Lakes Regional Park in Fort Myers
A hidden gem for nature-watching, fun on the water, miniature train rides and garden strolls.
Explore the beauty of Southwest Florida by spending a few hours or the whole day at Lakes Regional Park— a 279-acre recreational area that offers something for every member of the family.
You’ll find something to tantalize the senses for young and old alike: picnic shelters, walking and cycling trails, fitness stations, playgrounds, volley ball courts, miniature train rides and a splash fountain for the tots for cooling down. If strolling is your style, amble about the gazebo, fragrance and community gardens, or observe nature from boardwalks and trails.
The park is home to a 158-acre freshwater quarry lake ranging to 20 feet deep, which hosts a large variety of birds, fish, turtles, alligators and other wildlife. Have real family fun at Wheel Fun Adventures, the onsite vendor that rents surreys, bicycles and range of pedal boats and kayaks. The north end of the park is where you will find the Railroad Museum of South Florida’s 1/8th scale railroad that travels into areas only accessible by rail.
If there is a member of your party who is wheelchair-bound or has trouble with mobility, the park’s 2.5 miles of paved and natural paths comply with the American Disabilities Act. In addition, park volunteers provide free assisted tours on a six-passenger golf cart from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. Reservations for the hour-and-a-half E.Z. Rider tour are required: 239-533-7575, ext. 5.
Details
Hours: Open 7 a.m. to dusk, seven days a week
Location: 7330 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33908
Google Map/Directions
Parking: $1 per hour or $5 full day
Watch a quick video: Lakes Park Tour
SPECIAL EVENTS
Events are free with paid parking. Event details may change at any time, always check with the event organizer when planning to attend.
Bird Tours at Lakes Park
The first Saturday of each month at 8 a.m.
Experienced Bird Patrol guides take you on a walking tour to see the many species in native vegetation. Guests are invited to bring their binoculars and cameras. This easy walk along clear paths offers an opportunity to see birds in native vegetation. The tour departs at 8 am promptly at shelter A7 near the Train Museum by parking lot #3. The tours last approx. 1 hour, no reservations are required. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water and sunscreen.
