Make your next escape to the year-round sun and warmth with a visit to Florida. No matter what time of year you need a break, the Ford and Edison Winter Estates will be here for you to tour. The famous inventor and car magnate spent their winter days right in the area. Visit the grounds of the estates daily from 9 a.m. -5:30 p.m. Tours are daily, and the self-guided tour has no limits. The guided tour is at least an hour, but you’ll need additional time to tour the museum and laboratory. Prices vary based on the tour you choose. The address is 2350 McGregor Blvd in Fort Myers. Call 239-334-7419 for more information. The last ticket is sold at 4:30 p.m. each day.
Historic Homes
There are over 20 acres of historical buildings and gardens to wander at the Ford and Edison Winter Estates. The Edison property, also called Seminole Lodge, features a main house, guest house, caretaker’s house, swimming pool complex, and Edison’s private study. The Ford homes, known as The Mangoes, feature Henry Ford’s winter estate main home and the caretaker’s cottage.
Gardens
After you’ve toured these historic homes, take some time to wander the gardens surrounding them. Ficus trees that were planted by Edison, Ford, and their friend Harvey Firestone tower tall overhead in the former research gardens. There are over 1,700 plants of over 400 species from six continents represented in the garden. The Moonlight Garden is the largest formal garden on site and also includes a reflection pool that captures the moonlight, giving the garden its name. There are tropical fruit trees, a butterfly garden, succulent garden, and more.
Laboratory
Now a National Historic Chemical Landmark, the Edison Botanic Research Laboratory was created when Edison, Ford, and Firestone became concerned about the dependence on foreign rubber sources for their enterprises. The three tested over 17,000 plant samples and ultimately chose the Goldenrod as the most suitable. The interior layout includes a chemical processing area, machine shop, grinding room, office, and dark room.
The Edison Museum in Fort Myers
The Edison museum in Fort Myers is a 15,000-square-foot air-conditioned space with exhibits, thousands of artifacts from Ford’s and Edison’s lives, and a plethora of opportunities to learn about the men. Begin in the orientation gallery to get a feel for the museum and see Edison’s 1916 Model T on display. Learn about their outdoorsman side, walk through their timeline of innovations, and more.
Year-Round Accommodations in Cape Coral
From a cozy studio for a small family, to a spacious four-bedroom for a larger group, Cape Coral 4 Vacations has a vacation rental that’s perfect for you on your next Florida adventure, no matter what time of year you arrive. You’ll fall in love with our Cape Coral seasonal rentals that have all the amenities you need. Step in and feel the stresses and worries of home melt away, knowing all your needs will be met. Enjoy preparing a meal in the fully equipped kitchen. Stretch out with some popcorn and your favorite show or movie. There are multiple private spaces like patios, balconies, and even your own bedroom. Choose a premium unit for flat screen TVs, stainless steel appliances, a wet bar, plush furnishings, and more.
Contact us today to start planning a Cape Coral adventure to remember for years to come!
