Edison & Ford Winter Estates
The Edison & Ford Winter Estates contain two of Fort Myers’ most historic homes. Famous inventor Thomas Edison built his winter home in Fort Myers in 1885 and lived there until his death in 1931. Edison’s good friend and fellow innovator Henry Ford lived right next door, with the two homes situated along the Caloosahatchee River. Both homes are architectural wonders, containing original furnishings, artifacts, and decor from the early 20th century. Beyond the homes, your group can explore the rest of the 20-acre estate’s lush botanical gardens and museums dedicated to Edison and Ford. See where Edison conducted over half of his prolific 1,093 patents and where Ford brainstormed prototype designs for the Model T. The Edison & Ford Winter Estates provide an in-depth look at the lives of two of America’s most famous inventors.
Adress: Edison & Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33901
Phone: (239) 334-7419
Lakes Regional Park
Lakes Regional Park is one of Lee County’s most popular parks thanks to its diverse ecosystems and endless recreational activities. The 715-acre park contains a mosaic of Florida environments including pine flatwoods, wet prairies, marshes, and lakes. Visitors can hike through wooded trails, bike through the park, geocache, camp, fish, kayak, and more. One of the park’s most unique activities is kayaking through the mangrove tunnels. Paddle through the maze of mangrove roots and emerge right onto the open waters of Orange River. Another must-do activity at Lakes Regional Park is walking the boardwalks through the marshes and wet prairies to spot local birds and other wildlife. With so many ecosystems converging in one park, you’re bound to see beautiful birds like egrets, herons, wood storks, and even bald eagles.
Adress: Lakes Regional Park 7330 Gladiolus Dr, Fort Myers, FL 33908
Phone: (239) 533-7550
Shell Factory & Nature Park
The Shell Factory & Nature Park is part zoo, part museum, and part shopping destination. The eco-park contains over 20 acres of nature trails and exotic animal exhibits. One of the most popular exhibits is Monkey Island, where you’ll see adorable capuchin and squirrel monkeys up close. There are also tropical birds, alligators, a petting zoo, an aviary, and more. After exploring the nature park, head inside the Shell Factory store, which is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records for having the largest gift shop in the world. Beyond shells, you’ll find home decor, jewelry, clothing, candy, toys, and every kitschy beach souvenir imaginable. It’s a shopper’s paradise with something for everyone in your group.
Adress: Shell Factory & Nature Park 2787 N Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers, FL 33903
Phone: (239) 995-2141
Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
Fort Myers has no shortage of natural areas, and the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve encompasses some of the most ecologically diverse habitats in Southwest Florida. The preserve contains cypress swamps, marshes, pine flatwoods, and wet prairies along the Slough Canal. Hiking trails wind through each distinct ecosystem, giving your group the chance to experience it all. The Lucky’s Lake Trail takes you through a cypress dome, where you’ll be surrounded by the “knees” of centuries-old cypress trees emerging from the waters below. The interpretive boardwalk over Alligator Alley gets you up close with local wetland wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, turtles, snakes, otters, deer, and of course, a huge array of birds.
Adress: Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve 7791 Penzance Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33966
Phone: (239) 533-7550
Manatee Park
One of Fort Myers’ most famous wildlife inhabitants is the gentle manatee. Your group can spot these amazing marine mammals right from shore at Manatee Park. Located right off the Orange River near downtown Fort Myers, Manatee Park is a top spot for manatees to congregate in the winter months. In addition to the manatee viewing areas, the park has a playground, fishing pier, kayak launch, and walking trails. Pack a picnic to enjoy after watching the manatees while your kids play at the playground. Look out for other wildlife like turtles, birds, and alligators while walking the trails along the river.
Adress: Manatee Park 10901 Palm Beach Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33905
Phone: (239) 690-5030
Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium
Immerse your group in the world of Southwest Florida’s indigenous Calusa people at the Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium. This 105-acre interpretive center brings to life the culture of the Calusa people, from their dwellings to tools and clothing. Replicas of a Calusa village, temple mound, and chickee hut show how the tribe lived for thousands of years in early Florida. The nature center also has a museum, live animal exhibits, butterfly garden, observation tower, and a planetarium. Your group can even participate in a real archaeological dig on site. With so much to do, you’ll learn all about the Calusa tribe and local ecosystems at the Calusa Nature Center.
Adress: Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium 3450 Ortiz Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33905
Phone: (239) 275-3435
Fort Myers Beach
You can’t visit Fort Myers without spending a day relaxing on the white sands of Fort Myers Beach on Estero Island. The beach town has a laidback, retro vibe with old-school motels and diners along the main drag. Your group can swim and sunbathe by the emerald green waters or rent kayaks and jet skis for fun on the waves. When you’re ready for a break from the sun, check out Lovers Key State Park just south of Fort Myers Beach. Walk out on the boardwalk trails for excellent bird watching or have a picnic on the quiet, secluded beach. End your beach day with dinner and drinks on the waterfront at places like Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille or The Beached Whale.
Adress: Fort Myers Beach Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Plan Your Fort Myers Trip with Party Bus Fort Myers
Party Bus Fort Myers provides comfortable, convenient transportation for groups visiting Fort Myers’ top hidden gem attractions. Our team handles all the driving and logistics while your group relaxes, stays together, and has fun exploring. Contact us today at 239-349-6038 for a free quote on bus rentals for your next Fort Myers trip. We look forward to helping you experience the hidden side of Fort Myers!