Edison and Ford Winter Estates Tours

Edison and Ford Winter Estates which includes a house and street scenes
Edison and Ford Winter Estates which includes a statue or sculpture and a park
Edison and Ford Winter Estates featuring heritage elements and interior views
Edison and Ford Winter Estates featuring heritage elements and interior views
Edison and Ford Winter Estates featuring a pond and a garden


Explore the winterestates of two of the most famous men in American history. Tour their housesand gardens and learn more about their lives in the museum.

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates are one of the top attractions in Fort Myers.  Scenically located on the Caloosahatchee River, the estates are minutes from downtown but also feel like their own little world. The compound consists of the adjacent winter homes of Henry Ford, of car and assembly line fame, and Thomas Alva Edison, electrical innovator.

Together, the estates make up 21 acres (8.5 hectares) of historic homes, museums and botanical gardens. Immerse yourself in the bygone era of the early 20th century and explore the lives of two of America’s most famous men.  

Seminole Lodge, Edison’s winter estate, is immaculately preserved so you can experience it just as Edison did. As you explore the estate, imagine the great inventor thinking up his next great idea there. Wander through the various outbuildings to the shimmering blue pool.  

In 1916, Henry Ford purchased the estate next door, The Mangoes, so that he could vacation with Edison. Explore the charming home and take a moment on the porch to admire the stunning riverfront view.The Estates Museum expertly documents the private lives of the two men. Learn about the history of Edison’s notable inventions. See an original Model T car that Ford gifted to Edison. Discover their exotic camping adventures with Harvey Firestone and John Burroughs.

Enter the lush and colorful paradise of Edison’s botanical gardens. The garden is home to over a thousand varieties of plants and flowers from all over the world. Don’t miss the spectacular banyan, a mythical-looking tree with roots that cascade down from its limbs.

Edison and Ford Winter Estates offer a variety of tour packages throughout the day. Whether you want to see the houses, the museums, the gardens, or everything, there is a package that is a perfect fit for you. The site also hosts special events such as concerts, car shows and film festivals. It is open every day throughout the year except for select holidays.

Reviews of Edison and Ford Winter Estates

4.6
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
391
5 - Excellent 66%
4 - Good
168
4 - Good 28%
3 - Okay
27
3 - Okay 5%
2 - Disappointing
6
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
2
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

REALLY interesting. Super tour guide. Great museum. Must go if you have ANY interest in history at all.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Great to visit on a rainy afternoon. Impressive. Beautiful grounds.

4/5 - Good

Debbie

We made the mistake of going in the afternoon. As we made our way to the homes and gardens, a lightning storm set in. We toured the museum and got a pass with no expiration date to come back. I recommend going in the morning. Storms seem to happen in the afternoons in this area.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

easy short drive

5/5 - Excellent

Babs

Well worth the trip

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Do not miss!

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Edison and Ford Winter Estates

Hampton Inn Fort Myers Downtown

Hampton Inn Fort Myers Downtown

3 out of 5
2151 Johnson Street, Fort Myers, FL
Hampton Inn Fort Myers Downtown
Holiday Inn Fort Myers - Downtown Area by IHG

Holiday Inn Fort Myers - Downtown Area by IHG

3 out of 5
2431 Cleveland Ave, Fort Myers, FL
Holiday Inn Fort Myers - Downtown Area by IHG
Luminary Hotel & Co., Autograph Collection

Luminary Hotel & Co., Autograph Collection

4 out of 5
2200 Edwards Drive, Fort Myers, FL
Luminary Hotel & Co., Autograph Collection
The Banyan Hotel Fort Myers, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

The Banyan Hotel Fort Myers, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

3.5 out of 5
1520 Broadway, Fort Myers, FL
The Banyan Hotel Fort Myers, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Hibiscus House Bed Breakfast Citrus Room

Hibiscus House Bed Breakfast Citrus Room

2 out of 5
Fort Myers, FL
Hibiscus House Bed Breakfast Citrus Room
Best Western Fort Myers Waterfront

