The Feeling of Freedom: Tips for Exploring Fort Myers on a Budget
It doesn’t cost a thing to catch feelings for Fort Myers. The feeling is in the warmth of the Gulf water on a sunny morning, in the earthy scent of cypress trees on an afternoon stroll and in the connections you make while exploring cultural activities. From free events to affordable attractions, along with special deals and discounts, discover the best of Fort Myers.
Tried-and-True Travel Tips
Traveling in the slower season is a surefire way to save. Things tend to slow down after Easter and as we ease into summer. You’ll have more choices for accommodations, snag hard-to-get restaurant reservations, and claim your own space on the beach.
If your timing is flexible, consider flying Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday on early morning flights. Saving on airfare sets you up for a successful stay, where you can redirect your money toward experiences that matter to you.
At any time of year, a smart way to save is to explore vacation homes as well as hotels. You have the advantage of fitting several people into one shared space, with your own kitchen to prepare food at home. Even dining in for just one meal a day (not to mention all the snack supplies) can save you a bundle.
Getting Around
Slip right into vacation mode the moment you touch down. Several area hotels offer free shuttles to and from the airport, so you don’t have to stress about driving, directions or fares. Get a list of Fort Myers hotels that offer free airport shuttle service.
Get where you need to go on LeeTran’s free seasonal trolleys. The Fort Myers Beach Trolley and Tram operates during peak season (late November through April), covering a route from the Fort Myers Beach Public Library to Bowditch Point Park. Servicing the historic Fort Myers River District, the Blue Line runs through downtown Fort Myers while the Gold Line connects North Fort Myers to downtown.
Strategize Your Dining Plans
Make breakfast in your vacation rental kitchen or choose a hotel that includes free breakfast. Create your wishlist of top restaurants and then book a table for lunch instead of a pricier dinner. From bottomless brunch mimosas to happy hour specials, arriving at the right time can make your budget stretch a lot farther.
Also, we’re so into dining out that we don’t just do restaurant week; we make it a whole month! Sizzle Dining runs through the month of September with multicourse, prix fixe breakfasts, lunches and dinners at participating restaurants in every neighborhood. We even sweetened the deal with different tiers of pricing so you can go big or keep it modest.
Time Your Travels
Community-driven events give you the best of all worlds: free and affordable activities; a true taste of local culture; and all the high-fives you can handle from people who are genuinely happy to have you.
Arrive in time for Island Hopper Songwriter Fest. Over the course of 10 days, you can catch free, live performances from BMI’s top singer-songwriters in venues throughout downtown Fort Myers, Fort Myers Beach and Captiva Island.
From art exhibits to bouncy castles, there’s always something happening in Fort Myers no matter what time of year you visit. Take a look at our roundup of Fort Myers Events Worth Traveling For, including festivals celebrating sandcastles and seashells, a Battle of the Arts, and the most colorful fourth of July celebrations around.
Dig Up Deep Discounts
Exclusive savings on local attractions, shopping and dining are delivered straight to you with the Sun Saver Passport. Just sign up and deals are instantly delivered to your phone via text and email.
Discover mobile passes for outdoor adventures, and earn points and prizes while you’re at it. Deals are delivered for experiences with Parks, Points & Perks and Sanibel’s Wild Mile.
Keep up with the latest specials and packages right here on our deals page. You’ll find easy savings like buy-one-get-one-free meals, early-bird savings on vacation rentals, free resort nights, and discounts on activities on and off the water.
Unlock access to even deeper savings on designer goods at Miromar Outlets. Download the annual VIP Savings brochure or pick up a copy at the mall office.
We found the ultimate vacation hack! You can spend a day in the sun and sand with the Sundial Daycation Resort Day Pass. No need to be an overnight guest — your day pass includes access to the pool and beach with beach chair and umbrella service, outdoor activities, and dining credit at Turtle’s Tiki Bar or Beach Bites.
Get more insider tips on free museums, attractions and outdoor activities in Fort Myers.
