Nestled on the banks of the Caloosahatchee, under azure skies and the shade of palms, Fort Myers is the centered gem in Lee County’s crown.

With a rich history, a lively downtown and strong tourist attractions, Fort Myers, known as the “City of Palms,” has ensured its spot as one of Lee County’s top draws.

History

Originally built as protection for settlers in the area, Fort Myers was named in honor of Col. Abraham C. Myers, the son-in-law of the commander of Fort Brooke in Tampa.

The fort was used in the Civil War and then disassembled. The city was officially established in 1886. In 1876, about 10 families lived in the area.

By 1885, American inventor Thomas Alva Edison stopped by to visit the village; he fell in love and built a home on the Caloosahatchee, on what is now McGregor Boulevard — which is lined on both sides with towering, lush palms.

Edison’s captivation with the area brought down the founder of the Ford Motor Company, none other than Henry Ford.

Both Edison and Ford kept their winter homes in Fort Myers, and both homes are open as tourist attractions.

By 1914 the first Ford car dealership was opened in Fort Myers.

The River District

The Fort Myers River District attracts some 600,000 people every year with an impressive offering of events and happenings.

The downtown area — which draws all sets with its boutiques, bars, restaurants and cultural events — is a mixture of new development and careful preservation. Shoppers will find a treasure trove of old and new, with charming antiques shops and vintage stops and posh-apparel retail stores for the discerning consumer.

Downtown Fort Myers features Centennial Park, site of concerts and events to draw community members of all ages, as well as a farmers market during season.

For sports lovers, thousands of baseball fans flock to City of Palms Park for Red Sox spring training.

The rich Southwest Florida art scene is on display throughout the year, including the renowned Arts for ACT which offers a multitude of exhibits in the River District.

There are plenty of other artistic events including the Art League of Fort Myers “River District” Art Show, usually held “in season” in January or February.

Horror film buffs will find a stop just for them. George A. Romero’s 1985 zombie installment, “Day of the Dead,” was filmed in-part before the edifice of the Edison Theater, an old movie house. Although the building is now used for office space, fans can get their thrills at imagining zombies spilling out of the old-time theater.

The downtown area also is home to the Harborside Event Center, the venue for numerous functions, including conventions, trade shows and concerts.

With its eclectic character and history, the 540-acre River District offers something for everyone from shopping and breathtaking waterfront views to theater and fine dining.