Entry #9- Downtown Field Trip

On our downtown field trip I learned a lot about how Fort Myers really became established and about what downtown really has to offer. I’ve lived in Fort Myers my entire life, but always near Estero so I never really got to experience spending any time in that area. I really feel the most comfortable near the river. The breeze on the water and the sound of the waves make me feel good, whereas I feel more energized when I’m near the hustle and bustle of town, near the shops or walking down the streets. There still is a bit of landscape throughout downtown which makes you not completely feel as if you are trapped in a city. A lot of the landscaping has been there for years upon years so it really adds to the historic feel. Near the river you do get to experience more of a “park feel” because of all the landscaping areas. More towards the inner part of the city you really only get to see historic buildings and things such as lawyer offices, and small businesses. We got lucky enough on our visit to see a dolphin in the river! Other than that I don’t really recall seeing much wildlife throughout the city besides birds and insects. The only reason I really feel a connection to downtown is because I really am a city girl at heart. I love big tall buildings, businesses everywhere and just the fast pace of a town. When going into Downtown Fort Myers I get that feeling. Parking can always be an issue when in a town with narrow streets and lots of businesses. Most people tend to park at the meters which line every street and cost prices for every half an hour or so, otherwise your options are parking in lots where you take a ticket and then pay by the hour when you leave. To me the price is really the same either way, it’s just your opinion of what is more convenient to you. Most of the downtown is taken over by government centers like the courthouse. When it comes to mass transit the only thing we really have is the city bus. I don’t remember seeing one on our field trip, so I really don’t know where they drop off or pick up. Shopping malls in other areas than the city can take a toll on the revenue the actual city makes. It’s more convenient for you to visit a strip mall then having to actually go downtown and park and walk to a store. It doesn’t really seem there is any living space on the inside of the city, only surrounding. If you were to live in the actual city I would assume that you would have to shop at local markets. For the most part downtown Fort Myers is semi-safe. I honestly don’t think I would feel comfortable being downtown by myself at night, but it does seem to be decent.

Here are some shots I took downtown of the river, bank, the theatre, and a few other things.