Lee County Florida Map

Lee County Zip Code Map Maping Resources

Welcome to Lee County, Florida, a hidden gem located on the Gulf of Mexico. With its beautiful beaches, lush parks, rich history, and vibrant culture, Lee County has something to offer every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, this comprehensive travel guide has got you covered. From top attractions to off-the-beaten-path experiences, here’s everything you need to know about exploring Lee County, Florida.

Top Attractions in Lee County

Lee County is home to some of the most popular attractions in Florida, including:

Sanibel Island: Known for its pristine beaches, world-class shelling, and abundant wildlife, Sanibel Island is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Edison and Ford Winter Estates: This historic site was once the winter retreat of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. Today, visitors can tour the beautiful gardens, see the original homes, and learn about the inventions that changed the world.
Manatee Park: Located in Fort Myers, Manatee Park is a great place to spot these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium: This 105-acre nature preserve and planetarium offers a unique glimpse into the flora, fauna, and stars of Southwest Florida.

Hidden Gems in Lee County

Looking for something off the beaten path? Check out these hidden gems:

Mound Key Archaeological State Park: This island park is only accessible by boat, but it’s worth the trip for history buffs. Mound Key was once the site of the Calusa Indians’ capital city.
Cape Coral Farmers’ Market: Held every Saturday from October to May, this farmers’ market is a great place to sample local produce, crafts, and live music.
Matlacha Island: Known for its vibrant arts scene and colorful buildings, Matlacha Island is a quirky and charming destination.
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge: Located on Sanibel Island, this wildlife refuge is home to over 245 species of birds and other wildlife.

Food Scene in Lee County

From fresh seafood to international cuisine, Lee County has a delicious food scene to explore. Some must-try restaurants include:

The Bubble Room: This whimsical restaurant on Captiva Island is known for its eclectic decor and delicious desserts.
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille: With locations in Sanibel Island, Fort Myers Beach, and Captiva Island, Doc Ford’s is a local favorite for fresh seafood and tropical cocktails.
El Gaucho Inca: This Peruvian restaurant in Cape Coral is a hidden gem for authentic ceviche, empanadas, and other South American dishes.
Blue Giraffe: Located in Sanibel Island, Blue Giraffe is a charming cafe with a creative menu of salads, sandwiches, and flatbreads.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Visiting Lee County on a budget? Here are some tips to save money:

Visit in the off-season (May to October) for lower prices on hotels and activities.
Take advantage of free attractions, such as the beaches and parks.
Pack a picnic lunch instead of dining out every day.
Look for deals on Groupon or other discount sites.

Outdoor Adventures in Lee County

With its warm weather and abundant natural beauty, Lee County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Some popular activities include:

Kayaking or paddleboarding through the mangrove tunnels at Lovers Key State Park.
Biking the Sanibel Causeway for stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Fishing in the Caloosahatchee River or Gulf of Mexico.
Hiking the trails at Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve.

Historical Landmarks in Lee County

Lee County is steeped in history, with many landmarks and museums to explore. Some notable sites include:

The Franklin Shops on First: This historic building in downtown Fort Myers was once a Ford dealership and now houses a collection of boutiques and restaurants.
The Mound House: This museum on Fort Myers Beach showcases the history of the Calusa Indians and the island’s early settlers.
The Burroughs Home and Gardens: This beautiful mansion in downtown Fort Myers was built in 1901 and offers tours of the historic home and gardens.

Family-Friendly Activities in Lee County

Lee County is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids of all ages entertained. Some top picks include:

The Imaginarium Science Center: This hands-on museum in Fort Myers is a great place for kids to learn about science and technology.
The Shell Factory and Nature Park: This attraction in North Fort Myers has a collection of shells from around the world, along with a petting zoo and botanical gardens.
The Sun Splash Family Waterpark: This waterpark in Cape Coral has slides, pools, and other water attractions for all ages.
The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum: Located on Sanibel Island, this museum has a collection of over 30,000 shells from around the world.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences in Lee County

For travelers who like to explore beyond the tourist hotspots, here are some unique experiences to try:

Take a sunset sail on a catamaran for stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Visit the Koreshan State Historic Site in Estero to learn about the utopian community that once lived there.
Take a ghost tour of downtown Fort Myers to hear spooky stories and legends.
Go on a sea turtle nesting tour to see these majestic creatures up close.

Natural Wonders in Lee County

Lee County is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Florida. Some must-see spots include:

The beaches of Sanibel Island and Fort Myers Beach, with their soft sand and turquoise waters.
The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, with its mangrove forests and diverse wildlife.
The Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, with its ancient cypress trees and boardwalk trails.
The Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve, with its kayaking trails and scenic views of the Caloosahatchee River.

Vibrant Nightlife in Lee County

Looking for some fun after the sun goes down? Lee County has a lively nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and live music venues to suit every taste. Some top picks include:

The Cottage: This bar on Fort Myers Beach has a laid-back vibe and live music every night.
The Barrel Room: Located in downtown Fort Myers, this wine bar has a huge selection of wines and live music every night.
The Ranch Concert Hall and Saloon: This country music venue in Fort Myers has a large dance floor and live music from top acts.

Local Markets in Lee County

For a taste of local culture and cuisine, check out these markets:

The Downtown Farmers’ Market: Held every Thursday from October to May, this market in downtown Fort Myers has fresh produce, crafts, and live entertainment.
The GreenMarket at Alliance for the Arts: Held every Saturday year-round, this market in Fort Myers has fresh produce, artisanal foods, and live music.
The Sanibel Island Farmers’ Market: Held every Sunday from October to May, this market has local produce, baked goods, and crafts.

Beaches and Mountains in Lee County

Lee County may be known for its beaches, but it also has some surprising mountainous terrain to explore:

The Caloosahatchee River: This river flows through Lee County and offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking.
The Koreshan State Historic Site: This park in Estero has hiking trails, a kayak launch, and historic buildings to explore.
The Babcock Ranch Preserve: This nature preserve in Punta Gorda has hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and even a zipline adventure course.