Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!

Precious Gems of SWFL

Purple Star emoji 11 items
Things you NEED to do in SWFL! As a SWFL native and current resident, there are specific places, parks, restaurants, arts, and more I feel REALLY need to be highlighted and appreciated by all. Check out a few places that I think are special gems from...
Map
Sections
3
 
 
 

Hometown Favorite Restaurants

 
Crystal Strader profile picture
Literally the best Mexican restaurant in NFM. I've lived in the area for 35 years and it's the best I've been to.
Habaneros Mexican Grill north fort myers
 
Crystal Strader profile picture
It may not be much to look at, but Smoke n Pit has some of the best BBQ sauce in NFM
Smoke'n Pit Bar B Que
 
Crystal Strader profile picture
Brooke's Restaurant is a NFM staple. They regular have events for local schools and have specials every so often. They have their own version of boneless buffalo wings called Sissy Nuggets that you HAVE to try.
Brooke's Restaurant & Lounge
 
Crystal Strader profile picture
Monarca's is a more upscale Mexican Restaurant located in Cape Coral. With a waterfront patio (it's on a canal) it's a great place for a romantic date night.
Cape Coral - Monarca´s Restaurants - Authentic Mexican Cuisine | Bar & Grill
 
Crystal Strader profile picture
Delicious homemade southern style breakfast and more.
ROSIE'S BREAKFAST CAFE, North Fort Myers - Restaurant Reviews & Photos

Fun for the Whole Family

 
Crystal Strader profile picture
This place is a fun place to go again aft3r it was remodeled. Check out the haunted hike in October!
Gator Mike's Family Fun Park
 
Crystal Strader profile picture
One of my all time favorite places in SWFL! As a SWFL native, the Calusa Nature is a precious gem in our community. I hope it's able to stay and persevere through all the changes our area is going through.
Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium
 
Crystal Strader profile picture
Another precious gem of SWFL. My son loved this place when he was little. Some times it makes me sad that he's outgrown it.
IMAG History & Science Center
 
Crystal Strader profile picture
A SWFL gem! There's so much for the family to do, and they decorate and have train ride during the holidays! We always rent out a pavilion and have special occasions here, like baby showers, birthday parties, and family reunions.
Lakes Park
 
Crystal Strader profile picture
The refuge was established in 1945 to safeguard and enhance the wildlife habitat of Sanibel Island, to protect endangered and threatened species, and to provide feeding, nesting, and roosting areas for migratory birds.
J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge

SWFL Night Life (Adults Only)

 
Crystal Strader profile picture
Used to be seen as a more seedy establishment back in the day (and one could argue when it had a little bit more charm) Cowboy Up has still been able to feel like that little hole in the wall bar while keeping up with the growing city of Fort Myers. ...
Cowboy Up Saloon (@cowboyupsaloon)