Edison & Ford Winter Estates

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates have been a special place for me since I was young. Visiting here has always felt like stepping into a space where time slows down and creativity lingers in the air. Now, I feel incredibly grateful to bring my own children and share with them the sense of wonder and possibility that lives here. There’s something powerful about walking the same grounds where just one conversation and one idea sparked so much innovation and progress. It’s a reminder that big change often starts small—with curiosity, connection, and vision. The historians are always so knowledgeable, and the staff is kind, welcoming, and clearly passionate about keeping this place alive and meaningful. They bring the stories to life in such a thoughtful way, which adds so much depth to the experience. It’s also a wonderful place to bring children—a perfect blend of education and inspiration. Whether it’s seeing the old labs, learning about inventions, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, this space has a way of sparking their curiosity and showing them how imagination and persistence can lead to real-world impact. The preserved gardens and grounds are breathtaking, filled with a natural wonder that surely played a part in inspiring the minds who once walked there. This is more than just a visit—it’s a moment of connection to history, nature, and the limitless possibilities of a good idea.

The history behind these two individuals is amazing. I visited here with my mom about 35 years ago, when I was just a kid and from what I remember then it was still really amazing. This time around, as an adult, it was a totally different experience as I was able to really comprehend just what these individuals were able to create and the bi d that they had between them. Its mind blowing to see just what Edison had his hands in and where alot of what we know today got its start. It was unfortunate that they were doing massive renovations when we came through this time, as there were some areas my wife and I didn't get to see, but that is more than understandable and it is amazing to know that renovations are being carried out at such an amazing part of American history. My wife loved it and it was awesome being back for the history and fir the nostalgia. I would definitely recommend anyone that is visiting the area to go spend some time here.

We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to the Edison & Ford Winter Estates. We learned so much history and information just by walking around a single piece of property. To see some of the historical artifacts at this location is like stepping back in time to witness the lives of both the Edisons and the Fords. We hope to go back and visit again some day in the future.

We had a wonderful time celebrating my husband's birthday. We decided to do a guide tour, which we found to be most informative. They do offer a self exploration where you download and app and listen as you walk around. The guided tour is separate from the tour inside the house. Check the website for that information. Our tour guide Isaac was VERY knowledgeable of the history of Fort Myers and of course Edison and Ford. He was able to answer questions about African American history related to the tour also. Very informative beautiful day! We had an amazing time.

This place is a must visit. They are very military friendly, and it's an awesome experience. The botanical gardens and the property leave you in awe with detailed historical descriptions and leave you with wonder. The gift shop was name inclusive, which the family really appreciated for the little trinkets they offered.

A wonderful stop!!! So well done for tourists & guests. Friendly and open and easy. Do it your way: go on the tour, self guide tour or just walk around and spy things. The homes, the guest house, the incredible museum, the gardens. The waterfront walk, the open garden plants for sale. Have a question? There are plenty of people around to answer them. Give yourself at least 2 hours there.

So thankful this piece of history has been preserved. The entire facility is well-maintained and informative. The entry price is a fantastic value. Make sure to tour the grounds, as they are just as incredible as the structures. They have fabulous specimens of staghorn ferns, jasmine and star fruit. Also don’t miss the coffee trailer next to the banyan trees; the espresso drinks are a treat and the setting is even better.

This was a fantastic way to spend 1-1/2 to 2 hours easy. We opted for the guided tour which was a bit pricey around $70 for two but we enjoyed the grounds and our historian, Isaac. He was very personable and knowledgeable. The story telling was as important as the grounds and buildings and Isaac did a great job bringing them together. He had answers for most everything from plants to historical. The only downside is that we cannot enter the homes, the inside is very viewable, but one can understand how the inside needs to be protected from visitors seeing as the furnishings and all belongings are original.