Your Backyard Playground: A Day at Lakes Regional Park

Lakes Regional Park is the ultimate inland escape. Just a short drive from our North Fort Myers vacation rentals, this 279-acre park was once a rock quarry, but today it is a lush haven for families, fitness buffs, and nature lovers alike.

The park’s "claim to fame" is undoubtedly the Lakes Park & Gulf Railroad. This 1/8th-scale miniature train takes you on a 15-minute journey through woods and over bridges—even passing miniature villages. If you have little ones, the massive splash pads and themed playgrounds are a guaranteed hit.

For a more tranquil pace, step into the Fragrance Garden. Spanning 18 acres, the garden was specifically designed to appeal to the senses—particularly scent and touch. As you wander through the winding paths, you’ll encounter "rooms" filled with plants that smell like everything from spicy herbs to sweet chocolate.

With over 150 acres of freshwater lakes, you can rent a swan-shaped paddleboat or a kayak from Wheel Fun Rentals. Prefer to stay dry? Grab a four-person "surrey" bike and pedal the 2.5 miles of paved trails.

Visit Lakes Park Wednesdays from 9am-1pm (Oct–April) for the Farmers Market.