Centennial Park Fort Myers
A revitalized downtown oasis on the Caloosahatchee River, featuring a top-notch playground, scenic views, and community events.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free parking & fewer crowds
Centennial Park Fort Myers
Best Time
Free parking & fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A revitalized downtown oasis on the Caloosahatchee River, featuring a top-notch playground, scenic views, and community events.
"The new playground is really nice!! The park is right on the Caloosahatchee River in downtown Fort Myers and is so beautiful."
🎯 Kayak Launch Available
Launch your kayak from the boat ramp at Centennial Park for a great river experience.
☀️ Bring Sun Protection
Limited shade means sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must for a comfortable visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

All Children's Park Playground
Centennial Park
A newly built, fully gated playground with diverse equipment for all ages, including climbing structures and unique play features.
Caloosahatchee Riverfront Views
Waterfront
Enjoy scenic views of the Caloosahatchee River, perfect for a relaxing stroll or watching the sunset.

Hurricane Ian Memorial Wall
Centennial Park
A poignant memorial wall honoring victims of Hurricane Ian, offering a space for reflection and remembrance.

Public Art Installations
Throughout the park
Discover various art structures scattered throughout the park, adding a creative and visual element to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Park Hours & Parking Fees
Sun Protection & Hydration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Kayak Launch Available
Launch your kayak from the boat ramp at Centennial Park for a great river experience.
☀️ Bring Sun Protection
Limited shade means sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must for a comfortable visit.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Expect to pay $1/hour for parking on weekdays before 5 PM; check for weekend free parking.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially for kids, as the Florida heat can be intense.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Kayak Launch Available
Launch your kayak from the boat ramp at Centennial Park for a great river experience.
☀️ Bring Sun Protection
Limited shade means sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must for a comfortable visit.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Expect to pay $1/hour for parking on weekdays before 5 PM; check for weekend free parking.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially for kids, as the Florida heat can be intense.
♿️ Accessible Playground
The playground is fully gated and designed with various inclusive play elements for children of all abilities.
📸 Sunset Photo Ops
The riverfront location offers beautiful sunset views, perfect for photography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Centennial Park is widely praised for its significantly improved facilities, especially the fantastic, fenced-in playground that kids adore. Visitors highlight the beautiful riverfront views and the park's cleanliness. Some drawbacks include limited shade and paid parking, with occasional concerns about nighttime lighting.
"I just recently visited after moving away for a while, and wow! Centennial Park has really gotten a lot better!! It's always been a favorite, it just used to be a bit run down. The new playground is really nice!! The park is right on the Caloosahatchee River in downtown Fort Myers and is so beautiful. The only complaint i had is that my phone died and the outlets weren't working :( But, the whole area has a ton to see and do & I will be back!! :)"
LiME LiTE
"Wonderful fenced in playground for all ages lots of activities and adventures. 🥳
FREE PARKING All WEEKEND and after 5pm weekdays, otherwise $1 per hour.
Could use sun shade sales and water sprinklers for the summertime. 🥵"
Glenn 8D
"Centennial Park in Fort Myers is a great spot for families!!! The views are absolutely beautiful, and the park is very well maintained. My boys had a blast playing in the nice play area. The cleanliness of the park really stood out, making it a comfortable place to relax and enjoy. I highly recommend visiting this park if you’re in the area!"
Lorrie Kola
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Centennial Park is located in downtown Fort Myers at 2000 W First St, Fort Myers, FL 33901.
It's easily accessible by car and is a short walk from many downtown restaurants and attractions. If you're using GPS, 'Fort Myers Wharf Centennial Park' can also be used as a search term.While specific bus routes can vary, downtown Fort Myers is generally served by LeeTran public transportation. It's advisable to check the LeeTran website for the most current routes and schedules that service the downtown area near the park.
Yes, there is a boat ramp available at Centennial Park, making it a convenient spot for launching kayaks and small boats onto the Caloosahatchee River.
Some residents have raised concerns about the park becoming dangerously dark after sunset due to broken or missing light poles. It's recommended to visit during daylight hours or be extra cautious if staying after dark.
The park is situated in downtown Fort Myers, offering close proximity to numerous restaurants, shops, and other attractions like the Luminary Hotel and Caloosa Sound Amphitheater.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Centennial Park itself is generally free to enter. However, there is a parking fee, typically $1 per hour on weekdays before 5 PM. Parking is often free on weekends and after 5 PM on weekdays.
The park is typically open daily, but specific hours can vary, especially if there are events. It's best to check for any scheduled events or confirm general park hours before your visit.
No, tickets are not required for general entry to Centennial Park. It's a public park. However, if you plan to attend a specific event or festival held at the park, you may need to purchase tickets for that event.
Yes, restrooms are available within Centennial Park. They were noted as being clean and well-maintained by recent visitors.
The playground within Centennial Park is free to use for all visitors. The primary cost associated with visiting the park is for parking.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Centennial Park offers a fantastic All Children's Park playground, scenic riverfront views, walking paths, public art installations, and a Hurricane Ian Memorial Wall. It's a great spot for families, picnics, and enjoying the outdoors.
Absolutely! The newly built, fully gated 'All Children's Park' playground is a major draw for families, featuring a wide range of equipment for various ages.
Shaded areas are limited in Centennial Park. Visitors are advised to bring sun protection like hats and sunscreen, especially during the hotter months.
Yes, the park features paved walking paths along the waterfront, making it suitable for leisurely strolls, jogging, or cycling.
The park features various public art installations scattered throughout, adding a unique artistic dimension to the visitor experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Centennial Park is located in downtown Fort Myers, which has a variety of restaurants and dining options within walking distance.
Picnicking is a great option at Centennial Park. There are covered pavilions available, and the scenic riverfront provides a lovely backdrop for a meal.
Food vendors are often present, especially during festivals and events held at the park, such as the Cuban Sandwich Festival or Taste of Latino events.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. However, some events may have restrictions on coolers or outside beverages.
Centennial Park has hosted events like the Cuban Sandwich Festival and the Taste of Latino Empanada Smackdown, showcasing diverse culinary offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
The riverfront offers stunning sunset views over the Caloosahatchee River, making it ideal for photography. The art installations and the playground also provide unique photo opportunities.
Yes, aerial photography using drones has been captured at Centennial Park, showcasing the park, river, and surrounding downtown area. Always check local regulations regarding drone usage.
The Hurricane Ian Memorial Wall is a significant and somber landmark. While it can be photographed, it's important to do so respectfully.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permits or adherence to specific park rules. Always be mindful of other visitors' privacy.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful lighting for photography, especially along the riverfront.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Active & Outdoorsy Visitors
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The All Children's Park Playground
While the playground is a fantastic amenity, it's worth noting that shade is limited, which can be a significant factor in the Florida heat. Bringing sun protection is highly recommended. Despite this, the playground's design and the variety of play structures make it a standout attraction for families looking for fun and active outdoor experiences in downtown Fort Myers.
Riverfront Charm and Events
Beyond its natural beauty, Centennial Park serves as a vibrant hub for community events and festivals. It has hosted popular gatherings like the Cuban Sandwich Festival and Taste of Latino events, drawing crowds for food, music, and cultural celebrations. These events transform the park into a lively gathering space, offering visitors a chance to experience local culture and cuisine. The park also features a boat ramp, allowing for recreational access to the river.
Art, History, and Reflection
Centennial Park also holds a place of remembrance with the Hurricane Ian Memorial Wall. This poignant installation serves as a tribute to those affected by the devastating storm, offering a space for reflection and community solidarity. The park's blend of recreational facilities, artistic elements, and historical memorials creates a multifaceted experience for all who visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit