4 Things to Do in Fort Myers for the Holidays
With Christmas right around the corner, we would like to turn our focus over to the amazing community we live in. There are so many wonderful events and displays during this Florida holiday season and we want to make sure you don’t miss a thing. After all, a road trip is still a road trip, even if it is just down the road to a neighboring town to see Santa. So, take a break from all the craziness of life and enjoy some quality holiday time with your family. Here are four fun things to do in Fort Myers for the holidays!
1. Visit Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops
Now – December 24
Most families aren’t just looking for fun things to do during the holidays - they’re also looking for things to do that won’t break the bank. That’s why we recommend visiting Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops. The entire back section of the store is transformed into a Winter Wonderland filled with free games, activities, toys, and, of course, Old Saint Nick. Not only can kids meet a very authentic looking Santa Claus, but Bass Pro also gives each family one complimentary photo. It tends to be a popular spot, so we recommend going on a weekday when it’s not as busy.
2. Ride the Holiday Express at Lakes Regional Park
December 11 – 30
The Holiday Express (or Christmas train) at Lakes Regional Park is something every family should experience. They update it for every major holiday, including Christmas. You and your little ones can enjoy a 15-minute ride on the 1/8 scale miniature train through a nature trail. It’s especially fun to ride it at night when the Christmas lights make it all the merrier. The train (officially referred to as the Holiday Express Festival of Lights) runs every night from 6:00pm to 8:45pm from December 11 to the 30. Keep in mind it is closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The cost is $1 for children and $5 for adults. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or kids under the age of one. Affordability and fun make this event one of the best things to do in Fort Myers for Christmas.
3. Sanibel & Captiva Luminary Holiday Stroll
December 7 & 8
The Annual Luminary Holiday Stroll is an event that lights up both Sanibel and Captiva Island. There will be activities for the kids, shops and stores with special giveaways, and treats to help you get into the holiday spirit. It is celebrated in Sanibel from 5:30pm to 9:00pm on Friday, December 7. The Captiva Stroll will take place on Saturday, December 8. Sanibel’s Luminary stretches from one of Periwinkle Way to the other. The Luminary on Captiva spans Captiva Drive and Andy Rosse Lane. There will be plenty of treats and activities in both towns to keep the whole family happy.
4. The Dolphin Cruise with Santa
December 24
Even Santa needs a break before the big day. So, he comes down to South Florida to take a dolphin cruise. And the best part is: you can come along! On Christmas Eve at 10:00am, you can set sail with Santa himself to see dolphins and other wildlife. It includes a gift for the kids and complimentary pictures with Santa. Who wants the stereotypical photo sitting on Santa’s lap in the mall? Instead, make this year one to remember. The cost for adults is $45 and for children is $35. If you aren’t ready to put sailing on hold for the holidays, this event is for you.
There may not be much of a chance for a white Christmas here in Southwest Florida, but that doesn’t mean this holiday season can’t be the best one yet. The community here in Fort Myers has a variety of incredible events for families and friends of all ages. These four are just some of the holiday events available. The community offers enough events to fill up your schedule with lots of fun and cheer! So, go out and be a kid again. Go see the lights, visit Santa, and enjoy all of the holiday treats. Check out the full list of things to do in Fort Myers for the holidays here.