Top 8 Unusual Fun Activities in Southwest Florida

In a vacation destination state like Florida, a plethora of hotspots exist to entertain tourists. Amusement parks, resorts, animal experiences, boat rides, the whole gamut. However, not everyone wants to have a typical vacation. So, if you’re a Floridian adventurer that owns Marco Island real estate with a penchant for the strange and unusual, here’s a list of eight ways to enjoy the Southern Florida and Gulf Coast area as only a few people do.

1. Dome houses in Cape Romano

Eccentric Marco Island real estate owners, get excited. Not far from home are the distinctive Dome Houses of Cape Romano. However, despite some classifications, the Dome Houses aren’t precisely on Marco Island. Instead, they reside on the neighboring Ten Thousand Island and are only accessible by water transportation. In 1980, oil producer Bob Lee created the one-of-a-kind dome house as his dream getaway destination. The term “houses” is only used when referring to it because several raised dome structures connect to create it. Unlike many homes, it’s entirely self-sufficient and solar-powered. The structure is an impressive and spacious abode with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and 2,400 square feet. While originally Lee’s private recluse, nowadays, you can take a boat ride to see them yourself.

2. Koreshan State Park

Florida may be known for its odd history and unique residents, but Koreshan State Park takes the cake. In 1893, a religious sect moved to this exact location and built a settlement. It was founded by Dr. Cyrus R . Teed under a commitment to communal living, celibacy, and the idea that the universe lives inside Earth. While this group no longer lives here, the state has restored eleven of its historic buildings as well as its farm and botanical gardens. Despite the spot’s strange history, it is a relaxing and peaceful way to enjoy a day away from Marco Island real estate or Fort Myers beach condos.

3. The Skunk Ape Headquarters

Cryptid lovers, rejoice. Just 30 minutes from Marco Island real estate, you can enjoy the more rustic appeals of Southwest Florida, all under one supernatural moniker. The Skunk Ape Headquarters is named after the Floridian Sasquatch. At the headquarters, the members have the chance to see photos, sightings, video recordings, and even (allegedly) footprints. They also offer more typical tourist fares like tours, camping, a snake exhibit, and a gift shop. If you want a one-of-a-kind animal adventure, head to Skunk Ape Headquarters for stories you’ll hear nowhere else.

4. The Venus Project

Throughout history, there have always been communities searching for a utopia. It was hundreds of years ago, in 1516, when Sir Thomas More gave humanity a word for such a perfect civilization. In comes The Venus Project, a non-profit organization and community chasing that dream. Though it is over an hour away from Fort Myers Beach condos, The Venus Project is a unique Floridian experience that adventurer-chases should make the trip to explore. This neighborhood is a circular collection of homes, and the homes themselves are even dome-shaped. They all emulate the smooth, minimalistic utopian ideals seen in science fiction. While the project is only in its first phase, you can go and see the active construction and some of the finished houses on the 25-acre property.

5. Marco Mystery and History Tours

Though Marco Island is known for its large, luxury homes and beautiful beaches, that’s not all there is to this tourist town. In actuality, it has a spooky side, full of secrets that will delight any lover of the supernatural and paranormal. So, take a break from the sunny peace of your Marco Island real estate and instead book yourself a Marco Island Ghost Tour. This experience comes with an exciting hike through the most haunted parts of the island, and you have a delicious dinner at the Bistro Soleil before your tour. This 2-hour mystery tour is beloved by eccentric tourists and locals alike, so let Martha Horror (proclaimed “tour guide extraordinaire”) take you on a thrilling adventure.

6. Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge

When it comes to vacationing with nature lovers, you’ll always end up going to a wildlife sanctuary or two. However, while in Southwest Florida, you can take a long drive to enjoy one of the rarest sanctuaries in the US: The Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge. Here, panthers walk freely within the refuge’s boundaries and live as normal of a life as possible. The rangers here help preserve the endangered species’ habitat as much as possible. Since 1989, visitors have been able to take very carefully guided hikes around the area to see the beauty of the Big Cypress Basin without disturbing the panthers this location saves.

7. Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium

Photo courtesy of Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium Within a half-hour of Fort Myers beach condos, this all-purpose spot is dedicated to all things nature. Though the name implies its stunning Planetarium, the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium also hosts rescue animals, butterfly and bird aviaries, nature trails, and more. It’s the perfect place to take any budding scientist on vacation. The center was established in 1970 and has been a beloved scientific staple of Fort Myers for almost five decades. With a mission to connect people to nature, this wholesome nature center will blow your mind to the cosmos and back.

8. Unforgettable Restaurants

As much as any vacation is about having fun, it’s also about delicious food. If you want a few unforgettable places to eat in Southwest Florida, you’ve come to the right place. For people living in Fort Myers Beach condos, nothing beats the local Murder Mystery Dinner Train. You get to be dazzled and perturbed while you eat delicious food. Play Hercules Poirot or Sherlock Holmes over a steak, and never forget your experience. Meanwhile, for a kitschy aesthetic, fun music, and a bubbly experience, head to The Bubble Room on Captiva Island. For a very different kind of energy, the Yoder’s Restuarant in Sarasota will serve you mouth-watering, homemade Amish eats. Finally, south of Marco Island real estate is the Blue Heaven of Key West, a sand-between-your-toes experience with tasty foods and drinks served right on the beach. Want to live near all these unique, extraordinary, and exciting activities? Reach out to local real estate expert Danny Skelly to see what’s on the market on Marco Island and near Fort Myers.