Edison Ford Estates Museums
A Visit to Edison Ford Museums: A Journey Through Innovation and History: Fort Myers, FL
Visiting the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, Florida, is like stepping back into a world of innovation, discovery, and timeless beauty. This historic site, commonly referred to as the Edison Ford Museums, is one of Florida’s most treasured attractions, drawing history buffs, science enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.
History of the Museums
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates preserve the winter homes of two of America’s most famous inventors: Thomas Alva Edison and Henry Ford. Edison first visited Fort Myers in 1885 and purchased 13 acres along the Caloosahatchee River. He built his winter retreat, Seminole Lodge, where he spent winters working on new inventions and enjoying Florida’s warm climate. Henry Ford, a close friend of Edison, purchased the neighboring property in 1916, establishing The Mangoes estate.
After Edison’s death in 1931, his widow, Mina Edison, continued to maintain the property, eventually opening it to the public in 1947. The Ford estate was opened for tours in 1988. Today, the combined estates serve as museums dedicated to the legacies of both men. In 2015, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates were officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing their cultural and historical significance.
Famous Visitors to the Edison Ford Museums
Over the years, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates have hosted many famous visitors, including:
- Harvey Firestone, founder of Firestone Tire, who frequently visited Edison’s estate.
- President Herbert Hoover, who dined with Edison and Ford.
- Charles Lindbergh, the pioneering aviator, who admired Edison’s contributions to science.
- Harvey S. Firestone Jr., who contributed to the Edison Botanic Research Corporation.
These high-profile visits underscore the influence Edison and Ford had on industry and innovation in the early 20th century.
Museum Highlights
The Edison Ford Museums and surrounding grounds offer a wealth of exhibits, historic homes, and botanical gardens. Some of the key highlights include:
Edison’s Seminole Lodge
Visitors can explore Edison’s carefully preserved home, featuring original furnishings, Edison’s personal study, and even his laboratory. It offers an intimate look into the daily life of one of America’s greatest inventors.
Ford’s The Mangoes Estate
The home of Henry Ford showcases period-appropriate furnishings and artifacts related to his automobile empire. It provides insight into Ford’s personal life and his friendship with Edison.
Edison Botanic Research Laboratory
This historic lab, a National Historic Chemical Landmark, was where Edison, Ford, and Firestone conducted research to find a domestic source of rubber. It remains preserved as it was in Edison’s time, showcasing his scientific genius.
The Museum
The on-site museum houses more than 15,000 artifacts, including original inventions, early automobiles, and rare photographs. A particular highlight is Edison’s phonograph and early lightbulbs.
Botanical Gardens
The estates are home to over 1,700 plants from around the world, including a massive Banyan tree, which was a gift from Harvey Firestone in 1925. The gardens are a peaceful place to reflect on nature’s influence on Edison’s work.
Where to Stay when visiting Edison Ford Museums?
Browse current room rates and availabilities at popular Fort Myers, Florida hotels, resorts, and VRBO Florida Vacation Rental homes below.
There are numerous accommodations in Fort Myers for visitors to the Edison Ford Museums. Some of the top Fort Myers vacation lodging choices include:
Luminary Hotel, 2200 Edwards Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33901
Luminary Hotel & Co., Autograph Collection hotel features free bikes, fitness center, a restaurant and bar. This 4-star hotel offers freeWiFi, a 24-hour front desk. The property is non-smoking throughout and is located 24 miles from Fishermen's Village. Highly Recommended.
Luminary Hotel Rates and Specials
Luxury Accommodations
- Luminary Hotel & Co. – A modern hotel with historical touches located along the Caloosahatchee River.
- Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina – A beachfront resort perfect for relaxation after a day of sightseeing.
Diamond Head Beach Resort, 2000 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Recently updated Gulf view suites located on the north and south sides of the building have a beautiful angled view of the Gulf of Mexico. Each 700 sq.ft. suite features new furniture throughout, a living room with a queen-sized sleeper sofa, a separate bedroom with a king-sized bed, and a private bathroom with walk-in shower, granite surfaces and tile floors throughout. Managed by Sunstream Hotels and Resorts. Highly Recommended. Check current availabilities and specials.
DiamondHead Beach Resort - Fort MyersBeach, FL
Mid-Range Hotels
- Best Western Fort Myers Waterfront – Offering beautiful views and convenient access to downtown.
- Holiday Inn Fort Myers Downtown Area – A comfortable stay close to the historic district.
Budget-Friendly Options
- La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Fort Myers – A solid choice for travelers on a budget.
- Red Roof Inn Fort Myers – Affordable accommodations with easy access to major attractions.
