Edison and Ford Winter Estates Fort Myers FL

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates Fort Myers FL is a National Historic Landmark and a must-see for anyone visiting the Southwest Florida region. The estates were once home to one of the most influential inventors of all time, Thomas Edison, and his close friend and business partner, Henry Ford.

For over three decades, Edison used his estate as a winter retreat and to develop some of his greatest inventions. He built a botanical garden with exotic plants imported from around the world and conducted experiments with rubber trees in an effort to develop synthetic rubber. His wife Mina also wrote her popular cookbook “Mrs. Edison’s Southern Dishes” while at the estate.

Ford had an equal impact on the estate during the years he visited with Edison. He was known for taking friends on boat rides along the Caloosahatchee River that runs alongside the grounds. There are several structures still standing from those visits including a guest house where visitors like John D Rockefeller stayed during their trips to the estate.

Today, visitors can explore more than 20 acres of lush landscaping designed by Edison himself, visit his laboratory where he developed hundreds of inventions, and see original artifacts from both inventors and online businesses such as cars, motors, photographs, and more. The grounds feature a variety of attractions such as an award-winning museum that tells the story of both Edison and Ford’s life achievements; multiple gardens filled with rare plants brought over by both inventors; an interactive inventor’s workshop; guided tours led by knowledgeable docents; and even a store offering unique items related to these two famous individuals.

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates is truly a one-of-a-kind destination full of history that should not be missed when visiting Fort Myers FL or anywhere nearby in Southwest Florida. From its beautiful landscapes to its incredible history, it has something for everyone looking for an unforgettable experience with family and friends!

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates Fort Myers FL is a must-see for any history buff or even those just looking for an interesting day trip. Located on the banks of the Caloosahatchee River, the estates were once home to two of the most influential inventors of all time, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. The grounds feature 20 acres of lush landscaping designed by Edison, multiple gardens filled with rare plants brought over by both inventors, and a variety of attractions such as an award-winning museum and interactive inventor’s workshop which you can check online.

The estates were first purchased by Thomas Edison in 1885 as his winter home, where he could escape from New York’s harsh winters and find inspiration away from the hustle and bustle of city life. During his time here, he developed some of his greatest inventions including electric light bulbs and phonographs. He also created a botanical garden full of exotic plants imported from around the world and conducted experiments with rubber trees in an attempt to create synthetic rubber.