline-pumping aerobatics of the Florida International Air Show to the tranquil beauty of Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, every corner offers a unique photo opportunity.

Cheer at Everblades hockey games, explore primitive hut displays at ECHO Global Farm, and immerse yourself in the vibrant life of our community. Capture the remarkable sight of an Anhinga on Lake Babcock, showcasing its distinctive shape that earned it the nicknames “water turkey” for its turkey-like tail and “snake bird” for its long snakelike neck as it spreads its wings in the sunlight.

Southwest Florida is not just a destination; it’s a visual feast for those ready to explore and document the myriad wonders that unfold.

THE COLLEGES 

Florida SouthWestern State College has become a juggernaut in national junior college sports. 
The Bucs’ cavalcade of champions may start with the softball team, which has won three consecutive national titles. Three! 
The Bucs entered 2024 perhaps poised to win another. They began the season ranked No. 1 in the pre-season national poll. 
The volleyball team is also a national power, winning its second successive national JUCO championship in 2023. Outside hitter Alondra Alarcon was named the national player of the year by VolleyballMag.com. 
Other sports at FSW have set their sights on replicating the success of the softball and volleyball teams in recent years. 
The FSW baseball team was ranked No. 16 in the nation in the pre-season poll in January. 
A short drive away at Florida Gulf Coast University the women’s basketball is a dominant power in the Atlantic Sun Conference. The Eagles have won five consecutive conference titles and, in those seasons, have a combined record of 79-3 in conference play. 

FGCU also has teams in baseball, softball, men’s basketball, soccer, tennis and women’s swimming and diving, cross-country, golf, indoor and beach volleyball. 
The most famous athletic alum of the school is pitcher Chris Sale, a seven-time All-Star who is now with the Atlanta Braves. He previously pitched for the Boston Red Sox. 
The Red Sox and Braves both have spring training in Southwest Florida. The Red Sox train at JetBlue Park in Fort Myers and the Braves call CoolToday Park in North Port their spring training home. 
Speaking of professional sports… 

THE PROS 

This time of year, in this land of sunshine and warm weather, though, a bigger focus than bobsled or luge is spring training baseball. 
The region has a history of big-league spring training going back nearly a century, to 1925 when the Philadelphia A’s started training at Terry Park in Fort Myers. 
But professional spring training goes back even further. The minor-league Louisville Colonels held spring training in Fort Myers in 1914. 
Now, the city is home every year for two big-league teams who each have been calling this their spring-training destination for more than 30 years. 
The Minnesota Twins have been here since 1991 when they moved from Orlando into the Lee County Sports Complex. The Boston Red Sox have trained in Fort Myers since 1993, first at City of Palms Park and since 2012 at JetBlue Park. 
The Tampa Bay Rays, who play their regular season games at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, have called the Charlotte Sports Park in Port Charlotte their spring home since 2009. It’s only about 75 miles south of their regular-season home. 
The Rays, though, returned to St. Pete in 2023 for spring training because of Hurricane Ian damage at the Charlotte Sports Park forcing a move for one year. They are back this year in Charlotte County. 
The Atlanta Braves have trained at CoolToday Park in North Port since 2019. 
Southwest Florida professional sports include more than Major League Baseball. 
There is a minor-league baseball team, the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels of the Florida State League. There is also a minor-league hockey team, the Florida Everblades of the ECHL. 
Both teams have been fixtures on the local sports scene since the 1990s. 
The Mighty Mussels began life at the Lee County Sports Complex as the Fort Myers Miracle in 1992. They are affiliated with the big-league Twins and former players of the team include two men who are now Hall of Famers. 
David Ortiz, the man known as Big Papi, played for the Miracle in 1997 and later the Twins before going on to fame as a Red Sox slugger. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2022. 
Former Miracle catcher Joe Mauer, who won three American League batting titles with the Twins, was elected to the Hall of Fame in January and will be inducted into the Cooperstown shrine this summer. 
The Everblades have been a part of the Southwest Florida sports landscape nearly as long as the Miracle/Mussels. 
The Everblades started playing at what is now called Hertz Arena in 1998. They are affiliates of the Florida Panthers of the NHL and the Charlotte Checkers of the American Hockey League. 
The list of local pro teams continues growing. 
In January, an expansion team in the United Soccer League was awarded to Naples and will play at the Paradise Coast Sports Complex starting in 2025. 
Clearly, Southwest Florida offers a wide range of sports options. 
But don’t expect luge competition anytime soon. 

■ America’s Military & First Responders Museum

Spanning the Revolutionary War to the war in Afghanistan, this hidden gem at the Naples Airport honors all military branches, its 800-square-feet is jam-packed with memorabilia including Medals of Honor, uniforms, weapons, flight suits, photos, model planes and battleships donated by veterans and their families. There’s even a Civil War surgeon’s medical bag with bone saws. Much of its 10,000-plus collection is warehoused; displays honoring first responders are currently on loan to NCH.
The POW/MIA memorial table honors those who gave all, with each element — from the white of the tablecloth to the upended goblet — chosen for its symbolism. 1,952 American flags pinned to an oversized Florida state flag serve as a reminder of Florida’s fallen Vietnam soldiers killed and missing in action. A kamikaze flag boasting the traditional signatures of villagers and commanders and a display with a red swastika armband, Nazi-era German work permits and weapons are a somber reference of hatred.
Hmm, how’d that happen? One of the more curious items is an instrument panel from a Huey helicopter purportedly flown in combat during the Vietnam War — origins unknown, for the record. Another fan favorite is the 1939 WWII Harley-Davidson carrier pigeon bicycle. 
Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Saturday; noon to 3 p.m. Sunday
Admission: Free

— 500 Terminal Drive, Naples 614-205-0357, amfrm.org

■ The Baker Museum

Take your time: Spend an hour or two exploring The Baker Museum’s large-scale outdoor installations, the most concentrated collection of public sculptures in the U.S. Better yet, join a docent tour at 10 a.m. any Thursday.
Must-see: A mainstay since the museum’s opening, “Persian Seaform Ceiling” by renowned multimedia artist Dale Chihuly demonstrates why he’s the master of glass as light plays with 1,028 pieces of blown glass, creating an ethereal under-the-sea ambiance. Among the museum’s permanent collection of mostly modern and contemporary art, you literally can’t miss the 25-foot “Dawn’s Forest,” illustrating Louise Nevelson’s iconic assemblage style.
2024 Highlights: Come see “Botanical Revolution” that displays repurposed clothing and other textile art inspired by the bird and plant life of Southwest Florida through April 7. “Selections from the Ahmet Ertegün Collection” features a remarkable selection of modern art of the United States that demonstrates Ertegün’s comprehension of rhythm, pattern and color through June 16. Discover “Tradition Interrupted” (May 4 – July 28), where 12 artists blend old customs with innovative techniques, disrupting tradition while honoring the past across rugs, mosaics, metalworks and ceramics. 
Take in the sunset: Art After Hours from 6 to 9 p.m. on March 27, April 24, May 29, June 26, July 31, and Aug. 28. This fun evening of art and entertainment caters to audiences of all ages, featuring live music by local musicians, delightful food offerings, and complimentary admission to all museum exhibitions. 
Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; noon to 4 p.m. Sunday (closed Monday) 
Admission: $10 adults, $5 students, free for children 17 and younger. 

— 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples 239-597-1900, artisnaples.org/baker-museum

 ■ C’mon: Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples 

Primarily screen-free, C’mon proves play has no age limit, delivering an immersive, fun, and educational experience for children and families. Here, kids can build a spaceship (and fly far away), stage a rocket launch, tend to animals at a pet vet, journey through the Everglades, and explore the world around them. 
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday-Sunday (closed Wednesday) 
Admission: $20 general, $15 local residents, $10 for first responders, $2 for EBT, SNAP and WIC cardholders, free for members, children under 1 and local teachers 

— 15080 Livingston Road, Naples 239-514-0084, cmon.org 

■ Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center 

What to expect: Visitors embark on a chronological journey through history’s darkest days — from Jewish life between the two world wars, the rise of the Nazi party and the horrors of concentration and slave labor camps to Allied liberation and the Nuremberg Trials. With more than 1,000 WWII, Holocaust artifacts and original photographs, you’ll learn about odds-defying reunions and heroes who harbored families as told by Southwest Florida survivors, their families and liberators. 
Hours: 1-4 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday, closed Monday 
Admission: $15 at the door, $13 online 

— 975 Imperial Golf Course Boulevard, Suite 108, Naples 239-263-9200, hmcec.org 

■ IMAG History & Science Center 

Discover a world like never before at the IMAG, where you’ll explore Southwest Florida in ways that are truly unparalleled. Wander through its rich history, soar through its atmospheric conditions, and interact with its creatures up close. Engage in a hands-on experience by feeding stingrays in the SEA-to-SEE Touch Tank, unleash your creativity in the Engineering Lab, and encounter the vibrant web of life in the Animal Lab—from the majestic Tegu to the Florida Box Turtle. Command the forces shaping our world with the interactive Science on a Sphere, experience the dynamics of our planet in the Science of Motion, and find endless possibilities at the IMAG, catering to individuals of all ages. 
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday-Saturday, closed Tuesday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday 
Admission: $19.50 for adults, $15 for college students (with ID) and children ages 3 to 18, free for children under age 2 

—2000 Cranford Avenue, Fort Myers 239-243-0043, theimag.org 

■ REVS Institute 

While car enthusiasts and gearheads may initially come to mind as the primary audience, the nonprofit Revs Institute holds a revered status among researchers, restoration experts, scholars, and anyone eager to explore how the advent of the automobile has forever shaped daily life, influencing both society and sport. 
Positioning the automobile as a form of art, the institute boasts a collection of over 100 historically significant vehicles built between 1896 and 1995, sourced from the personal collection of founder Miles Collier. Collier’s family, credited with introducing sports car racing to the U.S., has left an indelible mark on automotive history. The displays serve as a captivating roadmap and historic timeline, guiding visitors through the evolution of the automobile—from its infancy to the exhilaration of the open road, the quest for speed, and the race-winning excellence of Porsche. 
For those seeking a deeper understanding, insider intel suggests embarking on a docent-led tour and a behind-the-scenes walk-through of Rev’s operational workshop. Here, cars undergo meticulous restoration, returning to both working condition and their former aesthetic glory. Additionally, visitors can preview the online collection, offering a glimpse of cars not currently displayed. The collection can be explored by manufacturer, year, and keywords, unveiling hidden gems like the rare 1961 Citrően 2CV Sahara and a 1901 carriage-like Benz Dos-à-Dos that surfaced with a simple “rare” search. 
Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 
Admission: $20, docent tours $30, docent/workshop $35. Online reservations are required. 

