Fresh Starts for Families: New Year Activities Around Fort Myers
The New Year is here, and it’s the perfect time to embrace fresh starts, family bonding, and all the fun Fort Myers has to offer. Whether you're looking for ways to get active, spend quality time together, or explore new adventures, we've got you covered with ideas that will keep your family inspired long after the ball has dropped.
1. Explore Nature Together
Kick off the year with a dose of Florida’s natural beauty. Spending time outdoors is not only fun but also refreshing for the soul.
Hike Through Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
This serene nature trail is a family favorite. Stroll through lush greenery, look out for wildlife, and enjoy a peaceful start to the year.
Tip: Bring binoculars to spot birds and other critters!
Go Shelling on Sanibel Island
A beach day in January? Yes, please! Head to Sanibel Island for some of the best shelling spots in the country. Turn it into a scavenger hunt for the kids and see who can find the most unique shell.
2. Plan Family Fitness Goals
Staying active as a family can be fun and rewarding. Why not set goals together to make fitness a regular part of your routine?
Bike the Trails at Lakes Regional Park
Rent bikes or bring your own and explore the scenic trails. Kids will love the chance to zoom around while parents enjoy the views.
Join a Local Fun Run or Walk
Check out community events like fun runs or charity walks. Many are family-friendly and a great way to get moving while supporting a good cause.
3. Discover Something New
Learning and exploring together can spark excitement and curiosity for the whole family.
Visit the IMAG History & Science Center
Dive into hands-on exhibits, live animal encounters, and science experiments. It’s a perfect way to mix education with fun.
Take a Family Art Class
Places like the Alliance for the Arts offer family-friendly workshops where you can unleash your creativity. Who knows? You might discover a hidden talent!
4. Strengthen Family Connections
Make time to slow down and focus on what matters most: each other.
Game Night Marathon
Dedicate an evening to board games, puzzles, and snacks. Let each family member choose their favorite game to keep things exciting.
Start a Family Book Club
Pick a book everyone can enjoy and set aside time to read together. Discussing it as a family can be a great way to bond and spark conversation.
5. Give Back as a Family
The New Year is a great time to instill the value of service in your kids. Helping others strengthens your bond as a family and builds a sense of community.
Volunteer at a Local Food Bank
Organizations like the Harry Chapin Food Bank welcome families who want to help. It’s a meaningful way to spend time together while making a difference.
Adopt-a-Spot Beach Cleanup
Pick a local beach or park and make it your family’s mission to keep it clean. Bring gloves, trash bags, and a positive attitude.
6. Set Family Goals for the Year
January is a time for fresh beginnings, so why not dream big as a family?
Create a Family Vision Board
Gather magazines, glue, and poster board, then design a vision for the year ahead. Include travel plans, goals, and fun activities you want to try.
Start a Memory Jar
Each week, have everyone jot down a happy moment or accomplishment on a piece of paper. At the end of the year, open the jar and relive the best memories together.
Ready for a Great Year?
Fort Myers is full of opportunities for families to connect, grow, and have fun. As you dive into 2025, remember that the best moments often come from the simplest things: a walk in the park, a family dinner, or a shared laugh.
What are your family’s goals or activities for this year? Share your ideas in the comments or tag us @FortMyersKids to inspire others!