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positioned 10 miles southeast of downtown Fort Myers, Florida, is a thriving gateway to the Southwest Florida region, encompassing Cape Coral, Naples, and Punta Gorda. Managed by the Lee County Port Authority, RSW operates a single terminal with three concourses—Concourse B, Concourse C, and Concourse D—featuring 28 gates. Serving over 11 million passengers in 2024, it ranks among the top 50 U.S. airports and is the second-busiest single-runway facility nationwide. With a $1 billion terminal expansion underway (set for completion by late 2026), RSW is upgrading its infrastructure and consolidating security, maintaining its acclaim for cleanliness and ease of use.
Terminal Overview
RSW’s terminal is a two-level, U-shaped design built for convenience. Level 1 manages arrivals, baggage claim (10 carousels), rental car counters, and ground transport, while Level 2 handles departures, ticketing, security, and concourse entry. Concourses B, C, and D branch from a central hub but lack airside connections, meaning transfers require exiting and re-entering security (a fix planned for 2026). Gate assignments typically include Air Canada, Alaska, Frontier, Southwest, and Sun Country on Concourse B; Delta, United, and WestJet on Concourse C; and American, Breeze, JetBlue, and Spirit on Concourse D—subject to seasonal adjustments.
Where to Eat
Pre-security, Beaches Boardwalk Café on Level 2 offers casual sandwiches and coffee—a laid-back start. Post-security, Concourse B’s Dewar’s Clubhouse (near B4) serves burgers and craft beers, Concourse C’s Shula’s Bar & Grill (near C6) delivers steaks and seafood, and Concourse D’s Casa Bacardi (near D6) pairs cocktails with Cuban-inspired bites.
Where to Rest
The Quiet Room near baggage claim (Level 1) is a low-stimulus haven with soft seating—open to all. Post-security, cushioned chairs with outlets near Gates B8, C9, and D10 provide free, tranquil spots. No lounges exist yet, but one’s planned for 2026.
What to Do
Interactive touchscreens near Gates B2, C4, and D8 offer local trivia and maps—test your Florida knowledge. The Aviation History Exhibit above baggage claim (Level 1) displays vintage photos and models—free and open 24/7. Plane-watch from Gate D10’s windows with runway vistas.
Unique Features
Free Wi-Fi (“flypdx”) blankets the terminal—strongest in the hub. Pet relief areas are outside Door 1 (Level 1) and post-security near C8. Shell-themed decor and alligator sculptures echo Florida’s coastal charm.
How to Get There
From Fort Myers, take I-75 South to Exit 131 (Daniels Parkway), then Terminal Access Road (20-30 minutes). LeeTran Route 240 ($1.50, 45 minutes from downtown) stops at Level 1. Taxis ($30-$40) and rideshares (pickup near Door 3) are curbside. Park in the Short-Term Garage ($24/day, across the terminal) or Long-Term Lot ($11/day) with shuttles.
Concourse B
with 9 gates (B1-B9), caters to Air Canada, Alaska, Avelo, Discover, Frontier, Lynx, Porter, Southwest, and Sun Country, plus international arrivals via a lower-level customs facility. It’s the easternmost concourse, buzzing with Gulf Coast vacationers.
Dining Options: Dewar’s Clubhouse near B4 dishes out hearty burgers and local IPAs—try the grouper sandwich for a coastal twist. Dunkin’ by B6 offers donuts and iced coffee—quick and familiar. Coastal News near B2 stocks grab-and-go snacks like chips and trail mix.
Rest and Relaxation
Near B8, a seating area with cushioned chairs and USB ports overlooks the tarmac—a quieter retreat despite the concourse’s bustle. The Quiet Room (pre-security via Level 1) is a short walk back for deeper peace.
Activities and Entertainment
Interactive touchscreens by B2 feature Gulf Coast trivia—learn about local wildlife like manatees. The gift shop near B4 sells Florida-themed tees and sunscreen—beach-ready essentials. Plane-watch from B9’s window with views of international arrivals.
Special Highlights
The customs area below B1-B3 processes passengers (10 AM-8 PM)—allow 30-60 minutes for clearance. A Mamava Pod near B5 (app-unlocked) provides privacy for nursing or a break. The concourse’s shell mosaic floor ties into RSW’s coastal aesthetic
Concourse C
with 9 gates (C1-C9), serves Delta, United, and WestJet, sitting centrally between B and D. It balances business and leisure traffic with a slightly more relaxed pace.
Dining Options
Shula’s Bar & Grill near C6 offers upscale steak and seafood—savor the blackened mahi-mahi. Starbucks by C2 brews lattes and pastries—a fast pick-me-up. Burger King near C8 delivers classic fast food for tight schedules.
Rest and Relaxation
Near C9, cushioned seats with outlets face the runway—a calm spot away from the crowds. The pre-security Quiet Room (Level 1) is accessible via the hub for a deeper respite.
Activities and Entertainment
Interactive touchscreens near C4 display Fort Myers history—explore Edison’s legacy. The newsstand near C6 sells books and Smoky Mountain magnets—pick up a keepsake. Plane-spot from C9’s glass wall with taxiway views.
Special Highlights
A pet relief area near C8 (post-security) features faux grass—clean up with provided bags. Gate C1’s flexibility handles occasional overflow—check screens. High ceilings and natural light create an open feel.
Concourse D
with 10 gates (D1-D10), hosts American, Breeze, JetBlue, and Spirit, stretching west from the hub. It’s a busy domestic hub tailored for Gulf Coast travelers.
- Casa Bacardi near D6 pairs mojitos with Cuban sandwiches—a tropical vibe. Nathan’s Famous by D2 serves hot dogs and fries—quick and nostalgic. Farmer’s Market near D8 offers healthy salads and smoothies—great for lighter fare.
- Near D10, a seating nook with outlets and runway views is a serene hideaway—ideal for unwinding. The Quiet Room (pre-security) is a hub walk away for more privacy.
- Interactive touchscreens by D8 feature Southwest Florida maps—plan a beach day. The gift shop near D4 sells beach towels and local honey—perfect for travelers. Plane-watch from D10’s window with clear runway sights.
- Gate D10’s triple jetway accommodates larger planes—watch 737s load up. A hydration station near D6 encourages eco-friendly refills—bring a bottle. Palm tree murals enhance the Florida ambiance.
RSW’s terminal map is a traveler’s friend—compact yet evolving, with Southwest Florida’s coastal charm woven throughout. Whether you’re dining, resting, or exploring, it’s a smooth start to your Gulf Coast adventure.
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Brian Mitchell