The J.N. "Ding" Darling Wildlife Refuge is 5,000 acres of tidal wetlands and mangroves, home to more than 200 species of birds, 50 species of reptiles and 32 of mammals. The best (and busiest) times to bird watch are November through April. Explore the park on a two-mile foot trail, several canoe trails, bike paths or the five-mile Wildlife Drive with water on both sides. Camping is not allowed, there are no water or restrooms facilities and the refuge is closed every Friday. Bring cash, water, insect repellant and binoculars. Admission is USD12 per person.

The Nature Park at The Shell Factory should be on your must visits when in Fort Myers. The park boasts of a 7,000 square feet Rainforest Aviary, the Butterfly Garden, an animal museum, the Gator slough, a petting zoo and a lot more. With one of the largest exhibits of wild animals and birds, including prairie dogs, bobcats, Giant Hissing cockroaches, Prevost squirrels, raccoons, etc., animal lovers are sure to have a great time here. The park museum is home to some of the most exclusive species of snakes, alligators, toads and other creepy-crawlies. Go here for a wild escapade!

Cayo Costa State Park is one of Florida's best-kept secrets. The barrier island is only accessible by boat. Activities include hiking, swimming, fishing and shelling. If you go swimming, there are no lifeguards, but there is a shark named Old Henry. You can camp in tents or rent cabins for USD20 per night. There is no electricity on the island, and all supplies must be brought with you. There are bathrooms and showers. Watch for wildlife, like raccoons and wild hogs. Cabins must be reserved 11 months in advance. This place is open daily from 8 AM.

Hunger is an international problem, and the farm and nursery at ECHO (Educational Concerns for Hunger Organization) educate visitors on fighting world hunger. They are an inter-denominational non-profit Christian organization providing farmers in third world countries with information and seeds. A 90-minute tour of the ECHO farm reveals tropical food plants, a simulated rain forest, and more. The free tour is offered Tuesday, Friday and Saturday at 10a. After the tour, visit the Edible Landscape Nursery, where you can purchase the plants and seeds seen on the tour.

Manatee Park is a rare opportunity to see the endangered West Indian Manatee in its natural habitat. During the months from October through March, the manatees travel to the area, attracted by the warm water discharge from the nearby Florida Power plant. The 16-acre park features viewing areas, a fishing pier, picnic areas, and native plant and butterfly gardens. There's a kayak/canoe launch to the Orange River as well. Call ahead for optimum viewing times. The park is open daily from 8a.

Anderson Theater at the Bishop Verot High School's Santini Center is a buzzing hub of activities. This eclectic art space is home to a wide range of cultural events, live performances, musicals, classical concerts and theatrical extravaganzas. You will also be able to partake in a bevy of community events at this venue: workshops, special classes, local conferences, talk sessions and lectures among other things. Event nights see a flurry of activity as crowds rush in to be a part of the festivities and have a gala time out! Check website for more details on current and upcoming events.

Green and golf go together and more so at the Plantation Golf & Country Club at Fort Myers. This course and club has been designed by Hurdzan-Fry and has has been modified but at the same time it has retained the natural elevation. A clubhouse rests in the premises and is complete with food and drinks. The course also plays home to many a golf competitions for both men and women alike. Prior membership for the club is required for enjoying all the benefits.

The Garage is a large venue for live music events. It is also a studio for recordings and rehearsals but the highlight of the place are certainly the live performances. They provide all the equipment and assistance for artists' recordings, which makes this a favourite among those blessed with creativity. The 16,000 square feet place is perfect for events and functions of all kinds, for which they also provide catering. Contact for further details and event information.

Part of the Florida Gulf Coast University, Alico Arena has a regulation size basketball court that doubles-up as a venue for small-scale functions and parties. It's ideal for graduations, concerts and small gatherings.

Home to the Fort Myers Miracle, Hammond Stadium is one of Florida's baseball spring training parks. Its imposing exterior is set-off by a beautifully sculpted landscape and palm trees that lead all the way to the stadium entrance. The interior is cramped, especially when large crowds show up. The stadium has a nice variety of concession stands that are reasonably priced. However, Hammond Stadium isn't one of Fort Myers' premier venues. The Minnesota Twins train here each February through April.