A pure staple to the Southwest Florida entertainment scene, the downtown Fort Myers River District has just what you’re looking for when it comes to anything fun, exciting or out of the ordinary.

From regular art shows and bike nights to concerts, festivals and everyday (and night) hang-outs, this multiple-block section of Fort Myers offers the perfect spot to gather with friends and family, and loosen up and unwind.

Art and entertainment

The downtown River District comes alive with art of all colors, eras and genres. Be sure to visit the Arcade Theatre (2265 First St., 332-4488) to see one of Fort Myers’ oldest buildings. Erected in 1908, the 393-seat Arcade Theatre entertains guests with live theater and dance routines year-round.

Other art-centered downtown establishments include the Arts for ACT gallery (2265 First St., 939-2553), Space 39 (37 Patio De Leon, 334-2311) and daas Gallery (1542 Broadway St., 939-1194).

Bars and clubs

The downtown River District may shine during the day, but it really comes alive at night, with the many of bars and clubs of the area offering a spectacle of music, ambience and pure energy.

Looking for some places to catch some great live rock bands? This area is loaded with group and solo acts — anywhere from locally homegrown acts to regional, national and international megastars. Be sure to check out the Indigo Room (2219 Main St., 332-0014), The Spot (2213 Main St., 277-7768), City Tavern (2206 Bay St., 226-1133) or Hideaway Sports Bar (1418 Dean St., 479-6264) to catch a great rock show.

Some of the hottest acts have rocked the downtown Fort Myers music scene throughout the years, from Disturbed, Trust Company and Drowning Pool to Skindred, Saliva and Papa Roach.

More into live DJs and club, house or hip hop music? Stop by LeVeL (1527 Hendry St., 337-9276), Neo Lounge (1528 Hendry St., 337-9220) or Venu Nightclub (2278 First St., 770-8368) to really shake it up and get down.

Between the upscale, modern lounge designs to the high-energy beats, lights and style, you’re sure to have a great time and let loose. Keep in mind some of these clubs enforce a strict dress code policy.

Dining

With all of this fine art and wild entertainment, one is sure to gather quite an appetite. Luckily, the downtown River District offers a world of food within just a few blocks reach.

In the mood for a fine-dining experience? Stop by the Veranda (2122 Second St., 332-2065) or the Morgan House (2207 First St., 337-3377). If you’re playing it casual, sit back and enjoy Joe’s Crab Shack (2024 W. First St., 332-1881) or the Second Street Deli (2112 Second St., 332-5225). More into taking in some food from around the globe? Why not try the French Connection (2288 First St., 332-4443), Ichiban Japanese (1520 Broadway, Suite 105, 334-6991) or the Thai Silk Café (2400 First St., Suite 101, 334-6075).

Special events

The downtown Fort Myers River District plays host to several special events hosted throughout the year.

Bike Night is a famed event that takes place four times a year during

Southwest Florida’s dry months. Motorcycles of all shapes and sizes (along with their riders) line up along the downtown streets for all to view and enjoy. Vendors offer trinkets of all sorts while live music fills the air until 11 p.m.

The next Bike Nights set on the calendar are Saturday, Jan. 9, Saturday, March 13 and Saturday, May 8. For vendor information, contact Kurt Berkholtz, 887-0489.

Another special event that attracts thousands a year is the downtown Farmer’s Market, held every Thursday year-round, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Centennial Park, just under the Caloosahatchee Bridge.

Vendors and farmers from around the area offer some of the freshest fruits, vegetables and other goods around, from herbs, plants, honey and fruits to handmade soaps, flowers, baskets, seafood, prepared food and more. For more information on the Farmer’s Market, call 321-7098.

Whatever you’re in the mood for that day, you’re sure to find a slice of it downtown.