Resilience and Revival: Exploring Fort Myers and Bonita Springs Post-Hurricane

Floridians pay a price for living in paradise. At dinner parties, family gatherings, and birthday celebrations, friends constantly discuss which hurricane was the worst and why. For everyone, it’s different. I have family who survived Hurricane Andrew but lost everything. Hurricane Ian wreaked havoc a few years back. And then, to make matters worse, both Helene and Milton left so much destruction in their wake that it has reshaped tourism in parts of the Sunshine State.

However, throughout the tragedy and turmoil of these natural disasters, spirit and community triumphed, and this was most apparent during my recent press visit to the Fort Myers and Bonita Springs area. Not only was I treated to exploring some of the Gulf’s best gems, but I also witnessed firsthand from locals and lifelong residents why this area of Florida is back open for business and as resilient as ever.

What to Do in Fort Myers, Florida

Edison and Ford Winter Estates

A visit to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates is like stepping back to Florida’s Gilded Age. This sprawling 21-acre estate along the Caloosahatchee River includes historic homes, lush botanical gardens, and a museum filled with fascinating artifacts. But if you really want to step outside the box and enjoy this estate most uniquely, I highly recommend taking a yoga class right on the banks of the river! Many visitors don't realize that Edison and Ford hosts yoga classes weekly for a nominal fee, and let me tell you - it is totally worth it just to be out in nature, stretching and moving your body under the sun. This was our view as we practiced yoga first thing in the morning.

Downtown Fort Myers—The River District

Downtown Fort Myers, known as the River District, is the heartbeat of the city. While many visitors opt for the surf and sand, they often miss out on the beauty and character of this area. Its cobblestone streets and colorful facades create a charming setting for boutique shopping, art galleries, and dining. The recovery of this area post-hurricanes has been remarkable, with many businesses reopening stronger than ever. Be sure to check out the monthly Art Walk and Music Walk events to get a true taste of the spirit of downtown.

Azaleas On The Corner

Right in the heart of the downtown area is Azalea's On The Corner, a family-owned art and garden shop that I easily could've spent hours in. I mean, for starters, a shop that sells plants, paintings, wine? Right up my alley. Run by the mother-daughter team of Marie Dyer and Corinne Wimberly, this shop is a labor of love by both, and it's easy to see why. Much of the artwork on the walls of this shop is painted by Dyer herself, which just adds to the beauty and charm. Plus, with painting and floral design classes or even wine tastings, this corner store is a hub for creativity and community.

Beacon Social Drinkery - Rooftop of Luminary

Another gem you likely wouldn't find unless you were staying at the Luminary Hotel is the Beacon Social Drinkery on the twelfth floor. Not only will you find an impressive menu of craft cocktails and fine wines, but just check out these views. Watching the sunset here was one of the most magical moments of the trip, and with nearly 180-degree views of Fort Myers, it didn't get much better than this.

Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center

Art and culture take center stage at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, another downtown favorite and a truly historic venue. Hosting a variety of performances, exhibitions, and community events all year long, the center remains a cornerstone of the River District’s cultural scene, showcasing the power of art to bring people together. It was fascinating to tour this building and see how far renovations have come while still honoring the history within the bones. Bonus tip: head up to the brand new rooftop area called Sidney's for rotating art and sculptures and views of the surrounding area.

Sanibel Island

Of course, a trip to Fort Myers wouldn't be complete without perusing Sanibel Island, right? As a premier stop for anyone visiting the Gulf, Sanibel has seen its fair share of destruction over the years. While taking a boat tour of the surrounding area, we were able to see the impressive efforts to restore this shelling paradise to what it once was.

What impresses me the most about Sanibel Island is that it's one of the last remaining places where you cannot build taller than the palm trees. Fighting for a slice of paradise like that is always a welcomed fight in my book.

I highly recommend taking a boat tour around the island while also peppering in some dolphin watching. We were lucky to see pods of dolphins enjoying the surf and hunting for food as the sun began to set. Did you know that this is one of two places in the world where dolphins live year-round? I can't say I blame them.

