Thomas Edison and Henry Ford winter estates
In 1885, Thomas Edison purchased 13 acres on the banks of the Caloosahatchee and later built his dream house there, dubbing it the Seminole Lodge. Thirty years later, he convinced Henry Ford to buy the place next door, so the two friends could winter in the sun together. Today, the estates are open to the public as museums; highlights include Edison’s restored research lab and a botanical garden.
Fort Myers River District
Often overshadowed by the nearby beach towns, the city of Fort Myers is worth your attention. Its brick-lined streets are dotted with palm trees (those were Edison’s idea), and many of its buildings were made from wood reclaimed from the original fort that gave the city its name. This walkable zone is filled with shops, international restaurants, and historic buildings like the Sidney & Berne Davis Arts Center, housed in the former 1933 U.S. Post Office.
Captiva and Sanibel Island
Be sure to squeeze in a day trip to these nearby island beach towns, located adjacent to one another. Sanibel is famous for its lighthouse and bonanza of seashells, while charming Captiva offers miles of beaches, scenic sunsets, and golf.