— 2500 Horseshoe Drive South, Naples 239-687-7387, revsinstitute.org 

■ Smallwood’s Store 

Perched above Chokoloskee Bay in the Ten Thousand Islands and steeped in history since its opening in 1906, this store-turned-museum, a National Register of Historic Places site, is a treasure trove of ancient Calusa artifacts. Reflecting its origins as a Seminole trading post, the museum showcases original furs, animal pelts, and carvings. In its heyday, this establishment served as the only market and post office in the wild western Everglades wilderness. 
The store gained notoriety when townsfolk gunned down the Wild West outlaw and suspected murderer Edgar J. Watson right outside its doors in 1910, an event immortalized in the 1990 novel “Killing Mr. Watson.” 
Boat tours around the bay often offer glimpses of the critically endangered smalltooth sawfish, which favors these waters. Adding to the experience, kids revel in the novelty of sipping an ice-cold Coca-Cola dispensed by a meticulously restored vending machine. The Tigertail gift shop pays homage to Seminole Chief Charlie Tigertail, featuring authentic Seminole crafts and local artwork, providing a charming blend of history, nature, and local culture. 
Hours: December-April, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; May-November, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily 
Admission: $5 

— 360 Mamie Street, Chokoloskee 239-695-2989, smallwoodstore.com 

■ Wonder Gardens 

Established in 1936 as a roadside attraction, the Everglades Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs dropped “Everglades” from its name in 2020. The nonprofit Wonder Gardens, once known for attractions like the swinging bridge over the alligator pit and alligator feedings, has transformed into a vibrant botanical garden. Now focused on local flora and fauna, it provides a sanctuary for over 300 rescued reptiles and birds, including juvenile gators, free-range peacocks, and lively flamingos. 
Hours: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily 
Admission: $12 for adults, $7 for children ages 4 through 12, $10 for seniors. 

— 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs 239-992-2591, wondergardens.org 

■ Englewood Beach at Chadwick Park 

This 12.67-acre beach park boasts pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters and breathtaking sunset views. Visitors can enjoy numerous amenities, including a 900-foot boardwalk, covered lookouts, sports courts, playground, and pavilions available for rent. With its inviting atmosphere, Englewood Beach is the ideal setting for birthdays, family reunions, and special events by the sea. 

— BBQ Grills, Basketball Courts, Birding, Fishing, Picnic Shelters, Playground, Restroom/Portable Toilet, Volleyball Courts 
2100 N Beach Road, Englewood 941-681-3742 

■ Port Charlotte Beach Park

Nestled along the bayfront, this 16.08-acre beach park, established in 1972 and rejuvenated in 2012, stands as a picturesque retreat. With sandy shores, sheltered waters, and breathtaking sunsets year-round, the park provides a serene escape. Enjoy the convenience of small shelters and two large pavilions, perfect for hosting events amidst the scenic beauty of the beach and harbor. Whether it’s a wedding reception, social gathering, or family picnic, this beach park offers an ideal setting for various occasions.

— BBQ grills, various sport courts (basketball, pickleball, bocce, tennis, volleyball), boat ramp, 
canoeing & kayaking, fishing, picnic shelters, playground, recreation center, restrooms and swimming pool. 
4500 Harbor Boulevard Park: 941-627-1628 Pool: 941-629-0170

■ Stump Pass Beach State Park

In the southwest corner of Charlotte County lies a tranquil mile-long beach, where visitors can revel in year-round sunbathing and swimming. The winter months bring optimal shelling opportunities. A scenic hiking trail meanders through five distinct natural communities, creating a habitat for various wildlife species. Kayak enthusiasts can paddle around two islands located just east of the park. Keep an eye out for West Indian manatees, gopher tortoises, snowy egrets, least terns, and magnificent frigate birds. Ranger-led nature hikes are available during the winter, offering educational experiences in this coastal haven.

— Fishing, hiking, paddling, picnicking, scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, tours, wildlife viewing 
900 Gulf Boulevard, Englewood (South end of Manasota Key) 941-964-0375 

COLLIER COUNTY

■ Barefoot Beach Preserve County Park

In the pinnacle of Collier County’s coveted coastline, Barefoot Beach Preserve offers a serene retreat, encompassing 342 acres of natural land. Positioned as one of the last undeveloped barrier islands along Florida’s Southwest coast, the preserve provides a haven for various animal species. The Barefoot Beach Access, situated 20 feet off Bonita Beach Road on Lely Barefoot Boulevard, offers a tranquil spot for sunbathers. To the south lies Barefoot Beach Preserve Park, while just north awaits Bonita Beach Park, creating an idyllic coastal escape for visitors.

— Restroom, showers, concessions with beach rental equipment, pavilion 
505 Barefoot Beach Boulevard, Naples 239-252-4000

■ Clam Pass Beach Park

Boasting 35 acres of coastal habitat, the park preserves its natural beauty, allowing visitors to access the sandy beach via a scenic three-quarter-mile boardwalk. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Clam Pass Park, a perfect destination for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.

— Beach wheelchair, bike racks, foot shower, free tram to the beach, guided nature walk, life jacket loaner program, parking booth attendant, restaurant, restrooms 465 Seagate Drive, Naples 239-252-4000

■ Vanderbilt Beach Park

Located in the sought-after North Naples area, Vanderbilt Beach Park stands out as one of the most favored beach accesses. Boasting a prime location near upscale hotels, this popular destination provides ample space, stunning white sand, and sea oats, creating an inviting atmosphere. While the beach offers abundant sun and sand during the tourist season, securing parking is recommended before 10 a.m. from January to March. With dedicated parking options, including a garage and on-street spaces, a short walk to the beach awaits those who arrive early enough to enjoy this coastal gem.

— Beach wheelchairs, bike racks, foot showers, life jacket loaner program, 
parking garage availability, restrooms, toll booth attendant 
100 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples 239-252-4000

LEE COUNTY

■ Bonita Beach Park

Positioned between Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs, a 2.5-acre beachfront park unfolds with a boardwalk and swimming area. Embraced by sand dunes and coastal vegetation, the park features a gazebo and eight picnic shelters, creating tranquil retreats. Access is made easy with bus and trolley services available, and a parking fee of $2 per hour ensures convenient visits.

— Beach access, paddlecraft landing/launch, restrooms 
27954 Hickory Boulevard, Bonita Springs 239-229-0632

■ Bowman’s Beach

Tucked away and picturesque, this beach stands as a prime destination on Sanibel. Renowned for its excellent shelling opportunities and well-appointed amenities, it’s worth the brief five-minute hike from the parking area. For the adventurous beachcomber, several miles of unobstructed white sand beaches adorned with shells await exploration. Unlike the more developed parts of the islands, Bowman’s Beach maintains a pristine shoreline, offering a serene escape surrounded by natural beauty.

— Beach access, charcoal grills, fishing, fitness stations, hiking trails, paddlecraft landing/launch, 
pavilion, playground, restrooms, showers 
1700 Bowmans Beach Road, Sanibel 239-472-6397

■ Fort Myers Beach

On Estero Island’s southwest Florida coast, Fort Myers Beach presents 29 public beach accesses, such as Newton Beach Park and Seven Seas Cottage. Easily reached from Estero Boulevard, these spots offer parking and ADA features. With seven miles of sandy beaches, vibrant shops, and unique cultural spots, Fort Myers Beach stands resilient, making remarkable strides in its recovery from one of the world’s top five most catastrophic natural disasters.

— Fort Myers Beach Town Hall 2525 Estero Boulevard 239-765-0202

■ Lovers Key State Park 

Now open for limited day-use activities, including tram services from 8 a.m. to sunset, providing transportation to within 800 feet of the 2-mile beach, accessible by boardwalk or tram. Paddling equipment, beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent. The gift shop offers cold drinks and some merchandise. The Discovery Center is open Wednesday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The boat ramp is open with limited parking. Please follow posted signs and note that the park does not have electricity. This park is also a haven for wildlife, with the islands and their waters being home to West Indian manatees, bottlenose dolphins, roseate spoonbills, marsh rabbits and bald eagles. 

— Beaches, bicycling, boat ramp, canoeing and kayaking, fishing, concession and restaurant, 
hiking/ nature trail, picnicking, playground, restrooms, showers, swimming, tours, visitor center, wildlife viewing 
8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach 239-463-4588 

■ Lynn Hall Memorial Park 

Situated on Ft. Myers Beach, Lynn Hall Memorial Park is a vibrant Gulf-front oasis located just north of the Matanzas Pass Bridge, alongside the bustling “Times Square” in downtown. Boasting a lively atmosphere, this park offers a perfect blend of coastal charm and urban convenience, as it is conveniently positioned near shopping outlets and restaurants. Discover a dynamic waterfront experience at Lynn Hall Memorial Park, where the beauty of the Gulf meets the lively heart of downtown. 

