Fort Myers: A City of History

December 7 2015 By Lazydays

Company News

Originally founded as a military base, Fort Myers was established as a safe haven for the first American Pioneers to settle in southwest Florida. Through out the years it became one of two major Gulf Coast ports that bolstered Florida’s cattle trade. In the early years, Fort Myers was a town of hardworking people and cattlemen. Then tourism came along.

By Adam Porter, RV adventurer

December 7, 2015

Thomas Edison, who is known for inventing the light bulb, fell in love with the coastal town and visited regularly. He also participated in helping the town with its makeover to lure more tourists. The coconut palms, which are a signature along McGregor Boulevard are there because of Edison’s persistence. He also introduced automotive inventor Henry Ford to Fort Myers. These two men helped to put the city on the map and then the floodgates opened. During most of the 20th century, snowbirds flocked to Fort Myers to escape the punishing winters. Just a century before settlers had aimed guns over the walls to fight off the Seminole Indians.

Today, visitors come to Fort Myers for picture-perfect vacations. However, as you lay and soak up the sun, don’t pass up the opportunity to soak in a little of the local history too.

Things to do in Fort Myers

Adventures in Paradise

If you like enjoying fun on the water, then plan a trip with this company’s fishing charters, boat excursions or dolphin cruises. Boats leave from Port Sanibel Marina. Call 239.472.8443 to start your adventure.

Southwest Florida Museum of History

Housed in the former Atlantic Coastline Railroad Depot, the museum features informative and entertaining dioramas, displays and exhibits that explore the evolution of Florida from prehistory through pioneer days to the present. Additional exterior exhibits include a “cracker” house and “Esperanza,” a luxury Pullman rail car. Located at 2031 Jackson St., Fort Myers. Call 239.321.7430.

RV PARKS IN FORT MYERS

Cypress Woods RV Resort

The popular Cypress Woods RV Resort offers lakefront and lake-view sites, a swimming pool and shade trees, and is close to shopping and I-75. In addition to large rental sites for Class A and fifth wheel RVs, the resort also has a number of permanent homes and lots for sale.

Full hookups: water, sewer and electric (50-amp)
Wi-Fi and cable TV
No pull-through sites, but room for big rigs
Family-friendly and pet-friendly

For reservations, call 239.694.2191. Located at 5551 Luckett Rd., Fort Myers, FL 33905.

Woodsmoke Camping Resort

In addition to nice, roomy pull-through sites, Woodsmoke Camping Resort has smaller sites for little rigs — making it a terrific alternative for Class Bs and Cs as well as travel trailers. The hiking trail, pool and hot tub are among the highlights of this resort. You can also fish in any of their three lakes.

Full hookups: water, sewer and electric (50-amp)
Wi-Fi, no cable TV
Pull-through sites, big-rig access and lakefront sites
Family-friendly and pet-friendly

For reservations, call 239.267.3456. Located at 19551 U.S. Highway 41, S. Fort Myers, FL 33908.

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