A layover in Fort Myers is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Southwest Florida International Airport sits just 160 minutes from the city center by LeeTran Bus (Route 50), and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave RSW:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for United States. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Fort Myers takes about 160 minutes by LeeTran Bus (Route 50). Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
How to Spend Your Time in Fort Myers
Two recommendations for your time in Fort Myers:
Start with Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Manatee Park. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at RSW, check out The Club at RSW or Southwest Florida International Airport Art in Public Places to keep yourself occupied.
How to Get Into Fort Myers
From RSW, the LeeTran Bus (Route 50) gets you to Fort Myers in around 160 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 180 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the LeeTran Bus (Route 50) offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Best Bites Near RSW
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Fort Myers: Ford’s Garage (Downtown Fort Myers) and University Grill. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Margaritaville Bar & Grill or Bahama Breeze Island Grille (Airport). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Fort Myers:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Fort Myers.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at RSW for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Fort Myers or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at RSW may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Fort Myers’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at RSW, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Fort Myers is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Fort Myers.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.