Florida Finds: Three Must-See Attractions in Fort Myers & Naples
Fort Myers & Naples Attractions: 3 Must-See Stops | Florida Finds
Southwest Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and spectacular sunsets, but some of its best experiences can be found just beyond the shoreline. Whether you’re traveling in an RV, camping for the weekend, or simply looking for memorable day trips, the Fort Myers and Naples area offers a variety of attractions that combine history, nature, and wildlife.
In this edition of Florida Finds, we’re highlighting three destinations that deserve a spot on your itinerary. One is an excellent campground and outdoor destination, while the other two make outstanding day trips. Together, they offer a well-rounded look at what makes Southwest Florida such a rewarding place to explore.
Koreshan State Park – History, Nature, and Camping
If you enjoy discovering places with a unique story, Koreshan State Park should be high on your list.
Located in Estero, the park preserves the fascinating history of the Koreshan Unity, a utopian community established in the late 1800s by Dr. Cyrus Teed. Members of the community believed in a number of unconventional scientific and philosophical ideas and built an impressive settlement along the Estero River that still stands today.
Walking through the preserved buildings feels like stepping back in time. Historic homes, workshops, and community structures have been carefully restored, allowing visitors to experience a chapter of Florida history that many people have never heard about.
Beyond its historical significance, Koreshan State Park is also one of Southwest Florida’s most enjoyable outdoor destinations.
Several miles of scenic walking trails wind beneath towering live oaks draped with Spanish moss, creating a peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or morning hike. The Estero River offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, providing another perspective of the park’s natural beauty.
For RV travelers, Koreshan State Park is even more appealing because it features a well-maintained campground with spacious sites nestled beneath mature trees. Staying overnight allows visitors to enjoy the park after the daytime crowds have departed while providing easy access to Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, and Naples.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing campground or an afternoon exploring Florida history, Koreshan State Park delivers both.
Edison & Ford Winter Estates – Innovation Meets Tropical Beauty
Just a short drive north in Fort Myers, the Edison & Ford Winter Estates provide one of Florida’s most fascinating historical attractions.
The winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford have been preserved much as they appeared during the early twentieth century. Visitors can tour the beautifully restored residences while learning about two of America’s greatest innovators.
The grounds themselves are equally impressive.
Towering royal palms line the property, tropical gardens surround the homes, and the estate features one of the largest banyan trees in the United States. Originally planted by Thomas Edison in 1925 from a four-foot sapling, the massive tree now spreads across much of the property and has become one of the estate’s most recognizable landmarks.
Inside the museum, visitors can explore exhibits showcasing Edison’s inventions, laboratory equipment, photographs, and personal artifacts that illustrate his remarkable career. Ford’s influence is also highlighted throughout the property, offering an interesting look at the friendship between two men who helped shape modern America.
Photography enthusiasts will especially appreciate the beautiful landscaping and historic architecture, while garden lovers will find countless varieties of tropical plants throughout the grounds.
Because of its central location in Fort Myers, the Edison & Ford Winter Estates make an easy half-day or full-day excursion that can be combined with waterfront dining, shopping, or exploring downtown Fort Myers.
Naples Zoo – Wildlife in a Tropical Garden
For animal lovers, families, and photographers alike, Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens offers one of Southwest Florida’s premier wildlife experiences.
Unlike many modern zoos, Naples Zoo is built within a historic botanical garden, creating a lush tropical environment where beautiful landscaping is every bit as impressive as the animals themselves.
Visitors encounter an incredible variety of wildlife, including giraffes, lions, tigers, leopards, bears, alligators, monkeys, and numerous bird species. Wide walking paths make it easy to explore at a comfortable pace while enjoying the beautifully maintained gardens.
One of the zoo’s signature experiences is the Primate Expedition Cruise. This relaxing boat ride circles a series of islands that are home to several monkey species, providing unique viewing opportunities that can’t be experienced from traditional exhibits.
Animal presentations and keeper talks throughout the day provide visitors with opportunities to learn about conservation efforts and the individual animals that call the zoo home.
The zoo’s manageable size makes it easy to experience everything without feeling rushed, making it an excellent day trip for visitors staying anywhere in the Fort Myers or Naples area.
Whether you’re traveling with children or simply enjoy wildlife, Naples Zoo offers an engaging experience that combines education, conservation, and recreation.
Why These Three Attractions Belong on Your Southwest Florida Itinerary
One of the best things about these destinations is how well they complement one another.
Koreshan State Park provides a peaceful camping experience, beautiful natural scenery, and a fascinating look into Florida’s past.
The Edison & Ford Winter Estates showcase innovation, architecture, and lush tropical gardens while preserving the legacy of two iconic American inventors.
Naples Zoo offers an opportunity to experience wildlife from around the world within one of Florida’s oldest botanical gardens.
Together, these attractions represent three completely different experiences, yet they’re all located within an easy drive of one another. Whether you have a long weekend or several days to explore Southwest Florida, you can comfortably visit all three without spending hours on the road.
Tips for Your Visit
If you’re staying at Koreshan State Park, consider arriving early to enjoy the hiking trails before heading out on your day trips.
Wear comfortable walking shoes for all three attractions, as each involves exploring on foot.
Bring a camera. From the enormous banyan tree at Edison & Ford Winter Estates to the tropical gardens of Naples Zoo and the historic buildings at Koreshan State Park, there are outstanding photo opportunities throughout your visit.
If you’re traveling during Florida’s warmer months, plan outdoor activities earlier in the day and stay hydrated.
Discover More with Florida Finds
Florida is filled with incredible destinations that often go unnoticed by travelers focused solely on the beaches. Historic sites, state parks, botanical gardens, museums, wildlife attractions, and scenic campgrounds all help tell the story of the Sunshine State.
Our Florida Finds series is designed to introduce RV travelers, campers, and explorers to some of the places that make Florida such an incredible destination year-round.
Whether you’re planning your next RV adventure or simply looking for your next day trip, these three attractions are well worth adding to your itinerary.
From camping beneath the oak trees at Koreshan State Park to exploring the remarkable legacy of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, and ending the day among exotic wildlife at Naples Zoo, you’ll discover that some of Southwest Florida’s most memorable experiences are found just a short drive from one another.
The next time your travels bring you to Fort Myers or Naples, take a little extra time to experience these three must-see attractions. You may find that they become some of your favorite stops in all of Florida.
