Page Park - Fort Myers, FL

Fort Myers began as an actual fort on the Caloosahatchee River, which served as a defense against the Seminoles during the American Indian Wars. In the mid-1880s, Fort Myers incorporated with less than 350 citizens. By the end of the 1800s Fort Myers had already earned a reputation as a tourist center, and the construction of the Royal Pam Hotel signaled what the future had in store for this gulfside town. Subsequent to the Atlantic Coast Railroad's inclusion of Fort Myers as a transit point, Fort Myers grew exponentially into the popular resort town it is today.

The Boston Red Sox hold spring training in Fort Myers, and shell collectors from around the world make Sanibel Island their destination for long days of shell hunting in the gentle gulf surf. Also, on the first Friday of every month from 6 to 10 p.m., Fort Myers hosts a popular multigallery art walk.

Since Fort Myers maintains a high level of tourist traffic throughout the year, locals have access to many fine eateries, pubs and clubs located throughout this seaside city. Chinese, Japanese, Italian, American and Greek restaurants serve up culinary delights comprised of freshly caught gulf fish. You can even find restaurants selling Florida alligator — prepared in several different styles.

The entire coastal zone has a heavy distribution of restaurants and clubs, but those seeking a concentration of bistros and entertainment might want to look to Fort Meyer's historic downtown district if they want to keep transit time to a minimum.

For those who appreciate down-home Southern cooking with an eclectic mix of other menu items, try out Cristof's on McGregor. How do fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits or crab cakes sound? You can expect prompt service from a smiling and courteous wait staff who will be more than happy to bring you a slice of homemade key lime pie.

For after-dinner entertainment, consider a drink at The Bottom Line on 3090 Evans Avenue. This 15,000-square-foot venue has seven double bars, two levels, a rocking sound system and a wait staff that serves up cocktails inside the club or on the patio.

For a casual drink, friendly conversation and a game of pool, locals recommend Cowboy Up Saloon on Hendry Street. With a wide selection of draft beers, country music and $1.50 Pabst Blue Ribbons all day, every day, a trip to Cowboy Up Saloon makes for a fun and memorable experience.

Sports fans need to place the Hideaway Sports Bar at the top of their destination list. The crowds pack in during football season, and late night affairs are smoker-friendly. Hideaway boasts 30 specialty drinks, 24 draft beers and 42 different vodkas to try on different visits. Stop in, enjoy the music, watch a game or belt out your favorite song during karaoke night on Monday.

The majority of professionals, families and retirees use their own vehicles to get around town. Numerous public garages charge $5 to $10 flat fees for daily parking.

While taxis can be found on the beach, you may experience difficulty hailing one in other parts of the city. Uber may be an option you should consider.

South Outer Downtown runs nearby I-75, which may be beneficial for those who frequently commute to Miami.

Fort Meyers does have designated biking lanes in some parts of the city which creates a safe environment for cyclists. Pedestrians will also welcome the slow speeds of vehicles in most of the neighborhood.

Fort Myers residents have a huge selection of family-friendly parks to choose from. For a $5 fee (per vehicle), bring the entire family to Regional Park on Gladiolus Drive. Fitness buffs can rent a bike to ride one of the many paths set up for cyclists and joggers. Try your hand at fishing, or rent a boat while the kids run around on the playground.

If you are feeling really brave, check out Shell Factory and Nature Park ($8.50 admission per person) to ride their state-of-the-art zipline. Most of these parks host annual events such as Easter, Halloween and Christmas celebrations. Dog owners can bring pooches to Barkingham Park, K-9 Corral at Estero Park or Pooch Park (at Judd Park) for exercise and the requisite sniffing missions.

The proximity of the South Outer Downtown Fort Meyers area to so many amenities results in this part of the city costing more than the city average. The average rental rate for a one-bedroom residence lists at $936 per month. Savoring a cold beer on a hot summer day will set you back $7 at a local pub, and you can plan on spending 11 percent above the national average to fuel up your vehicle in the neighborhood.

Shops, specialty stores and high-end boutiques can be found throughout the Fort Myers area. Sanibel Island, downtown Fort Meyers and Estero Island have dozens of stores that cater to professionals and affluent tourists.

If you are considering a pricey toy to take out on the weekends for a spin, search no more. Sun Sports Cycle and Watercraft on 3441 Colonial Boulevard carries ATVs, wave runners, motorcycles and just about any other go-fast machine you can imagine. Sun Sports stocks a showroom with power toys made by Yamaha, Honda, Can-Am, Polaris and Suzuki – to name a few.

Treat yourself to something special at the International Diamond Exchange on 4480 Cleveland Avenue. This locale houses shops that sell a wide range of items and collectibles. Pick up a brand new Rolex for the son or buy the wife a necklace adorned with rubies, emeralds or sapphires for your upcoming anniversary.

Many locals in the South Outer Downtown area of Fort Myers do their grocery shopping in the Publix Super Market located in Colonial Crossings on 4600 Summerlin Road. If you prefer organic food, really fresh produce and all-natural goodies, then check out the Fridays-only, Lakes Park Farmers Market on Gladiolus Drive.