A Boulevard That Defines Fort Myers
McGregor Boulevard is more than just a road — it’s a living piece of history that stretches 14 miles through Fort Myers, lined with over 1,800 towering royal palms that make it one of the most picturesque drives in Southwest Florida. Its story is closely tied to two of America’s greatest inventors and winter residents: Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.
Edison’s Vision for a Grand Avenue
Thomas Edison first visited Fort Myers in 1885 and quickly fell in love with the area’s warm climate and lush landscape. He purchased property along the Caloosahatchee River and built his winter estate, Seminole Lodge, which still stands today as part of the Edison & Ford Winter Estates museum complex.
Edison envisioned a beautiful, palm-lined avenue leading into town — and he personally funded the planting of hundreds of royal palms along what was then known as Riverside Avenue. These trees transformed the dusty road into a grand boulevard, earning Fort Myers the nickname “City of Palms.”
Henry Ford Joins the Neighborhood
In 1916, Henry Ford — Edison’s close friend and frequent visitor — purchased the home next door, The Mangoes. Together, Edison and Ford spent many winters in Fort Myers, experimenting with plants and rubber production, and influencing the local economy by attracting other wealthy industrialists and visitors to the area.
Growth, Culture, and Legacy
As Fort Myers grew, Riverside Avenue was renamed McGregor Boulevard in honor of William McGregor, a wealthy cattle rancher and early supporter of the community. The boulevard became the centerpiece of Fort Myers’ development, with its signature palms inspiring similar beautification projects throughout Southwest Florida.
Today, McGregor Boulevard remains one of the most scenic drives in the region, offering glimpses of historic homes, riverfront estates, and the preserved Edison & Ford Winter Estates — a reminder of how two visionaries shaped the cultural and physical landscape of Fort Myers.
Must-See Stops Along McGregor Boulevard
Driving McGregor isn’t just about the palms — it’s about the experience. Here are a few spots to slow down and enjoy along the way:
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Edison & Ford Winter Estates: Tour the historic homes, gardens, and museum to see how the two inventors spent their winters.
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Burroughs Home & Gardens: A stately riverfront mansion offering a glimpse into Fort Myers’ early 1900s social scene.
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Historic Churches: Several small, beautiful churches line the boulevard, adding charm and character.
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Riverfront Parks: Stop at waterfront parks to enjoy Caloosahatchee River views and photo ops under the royal palms.
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Local Cafés & Shops: Toward downtown Fort Myers, grab a coffee or browse boutiques for a perfect end to your drive.
Learn more at: Edison Ford Winter Estates
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