— Beach access, restrooms 950 Estero Boulevard, Fort Myers Beach 239-823-1447 

Dining icons & inventions 

Never in such a short time have so many new restaurants popped onto the scene, even as iconic spots pick themselves, dust themselves off and start all over again. Naples has seen a strong resurgence of its famed dining scene. Fifth Avenue South returns to its glitz, glamour and reputation for sidewalk cafes and gastronomy. Restaurateur-chef Vincenzo Betulia leads the pack with his Osteria Tulia, Bar Tulia and The French Brasserie Rustique. At The French, he has added a new layer of love with the opening of uber-elegant, speakeasy-style Rouge, tucked into the back. Seating only 16, the exclusive dinner-and-drinks experience opens only four nights a week and serves a menu as lavish as its plush surroundings. 

A new trend, perhaps more post-pandemic-related than hurricane-inspired, restaurants are embracing “social” into their nomenclature, implying gathering, musically orchestrated components. New in Cape Coral, High Tide Social House spins off the popular Lobster Lady Seafood with a thing for creative pizza and a marina setting, while popular Jungle Bird Tiki has created another downtown pleasure, Front Porch Social. In Fort Myers, BackYard Social combines the trend with another for venues that collect several food experiences in one location. 
The new Causeway Bonita food hall brings live music, three unique concept restaurants and a bakery-ice creamery to downtown Bonita Springs. Repurposed food containers serve as kitchens and a self-serve beer wall. Nearby Rooftop at Riverside adds still another popular local trend of late – a rooftop bar – to its six food trucks model. 
The hard-hit barrier islands welcome back old favorites like Dixie Fish Company on Fort Myers Beach, with its flip-flop, waterside vibe; Sanibel fine-dining icon Cielo; and, on Captiva Island, Keylime Bistro, which also cloned in Boca Grande. 
The newly revitalized ‘Tween Waters Island Resort on Captiva Island celebrated the debut of two innovative concepts: The Shipyard, providing a relaxed, nautical ambiance, and perched above it, commanding stunning views of the Gulf, the upscale Crow’s Nest Steakhouse, renowned for its elevated cuisine and ambiance. Besides fine steaks, the latter touts its bourbon stock as it joins still another trend for whiskey bars. Warren American Whiskey Kitchen opened recently in Naples, and Whiskey Joe’s Bar & Grill has broken ground in Port Charlotte. 

Lodging renewed & new 

In addition to ‘Tween Waters, resorts like Fort Myers Beach’s Pink Shell Beach Resort, Boca Grande’s Gasparilla Inn, Sanibel Island Beach Resort and Edgewater Beach Hotel in Naples make their comebacks, better than ever. The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, has unveiled a totally updated, reimagined product that was underway before Ian hit. 
Also in the works pre-hurricane, a new crop of destination resorts and city hotels make the scene. Most notable are Sunseeker Resort in Port Charlotte and Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach. Both opened earlier this winter to resounding applause. Another Jimmy Buffett-inspired brand, Compass by Margaritaville opened in Naples, exuding the same tropical, party-time air. The town also celebrated the opening of AC Hotel by Marriott Naples 5th Avenue, with its own rooftop bar and a sleek, Euro, understated look and feel. 

Emerging neighborhoods, attractions redefined 

The AC Marriott is part of the excitement building at the latest neighborhood sensation, Naples Design District. Watch for the grand opening of Gulfshore Playhouse’s new Baker Theatre and cultural campus in the district for its first season later this year. 

Downtown Bonita Springs continues its growth spurt with new restaurants, micro-breweries, a food truck complex and the metamorphosis of historic Shangri-La Springs hotel and its Harvest & Wisdom organic brunch spot. Riverside Park grounds downtown with its stories of days gone by and glories of festivities throughout the year. Iconic Wonder Gardens is back to full operation and adding new programs like Mindfulness Walk and Wild World of Wonders Family Club. 
On Sanibel Island, a fascination with nature and wildlife happily lives on. J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge has set the tone since 1945 and continues today as its trails and programs come back. The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum adds “& Aquarium” to its name as it reopens in stages and refocuses on living mollusks and conservation. 
In a historic vein, the Sanibel Historic Museum and Village has done a stellar job of putting back together the past. On Fort Myers Beach, Mound House restored its role as cultural and recreational hub for the community, focusing on the Calusa tribe, which came here first. 

Still event-full 

The other big chunk in the Fort Myers Beach history puzzle dwells with the shrimp fleet at the San Carlos Island docks. The town again celebrates that heritage each March with the Lions Club Shrimp Festival on the beach. It is one of several seafood celebrations returning to recognize our briny bounty. 
Everglades Seafood Festival in Everglades City is one of the oldest around, held in February. In Naples, Stone Crab Festival coincides with the opening of season in October. Punta Gorda and Fort Myers Seafood & Music Festivals take place in January. 
Art festivals glorify local and national artists throughout the year, with the biggest in Naples, including March’s Downtown Art Fair, and Fort Myers, whose ArtFest happens in February. Bonita Springs National Art Festivals fill Riverside Park with excitement three weekends in January, February and March. 
One of the region’s oldest and flashiest local festivals in back, paying homage to Fort Myers former resident Thomas A. Edison. The Edison Festival of Light in February culminates in a lighted night parade. Other lighted night parades involve decorated boats around the holidays, and you can find them in Fort Myers Beach, Cape Coral, Punta Gorda and Naples. 

• The annual marketplace national for private club membership and real estate sales is $187 billion. 

• Southwest Florida makes up about 2 percent of that market, which works out to between $3 and $4 billion annually. 

More than a century since the Fort Myers County Club opened, golf continues its hold on the region. 
A highlight of the winter season is the Chubb Classic at the the Tiburon Golf Club in Naples the PGA TOUR Champions event, with a purse of $1.8 million, is played on Tiburon’s Black Course. 
McKenna has witnessed much of the region’s growth since first visiting in 2003. 
“That’s when (U.S.) 41 was four lanes,” McKenna said, sitting in her second-floor office in Sugden Hall on the FGCU campus. “Estero was nothing. It was like open land and there were a still a lot of golf courses here. “ 
But now there are more. 
“We are a destination for golf,” McKenna said. 
We are now in the midst of golf season. The peak of golf and tourist season is January to around Easter. 
“Busy, busy, busy,” McKenna said of that time of year. 
A measure of the popularity of golf in the region comes from checking the South Florida Section of the PGA of America website. It lists 580 members in Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Glades and Hendry counties. 
A quick glance around Southwest Florida shows the abundance of courses. Golf Digest reported 38 courses within 15 miles of Port Charlotte and Golflink reported 48 courses within 20 miles of that community. 

Are all those courses within Charlotte County? 
“Visitors don’t see county lines,” said Sean Doherty, tourism director for Charlotte County. 
Some nearby courses may be just over a county line and in neighboring DeSoto County. 
Just south of Charlotte County, Jeff Mielke, executive director of the Lee County Sports Development office said no study has been done on golf ’s economic impact on the county. 
But he knows “golf tourism is significant.” 
That is certainly the case across the state in Palm Beach County, which has more than 160 courses. 
The headliner golf event on the calendar there may be the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches. The tournament, which boasts a $9 million purse, is scheduled for Feb. 26 to March 3 at the PGA National Champion Course.
 

What is golf’s economic impact in Palm Beach County?
“We haven’t done a specific economic study like we did for Major League Baseball,” said George Linley, executive director of Palm Beach County Sports Commission.
While golf continues booming in Florida, that isn’t the case everywhere.
“In the past 15 years, we’ll call it, we actually lost more golf courses than we gained,” McKenna said. “A net loss nationally.”
A glance at the data showed 105 courses closed in 2022.
But Southwest Florida has added courses recently. Examples include Babcock National in Charlotte County, which opened in 2020.
Ave Maria, a town that was founded in 2005, now has two courses, The National Golf and Country Club in Ave Maria and Panther Run Golf Club.
McKenna keeps tabs on local golf clubs from the FGCU Golf Management Program. It is one of only 16 such programs around the country and it’s no accident it is located in Southwest Florida.
“We’re blessed with a great location,” McKenna said.
That helps explain why there are about 140 golf courses with an hour’s drive of campus. Each of those golf courses is an economic engine.
“The average club membership is anywhere from 300 to 400 people times 140 (clubs),” McKenna said. “When you do the math, that’s a lot of people that are shopping at the stores and dining in the restaurants and driving on the roads and you know, I look at it, if you didn’t have 140 golf clubs, what would you have here?”
Fewer restaurants. Fewer hotels. Fewer shops.
Golf, of course, is about more than economics and real estate. At its essence, this very difficult sport to master is about the vexing challenges plus the camaraderie of playing with friends.
What keeps people coming back to the links?
“I think because you get that one pure shot that brings you back you might have had 20 crappy ones prior to that but. …, Oh, I got it,” McKenna said.
The appeal is based on more than those rare, serendipitous moments of golf swing bliss.
McKenna said part of golf’s appeal is that it is a lifelong sport. And there’s more.
“You’re on a great piece of real estate, the views are fantastic. You have four hours of socializing with friends and it’s individual.”
And in Southwest Florida a golf course is seemingly around every corner. 

462 5th Avenue South, Naples 
9118 Strada Place, Suite 8150, Naples 

Bar Tulia opened its doors in 2014, incorporating a unique drink menu that complements the Italian influenced pub flare. Bar Tulia blends the cocktail style of Milan and New York with its highly skilled mixologist. 
“I always recommend the Traveling Aztec and our Garganelli. Traveling Aztec is Ilegal Mezcal for the main liquor and mixed with tamarind lime, 10-year port wine, Campari, orgeat, and orange juice. It is a tiki styled drink and layered with both almond and fruitiness with a smokey taste. Our syrups and garnishes are made fresh and in house,” said Andrew Cobaen, head bartender at Bar Tulia for four years. 
He continued with, “I came up with this cocktail myself and we rotate our drink menu seasonally, about every six months. Traveling Aztec comes in a special themed glass and topped with mint and infused cherries.” 
Bar Tulia incorporates elements of Italy with imported beers and wine, flattering the small tapa style and full portion cuisines. This intimate bar is driven by fresh and flavorful ingredients prepared in traditional Italian style with unexpected zests. 
“Gorganelli is lamb neck sugo with fennel seed, tomato, and pecorino romano. The twisted pasta and sauce make a heavier and richer dish and pairs perfectly with the refreshing tang of the cocktail. The smokey and herbal elements match the heartiness,” said Cobean. “We make our pasta fresh and daily here at our restaurant. During our Happy Hour menu, you can get a half plate, which is a partial serving and the Gorganelli is an option!” 

