But for a special treat, area youngsters delight in the Children's Science Center, with its mazes, holographs, optical illusions and other hands-on fun and the huge waterslide and play pools at the Sun Splash Family Waterpark, both in Cape Coral. From 1886 to 1931, the prolific inventor Thomas Edison spent his winters here. The home, laboratory, lovely grounds and a museum holding many of the results of his genius are open to the public, as are the adjoining home, grounds and classic cars of his friend and admirer Henry Ford, another American giant. Trolley shuttles are popular, particularly in beach areas. If your favorite sport is done on or in the water, Lee County will please you, whether you enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, jetskiing, diving snorkeling, waterskiing or parasailing.
Fishing is big here.
A popular fishing pier dominates the north end of Estero Island in Fort Myers Beach. Southwest Floridians love golf. Some even claim it's the world capital of golf. The region is home to 95 golf courses, about a third of which are in Lee County, so golfers of all skill levels have many courses to choose from. For family fun, locals adore Lakes Park, south of Fort Myers, with its canoes and paddle boats and picnic facilities, and downtown's pride and joy, Centennial Park.