Location: Fort Myers
Top Things to do in Fort Myers
The 5 Best Historic Sites in Fort Myers, Florida (FL)
The City of Palms is located in Southwestern Florida on the banks of the Caloosahatchee River. Most visitors go to Fort Myers for the deep-sea fishing, the golf courses and the famous white sand beaches and islands that line the Gulf Coast. A renovation of the city's downtown waterfront promises new restaurants, clubs, shops and galleries. Attractions include the winter estates of Henry Ford and Thomas Edison, as well as nearby Naples and the islands of Sanibel and Captiva.
Restaurants in Fort Myers
1. Chief Billy Bowlegs Historical Marker
2. Fort Myers Historical Marker
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
3. Edison and Ford Winter Estates
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5,580 reviews
Visitors to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers will enjoy seeing the winter residences of famous inventors Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. There are historical buildings, award-winning gardens, the Edison Botanic Research Lab and the Inventions Museum. The museum has hundreds of inventions, artifacts and special exhibits. Edison Ford offers many tour options, including special "Inside-the-Homes" and "Inside-the-Lab" Tours on select days. The audio tour is available in English, Spanish, German and French. Historian led tours are also offered in German on select days. Group tours can be arranged in advance.
Reviewed By 123Shane - Calgary, Canada
Very scenic area and gardens with two beautiful homes that provide a glimpse into American history. My wife and I enjoyed a relaxing walk through the gardens and learned about two of the very influential business men and their families. The museum on site was also very educational. Definitely a excellent visit in the Fort Myers area.
4. Edison Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 148 reviews
Reviewed By W1702PJmarkg - Catonsville, United States
The grounds of Edison Park and the Edison/Ford homes are beautiful from the banks of the Caloosahatchee River across McGregor Blvd to the champion Banyan Tree by Edison's laboratory. The tree was from India and given to him by Harvey Firestone and said to be the 1st one in the United States when it was planted in 1925. Looking at it for the 1st time, you would think it would be about 300 years old though it is only 95. It currently covers an acre with a 390 foot circumference and has a canopy height of 60 feet. There are 3 other champion Banyan's in the park and they are a sight to behold.
5. Burroughs Home & Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 123 reviews
Built in 1901, this Georgian Revival Mansion was the scene of many social events that hosted the Fort Myers' elite. Antique furnishings, historical artifacts and delightful tales of growing up as the privileged daughters of Nelson & Adeline Burroughs, and so much more await visitors who want to take a step back in time. Guided Historical Tours are conducted by reservation only. Please contact venue for details. Parking is located across the street, behind the Langford-Kingston Home. (2500 First Street)
Reviewed By CaptTrouble - Hudson, United States
My husband and I walked to the Holiday Home showcase with the Burroughs Home and the Langford Kingston House across the street. We went on an evening that was a little bit chilly, arrived early, and went on an earlier date. This way we were only the second or third family group in line and we were able to get in and really see the decorations without pressure. Both homes were stunning, but the Burroughs home was spectacular. They really know how to decorate. My husband was wowed too. And for only $5, it is well worth your time! We will go again next year.
