Go Shop View archives

• He, She & Me

  One of the only fair trade shops in all of Florida, this amazing treasure trove has wildly affordable gifts and artful home décor made by skilled artisans in third world countries like Bangladesh, Vietnam and Peru. (9/2011)

  2701 Cleveland Ave
  239-332-3887
  hesheandme.com
  

• Goodwill Book Store

  Goodwill launched a cool new concept when they transformed a defunct bank into a used book store and donation center. Visitors and seasonal residents from around the globe give its inventory an interesting twist. (9/2011)

  15165 McGregor Blvd
  239-267-3787
  goodwill.org
  

• Babs Bead Warehouse

  Trollbeads are a draw, but this better-than-average bead shop also carries Swarovski crystal, gemstones and sterling silver components. Wannabe jewelry makers can sign up for one-day classes. (9/2011)

  16205 S Tamiami Tr Ste #4
  239-432-1778

 

Go See View archives

• Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva Island

  Park at McCarthy’s Marina and then stroll through the many galleries, or enjoy al fresco dining and a sunset cocktail on Andy Rosse Lane, the heart of tiny Captiva Island that is only one small block-long. (9/2011)

  I-75 to Exit 131 to the Sanibel Causeway

• Sanibel Lighthouse

  This iconic lighthouse has crowned Sanibel’s east end since 1884, and it’s still operational (a 1972 Coast Guard effort to decommission it was stamped out by outraged locals). The beachgoers lounge beneath its tower, and seashell fanatics scour the sand for the coveted “miniatures” that are often found here. (9/2011)

  Eastern end of Periwinkle Way

• CENTENNIAL PARK

  Sited along the downtown riverfront, this event-centric park is home to the beloved life-size sculpture Uncommon Friends, featuring famous former winter residents Thomas Edison, Henry Ford and Harvey Firestone, as well as Dr. Alexis Carrel and frequent visitor Charles Lindbergh. (9/2011)

  2100 Edwards Dr
  239-338-2287

 

Go Eat View archives

• LIGHTHOUSE WATERFRONT RESTAURANT

  Overlooking a lighthouse and expensive yachts, this upscale seafood venue in Port Sanibel Marina has one of the best sunset views in the county to accompany scrumptious cocktails and meals like lobster, steaks and bacon wrapped shrimp. Enjoy live music in its cozy bar Thursday through Saturday. $$$. (9/2011)

  14301 Port Comfort Rd
  239-489-0770
  www.lightho...taurant.com
  

• Sweet Melissa’s Cafe

  Chef Melissa Talmage lures devoted foodies to her Sanibel haven with small plates like crispy soft-shelled crab and bourbon-glazed pork belly and entrees like ovenroasted cobia and pan-seared duck breast. Soothing live acoustic jazz sets the mood Tuesday, Thursday and Friday nights. $$$$ (9/2011)

  1625 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island
  239-472-1956
  sweetmelissacafe.net
  

• YABO

  Chef/vocalist/producer Ryan Kida has developed a cult following with his tiny, rock-themed restaurant. Black walls, funky furnishings, rock memorabilia and slide shows will whet your interest along with your appetite while you enjoy hearty Italian food. $$$ (9/2011)

  16681 McGregor Blvd
  239-225-9226

 

Go Party View archives

• Reserve Cigar & Wine Bar

  Even nonsmokers will enjoy this clubby hangout that offers cigar aficionados a place to shop, smoke and relax with a glass of wine, port or brandy. First class air purifiers keep everyone happy. (9/2011)

  10950 Cleveland Ave
  239-210-0300
  reserveciga...winebar.com
  

• GATOR LANES

  This popular bowling alley gets packed on weekend nights; crowds start arriving around 10pm and keep on coming. It’s a fun venue, with a full bar and music. Be sure you arrive early enough to snag a lane! (9/2011)

  7050 Crystal Dr
  239-939-0048
  www.gatorlanes.net
  

• Lush

  This brand-new spot offers a South Beach-like bar with dim lighting and hip music. Order wine or cocktails, and head to the romantic, banyan-shaded patio for canoodling. Globally inspired tapas plates from Chef Shannon Yates are available if you get hungry. (9/2011)

  13451 McGregor Blvd
  239-791- 8554
  lushfortmyers.com