Story and photos by Scott Kendall (unless otherwise indicated)
Fort Myers, Popular Then and Now
Thomas Edison and Henry Ford are two creative geniuses who had winter homes side by side in the wonderful southwest Florida city of Fort Myers. Edison and Ford were indeed geniuses for their inventions like the electric light bulb, the phonograph, and the assembly line for mass production of automobiles. They also proved to be geniuses when it came to choosing the city of Fort Myers for their winter estates, a perfect place for work, relaxation, and creative pursuits.
In fact, Fort Myers is recognized as the fastest growing city in America. From around 62,000 people in 2010, the population of Fort Myers has mushroomed to almost 100,000 in 2021. Today’s locals and visitors apparently agreed with the choice made by Edison and Ford. The warm climate, proximity to great beaches and water activities, a booming economy, and relatively low home prices have combined to make this Florida city a symbol of growth, health, and energy.
Edison and Ford Winter Estates
Today one of the top attractions in Fort Myers is the fascinating Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Fort Myers was the winter home of two titans of American industry, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. To escape the harsh cold winters of the north, these two inventive geniuses had winter homes side by side overlooking the Caloosahatchee River. They collaborated with each other, as well as other entrepreneurs like Harvey Firestone, in expansive research and development projects here in Fort Myers.
Alexandria, the Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator for the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, shared so many fascinating details about the history of this magical place. Her extensive knowledge and obvious passion for the significance of these two great men and the legacy they left behind made our tour so entertaining, educational, and fun. During the time of our tour of the grounds, including the homes, 15,000 square foot museum, 20 acres of lush landscaping in the historic gardens, and the Edison Botanic Research Laboratory, Alexandria expertly brought this magnificent place to life.
The list of achievements of Edison and Ford is endless. From the light bulb, advances in electricity, the phonograph, and of course, the automobile, these men transformed the way America and the world lived. In addition to these well-known accomplishments, we also learned much about other fascinating inventions and projects. One of these expansive projects was the research into a source of rubber for uses like automobile tires and other industrial uses.
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates have been open to the public since 1947, and is a National Register Historic Site. It is one of the most visited historic home sites in America. The estates also offers a number of education programs and tours for school children, scouts, adults, and other interested groups.
Have a Beer at Ford’s Garage
As the winter home of Henry Ford, it’s no wonder that Fort Myers has a fun restaurant and bar commemorating this great man. Eat and drink outside, or have a seat inside under the Model T hanging from the rafters at Ford’s Garage downtown. Just a block away from The Luminary, Ford’s Garage is a fun, energetic place. Chill with a cold beer or mixed drink as you admire the 1920’s memorabilia of Ford vehicles, gas pumps, art, and other signs of that golden era. You can also grab some of the best burgers in town in addition to a nice selection of other comfort food in this popular bar and eatery.
Stay in Fort Myers
Luminary Autograph Collection
The brand new Luminary Hotel is the perfect place to stay to enjoy the waterfront and the cozy downtown area of Fort Myers. With views of the waterfront and the Caloosahatchee River, the beautiful AAA Four-Diamond Luminary Hotel & Co., Autograph Collection hotel on Edwards Drive is the perfect location for a business or pleasure stay in Fort Myers. It is also nestled in the downtown area, just a short walk to dozens of great shops, restaurants, bars, museums, and other attractions.
When you’re hungry, you can choose from a number of great restaurants onsite. The anchor restaurant, the fabulous Silver King Ocean Brasserie, serves a wonderful menu of seafood, pasta, steak, and specialty dishes. The classy, elegant restaurant offers indoor dining as well as plentiful outdoor seating with views of the waterway. An open kitchen and local coastal themed décor create a welcoming setting for lunch or dinner.
More Eating and Drinking Options at The Luminary
Another great place to eat at The Luminary is Ella Mae’s Diner. This friendly, homey diner offers traditional diner classics, comfort and soul food for breakfast and lunch. Nearby and adjacent to the lobby is Dean Street Coffee Roastery & Retail. There is nothing like the inviting smell of freshly roasting coffee beckoning you from this special coffee stop.