Edison Ford Museum Contact Information
Edison and Ford Winter Estates
2350 McGregor Blvd
Fort Myers, FL 33901
Phone: (239) 334-7419
Website: www.edisonfordwinterestates.org
Visiting Edison Ford Museums
A visit to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates is an enriching experience for anyone interested in history, science, and innovation. Whether you’re exploring Edison’s lab, admiring Ford’s automobiles, or simply enjoying the lush botanical gardens, this historic site offers something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip to Florida, be sure to add the Edison Ford Museums to your must-visit list—it’s a journey into the past that continues to inspire the future.
SHOP EDISON FORD GIFTS AND INFORMATION
PARADISE COAST SW FL ACTIVITIES
Avi's Water Sports Jet Ski Adventure Tours, Caxambas Park, 909 Collier Ct., Marco Island, FL 34145 | 239-777-9873
Avi's is a family-owned business that offers some of the most exciting dolphin jet ski tours and jet ski rental adventures on Marco Island. You are invited to take an exciting journey with Avi "The Dolphin Whisperer" and take home a complimentary flash drive of photos from your adventure. Bring the family and make lasting memories. Contact us to book your dolphin Jet Ski tour.
Avi's Water Sports & Jet Ski Adventure Tours - Marco Island, FL
Sunshine Tours and Fishing Charters, Rose Marina, 951 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island, FL | 239-642-5415
Sunshine Tours. Fish the 10,000 islands, the best in Off Shore, Back Water, and Near Coastal Fishing Charters. We know where the fish are. Also offering Marco Island Shelling Trips, and Sightseeing aboard one of our four fishing boats. Since 1984, Sunshine Tours has provided unsurpassed fishing charters, and on-the-water experiences for locals and visitors alike. Shared and private charters available. Contact us to book your Marco Island fishing charter.
Sunshine Tours & Charters - Marco Island, FL
Everglades City Fishing Charters, currently leaving from Everglades Bait and Tackle, Everglades City, FL | 239-253-9926
Experience the wonder of the 10,000 islands of SWFL. Fish the protected bays and rivers of the Islands and Everglades National Park. Fish among the mysteries of wrecks, hard bottom reefs, and offshore towers. Seek some of the most exciting game fish that call the Florida Everglades Home.
Everglades City Fishing Charters - Everglades City, FL
Marco Island Princess / Sunshine Tours, Rose Marina, 951 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island FL 34145 | 239-642-5415
The Marco Island Princess is a 90' luxury yacht offering daily Sightseeing, Lunch and Sunset Dinner Cruises. All of our delicious meals are prepared fresh on board for your enjoyment. Our professional and friendly crew will attend to your every need. Two full service cash bars serving up all of your favorite drinks! Also available for Weddings and Private Charters. Marco Island's most unique dining experience!
Visit The Marco Island Princess - Marco Island, FL
Island Bike Shops (2 Locations) 1095 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island, FL 34145 | 239-394-8400 & 4342 Thomasson Dr., Naples, FL 34112 | 239-732-8400
At Island Bike Shops we make your visit fun. Reserve your rental online. Check our selection of bicycle rentals, electric bikes, motor scooters, trailers, and more. Naples Bicycle Tours provides a unique opportunity for residents and visitors to experience the diversity of Southwest Florida. Our large or small group bicycle tours can accommodate all cycling levels as we personally escort you through Naples, Historic Old Naples, Marco Island, or the Natural Everglades.
Visit Island Bike Shops - Marco Island & Naples
Naples Bicycle Tours, Naples, FL 34113 | 239-580-7960
Naples Bicycle Tours provides a unique opportunity for visitors and residents to experience the natural Florida Everglades, up close and personal. Connect with nature on this 3-hour historic & ecotour in the heart of the Glades. All tours include everything needed for the adventure: custom-fit cycle, helmet, drinks, snacks, and a certified FL naturalist guide.
Naples Bicycle Tours - Naples, FL
Go Cats On The Water 2200 Tamiami Trail E, Collier Seminole State Park, Naples, FL | 239-748-4099
Marco and Naples Most Exciting Boat Tour. Explore the backwater and mangroves for an unforgettable adventure in Southwest Florida. Everglades Backwater Sightseeing Eco-Tours in our safe, and easy to drive boats. Choose a 75 minute or a 2.5 hour tour. Our custom Go-Cat boats are fun for all ages and can easily be operated by both younger adults and seniors. Kayak, and Canoe rentals now available.
GoCatsOnTheWater.com - Naples, FL
Tropical Tiki Tours, 220 Goodland Dr., Goodland, FL | 941-208-1200
Discover your private paradise on our new 26' "tiki-style" catamaran for a fun and relaxing cruise around Marco Island. Tropical Tiki Tours is offering daily eco-tours, sunset cruises, and private trips from 2-6 hours. Our USCG-inspected vessel is certified for up to 18 passengers so there is always room for all your family and friends for, Private Trips, Eco Tours, Corporate Events, Birthdays, Bachelorettes, Weddings, and Sunset Cruises.
