Lakes Regional Park | Naples City

Lakes Regional Park is a popular public park located in Fort Myers, Florida. This 279-acre park offers a range of outdoor recreational activities suitable for visitors of all ages. Whether you're interested in walking, biking, fishing, or exploring nature, this park provides a variety of experiences to enjoy. Below is a detailed overview of what the park has to offer:

Park Features & Activities

Walking & Biking Trails
The park boasts over 2.5 miles of paved and unpaved trails that wind through scenic areas, providing a perfect environment for walking, jogging, or biking. One of the highlights is the boardwalk that stretches across the park’s lakes, offering beautiful views of the water and wildlife.

Water Recreation
Lakes Regional Park is ideal for water enthusiasts, offering opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The park has several freshwater lakes, and you can rent kayaks or paddle boats to enjoy the water. Fishing is also permitted, with the park providing a peaceful setting for those who enjoy this activity.

Playgrounds & Splash Fountain
The park is family-friendly, with playgrounds for children and a splash fountain to help them cool off during hot days. The splash fountain is especially popular during the summer months and provides a safe and fun way for kids to play in the water.

Fitness Stations & Gardens
For fitness enthusiasts, the park includes several outdoor fitness stations along its trails. Additionally, visitors can explore themed gardens, such as the fragrance garden, herb garden, butterfly garden, and cactus garden. These areas not only offer beautiful plants but also serve as educational spaces for nature lovers.

Train Village & Museum
One of the unique attractions at Lakes Regional Park is the Railroad Museum of South Florida’s Train Village. This mini-train village features a historic locomotive, a caboose, and a miniature train ride that offers a fun experience for both children and adults. The museum and village help bring the history of railroads to life.

Rentals & Refreshments

Wheel Fun Rentals
Visitors can rent a variety of fun vehicles at Wheel Fun Rentals, including bikes, surreys, kayaks, swan pedal boats, and electric boats. These rentals allow visitors to explore the park in a unique way, whether it’s by cycling along the trails or gliding across the water in a pedal boat. There are two rental locations in the park: one near the Train Ride and another by the main entrance.

Whistle Stop Ice Cream Shop
For a treat after exploring the park, visitors can stop by the Whistle Stop Ice Cream Shop. This snack bar serves a variety of food items, including pizza, burgers, hot dogs, nachos, and homemade ice cream, making it a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy some refreshments.

Special Events & Programs

Bird Tours
On the first Saturday of each month, the park offers a bird tour led by experienced guides. These tours allow visitors to observe local bird species in their natural habitats. The tours are free and require no reservations, making them an easy way to engage with nature and learn about the local wildlife.

Farmers Market
Every Friday, the park hosts a farmers market from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Visitors can find local produce, seafood, native plants, and artisan foods at the market. It’s a great way to support local vendors and take home some fresh, healthy products.

Fragrance Garden Plant Sale
On the last Wednesday of each month, visitors can purchase plants grown by volunteers in the park's fragrance garden. This sale runs from 9:00 AM to noon, and it offers an opportunity to buy plants that are specially cultivated for their fragrant flowers and foliage.

Strolling Tours of the Gardens
For those interested in learning more about the park's plants and gardens, the park offers guided walking tours on the second Saturday of each month at 9:00 AM. These tours are led by master gardeners or horticulturists and provide detailed information about the park’s various gardens.

Accessibility

Lakes Regional Park is designed to be accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities. The park features ADA-compliant pathways, parking spaces, and facilities, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the park comfortably.

Location & Parking

Address: 7330 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33908

Parking: There is a parking fee of $1 per hour or $5 per day. Annual parking passes for Lee County parks are also available for frequent visitors.

Contact Information

Phone: (239) 533-7578

Conclusion

Lakes Regional Park is a versatile and inviting destination for outdoor recreation in Fort Myers. Whether you’re interested in taking a leisurely walk, enjoying water activities, or attending one of the park’s many special events, there’s something for everyone. The park’s beautiful natural surroundings, combined with its recreational facilities and educational programs, make it an ideal spot for families, fitness enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to enjoy a day outdoors.