The Luminary also has two great bars with afternoon and evening service. Many patrons of the hotel as well as locals make their way up to the popular Beacon Social Drinkery Rooftop Bar for their favorite cocktail, beer, or wine. This rooftop bar also serves small bites and has an incredible view of the Caloosahatchee River and the Fort Myers riverfront. The Lobby Bar also offers a wide variety of wine, beer, and mixed drinks, with artwork depicting the intriguing history of Fort Myers’ past.
The Drury Inn near the Fort Myers Airport
Conveniently located close to the Fort Myers Airport, The Drury Inn & Suites Fort Myers Airport FGCU has large, luxurious rooms and suites to suit your needs. Extra touches like a full hot breakfast with fresh brewed coffee, eggs, bacon or sausage, oatmeal, waffles and more start your morning on the right foot. Every evening, each visitor to The Drury is treated to complimentary beverages and a nice variety of food choices for dinner or a snack.
Visitors can choose from a large selection of restaurants, shops, and bars at the malls and shopping areas surrounding The Drury Inn. Many are within walking distance or a short drive, including B. J Brewhouse, Panera, Target, and many others.
Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum
The beaches around Fort Myers, including Sanibel, Captiva, and Fort Myers Beach are known world-wide for the excellent shelling. It’s no wonder Sanibel is home to the fascinating Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum. With its reputation as the best shelling spot in North America, according to Travel & Leisure Magazine, the Weather Channel Facebook, and other groups, visitors can learn about the magical world of mollusks and seashells. This incredible museum is both entertaining and educational, with videos and exhibits of Conch shells, hermit crabs, octopi, and creatures of the deep.
Beaches Around Fort Myers
When people think of Florida, they think beaches. Fort Myers is no exception. A short drive will take you to Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel, Captiva, and other pristine beaches to enjoy. The warm gulf waters, sandy beaches, shells, and water activities are all part of the Florida experience. More adventurous souls can take on parasailing, jet skiing, boating, and snorkeling along the beautiful coastline.
Metal Sculptures by Columbian Artist Edgardo Carmona throughout Fort Myers
On the pier just outside The Luminary, we noticed three intriguing life sized figures. Each was constructed of metal, just a small sampling of the 23 similar figures found throughout Fort Myers. These creative masterpieces by renowned Columbian artist Edgardo Carmona are each unique and tell a story. The three we saw by The Luminary – The Knife Sharpener, Nostalgic Tune on the Radio, and Boy Fishing from a Bucket – are joined by twenty others in the downtown and surrounding areas of Fort Myers.
Sanibel and Captiva
In addition to having some of the best shelling in the world, the boomerang shaped Sanibel and Captiva island make for a wonderful day trip. In less than an hour you can travel from downtown Fort Myers across the bridge to this wonderful playground. There are several areas to park and walk to the beaches and other natural areas on the island. Sanibel is very popular with families and couples wanting to get a taste of the Florida beach life.
Hogfish at Thistle Lodge at the Casa Ybel Resort
One of the top restaurants in the area, The Thistle Lodge, is located on Sanibel at the Casa Ybel Resort. With lush landscaping and access to the beach, Casa Ybel Resort and The Thistle Lodge have hosted people like Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and other celebrities. Our fine dining experience consisted of a fantastic hogfish topped with flavorful shrimp and a delightful seabass. The subtle sauces and the perfectly cooked fish paired well with an outstanding Angeline Sauvignon Blanc recommended by our waiter. The friendly, professional service, the cozy setting, the excellent food, and a beautiful window view made for a very memorable evening.
Join the Fun in Fort Myers
Fort Myers is an up and coming city in southwest Florida. With fantastic weather, lots of outdoor activities, museums, shopping, beautiful beaches, and the lush green grasses and flowers of southern Florida, Fort Myers should be on everyone’s to do list. Add in some of the best food, drink, and entertainment in the area, and you have a first class destination sure to please people of all ages and interests. See for yourself what drew Thomas Edison and Henry Ford to Fort Myers over a century ago.
You can be a genius, too!
