From Tampa’s big-city buzz to Fort Myers’ inventor homes and Naples’ polished beach scene—with a Sanibel shell detour and a Port Charlotte resort finale—this is an easy Gulf Coast road trip full of museums, food, and waterfront stays.
Trip Snapshot
Drive time: ~2 hours Tampa → Fort Myers; +45–60 min to Naples; Sanibel/Captiva and Port Charlotte sit nicely as side legs.
- Who it’s for: culture lovers, beach people, foodies, and anyone who likes short hops with high payoff.
- Our highlights: Edison & Ford Winter Estates, Collier Museum at Government Center, Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium, ribs at J. Alexander’s (North Naples), lunch at The Green Flash (on Captiva, just over the bridge from Sanibel), and two stays—Inn at Pelican Bay (Naples) and Sunseeker Resort (Port Charlotte).
Stop 1: Edison & Ford Winter Estates (Fort Myers)
Step into the winter homes, laboratories, and botanical grounds of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford—one of Florida’s most interesting historic sites. Expect walkable riverside paths, a museum with inventions, and huge banyan trees. Perhaps the most comprehensive museum and gardens in the state.
Quick Facts
- Official name & hours: Edison and Ford Winter Estates, open daily 9:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. (last admission 4:30 p.m.). Edison and Ford Winter Estates
- Address: 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33901.
Tip: Arrive for the first entry window to beat tour crowds and the mid-day heat.
Stop 2: Collier Museum at Government Center (Naples)
Free (and fascinating) county museum covering Southwest Florida’s Indigenous history, pioneers, and the building of modern Naples. 5 acres of inside artifacts and outdoors exhibits.
Quick Facts
- Official name & hours: Collier Museum at Government Center, Tue–Sat 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Collier County Museums
- Address: 3331 Tamiami Trail E, Naples, FL 34112.
Tip: Pair this with an afternoon beach stroll or Old Naples dinner; parking is straightforward at the Government Center campus.
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