Finding free stuff in Fort Myers is easier than ever thanks to the dismal economy. Local businesses are desperately trying to attract customers during these tough economic times. For residents and visitors to the Fort Myers area, that means big savings.
About Fort Myers
If you're looking for a peaceful retreat with plenty of gorgeous sunshine and miles of spectacular shoreline, head to Fort Myers, Florida. The "City of Palms" is removed from the hustle and bustle of Miami and Tampa. The serene city offers families miles of wildlife preserves and access to other natural wonders.
Regardless of when you visit, Fort Myers offers numerous activities and events to fill your days and nights. Most of the family-friendly options are absolutely free, so stretching your dollar in Fort Myers is not as hard as you may think.
Free Stuff in Fort Myers
You don't have to be a penny-pinching frugalista to appreciate all the free stuff in Fort Myers. The following is just a sample of the many free things that await you in the popular Florida community:
Parks and Beaches
Fort Myers is home to dozens of beaches and parks that are free to the public. One of the most popular is Captiva Beach, located on the northern tip of Captiva Island. Visitors flock to the five-plus mile beach to search the shoreline for unique shells. In addition, Captiva is also known as one of Southwest Florida's most romantic beaches, as hundreds of couples congregate on the beach to watch the sunset.
Lynn Hall Memorial Park is another popular family destination that doesn't cost a cent to visit. The area is home to Fort Myers Beach Pier, which is a haven for swimmers, sunbathers and fishermen.
Natural Areas
Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve is a must-see free attraction in Fort Myers. The natural area is home to a mile long boardwalk, which offers amazing views of turtles, wading birds and alligators. The lush wetlands are also home to a myriad of birds, from egrets and herons to native Florida songbirds, and white ibis.Lee County Manatee Park is a haven for tourists, especially from October through March. That's when the endangered West Indian Manatee travel to the area. The 16-acre park offers excellent views of the animals as they swim and congregate in this natural habitat. In addition to prime manatee viewing areas, the park boasts a fishing pier, picnic areas, and native plant and butterfly gardens. Admission is free.
Sports
Budget-conscious sports fans will be thrilled to learn that Fort Myers is home to MLB Spring Training. The Red Sox practice at City of Palms Park and the Minnesota Twins at the Lee County Sports Complex. You can watch the heavy hitters for free from February through April.
Community Events
ArtFest Fort Myers is Southwest Florida's premier art festival. The popular two-day event takes place each February and admission is free. Visitors can enjoy exceptional artwork, entertainment and children's art activities. The outdoor gallery is filled with masterpieces from more than 200 nationally recognized artists from across the country and around the world.
Perhaps the most exciting event hosted in Fort Myers each year is the Festival of Light. The event honors the city's most famous former resident, Thomas Edison. The festivities include day activities and a massive nighttime parade of floats with elaborate light displays that attracts tens of thousands of spectators. Best of all, you don't have to pay a cent to take it all in.
More Ways to Obtain Free Stuff in Fort Myers
One of the best ways to obtain a list of free stuff in Fort Myers is to contact the Chamber of Commerce. Staff there will provide you with brochures that contain coupons for free meals, discounts on admission to popular attractions and buy one, get one free deals. You can also find coupons for free food and beverages in local newspapers and flyers placed in area hotels and motels.
Finally, a simple way to score free stuff is to visit area attractions on special occasions. For example, the Fort Myers Zoo offers free admission and gifts to moms and dads on Mother's Day and Father's Day. In addition, military personnel are often given free admission to local attractions by showing proper identification.
