Travel Tips

Spend an afternoon strolling through the estates of the brilliant Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. Close friends and winter neighbors for many years in nearby Fort Myers, the vast estates of Edison and Ford are without a doubt one of the most popular tourist attractions in nearby Fort Myers. Both homes are enclosed by lavish grounds surrounded by immaculate botanical gardens. Started by Edison as a science experience, there are many rare species of plant life that have been preserved here over the years.

The grounds also offer the Ford and Edison museum, with several artifacts and exhibits, as well as the original laboratory where Edison worked on inventions. Several Model T-Fords sit in the middle of the museum, while other artifacts of Ford’s life are represented throughout. Edison’s inventive spirit remains in the museum with original exhibits, like his original Phonograph patent from 1878 and the first three wire generating system that gave light to the town of Sunbury, Pennsylvania.

There are several events and educational programs held throughout the year at the Edison and Ford Estates. The site is also available for group tours and is available for event rentals at different times throughout the year. Imagine holding a wedding or a corporate meeting in the beautiful botanical gardens of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford! There is also a small food court area available and a gift shop to take home replicas and relics as a reminder of your visit here.

Different tour packages are offered at the estates for visitors. You can enjoy an in-depth tour of the gardens, or just see the lab and the museum, or a combination, or stay for an entire afternoon and explore the grounds of these two brilliant inventors. The Home and Gardens tour is $16/Adult non-residents and $14/Adult Florida residents. The entire estates tour is a $20/Adult non-residents and $18/Adult Florida residents. For more information visit the estate website at  www.edison-ford-estate.com/home.asp or call 239-334-7419.

To visit the Ford and Edison Estates from Venice, take US-41 S all the way down to Fort Myers. Once you cross the Edison Bridge, you will take a right onto McGregor Blvd. and signs will point you to the estates at 2350 McGregor Blvd.