■ Nice Guys Pints and Pies 

1404 Cape Coral Parkway East, Cape Coral 

Where flavor and passion collide! Nice Guys puts a twist on pizza and the artisan way of creating a cocktail. Lined with old fashion pinball machines and neon walls, Nice Guys also dishes out funky pies with hot honey and house-made ranch along with drinks on fire! 
“We are a diverse and energetic atmosphere that allows us creativity to grow knowledge in mixing drinks and providing an elevated experience, with our live music and family-like patrons,” said Zach Santana, who has been employed at Nice Guys for the past three years. 
“My favorite pairing is The Washing Carver Pizza and the Pendennis. The Pendennis is an old fashion that makes you warm and tingly. The cocktail is prepared with house-made orange and black walnut bitters, a touch of sugar for balance, and a toasty grain forward bourbon. It is stirred with ice before being poured over a large cube in a rocks glass that is smoked to order over cherry wood. We then torch and express an orange peel over the beverage for an aromatic and citrusy perfume. The first sip greets you with richness and lingering charred wood notes, it is smooth with a hint of black pepper to finish,” said Santana. 
The Washington Carver Pizza is made with house peanut sauce and rich applewood smoked bacon, mozzarella, and topped with a healthy amount of house-made raspberry jam and sliced jalapenos. 
“The pizza has a bit of heat! But the first bite out of the oven will change your life,” joked Santana. 
He continued with, “I always recommend this pairing to encourage our guests to explore non-traditional styles of food and beverages. Torching the wood to smoke the glass provides the guest with an experience and helps strike up a conversation about how we craft our drinks while enjoying our delicious menu items.” 
The Washington Carver and Pendennis allows different flavor profiles to bond with the touches of smokiness and sweet from the jam and oranges. 
“This cocktail and the Washington Carver Pizza go together like PB&J!,” said Santana. 

■ Doc Fords Rum Bar and Grille 

2500 Island Inn Road, Sanibel 
708 Fisherman’s Wharf, Fort Myers Beach 
610 2nd Avenue Northeast, St. Petersburg 
8790 Bay Pines Boulevard, St. Petersburg 

Doc Fords Rum Bar and Grille has four amazing locations with waterfront seating! Serving the freshest seafood and signature cocktails along with premium rum selections, Doc Fords is known for “a vacation on a plate!” 
The mixture suggested is the Yucatan Shrimp and Tarpon Bay Breeze cocktail, bringing paradise in each sip! 
Tomlinson traveled to the Bay of Ascension, Quintana Roo, Mexico to fish for bonefish and came back with this great recipe! Steamed peel-and-eat shrimp in a dressing of real butter, garlic, mild Colombian chilies, fresh cilantro, and key lime juice,” said bartender Brian Cruz. “I would pair with the cocktail, Tarpon Bay Breeze. It is made with toasted coconut rum, Blue Chair Bay Banana Rum, both pineapple juice and cranberry juice.” 
Cruz continued with, “the drink is a fantastic combination of coconut and banana rum with tropical juices. It makes a very refreshing and light rum drink! Our Bay Breeze paired with our Yucatan Shrimp provides a refreshing contrast of sweet and refreshing with the slight spicy and citrus taste of the Yucatan Shrimp.” 
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grill takes pride in bringing flavors and styles from other countries and tying it into the Florida lifestyle. 
“Come in and enjoy sitting on one of our covered outdoor patios overlooking Estero Bay with our Bay Breeze cocktail and signature Yucatan Shrimp,” said Cruz. 

■ Hooked Island Grill 

9924 Gulf Coast Main Street, Fort Myers 

Originally calling home to Matlacha, Hooked Island Grill has moved into Gulf Coast Town Center. 
The seafood joint has a dynamic pair all into one order, the “Magnum Mary.” Hooked Island Grill is known for the visual delights of entrees, carefully crafted and plated, bring an extra layer to the dining experience. 
“Our Magnum Mary is a drink and meal all into one,” said Kyle Sherman of Hooked Island Grill. “Sail in and catch our weekend brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday!” 
“First we rim the glass with smoked paprika and old bay, next we add Ketel One and our Q Mixer Bloody Mary mix,” said Sherman. “Then we get to the fun! We add all the skewers! You get a pound of snow crab, three blacked shrimp, two strips of apple cider bacon, a mini lobster roll, queen stuffed olives, Wisconsin cheese curds, dill pickle chips, celery stalks, and finished with lemons and limes!” 
He continued with, “It is the perfect Bloody Mary and fresh seafood bunch!” 

 ■ IceHouse Pub 

408 Tamiami Trail, Suite 111, Punta Gorda 

The Icehouse Pub is an authentic English pub and restaurant. This historic spot is built from an ice storage unit used in the late 1800s. 
“The Fish n Chips with the Pimms Cup is the perfect pair! They go well together since the carbonation of the drink helps balance the fresh battered cod. It is the perfect selection to experience the taste of a classic British combo,” said Shannon Mercer of the Icehouse Pub. 

The Icehouse is known for its hearty dishes and Guinness on draft, along with other traditional style cuisines. 
She continued with, “Each and every order of fish is hand battered and fried to order with our house-made beer batter.” Fish n Chips is made with Belgian ale and served with a side of coleslaw and homemade tartar sauce. Choose a 4 oz or 8 oz portion. 
“The Pimms Cup drink is a gin based English liquor that was made by James Pimm in the 19th century London. James Pimm owned an oyster bar and would offer his gin to help with the digestion of the heavier English style foods,” said Mercer. “This drink is sweet, fruity, and bubbly! My favorite part is the presentation. I add fresh cucumber, basil, and strawberries with the Pimm No. 1 and some fresh lime juice and a little bubbly.” 
She laughed with, “I’ll let you in on a little secret, the cucumber is the best part!” 

■ 10 Twenty-Five 

33 Patio De Leon, Fort Myers 
1025 Santana Barbara Boulevard, Cape Coral 

10 Twenty-Five brings together crafted cocktails and homestyle scratch kitchen entrees with indoor and outdoor seating and bar stools. 
“The dish and drink pairing are our signature Elote Chicken Wings and The Bitter End cocktail,” said Emilee Werline, bartender at 10 Twenty-Five in downtown Fort Myers. “They are crispy fried wings doused in our chili lime aioli and then topped with street corn, cilantro, chopped jalapeno and cotija cheese. The perfect mix of savory and a hint of spice!” 
Elote Chicken Wings come in a serving of six wings and plated with celery and ranch. 
Werline continued with, “the Bitter End is a blend of Mezcal, Campari, pineapple, fresh lime, and agave. The mix of sweet pineapple and bitter Campari almost hints at the senses of grapefruit, but the cocktail is more so a crushable, smokey, tiki-style drink with a tongue-biting finish.” 
“I would describe this pairing as an elevated, craft version of the classic ‘taco and margarita’ duo. Personally, I enjoy familiarizing the public with the complex flavor and bold taste of Mezcal. As important as it is to make sure our guests are comfortable and be confident that they are ordering a cocktail they will enjoy, I find just as much joy in educating and challenging their taste buds,” she said. 
“This pairing would be perfect for the outlandish and curious guest. The wings being one of our most popular items to date - the perfect blend of house-made Mexican flavors, coupled up with an original and sweet-smokey, not to mention boozy, cocktail. It makes for a satisfying lunch or dinner stop at 10 Twenty-Five in downtown Fort Myers!” 

■ Rooftop at Riverside 

27333 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs 

Nestled in the heart of downtown Bonita Springs, Rooftop at Riverside is a two-story bar and food truck hangout. Featuring hand-crafted cocktails and assortment of Southwest Florida’s finest flavors. 
“We make our own rum infused with pineapples and cinnamon and named these drinks after this community. The goal is to have people learn our history and keep them coming back,” said Phil Willis. 
Rooftop at Riverside has eight signature drinks named after the history of Florida. Banyan Burst salutes the regal Banyan tree, planted in 1921 and covers Reynolds Street and Old 41. 
“My favorite drink to make is the Banyan Burst Watermelon Jalapeno Cooler! It just has so many fun elements to it and I love putting it all together. It is like I am doing a little dance as I grab bottles with both hands and shake it together!” said bartender Alyssa Jaen. “It has vodka, watermelon juice, bittersweet Apersol, and a sour finish. It is then topped with sparkling soda and fresh jalapeno kick!” 
She continued with, “I really love the pizza truck we have here since they are gluten-free! The salads are also amazing!” 
Zoey’s Pizza is the featured truck on location, along with five other options. 
“It is a brand-new truck I put together with my dad! You got to grab the Chick from Buffalo, which is our buffalo chicken pizza, it is my favorite!” said Zoey Lester of Zoey’s Pizza. “It is flakey crust topped with mozzarella, wood fire chicken, banana peppers, pickled red onion, scallions, and finished with ranch and buffalo sauce.” 
Willis added, “the number one person here is always the guest. To sit back and enjoy the weather and view while sipping something good!” 

