Photo: Misael Marrero
Photo: Anna-Milena Szemik
Photo: Jay N.
Burroughs Home and Gardens
★4.7(292 reviews)$Museum
🕑 1.5-2 hours👶 Best for ages 8 and up. School-age children and teens who can appreciate guided tours and historical context will get the most out of this experience, while the gardens appeal to younger siblings who need space to explore during the visit.🧡 Saved by 200+ families
About
Step back in time at this beautifully preserved 1901 Georgian Colonial mansion, where kids can explore a century-old home and discover what life was like for Fort Myers' pioneering families. The guided tours bring history to life with fascinating stories about the Burroughs family, while the stunning riverside gardens offer a peaceful place for children to roam and imagine life in early Florida.
Highlights
- ✓Guided tours through authentic period rooms showcasing early 1900s furnishings and family treasures
- ✓Beautiful riverside gardens perfect for exploration and nature observation
- ✓Learning about Fort Myers' pioneer history and the city's founding families
- ✓Architectural details of a genuine Georgian Colonial mansion
- ✓Educational programs and special events throughout the year
Pro Tips
- 1.Call ahead to confirm tour times, as the limited operating hours (Tuesday-Thursday, 11 AM-3 PM) mean tours may fill up, especially during peak tourist season.
- 2.Let kids bring a small notebook to sketch architectural details or write down interesting facts from the tour,it keeps them engaged and creates a nice keepsake.
- 3.The gardens are perfect for stretching legs before or after the tour; bring a camera as the historic riverfront setting makes for beautiful family photos.
- 4.Visit the gift shop for unique local history books and educational items that can extend the learning experience at home.
- 5.Combine this with other nearby River District attractions for a full day of Fort Myers history exploration.
Best Time to Visit
Visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning right when they open at 11 AM for smaller tour groups and cooler temperatures, especially important during Florida's hot summer months. The limited weekday hours mean fewer crowds than typical weekend attractions.
What to Know
Check their website for current admission fees and special educational program schedules. The historic home has stairs and may not be fully accessible for strollers, so plan accordingly with younger children.
Seasonal Notes
Florida's cooler months (November-April) offer the most comfortable weather for exploring the gardens. Check their calendar for special holiday tours and educational programs during the school year that may enhance your visit.
Nearby Eats
The Ford's Garage nearby offers a fun, car-themed atmosphere kids love with burgers and classic American fare, or head to The Veranda for a more upscale family dining experience in a historic setting just blocks away.
More Activities Near Fort Myers
Museum
Edison & Ford Winter Estates
★4.7$$❤️68
Step back in time at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates, where kids can explore the historic homes of two American icons while wandering through 20 acres of stunning botanical gardens along the Caloosahatchee River. The engaging museum exhibits showcase Thomas Edison's inventions and laboratory, plus Henry Ford's Model T collection, making history come alive for curious young minds in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Activity
River District
★4.5Free❤️18
The River District is Fort Myers' lively downtown hub where families can enjoy colorful street performances, explore kid-friendly art galleries, and catch seasonal festivals throughout the year. With wide sidewalks perfect for strollers, outdoor dining areas, and regular family events like concerts and farmers markets, it's an excellent spot to introduce children to urban culture in a walkable, welcoming environment.
Park
Miner's Beach Splash Pad
Free❤️16
Miner's Beach Splash Pad offers the perfect escape from Florida's heat with interactive water features that keep kids cool and entertained for hours. Located in Fort Myers, this seasonal splash pad combines water play equipment with a nearby playground, making it an ideal destination for families looking to maximize outdoor fun without the hassle of beach sand or pool logistics.
Adventure
Babcock Ranch Eco Tours
★4.9$$❤️23
Babcock Ranch Eco Tours offers an authentic Old Florida adventure that brings families face-to-face with Southwest Florida's wild side. Kids will be thrilled by swamp buggy rides through wetlands, horseback riding opportunities, and close encounters with native wildlife including alligators, wild pigs, and exotic birds,all guided by knowledgeable naturalists who make learning about the ecosystem entertaining for all ages.