Best Western Fort Myers Waterfront

3 out of 5
13021 N Cleveland Ave, North Fort Myers, FL
Best Western Fort Myers Waterfront
Luxury in the sky

Luxury in the sky

3 out of 5
2500 Edwards Dr, Fort Myers, FL
Luxury in the sky
Riverview Inn

Riverview Inn

2 out of 5
13020 North Cleveland Avenue, North Fort Myers, FL
Riverview Inn
Baymont by Wyndham Fort Myers Central

Baymont by Wyndham Fort Myers Central

2.5 out of 5
4850 S Cleveland Ave, Fort Myers, FL
Baymont by Wyndham Fort Myers Central
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Edison and Ford Winter Estates

At the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including guided house tours, scenic photo tours, and opportunities for birdwatching. For the adventurous, nearby windsurfing and onsite rowing provide additional excitement, while local baseball and sports events add to the vibrant atmosphere. It's a perfect blend of history and outdoor fun for all ages.

Shopping

For shopping near Edison and Ford Winter Estates, visit Edison Mall, just 3.2km away, offering a mix of entertainment and family vibes. The Fort Myers Shopping Center is 4.8km away, perfect for family and business needs. Fleamasters Fleamarket, also 4.8km away, features a vibrant market atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience wellness at Lee Health Sports Complex, where you can engage in various sports activities and embrace the energetic atmosphere. At Fort Myers Country Club, enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful outdoor scenery. For relaxation, Dunbar Park offers serene trails and peaceful green spaces to unwind.

Adventure

Experience the thrills of Sun Splash Water Park, located 9.7km from Edison and Ford Winter Estates, featuring exciting water slides and family-friendly attractions. For sports enthusiasts, Revolution Cable Park, 11.3km away, offers exhilarating wakeboarding adventures. Explore the Glover Bight Trail, 14.5km distant, for scenic hiking amidst nature.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers something for everyone. Enjoy a captivating performance at the Florida Repertory Theater or indulge in a delightful dinner show at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, both exuding cultural charm. For family fun, visit the lively HeadPinz Family Entertainment Center for games and adventures.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Edison and Ford Winter Estates

If you're visiting the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, Florida, you can enjoy a variety of attractions, including beautiful beaches, nature preserves, and urban parks. This area offers rich cultural experiences and outdoor adventures for all types of travelers. Don't miss the Ford Winter Estates and the Ford Museum, along with nearby attractions like the Ford House, to enhance your visit to this historic site.

  • Centennial Park: This urban park, located 1.1km from the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, is perfect for outdoor family activities. With its green spaces, playgrounds, and scenic walking paths, it offers a vibrant city atmosphere, ideal for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
  • Florida Southwestern State College: Situated 9.7km away, this modern college campus features contemporary architecture and a lively environment. It's a great place to explore, whether you're interested in community events or simply soaking in the academic vibe.
  • Cape Coral Yacht Club Beach: Located 12.9km from the estates, this beautiful beach offers a relaxing seaside experience. With stunning views, sandy shores, and recreational activities, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy the Florida sun.

Best time to go to Edison and Ford Winter Estates

The best time to visit Edison and Ford Winter Estates is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January64.0°F (17.8°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February67.1°F (19.5°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March69.4°F (20.8°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April74.8°F (23.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May78.4°F (25.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June81.9°F (27.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July82.9°F (28.3°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August83.1°F (28.4°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
September81.5°F (27.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
October77.4°F (25.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November71.4°F (21.9°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December67.6°F (19.8°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Edison and Ford Winter Estates

To save money on your visit to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, consider traveling between August and October when accommodation prices are lower. Tuesdays offer the best hotel rates, while Saturdays tend to be more expensive. Use Expedia to compare room rates and find instant savings by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities. Look for eco-certified hotels for sustainable options, and arrange the price filter to discover the best deals. Also, take advantage of free activities around the area to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Edison and Ford Winter Estates are August to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to April, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Edison and Ford Winter Estates is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Edison and Ford Winter Estates is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your travel preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase available sustainable and eco-friendly hotels. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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