■ Stretto Coastal Italian Table at Sunseekers 

5500 Sunseekers Way, Charlotte Harbor 

Experience waterfront resort and dining experience within the Charlotte Harbor! Overlooking the Peace River with shopping and cuisines, open to the public to hangout and relax. 
Pair the Chef ’s Charcuterie and Cheeseboard and White Gegroni from Chef Dave Blackburn at Stretto Coastal Italian Table. Stretto has traces of Italy within the menu, from the tip of the Italian boot to coastlines of Sicily. 
“The white negroni is neoclassic cocktail. A spin-off of the Italian classic, and bartender favorite, the Negroni. While there is no standardized recipe for a white Negroni, the plot remains the same: A classic Italian profile that incorporates bitter and sweet liqueurs and is perfect before dinner. The big difference, the spirits are usually clear with a slight yellow hue,” said Jefferson Oatts. 
Continuing with, “I have been making this drink for several years. It is a bitter-sweet mix of Gin, Luxardo Bitter Bianco, and Bianco Vermouth stirred and poured over a coconut ice cube with grapefruit essence. As the coconut ice melts, the drink evolves and changes. Each sip delicious, but each sip different. The coconut brings a richness and tropicality that is delightful against the bracing bitterness of the typical aperitivo styled cocktail.” 
Chef ’s Cheeseboard includes seasonal selection of Italian meats and cheeses with marcona almonds, Florida honeycombs, and grilled bread. 
“I love this combination at sunset while sitting at the bar or on the patio. The same way each sip changes, each bite from the charcuterie and cheese board is different than the last, and the sky is also changing as the minutes pass with the setting sun. It is a situational pairing that I love. Each moment is different than the last, and it just gets better-and-better,” he said. 

■ Turco Taco 

410 9th Street North, Naples 
1514 Immokalee Road, Suite 116, Naples 

Turco Taco is known for using fresh, organic, and locally grown produce and balancing flavor with dietary restrictions from vegan, gluten-free, and keto lifestyles. Turco Taco creates smiles, one taco at a time. 
“I would recommend the pair of our Turco Margarita and the Tinga Con Pollo Taco! The Turco Margarita is El Guitarron agave, Triple Sec, with fresh lime juice, cane sugar, and filtered water,” said Dragan Teov of Turco Taco. “The taco is handmade crispy corn tortilla shell, chicken in chipotle crema, organic romaine lettuce, sliced radish, and cotija cheese.” 
Teov continued with, “It tastes like heaven! The medium spicy from the Tinga Con Pollo Taco combined with the freshness of the lettuce and radish complements the sweet and savory margarita flavor. They go well together since the margarita is a very refreshing nature, it balances the level of spice within the taco.” 
Tinga Con Pollo Taco is priced at $4.25 each and the signature margarita is $7. 
“The pair is going to create flavor exploration in your mouth!” said Teov. 

■ Audubon-Pennington Nature Park

Just minutes from downtown Port Charlotte, Audubon-Pennington Nature Park offers a serene retreat for nature enthusiasts. Open from sunrise to sunset, the park beckons with activities like picnicking, hiking, and nature photography. Two main trails, the half-mile Sandhill Trail and the challenging one-mile Gator Hole Trail, wind through diverse landscapes, including sandhills and wetlands. Smaller trails lead to different corners, ensuring encounters with Florida’s wildlife. Providing a peaceful escape from city life, this easily accessible park promises a refreshing outdoor experience amidst the beauty of nature.

— Boardwalk, hiking trails, nature photography, picnic areas, wildlife viewing 1153 Alton Road, Port Charlotte941-625-7529

■ Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park

Spanning an impressive 42,000 acres, Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park safeguards an expansive 70-mile stretch of shoreline bordering Charlotte and Lee counties, tracing the picturesque expanse of Charlotte Harbor. 

— Boating, canoeing and kayaking, fishing12301 Burnt Store Road, Punta Gorda941-575-5816

■ Peace River Preserve 

Covering 450 acres, Peace River Preserve features a mix of scrubby flatwoods, mesic flatwoods, hammocks, marshes, and mangrove swamp. The western and northern sections support scrub-jay habitat, while the southern and eastern areas transition into high marsh and mangrove communities. Historical fire suppression led to a 1995 wildfire, shaping the uplands into xeric and mesic hammocks. Ongoing management, including prescribed burns and fuel reduction, aim to enhance habitat quality and address drainage issues in depressional marshes, fostering a resilient environment at Peace River Preserve. 

— Birding, nature preserve, nature trail 28000 Sandhill Boulevard, Punta Gorda 941-613-3220 

■ Punta Gorda Nature Park 

The 19-acre Punta Gorda Nature Park, acquired in the 1990s with funding from the Florida Community Trust, stands as a unique urban oasis. Bordered by residential streets and a canal, the park offers preserved areas for walking, bird watching, and wildlife observation. With an urban interpretative nature walk, it showcases the natural features of pre-subdivided Punta Gorda, providing a serene escape accessible via bicycle and pedestrian pathways connected to the city’s sidewalk system. This hidden gem is conveniently close to residential and commercial areas. 

— Benches, gardens, multi-use recreational trail, observation deck, palmetto forest, parking, picnic tables, salt/high marsh habitats 1623 Aqui Esta Drive, Punta Gorda 

COLLIER COUNTY 

■ Big Cypress National Preserve 

Since its inception in 1916, Big Cypress has embraced the vital responsibility of safeguarding and preserving the nation’s cherished natural landmarks. Drawing over 318 million visitors annually, this remarkable place offers an opportunity to explore and connect with the essence of the United States. Extending its reach beyond the park’s confines, Big Cypress actively collaborates with tribes, local governments, nonprofits, businesses and individuals. This collaboration empowers communities to honor their unique histories, preserve their cultural heritage and maintain outdoor spaces, inviting families to relish and cherish these invaluable assets. Their mission is to safeguard the natural and cultural treasures of this land, ensuring their enduring presence for the benefit, education, and inspiration of both present and future generations. 

— Canoeing and kayaking, hiking, hunting, ORV use, tours 
Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center 33000 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee 239-695-4758 
Oasis Visitor Center 52105 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee 239-695-2000 

■ Collier-Seminole State Park 

Sprawling across 7,271 acres, Collier-Seminole State Park is a captivating blend of diverse wildlife, rare royal palms and expansive mangrove swamps. Delve into history by exploring the last remaining Bay City Walking Dredge, a significant engineering landmark pivotal in constructing the Tamiami Trail Highway. The park offers comfortable campground sites and enriching park programs from December through March, featuring insightful presentations on flora, fauna and history. Traverse scenic trails, canoe down the Blackwater River, or utilize the boat ramp for a remarkable wilderness experience.

— Bicycling, boat ramp, camping, canoeing and kayaking, fishing, hiking/nature trail, picnicking, playground, restrooms, showers, wildlife viewing20200 Tamiami Trail East, Naples239-394-3397

■ Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park has reopened its doors for limited day use, welcoming visitors to enjoy the breathtaking mile-long stretch of pristine sugar sand beach—the jewel of this 166-acre tropical paradise. Renowned as one of the nation’s finest, the beach invites beachgoers, boaters, and divers to relish in its natural splendor. From sunbathing and paddling to hiking and birdwatching, this coastal haven offers an array of activities. Anglers can find designated spots in the northern park areas for a chance at trophy catches. Boaters will appreciate the easily accessible launch area into Turkey Bay, allowing exploration of the Cocohatchee River’s delicate estuaries leading to the expansive Gulf of Mexico. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park ensures a memorable coastal experience, providing beach wheelchairs upon reservation and offering a complimentary beach shuttle service from Conner Park, since parking is extremely limited within the park. It’s a destination that invites all to unwind in the embrace of nature’s beauty while adhering to posted guidelines and respecting any closed areas.

— Beaches, boat ramp, boating, fishing, picnicking, restrooms, showers, scuba diving, swimming, wildlife viewing11135 Gulfshore Drive, Naples239-597-6196

■ Everglades National Park 

For inquiries, contact the Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center at 239-695-4758. Due to Hurricane Ian’s impact, the Gulf Coast Visitor Center is temporarily closed, but the canoe and kayak launch, parking lot, and covered pavilion remain accessible with limited services. Drinking water is not available. Concession boat tours are currently not operational due to ongoing construction. Everglades National Park, spanning 1.5 million acres of wetland in south Florida, offers diverse activities across its three separate entrances. Explore wildlife on the Anhinga Trail, savor panoramic views from Shark Valley’s observation tower, or paddle through mangroves on Nine-Mile Pond. With myriad options, Everglades National Park is an adventurer’s paradise waiting to be explored. 

— Hiking, camping, fishing, canoe and kayak trails, boating, tours
Gulf Coast Visitor Center815 Oyster Bar Lane, Everglades City239-695-4758

 ■ Freedom Park 

Explore the 50-acre Freedom Park in Naples, located at 1515 Golden Gate Parkway. Acquired in 2008, the park includes a 12.5-acre Conservation Collier portion, featuring a 3,500-foot boardwalk and trails with lookout pavilions. Open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk, the park offers vehicle access, free parking, and restrooms in the Exhibition Hall. The ongoing construction of the Freedom Memorial pays tribute to 9/11 and war heroes. Undergoing restoration, the park boasts freshwater marshes, native plants, and diverse wildlife, providing a tranquil retreat. Conservation Collier’s acquisition emphasizes preserving native habitat, surface water resources, and connecting to existing conservation lands. 

— 1515 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples 
239-252-4062 

■ Nancy Payton Preserve 

Discover the 71-acre Nancy Payton Preserve’s pine flatwoods, offering smooth hiking trails amidst native vegetation. With 147 plant species, including South Florida slash pine and Sabal palmetto, 82% native, the preserve teems with wildlife. From bobcats to Florida panthers, the habitat supports endangered species. Management efforts focus on enhancing red-cockaded woodpecker and gopher tortoise habitats. This refuge, crucial for native species, safeguards biodiversity in Collier County and beyond. 

— Hiking trails, wildlife viewing 1540 Blue Sage Drive, Naples 239-252-2495 

■ Picayune Strand State Forest 

Critical to the Everglades, Picayune Strand State Forest, located at 1515 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples, safeguards ecological balance and wildlife habitats. Once logged and drained for a failed subdivision, it faced disruption from canal systems in the 1970s. Acquired for restoration, the 50,000-acre forest, managed by the Florida Forest Service, now serves vital roles in water quality improvement and public recreation. Explore trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, witness diverse flora and fauna, or engage in freshwater fishing. 