Tropical Tiki Tours - Goodland, FL
Beachwear
- COOFANDY LINEN SHIRT --- Mens Casual Button Down shirt is made of high quality cotton linen fabric. Feature with Breathable, Lightweight, Skin-friendly, which can resistant shrink, provide you feeling cool and comfotable all day
- CASUAL & FASHION --- Mens Casual Linen Shirts comes with button-down closure, short sleeve, adjustable cuff, silm fit, solid color. Casual Beach Style Design to make you feel better about this summer
- MENS SUMMER OUTFIT --- Mens Summer Shirts Short Sleeve is great to match with beach shorts, solid t-shirts, casual pants, casual shorts. Pair with shorts, sunglasses,a hat, and canvas shoes for your perfect vacation style on the beach
- OCCASION --- Mens Cotton Linen Shirts For Beach suitable for beach, yoga, vacation, informal business, party, holiday, dating, wedding, travel, streetwear or any casual daily wear. Great for Summer, Spring, bring this Linen Button Down Shirts to Enjoy your Leisure Time
- WARM TIPS --- Low temperature hand wash or machine wash, hang to dry. Please refer to our SIZE CHART for selection
- Size - S=US 4-6, M=US 8-10, L=US 12-14, XL=16-18, XXL=20-22.see details in ruch description.
- Features - This Hollow Out Cover Up design round neck，mini dress length，long sleeve，knit crochet swimsuit，sheer beach cover up.
- Occasion - This beach dress cover up perfect for wearing at beach, swimming pool, poolside tanning salon, and Water Park. It is also the good choice for honeymoon gift.
- Fabric - this beach cover up made of 100% acrylic.Soft and comfortable.
- Wash - Hand wash recommend. Machine wash. Air dry. Do not use dryer.
- Womens Dressy Casual Sandals: Elegant and trendy style. Soft cloth bow knot strap sandals can dress up and down to match cute dress, trending jeans, stylish cloth. Premium arches thick cushion foam serve walking on cloud comfort
- Cushioned Yoga Mat Footbed: Made with memory foam EVA give sandles extra cushioning and better foot care for all day walking, lightweight classy sandals are good for resort travel, vacation, wedding bride or bridal and work in office
- Comfort Arch Support: Supportive every step of your feet anywhere and relieves the fatigue of walking. Women's orthopedic sandals relax feet for long distance walk, improve your gait and lessen foot issues like Plantar Fasciitis
- Non-Slip Rubber Sole: Deep texture waterproof tread function with perfect traction and grip to ensure the best protection, gives you peace of mind when summer pool beach partys or bath, shower in bathroom
- Partner for Summer: Classic flat sandals are perfect for various outfits and scenes. These Pretty sandals can match y2k tops,workout sets,lounge shorts, resort wear, going out outfits and fashion swimsuits
- Material - 100% Acrylic
- Material Type - Stretch : Slight, Thickness : Medium, Softness : soft
- Fit Type - Loose, XS=US(0-2), S=US(4-6), M=US(8-10), L=US(12-14), XL=(16-18). More details in rich description.
- Washing - Machine washable, hand washes cold, dry flat in shade. Do not bleach.Do not iron
- Features - Elevate your beach style with this stunning knit crochet mini dress featuring a chic round neck and sleeveless design for ultimate comfort and style. Perfect for the beach, pool, water park or tanning salon. Feel gorgeous and confident all summer long!
