Learn More About Fort Myers, Florida
Background on Fort Myers
Fort Myers Florida is in Lee County, Florida. Between the years 2010 and 2017 the population grew from just around 63,000 to almost 80,000. Fort Myers is approximately 49 square miles in size. The city was founded back in March of 1886. It wasn’t until August 12th of 1885 that Fort Myers became incorporated. Back then there were less than 350 residents living here. One of the residents living here during that time was Thomas Edison. He made a stop here while vacationing with his wife, Mina, and fell in love with Fort Myers. He decided to buy a 13 acre plot along the Caloosahatchee River. Then he built what was known as “Seminole Lodge” which he and his wife used as a winter retreat. This lodge also featured a laboratory so he could continue working on his inventions. The lodge took about a year to build and once it was complete, he and his wife spent many winters here. Edison would also enjoy some other recreational activities like fishing which to this day, continues to be a popular past time in Fort Myers. Then in 1898 the Royal Palm Hotel was built; this high end, luxury hotel attracted tourists and put Fort Myers on the map as one of the best places to vacation during the winter months. Getting to Fort Myers was somewhat of an issue back then so in 1904 the opening of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad greatly improved transportation here. This railroad connected Punta Gorda to Fort Myers. One of the most interesting facts about Fort Myers is that in 1908 the Arcade Theater was built in downtown Fort Myers which was initially a vaudeville house. Thomas Edison frequently used this space to privately view films with friends. Henry Ford and Harvey Firestone were two of those friends that he would share his films with. As time went on the Arcade Theatre was converted from a vaudeville house into a movie house. A wall was constructed to divide the stage creating two screening rooms. Fast forward to today and what was once known as the Arcade Theatre is now the Florida Repertory Theatre which is a performing arts hall.
Climate Here in Fort Myers
The climate in Fort Myers is what is known as a tropical savanna climate. The winters here are very short and warm, and the summers are long, humid and hot. Rainfall is most common during the months June through September. During this time there are frequent downpours as well as thunderstorms.
Education in Fort Myers
The Lee County School District serves the Fort Myers community. There are fifty elementary schools, twenty-three middle schools and sixteen high schools. When it comes to higher education here in Fort Myers there are six options. There is Hodges University, Nova Southeastern University, Keiser University, Rasmussen College, Fort Myers Technical College as well as Southern Technical College.
Fun Things to do in Fort Myers
The Murder Mystery Dinner Train is a great option if you are looking for something out of the box to do here in Fort Myers. While on board you can enjoy a five-course dinner during the three and a half hour train ride. The ride takes you from Fort Myers across the Caloosahatchee River. If you are interested in doing this, just make sure to make a reservation because spots fill up fast. This is the perfect date night! If you are looking for a little more family friendly fun, then take a trip over to Zoomers. This 18-acre indoor/outdoor amusement park features games, rides and other fun attractions. There are two different go kart tracks as well as bumper boats and even a roller coaster and so much more. This is the perfect place for the whole family!
Real Estate in Fort Myers
The real estate available here is beautiful and reasonably priced. Most homes here are single family but there are a few condo communities as well as townhomes. The prominent housing styles here are Contemporary, Ranch and Modern. Most homes feature an enclosed pool with breathtaking views right out your back door.
Summary
Fort Myers is an absolutely beautiful place to live in Florida. The real estate here is reasonably priced and there are tons of things to do here. There is easy access to the beach from just about anywhere and the weather is perfect if you are someone who likes the heat. Fort Myers is a must see if you are thinking of moving or relocating to Florida.