Dinner at Bruno's of Brooklyn

If you’re searching for an authentic taste of Italian cuisine in Fort Myers, look no further than Bruno’s of Brooklyn. This charming, family-owned trattoria offers a warm, inviting atmosphere paired with a menu crafted from generations of Italian culinary traditions. Every dish is dedicated to quality and flavor, from fresh, handmade pasta to perfectly seasoned entrées like chicken marsala. The highlight of this meal started with the Meatball Speciale (a MUST) and ended with watching Chef Rocco Bruno cooking and live-streaming his skills to the entire restaurant all night long.

Breakfast At Farmers Market Restaurant

For a true taste of Southern comfort food in Fort Myers, the Farmers Market Restaurant is a must-visit destination. As a true Old Florida staple, it has been serving hearty, homemade meals since 1952. Located near the bustling downtown farmers market, this beloved spot focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients that bring each dish to life. Every bite feels like dining at a favorite aunt's house, from their perfectly fried chicken and creamy grits to their legendary biscuits and gargantuan pancakes.

Wisteria Tea Room & Cafe

Never have I had so much fun drinking tea as when we stopped by the Wisteria Tea Room and Cafe. What was once a bungalow home has since been converted into a full-fledged tea paradise, complete with full tea service and so much charm. Indulge in a wide selection of premium teas and savor freshly baked scones, delicate finger sandwiches, and decadent desserts in an ambiance of vintage charm. You get to try a variety of teas with pots for the table - with some seasonal rotating teas thrown into the mix.

What to Do in Bonita Springs, Florida

Wonder Gardens

Full disclosure: I'm always hesitant to visit a place with animals on display. However, the tour I took at Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs easily became the highlight of my trip. After learning the animals here have been rescued and/or rehabilitated, the tour guide reassured us that these animals and birds are never asked for behaviors for entertainment purposes - they are just simply allowed to exist. Home to exotic plants and so many rescued animals, this attraction is owned by the city of Bonita Springs and has huge plans for the next five to ten years. Did someone say a canopy walk?

Chartreuse Craft Cocktail Lounge

Chartreuse Craft Cocktail Lounge is a very pleasant surprise in downtown Bonita Springs as it is the city's first and only craft cocktail bar and dessert lounge. For anyone who imbibes, the menu is massive, reading almost like a diary of a mad scientist mixologist. I had never heard of many of the ingredients before, which made the experience much more fun. But fear not; the team at Chartreuse is there to guide your palate and encourage you to try new things.

Shangri-La Springs

We happened upon Shangri-La Springs during a walk around town, and I'm so glad we did. Talk about a gem in the heart of Bonita Springs! With an emphasis on wellness, tranquility, and sustainability, just walking the grounds of this place made me feel an energy shift. This historic property, originally built in the 1920s, offers visitors a retreat surrounded by lush gardens and ancient trees. Come for the farm-to-table organic cuisine and stay for the spa treatments. You won't be sorry.

The Bohemian Restaurant

Tucked away in Bonita Springs is another gem that easily elevates any date night or special celebration. The Bohemian Restaurant combines artistry with exceptional cuisine, blending modern flavors and classic techniques. Plus, with a special "shareable" part of the menu, you can dine family-style, which is always my favorite. I highly recommend a night out here simply because The Bohemian creates a culinary journey that’s as visually stunning as delicious.

I could go on and on about my trip to Fort Myers and Bonita Springs. How the people I met all exuded a passion for the area that you really don't find everywhere. As an overall emphasis of the county, nature is on full display no matter where you go. And, of course, how the Gulf Coast’s recovery from hurricanes has been a testament to its residents' resilience, creativity, and determination. Fort Myers and Bonita Springs exemplify how communities can rebuild, preserve their culture, and continue to thrive. And I, for one, can't wait to see it all unfold.

Editor's Note: I was invited to tour Fort Myers and Bonita Springs as part of a paid press trip. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own and not influenced by the developing company in any way.