— Biking, camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, seasonal hunting, paddling 2121 52nd Avenue SE, Naples 239-348-7557 

LEE COUNTY 

■ Cayo Costa State Park 

Nestled within the protective embrace of the Charlotte Harbor Estuary, this unspoiled Gulf Coast Island is a sanctuary of wind-sculpted trees, inviting beaches, and the freedom to explore. Accessible solely by boat or kayak, Cayo Costa Island unveils 9 miles of undeveloped shoreline, inviting adventures in swimming, snorkeling, shelling, fishing, and birdwatching. The island is a haven for diverse wildlife, from abundant shorebirds to occasional manatees, porpoises, and sea turtles gracing the offshore waters. When the park is accessible, secure your visit with an online single-use day pass and immerse yourself in the wonders of Cayo Costa. 

— 4 Nautical Miles West of Pine Island (26.685789, -82.245381) 941-964-0375 

■ Don Pedro Island State Park 

A part of an extensive chain of barrier islands extending along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Don Pedro is accessible only by private boat or ferry. Boaters can tie up at the dock on the mangrove-lined bay side of the island. 

— Boating, canoeing and kayaking, hiking/ nature trail, picnicking, fishing, restrooms, swimming, wildlife viewing Wednesday-Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed on Monday and Tuesday. 8450 Placida Road, Placida 941-964-0375 

■ Estero Bay Preserve State Park 

Discover Estero Bay Preserve’s natural wonders through rugged trails, traversing diverse uplands and showcasing abundant wildlife and native plants. Ideal for hiking, ensure you have sturdy footwear, insect repellent, sunscreen, and ample water. The preserve is dog-friendly, requiring pets to be leashed. Dive into unique ecosystems at the Estero River Scrub access, home to mesic flatwoods, scrub, salt flats, and various wildlife. Convenient amenities like pavilions, restrooms, and benches enhance your experience. Explore this natural beauty on foot, embracing nature’s rich tapestry. 

— Bicycling, boating, canoeing and kayaking, fishing, hiking/nature trail, restrooms, wildlife viewing 4940 Broadway West, Estero 239-992-0311

 ■ Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park 

Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park unfurls its welcome to all, beckoning visitors to delve into its unspoiled natural wilderness. With a steadfast commitment to preserving its inherent essence, the park meticulously restricts facilities and activities, preserving an authentic and immersive communion with nature. Segmented into four primary zones, the park offers a journey through the scenic Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk, the picturesque East River reachable by appointment-only canoe launch, the tranquil Jones Grade lakes and trail ideal for fishing and kayaking, and the expansive Janes Memorial Scenic Drive granting access to an array of hiking and biking trails. Traverse the pristine landscapes and vibrant ecosystems, immersing oneself in the heart of Fakahatchee’s untamed allure. 

— Hiking/nature trail, tour, wildlife viewing 137 Coast Line Drive, Copeland 239-961-1925 

■ Gasparilla Island State Park 

Part of the Gulf Coast barrier islands, Gasparilla Island is adorned by the restored Port Boca Grande Lighthouse dating back to 1890. Activities like swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and shelling (best in winter) are enjoyed at the island’s five accessible parking lots. Picnics with scenic views are possible at Sandspur and Boca Grande Lighthouse parking lots, both featuring pavilions. The lighthouse also hosts a museum, open for public exploration. Accessible via the Boca Grande Causeway, this island sanctuary awaits at the south end of Gasparilla Island. 

— Beaches, bicycling, canoeing and kayaking, fishing, hiking/nature trail, picnicking, restrooms, swimming, wildlife viewing 880 Belcher Road, Boca Grande 941-964-0375 

■ J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge 

Whether it’s a first visit or a routine biking adventure, J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge extends a warm welcome to all. Begin at the FREE Visitor and Education Center, offering essential information, a nature store, engaging exhibits and noteworthy facilities. Explore the diverse ecosystems and migratory flyways showcased in exhibits, including a hands-on area for young enthusiasts. The refuge, part of the largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystem in the United States, is world-renowned for its spectacular migratory bird populations. Embark on wildlife discovery through walking, biking, or driving the scenic four-mile Wildlife Drive, granting access to walking trails and canoe launches. Birdwatching and photography thrive with over 245 bird species residing within the refuge. Guided tram tours by Tarpon Bay Explorers unveil the Wildlife Drive, while water activities like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking enhance the refuge experience. 

— Bicycling, canoeing and kayaking, hiking/nature trail, picnicking, visitor center, wildlife viewing 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel 239-472-1100 

■ Koreshan State Park 

Nestled by the tranquil banks of the Estero River, Koreshan State Park unveils the compelling story of Florida pioneers. Once home to the Koreshans, a 19th-century religious sect led by Dr. Cyrus R. Teed, this place witnessed their unique beliefs in communal living and a universe inside the Earth. Immaculately restored historic buildings stand as a testament to their industrious lives, surrounded by lush gardens and ancient oaks. Amidst the peaceful ambiance of Fort Myers, this park offers a glimpse into a fascinating chapter of history and a chance to connect with nature’s serenity. 

— Boat ramp, camping, canoeing and kayaking, hiking/nature trail, historic site, fishing, picnicking, playground, restrooms, wildlife viewing 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero 239-992-0311  

■ Ave Maria 

Dive into the vibrant community of Ave Maria, one of Southwest Florida’s fastest-growing areas, just a half-hour east of Naples. Founded in 2007, Ave Maria offers a rich tapestry of residential life, commercial enterprises, and academic institutions like Ave Maria University. At its heart lies the Ave Maria Catholic Church, a focal point of the town center. 

Every Tuesday through April 23, enjoy guided trolley tours, free church tours, and musical performances in the Town Center from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Don’t miss the Taste of Ave on February 3, featuring live music, culinary delights, and family-friendly fun. 

On Saturdays through April 27, the Ave Maria Farmers Market boasts over 60 vendors, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Celebrate the Tex-Mex vibe at the Margarita & Taco Festival on March 16, offering country music, Latin-infused cuisine, and lively entertainment from noon to 5 p.m. 

■ Babcock Ranch 

Discover the allure of Babcock Ranch, a solar-powered city nestled in the heart of nature. With walking trails, cycling paths and bass-filled lakes, this regional outdoor haven invites everyone to explore a mosaic of oak hammocks and prairies. Uncover the community’s essence at Woodlea Hall in Founder’s Square—a central hub offering insights into Babcock’s unique blend of sustainability and lifestyle. 

Join the lively atmosphere during Food Truck Weekends, where diverse culinary delights and live music grace Founder’s Square every Friday and Saturday from 5-9 p.m. Immerse yourself in the Babcock Bandstand Concert Series, featuring upcoming live performances from Unfinished Business to The LineUp, promising delightful evenings of entertainment on Fridays from 6-8 p.m. 

Embrace cultural richness at the Sixth Annual Babcock Ranch Art Show on March 9-10. Founder’s Square transforms into an art haven with 65 artists, food trucks and live entertainment, showcasing a diverse array of artistic expressions. Whether cheering at Trailblazers Home Games, indulging in Square Scoops ice cream treats, or unwinding at Slater’s happy hours, Babcock Ranch offers a tapestry of experiences in a sustainable and vibrant community. Don’t miss out on these public events that bring the community together in shared enjoyment. 

■ Downtown Bonita 

Explore the revitalized charm of historic Downtown Bonita Springs along Old 41, a route that unfolds the town’s 1920s roots. Shangri-La Hotel, since 1921, embodies this history, now a healthful sanctuary and spa with the Harvest & Wisdom restaurant. 

Farther north, Wonder Gardens, born in 1936, offers Victorian elegance alongside animal encounters. Riverside Park, the community center, hosts gatherings amid historic structures. Adding excitement is the Rooftop at Riverside food truck park, fulfilling the Magnus family’s dream for Bonita Springs. 

Amid this history, modern venues like Chartreuse Craft Cocktail Lounge and Ceremony Brewing thrive. The Causeway Bonita opened in October as Southwest Florida’s first food hall. Downtown Bonita Springs merges history and vibrancy—a living testament to community spirit. 

■ Downtown Punta Gorda 

Navigate along the Peace River, where historic Punta Gorda reflects on its 19th-century origins through vibrant murals depicting its rich history. Marion Avenue, the quaint main street, hosts eclectic shops and eateries like The Perfect Caper and Celtic Ray Public House, each with its unique charm. 

Stroll through streets like Sullivan, Taylor, and Olympia, uncovering hidden gems. Along the river-front, Wyvern Hotel’s rooftop bar and Four Points by Sheraton with TT’s Tiki Bar maintain the lively atmosphere. Laishley Park and its crab house cater to both sea enthusiasts and families, complementing the extensive bike trails along the river.

Continue west to Charlotte Harbor, encountering the transformed Fishermen’s Village—a hub of entertainment, lodging, and shopping, nestled on old city docks. Experience Punta Gorda’s roots with stately historic homes, Gilchrist Park on Retta Esplanade, and the new Military Heritage Museum and its Gulf Theater, offering live performances and cultural experiences. Cap off your journey at Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor, a waterfront haven for relaxation and entertainment.

■ Fort Myers HistoricRiver District 

Like many downtowns of a certain age, there came a time for Fort Myers when urban sprawl left its core looking a little abandoned and forlorn., Wiser heads prevailed, however, to save the Historic River District with all its historic gems from falling victim to trends and “out with the old” attitudes.

Thanks largely to the vigor of the Edison & Ford Winter Estates at its fringes, historic downtown renewed. An old, handsome federal building became an art center; a circa-1915 vaudeville house, a theater. Stores and restaurants moved into buildings dating back to the late 18th century, as was the case with The Veranda, a gracious restaurant that lives in two pioneer homes. 

