Fort Myers

Fort Myers

General Information
Name	City of Fort Myers
Native Name
Other Names
Settlement Type	City
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates	26°38 N°81
Map	250px
Population
Total
Density	per km²
Area
Total	km²
Land	km²
Water	km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard	UTC-5
DST	UTC-4

Fort Myers is a city located in Lee County, Florida, United States. It is the commercial center of Lee County and a major tourist destination within Florida. Fort Myers is known for its beaches, fishing, shopping, and the opportunity to learn about two of the nation’s most famed inventors and business leaders, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.

History

Fort Myers was established in 1886 and has a rich history that includes serving as a base of operations against the Seminole Indians during the American Indian Wars. The city was named after Colonel Abraham Myers. In the 20th century, it became a residential and tourist area, with historical figures like Thomas Edison and Henry Ford setting up winter homes.

Geography

Fort Myers is located along the Caloosahatchee River and is primarily a gateway to the Southwest Florida region, which is a major tourist destination in Florida. The city experiences a tropical climate, with long, hot summers and mild winters.

Economy

The economy of Fort Myers is largely driven by tourism, but the city also has a growing business sector, including technology and health care. Retail and real estate are also significant contributors to the local economy.

Demographics

The demographic makeup of Fort Myers is diverse, with a significant portion of the population being retirees attracted by the city's climate and amenities. There is also a growing number of young professionals and families.

Culture

Fort Myers is known for its vibrant arts scene, which includes numerous galleries, theatres, and museums. The city hosts several annual cultural events and festivals that attract visitors from all over the country.

Education

Fort Myers is served by the Lee County School District, which includes a number of elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as higher education institutions such as Florida Gulf Coast University and Florida SouthWestern State College.

Transportation

The city is served by Southwest Florida International Airport, which provides flights to major cities across the United States and internationally. Public transportation in Fort Myers includes buses operated by LeeTran.

Notable People

Several notable individuals have called Fort Myers home, including inventor Thomas Edison and automobile magnate Henry Ford. The city has also produced several professional athletes, artists, and politicians.

See Also

• History of Florida
• Tourism in Florida