Free Things To Do IN Cape Coral Area

The Cape Coral Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 8 AM to 1 PM, located in downtown Cape Coral at SE 47th Terrace and SE 10th Place, in Club Square. For 26 years, it has been a popular Saturday morning destination, growing to feature over 125 vendors. We offer a wide range of delicious foods and local crafts, including fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables—many of which are Certified Organic—alongside homemade foods and handcrafted items. You'll find freshly baked breads and pastries, homemade pickles, jams, and jellies, Gulf Coast seafood, fresh meats, handmade pet treats, soaps, essential oils, local honey, made-to-order guacamole, fresh-cut flowers, as well as native plants and trees. There's something for everyone to enjoy!

Wicked Dolphin Distillery, Florida’s most awarded craft distillery, is located in Cape Coral, FL. They offer complimentary tours and tastings on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Be sure to check our website to reserve your spot.

Tour and Tasting Schedule:

• Tuesday & Saturday: Tours at noon, 1 PM, 2 PM, 3 PM, and 4 PM
• Thursday: Tours at noon, 1 PM, 2 PM, 3 PM, 4 PM, and 5 PM
• Friday: Tours at 2 PM, 3 PM, 4 PM, and 5 PM

Gift Shop Hours:

• Monday-Wednesday: 9 AM – 5 PM
• Thursday & Friday: 9 AM – 7 PM
• Saturday: 11 AM – 5 PM

This 8-acre environmental park is an ideal spot for manatee watching, especially during the cooler months, and offers year-round fishing opportunities.

The first phase of park development is complete, featuring a kayak launch, designated manatee viewing areas, a walking path, and various landscape enhancements. The kayak launch provides easy access to the Calusa Blueway through Matlacha.

Future phases, as funding allows, may include an elevated boardwalk and additional shoreline and landscape improvements.

Park Amenities:

• Restrooms
• Fishing Area
• Manatee Viewing
• Osprey Nest
• Kayak Launch
• Purple Martin Houses
• Birding Opportunities

LOCAL TIP:  IF KAYAKING IT IS FUN TO PADDLE THROUGH MANGROVE TRAIL AND THEN COME OUT NEAR MICELI'S RESTAURANT TO GET FOOD SINCE THEY HAVE FLOATING DOCKS. 

Matlacha, Florida, is a charming and colorful small town located on Pine Island in Lee County, just west of Cape Coral. It's known for its quirky, artsy vibe, stunning natural beauty, and relaxed island atmosphere. Here’s why someone might want to visit Matlacha:

• Art Galleries: Matlacha is home to a variety of art galleries showcasing local and regional artists. The town is particularly famous for its bright, funky, and tropical art styles.
• Eclectic Shops: Unique shops and boutiques sell handmade jewelry, crafts, and other one-of-a-kind items.

• The town is often described as a "living painting" due to its brightly painted buildings, including houses, galleries, and restaurants. It's a visual treat for visitors and a favorite for photographers.

• Matlacha Pass is a renowned fishing spot, with opportunities for catching snook, redfish, tarpon, and more.
• Kayaking and paddleboarding through the mangroves offer a chance to explore the area's stunning waterways and wildlife.

• The area around Matlacha is rich in mangroves, estuaries, and wildlife. Birdwatchers can spot herons, egrets, ospreys, and pelicans.
• Nearby Pine Island offers more opportunities for hiking, exploring nature trails, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

• Matlacha features several waterfront restaurants and bars where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and live music. Favorites include places offering stone crab, grouper, and shrimp dishes.  We suggest Miceli's & Blue Dog Restaurant as favorite local spots.  

• Life in Matlacha is slow-paced and inviting, making it a perfect destination for those looking to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle.

• Depending on the time of year, visitors might enjoy local festivals, art walks, or farmer's markets featuring local produce and handmade goods.

Matlacha’s blend of natural beauty, creativity, and laid-back charm makes it a unique destination for anyone looking to experience the essence of Old Florida with a contemporary, artistic twist.

Lakes Park is a welcoming destination for the entire southwest Florida community, offering a variety of ways to relax, stay active, and explore. The park features miles of both paved and unpaved trails, as well as boardwalks. Water activities like canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are available, and picnicking and bird watching are popular pastimes. Visitors can take advantage of outdoor fitness stations, stroll through beautiful gardens, or reserve shelters for private events. The park also offers guided tours. Lakes Park hosts numerous community events, including the Lakes Park Farmers Market, the Fall Festival with Scarecrows in the Park, StoryTime in the Garden, and more.

• Park open seven days a week
• No Alcohol, Pets, or Electric / Motorized Vehicles at any time.
• Parking fee: $1.00/hour or $5.00 per day
• Lee County Annual Parking Stickers are accepted at this location
• NO SWIMMING IN LAKE
• Food service offered at concession facility.
• Upcoming events and more information: visit www.LakesPark.org , call 239-533-7575 or email info@LakesPark.org.
• Shelter reservations: call Lee County Parks and Recreation at 239-533-7575
• For information on the Railroad Museum of Southwest Florida and train rides, visit RRMSF.ORG