Ambitious undertakings like the Franklin Shops turned one vintage structure into a crafty mall of sorts. Bars and lounges draw a young crowd to frenzied hangouts such as the Sky Bar and Cowboy Up. 

The riverfront spruced up with the remastering of Centennial Park and the appearance of Luminary Hotel & Co., with its modern good looks rooted in local history (named for Thomas Edison’s glowing claim-to-fame). With it came another rooftop bar, a sports bar with a golf simulator and a smattering of other food and beverage hotspots. 

The Historic River District continues to take full advantage of its waterfront beauty and bygones intrigue as more hotels move in and people of all ages come out for its monthly street parties and annual festivals. 

■ Naples 5th Avenue

Indulge in the unique blend of glamour and laid-back charm at 5th Avenue South, Old Naples’ exclusive destination. This iconic address seamlessly merges historic and modern architecture, offering upscale fashion, jewelry, spas, art galleries, fine dining, and more.

Adjacent to it, the Naples Design District, recently rejuvenated after Hurricane Ian, is a dynamic retail hub featuring art galleries, architect offices, trendy food-and-drink venues, and notable establishments like The Collective and Warren American Whiskey Kitchen. Anticipate the new attractions, including Gulfshore Playhouse’s facility and the AC Hotel by Marriott Naples 5th Avenue, now open and ready for you to immerse yourself in this renewed energy, complementing the timeless allure of 5th Avenue South. 

■ South Cape 

Three parallel roads — Cape Coral Parkway, SE 47th Terrace and Lafayette Street — define Cape Coral’s downtown area, which has evolved over the past decade into a dining and entertainment mecca. Cape Coral Parkway, the main thoroughfare, takes motorists from the Caloosahatchee River waterfront to the heart of the city, lined with fun and quirky dining establishments with names like Nevermind Awesome Bar & Eatery and Nice Guys Pizza. 

Slip off the parkway in either direction to find more fun spots. To the west on Lafayette Street, you’ll find Jungle Bird Authentic Tiki and the Monkey Bar Steak & Seafood. Head east to SE 47th Terrace and you’ll land at a streetscaped pedestrian mall, where deciding on a place to eat and drink requires serious research (or determined barhopping). There’s Cork Soakers Deck & Wine Bar, Front Porch Social, Sage on 47th, Fish Tale Grill, Dixie Roadhouse —the list goes on and on. Many establishments on Cape Coral Parkway are also accessible from the pedestrian walkway through their backdoors, giving them a speakeasy feel. 

Downtown Cape Coral takes advantage of its abundant eat-and-sip options with trolley-hop events to celebrate everything from New Year’s Eve and St. Patrick’s Day to bacon and martinis. Other downtown events include arts festivals, Pride parades, farmers markets, bike nights, symphonies in the park and pub crawls. 

South Cape’s renewal got its jump start in 2019 with a $13 million beautification project that added brick-paved pathways and pedestrian crossings, decorative streetlamps, a traffic roundabout and public Wi-Fi. Today, the SE 47th Terrace promenade continues to buzz day and night with diners and clubbers looking for the heart of Cape Coral’s social scene. 

South Cape

Three parallel roads — Cape Coral Parkway, SE 47th Terrace and Lafayette Street —  define Cape Coral’s downtown area, which has evolved over the past decade into a dining and entertainment mecca. Cape Coral Parkway, the main thoroughfare, takes motorists from the Caloosahatchee River waterfront to the heart of the city, lined with fun and quirky dining establishments with names like Nevermind Awesome Bar & Eatery and Nice Guys Pizza. 

Slip off the parkway in either direction to find more fun spots. To the west on Lafayette Street you’ll find Jungle Bird Authentic Tiki and the Monkey Bar Steak & Seafood. Head east to SE 47th Terrace and you’ll land at a streetscaped pedestrian mall, where deciding on a place to eat and drink requires serious research (or determined bar-hopping). There’s Cork Soakers Deck & Wine Bar, Big Storm Brewery, Fish Tale Grill, Duval Street, Dixie Live —the list goes on and on. Many establishments on Cape Coral Parkway are also accessible from the pedestrian walkway through their backdoors, giving them a speakeasy feel. 

Downtown Cape Coral takes advantage of its abundant eat-and-sip options with trolley-hop events to celebrate everything from New Year’s Eve and St. Patrick’s Day to bacon and martinis. Other downtown events include arts festivals, gay pride parades, farmers markets, bike nights, symphonies in the park and pub crawls. 

South Cape’s renewal got its jump start in 2019 with a $13 million beautification project that added brick-paved pathways and pedestrian crossings, decorative streetlamps, a traffic roundabout and public Wi-fi. Today, the SE 47th Terrace promenade continues to buzz day and night with diners and clubbers looking for the heart of Cape Coral’s social scene. 

Downtown Bonita

Old 41 Road takes you to the historic heart of Bonita Springs. Dating back to the 1920s, downtown backslid for many decades as the action moved out to the new U.S. 41, or Tamiami Trail. 

In the past handful of years, however, downtown Bonita has slowly but surely reverted back to its glory days. Three historic hubs reflect the community’s roots and glow today with restoration and preservation efforts. 

Since 1921, Shangri-La Hotel has graced the banks of the springs that gave the town its name. Since then, it has undergone a number of reincarnations, eventually as today’s healthful asylum and spa with the organic garden-fed Harvest & Wisdom restaurant. 

To the north, Everglades Wonder Gardens surfaced as a roadside wildlife attraction in 1936. Today’s version keeps the gator appeal and adds sophistication with Victorian structures, a tea room and flamingo yoga. 

Riverside Park has returned as downtown’s community center, where festivals, movie nights and other family-friendly gatherings happen among the amphitheater and mid-20th century Liles Hotel and fish houses turned retail shops and galleries. 

Interspersed between the relics of yesteryear, entertainment venues such as Chartreuse Craft Cocktail Lounge, Downtown Coffee and Wine, Ceremony Brewing and The Bohemian restaurant have blossomed among longtime favorites like Grandpa’s Pizza and Mexican-steeped Maria’s Restaurant. 

Naples Design 

District One of the most up-and-coming retail neighborhoods of Southwest Florida has been around for decades, but only in the past few years has hit its stride. Just in time for Hurricane Ian to hit below the proverbial belt.

Defined as a 12-block area northeast of famed Fifth Avenue South’s tony eat-and-shop strip, the Naples Design District at the intersection of Central Avenue and Tamiami Trail started out as a shopping destination for working decorators and DIY home improvers. 

More recently, art galleries, architect offices and food-and-drink venues joined antique shops and second-hand stores. The vibe turned youthful and lively, with a brand of chic between shabby and snobby. The future looked bright with the opening of The Collective, a hub of design businesses unfortunately flooded by Ian. 

Tenants are coming back, however, and Warren Whisky Kitchen is again under construction there. Most of the existing restaurants have reopened, including Bodega Ole and Grappino. Riptide Brewing Company, undaunted by the high tide that ripped through the area, still pours its craft beers. Plus, on the horizon are Gulfshore Playhouse’s new and state-of-the-art facility, a boutique hotel and the completion of a community sculpture park in partnership with Naples Botanical Garden. The latter will host a ribbon-cutting on March 1 as part of a special Naples Design District celebration. The day will applaud and showcase the district’s comeback and also pay tribute to Naples’ centennial with restaurant specials, sales, historical scavenger hunts and an art unveiling. 

Fort Myers Historic River District 

Like many downtowns of a certain age, there came a time for Fort Myers when urban sprawl left its core looking a little abandoned and forlorn. With all its historic gems, however, wiser heads prevailed to save the Historic River District from falling victim to trends and “out with the old.” 

Thanks largely to the vigor of the Edison & Ford Winter Estates at is fringes, historic downtown renewed. An old, achingly handsome federal building became an art center; a circa-1915 vaudeville house, a theater. Stores and restaurants moved into buildings dating back to the late 18th century, as was the case with The Veranda, a gracious restaurant that lives in two pioneer homes. 

Ambitious undertakings like the Franklin Shops turned one vintage structure into a crafty mall of sorts. Bars and lounges drew a young crowd to frenzied hangouts such as the Sky Bar and Cowboy Up. 

The riverfront spruced up with the remastering of Centennial Park and the appearance of Luminary Hotel & Co. with its modern good looks rooted in local history (named for Thomas Edison’s claim-to-fame). With it came another rooftop bar and a smattering of other food and beverage hotspots. 

Despite Hurricane Ian’s efforts to stymie the forward and upward trends, the Historic River District continues to take full advantage of its waterfront beauty and bygones intrigue as more hotels move in and people of all ages come out for its monthly street parties and annual festivals. 

Downtown Punta Gorda 

Another downtown, a different river running through it, old Punta Gorda turns its face toward the Peace River, as it has since the late 19th century. It remembers the past in a series of larger-than-life murals throughout its streets. They recall the railroad days, the area’s fishing heritage, conquistadors, cattle drives and other highlights of the small town’s heyday. 

Marion Avenue constitutes the main drag for shoppers and diners, who find anything but cookie-cutter in art galleries, gift boutiques and restaurants like The Perfect Caper at the high end and Celtic Ray Public House, a long-enduring Irish pub filled with character and, typically, characters. 

Streets and avenues such as Sullivan, Taylor, and Olympia hold more gems begging to be explored. On the riverfront, Wyvern Hotel and its rooftop bar and TT’s Tiki Bar keep the party going day long. 

Laishley Park and its namesake restaurant serve the salty crowd and families along the town’s extensive system of bike trails that skirt the river. Stately historic homes and Gilchrist Park on Retta Esplanade keep Punta Gorda rooted to its past. 

Follow the river west to Charlotte Harbor and you reach another relic of the past: the old city docks remade into the entertainment and shopping center known as Fishermen’s Village. 

The Military Heritage Museum next door, newly relocated and elevated, is worth a visit. Its Gulf Theater hosts tribute bands and other live performances, while downtown’s Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center books acts from concerts to expos.

