Day Trips and Itineraries for a Perfect Visit to Cape Coral, FL

Cape Coral, FL is a vibrant city that offers a blend of history, natural beauty, and exciting attractions. If you're planning a visit and looking for a full-day itinerary, this guide will help you make the most of your time. From a hearty breakfast at a local favorite to dining in upscale restaurants and enjoying live music, here's how you can make your day in Cape Coral truly memorable.

8:00 AM: A Warm Start with Breakfast at Annies

Begin your day with a classic American breakfast at Annies, a local favorite. This charming restaurant serves a range of dishes including pancakes, omelets, biscuits, and gravy. With a menu that caters to all cravings, you'll be well-fueled for the day ahead. Annies is conveniently located near the Cape Coral Bridge, just a 10-minute drive away.

9:00 AM: Explore the Edison and Ford Winter Estates

Head to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates to delve into the lives of two great inventors, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. This historic site includes their homes, museums, laboratories, and botanical gardens. The area is rich in stories and offers fascinating insights into the achievements of these visionaries. Admission starts at $25 for adults, teens at $18, and children at $10. The drive from Annies is approximately 20 minutes.

11:30 AM: Downtown Fort Myers for Shopping and Sightseeing

Next, drive to downtown Fort Myers, just a 10-minute car ride from the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Here, you can enjoy a variety of shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars along the Caloosahatchee River. Be sure to visit landmarks such as the Sidney Berne Davis Art Center, the Fort Myers Mural Society, and the Uncommon Friends Fountain. These attractions offer a mix of arts, culture, and history.

1:00 PM: Enjoy Fresh Seafood at Twisted Lobster

Lunch at Twisted Lobster, a casual seafood restaurant, is the perfect way to satisfy your hunger. Here, you can enjoy dishes such as lobster rolls, fish tacos, crab cakes, and shrimp scampi. With its wide range of options, Twisted Lobster offers something for everyone. It's just a 20-minute drive from downtown Fort Myers.

2:30 PM: Discover Nature at Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve

After lunch, drive to Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve, a nature park featuring a boardwalk trail, a kayak launch, a visitor center, and a veterans memorial. Engage in various outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, birdwatching, or simply relax and take in the natural scenery. Admission is free, but there is a fee for kayak rentals. The site is only 10 minutes away from Twisted Lobster.

4:00 PM: Experience Cape Harbour's Waterfront Community

Continue your journey to Cape Harbour, a unique waterfront community that combines a marina, shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment options. Take a stroll along the boardwalk, explore boutiques, or indulge in a drink or snack at one of the cafes or bars. You can also take advantage of boat tours or sunset cruises. Cape Harbour is only a 15-minute drive from Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve.

6:00 PM: Savor Fine Dining at Rumrunners

For dinner, head to Rumrunners, an upscale restaurant offering contemporary American cuisine with a tropical twist. Enjoy dishes such as coconut shrimp, lobster bisque, filet mignon, mahi-mahi, and key lime pie while taking in the stunning view of the marina and the sunset. Rumrunners is just a short 5-minute drive from Cape Harbour.

8:00 PM: Dine and Dance at Dixie Roadhouse

The day concludes with a lively evening at Dixie Roadhouse, a country-themed nightclub featuring a large dance floor, a mechanical bull, a full bar, and DJs playing country hits. End your day with great music and dancing. Dixie Roadhouse is only a 20-minute drive from Rumrunners.

With this carefully planned itinerary, you can experience the best of Cape Coral, from its rich historical heritage to its vibrant modern attractions. Plan your visit accordingly and have a fantastic time in Cape Coral, FL.