- Material: This beach bikini cover-up dress is made of polyester, very comfortable and quick-drying. The soft, breathable, lightweight material ensures comfort and keeps you cool in hot weather
- One Size: Length: 37.8 inch, Bust: 41.73 inch (non-stretch fabric), this is a loose-fit style, suitable for individuals 5.25 feet and taller
- Design: This loose, long V-Neck Lace beach cover-up dress is designed to perfectly conceal waist fat. The intricate patterns and meticulous stitching outline perfect lines. The lightweight, transparent lace mesh beach dress is more breathable in summer, with a slit hem that adds a flowing touch and enhances your figure
- Fashionable Wear: Our beach cover-up dress is perfect for wearing over bikinis, swimsuits, jeans, bikinis, shorts, tank tops, camisoles, shirts, pants, dresses, and clogs—perfect for spring to summer inspired looks. It also makes an excellent choice for a honeymoon gift
- Occasions: The casual beach swimwear bikini cover-up dress makes you look sexier. Ideal for water parks, clubs, patio bars, poolside, beach, swimming pool, streetwear, dinner, evenings, parties, honeymoons, date nights, weekends, holidays, vacations, travel, pregnancy, birthdays, wedding guests, shopping, lounging around the house, and more
- Care Tips: Hand wash in cold water is recommended, avoid bleach to preserve the lace details. Dry flat or hang in a cool, ventilated place, away from direct sunlight. Avoid washing with rough items to prevent snags or damage, enhancing the garment's durability
- Style: Women's V-Neck Lace Beach Swimwear Bikini Cover-Up Dress
- One size swimsuit cover up fits sizes S, M, L. Length: 27.6" Shoulder: 21.3" Bust: 43.3"
- Hollow out design improves heat dissipation, increases fashion, and highlights your graceful figure
- Versatile clothes that can be used on multiple occasions: daily loungewear, beach outfit, bathing suit cover up
- This sexy crochet top is made of lightweight fabric and will float with the wind. Wear it, and you will love the feeling when blowing the wind by the beach
- With a loose neckline, you can choose different ways to wear it according to your preferences: wear it as a regular beach top or pull it a little off the shoulder to look sexier
- Size - S=US(4-6), M=US(8-10), L=US(12-14), XL=US(16-18), XXL=US(20-22), see details in rich description
- Feature - Smocked high waist, wide leg, loose fit lounge pants with pockets, linen beach pants for women cover up, flowy dressy pants comfy and chic
- Occasion - Linen pants perfect for daily life, yoga, jogging, hiking, night out, outdoor activities, casual wear, home wear, streetweat, going out, vacation or beach wear, maternity
- Style - Lounging in linen is a dream in the weston linen pocketed smocked pants that feature a black hue with an elastic smocked waist and side pockets for convenience
- Wash - Dry clean only, hang to dry in shade. Iron with cloth
- Feature: S=US 4-6, M=US 8-10, L=US 12-14, XL=US 16-18, XXL=US 20 / Women Two Piece Pant Sets / Summer Outfits 2025 / V Neck Wrap Top / Sexy Crop Top / Cap Sleeveless Shirts / Tie Knot Tunic Top / Stretchy Smocked Back Tops / Elastic High Waist Wide Leg Pants / Palazzo Pants With Pockets / Casual Long Trouser / Loose Fit Tracksuits / Solid Color Matching Sets / Cute Vintage Style / Suit For Spring Summer
- Material: The 2 Piece Leisure Sets Made Of Lightweight And Cozy Polyester Fabric Allows For Easy Movement And Breathability, Great Wrinkled Texture And Exceptional Drape Provide The Comfortable Touch
- Design: The 2 Piece Sets Consist Of A Cropped Top And Wide Leg Pants. V Neck Design Elongates Upper Body, Giving The Vision Of A Longer And More Graceful Swan Neck. The Chic Cap Sleeves Drape Gracefully Across The Shoulders, Exuding Beauty And Elegance. Tie Waist And Back Elastic Band Blouses Flattering For Any Figures. Long Pants With Loose Cut And Elastic Waist Allows For Unrestricted Movement And Offers A Relaxed Fit Suitable For All Body Types
- Matching Sets For Women 2 Piece: Black Flowy Pant Suits / Brown Orange Workout Sets For Women / Woman Dark Blue Lounge Sets / Pink Night Out Outfits For Women 2 Piece / Khaki Two Piece Wide Pant Sets For Women / Light Green Vacation Outfits For Women / Two Piece Crop Top & Palazzo Pant Suit / Summer Holiday Sleeveless Outfits / Ladies Club Outfits / Teacher Outfits For Women / Business Casual Outfits For Women
- Matching And Occasion: Trendy 2 Piece Outfits Is The Epitome Of Casual Chic Fashion. It Can Pair With High Heels Or Sandals For A Unique Look. Perfect For Beach, Holiday, Vacation, Trip, Camping, Party, School, Business, Work, Daily, Lounge Wear, Shopping, Chic Street, Photography, Meeting, Baby Shower, Club, Wedding And Etc
- Lightweight and Breathable: These casual pants are perfect for warmer seasons with lightweight fabric that keeps you cool and comfortable all day
- Stylish Lace Detail: Delicate lace detailing along the hemline creates a feminine and chic look
- Adjustable Elastic Waist: The drawstring waistband provides a customized fit ensuring a secure and flattering silhouette
- Versatile Capri Length: Designed as capri pants the cropped length offers a trendy style perfect for pairing with sandals sneakers or flats
- Convenient Pockets: These pants feature functional pockets allowing you to keep your essentials close at hand
- Stay chic and stylish with this 2-piece crochet swimsuit cover-up set
- Features a fashionable hollow out knit short sleeve cardigan top and drawstring wide leg long pants
- Made from lightweight and breathable fabric for all-day comfort
- Perfect for beach outings, poolside lounging, or summer vacations
- Elevate your beach look with this trendy and versatile outfit
Explore
the Best of
SW FLORIDA
Shop 24/7 Free World Mall
Amazon Big Deals
Amazon Big Deals