We also have museums for kids, autophiles and art aficionados, as well as one reminding us to never forget the horrors of the Holocaust and the will to survive, and at least three museums dedicated to America’s military history. 

America’s Military & First Responders Museum 

Best for: Military history. Spanning the Revolutionary War to the war in Afghanistan, this hidden gem at the Naples Airport honors all military branches, its 800-square-feet jam-packed with memorabilia including Medals of Honor, uniforms, weapons, flight suits, photos, model planes and battleships donated by veterans and their families. There’s even a Civil War surgeon’s medical bag with bone saws. Much of its 10,000-plus collection is warehoused; displays honoring first responders are currently on loan to NCH.

Haunting tributes: The POW/MIA memorial table honors those who gave all, with each element — from the white of the tablecloth to the upended goblet — chosen for its symbolism. 1,952 American flags pinned to an oversized Florida state flag serve as a reminder of Florida’s fallen Vietnam soldiers killed and missing in action. A kamikaze flag boasting the traditional signatures of villagers and commanders and a display with a red swastika armband, Nazi-era German work permits and weapons are a somber reference of hatred. 

Hmm, how’d that happen? One of the more curious items is an instrument panel from a Huey helicopter purportedly flown in combat during the Vietnam War — origins unknown, for the record. Another fan favorite is the 1939 WWII Harley-Davidson carrier pigeon bicycle. 

Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Saturday; noon to 3 p.m. Sunday

Admission: Free 

— 500 Terminal Drive, Naples 614-205-0357, www.amrfm.org 

— Other military museums in the area include: The SWFL Military Museum & Library, 4125 Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers (inside Edison Mall), www.swflmm.org, and the Military Heritage Museum, 900 West Marion Ave., Punta Gorda, www.militaryheritagemuseum.org.

The Baker Museum 

Take your time: Spend an hour or two exploring The Baker Museum’s large-scale outdoor installations, the most concentrated collection of public sculptures in the U.S. Better yet, join a docent tour at 10 a.m. any Thursday. 

Must-see: A mainstay since the museum’s opening, “Persian Seaform Ceiling” by renowned multimedia artist Dale Chihuly demonstrates why he’s the master of glass as light plays with 1,028 pieces of blown glass, creating an ethereal under-the-sea ambiance. Among the museum’s permanent collection of mostly modern and contemporary art, you literally can’t miss the 25-foot “Dawn’s Forest,” illustrating Louise Nevelson’s iconic assemblage style. 

2023 Highlights: Love is in the air as The Baker Museum presents the final U.S. stop of “Love Stories from the National Portrait Gallery, London,” featuring 17th-century to modern-day British portraiture (through May 7). The museum revisits its widely popular 2016 exhibit, “Naples Collects” with the 2022-23 rendition, featuring significant artwork from local private collectors (March 4-Oct. 15). 

Take in a sunset: Art after Hours, from 6-9 p.m. on the last Wednesday or every month, offers complimentary admission and prime sunset viewing on the museum’s new third-floor sculpture terrace. 

Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; noon to 4 p.m. Sunday (closed Monday) 

Admission: $10 adults, $5 students, free for children 17 and younger. 

— 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples 239-597-1900, www.artisnaples.org/baker-museum

Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples 

What’s to love: Primarily screen-free, C’mon, as it’s affectionally known, proves play has no age limit, delivering an immersive, fun and educational experience for children and families. Here, kids can build a spaceship (and fly far away), stage a rocket launch, tend to animals at a pet vet, journey through the Everglades and explore the world around them. 

2023 highlights: “Namaste India,” through May 14, provides a day-in-the-life perspective of children in India, covering cricket to Bollywood and food to schools. Children can also step inside the pages of celebrated children author Mo Willems’ “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!” May 17-Sept. 13. 

Fun fact: The museum’s experiential focus and emphasis on experimental play was developed by child psychology experts to foster creativity, curiosity, empathy and self-esteem. 

Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday-Sunday (closed Wednesday) 

Admission: $20 general, $15 local residents, $2 for EBT, SNAP and WIC cardholders 

— 15080 Livingston Road, Naples 239-514-0084, www.cmon.org 

— Fort Myers also has a children’s museum. The IMAG History & Science Center is at 2000 Cranford Ave. just east of downtown off Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard; www.theimag.org. 

Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center 

What to expect: Visitors embark on a chronological journey through history’s darkest days — from Jewish life between the two world wars, the rise of the Nazi party and the horrors of concentration and slave labor camps to Allied liberation and the Nuremberg Trials. With more than 1,000 WWII, Holocaust artifacts and original photographs, you’ll learn about odds-defying reunions and heroes who harbored families as told by Southwest Florida survivors, their families and liberators. 

Don’t miss: Docents share more local stories during 90-minute tours at 1:30 p.m. 

2023 highlights: “Two Regimes,” through April, chronicles the genocide-by-starvation Holodomor in 1930s Soviet Ukraine and the Holocaust as documented in the writings and paintings of a Ukrainian woman and her daughter. 2023 also ushers in a mid-year expansion, including a new gallery dedicated to identifying and preventing genocide as part of the museum’s mission of teaching the “lessons of the Holocaust to inspire action against bigotry, hatred and violence.” 

Fun fact: Now in its 21st year, the Holocaust Museum traces its roots to a local seventh-grade classroom project. 

Hours: 1-4 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday 

Admission: $15 at the door, $13 online

 — 975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd., Suite 108 Naples 239-263-9200, www.hmcec.org 

REVS Institute 

Best for: While gearheads and diehard car enthusiasts seem the most likely visitors, the nonprofit Revs is revered by researchers, restoration experts, scholars and anyone who wants to learn how the advent of the auto forever changed daily life, influencing society and sport. 

What to expect: Celebrating the automobile as art, the institute features more than 100 historically significant vehicles built between 1896 and 1995 from the personal collection of founder Miles Collier, whose father and uncle are credited with introducing sports car racing to the U.S. Vehicle displays illustrate/provide a veritable roadmap and historic timeline, motoring visitors through the infancy of the auto to the freedom of the open road, the need for speed and the race-winning excellence of Porsche. 

Insider intel: Delve deeper during a docent-led tour and a behind-the-scenes walk-through of Rev’s working workshop, where cars are meticulously restored to working condition and their former beauty. Preview the online collection, including cars not displayed, by manufacturer, year and keywords (“rare” returned a 1961 Citrően 2CV Sahara and a 1901 carriage-like Benz Dos-à-Dos). 

2023 highlights: “Speed, Grace, Power, Beauty,” through August, highlights the Spirit of Ecstasy, the iconic Rolls-Royce mascot created by sculptor Charles Sykes. 

Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 

Admission: $20, docent tours $30, docent/workshop $35. Online reservations are required. 

— 2500 Horseshoe Drive S., Naples 239-687-7387, www.revinstitute.org 

Smallwood’s Store 

Best for: Local flavor and life in Florida’s final frontier 

What to expect: Opened in 1906 and perched above Chokoloskee Bay in the Ten Thousand Islands, the store-turned-museum and National Register of Historic Places site houses ancient Calusa artifacts, the original furs, animal pelts and carvings harkening to its days as a Seminole trading post and the only market and post office in the untamed western Everglades wilderness. 

Why you know the name: Townsfolk gunned down Wild West outlaw and suspected murderer Edgar J. Watson outside the store in 1910, memorialized in the 1990 novel “Killing Mr. Watson.” 

More to do: Boat tours are often accompanied by sightings of the critically endangered smalltooth sawfish that favors the bay.

Don’t miss: Kids love the novelty of an ice-cold Coca-Cola served by a restored vending machine. The Tigertail gift shop honors Seminole Chief Charlie Tigertail and offers authentic Seminole crafts and local artwork. 

Hours: December-April, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; May-November, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily 

Admission: $5 

— 360 Mamie St., Chokoloskee 239-695-2989, www.smallwoodstore.com 

The Wonder Gardens 

Best for: Colorful kitsch and a glimpse into Old Florida 

Highlights: An original 1936 roadside attraction, the Everglades Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs officially dropped “Everglades” from its name in 2020 (seems some folks were adamant it’s not actually in the Everglades). Gone are the swinging bridge over the alligator pit, alligator feedings best viewed from said bridge and the curious, often-unidentifiable jarred specimens collected by the gardens’ founders. Today, the nonprofit Wonder Gardens celebrates the area’s local flora and fauna as a colorful botanical garden and a haven for more than 300 rescued, rehabilitated and non-releasable reptiles and birds, including juvenile gators, free-range peacocks strutting their stuff under sprawling banyan trees and flamingos frolicking in their version of a splashpad. 

Stay tuned: The Wonder Gardens is planning a new and improved version of its natural history museum, damaged by recent hurricanes. It houses wildlife exhibits, plants and former resident (now taxidermied) Big Joe, who at 15.5 feet was once the world’s largest living crocodile. 

Insider intel: Pose for a photo op as you feed a gator, offered daily at 12:30 p.m. 

Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily 

Admission: $12 adults, $7 children 4-12, $10 seniors. 

— 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs 239-992-2591, www.wondergardens.org 

— Naples Botanical Garden also celebrates Southwest Florida’s native flora (and other subtropical and tropical flora around the world), as does the Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens in Punta Gorda. Find out more at www.naplesgarden.org and at www.peacerivergardens.org. 

The beaches of Southwest Florida are among Dennis Goodman’s favorite destinations, for his own enjoyment and also for the photo ops he knows he’ll find. He shot this palm tree-lined path to the shore on Sanibel Island, long before Hurricane Ian. “I’m afraid I wouldn’t be able to get that same shot today,” he says.

Peggy Farren celebrated her 19th birthday on the road, moving to Orlando with her family from Michigan in 1978. A longtime Naples resident who now calls Port Charlotte home, she had never seen frost in the Sunshine State until the Christmas cold snap of 2022. “It took me a few minutes to process what I was seeing on my windshield!” she says. We’re glad she thought to snap a picture with her iPhone.